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Articles by Qaisar Kamran
LAAM Fashion Week blends heritage, contemporary fashion
KARACHI: LAAM Fashion Week Season 2 entered its third day on Sunday, bringing together Pakistan's retail fashion brands, contemporary labels and independent designers in a series of runway presentations exploring traditional craftsmanship, modern silhouettes and changing ideas of style. The day's programme was divided into three segments: the Retail Runway, LFW Edit and Designer Showcase, reflecting the range of businesses and creative voices shaping Pakistan's fashion industry.
New film highlights Pakistani women's stellar anti-polio role
KARACHI: A new documentary by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy will focus on four women working to eradicate polio in Pakistan, highlighting the challenges faced by vaccination workers and scientists protecting children from the disease. Titled Across Every Doorway, the film was announced by SOC Films on October 24 to mark World Polio Day.
Women filmmakers capture Pakistan's untold stories Original
KARACHI: Five years after its launch, Patakha Pictures is continuing its efforts to support emerging documentary filmmakers in Pakistan, providing women with funding, mentorship and a platform to tell stories rooted in their communities.
'Love turns into suspicion' in 'Shabnam'
KARACHI: Love, doubt and suspicion take centre stage in 'Shabnam', the latest release from Coke Studio Nu.WAV, featuring Maanu and Zoha Waseem and produced by Talal Qureshi. Released on October 18, the track explores how two people can experience the same relationship in entirely different ways, with neither perspective fully resolving the tension between them. The song began as an unfinished collaboration between Talal Qureshi and Maanu before Zoha joined the project.
Pakistani celebs speak out on cancer awareness
KARACHI: Every October, pink ribbons appear across social media, hospitals and public spaces as Breast Cancer Awareness Month encourages women to recognise warning signs and seek timely medical advice. In Pakistan, actresses Angeline Malik and Nadia Jamil have used their experiences with cancer to raise awareness, while the death of veteran actor Naila Jaffri remains a reminder of the challenges patients face.
Huma Khawaja's 'Tere Rang' celebrates love, life
KARACHI: Singer Huma Khawaja has released her new Punjabi song, Tere Rang, a soulful love song that celebrates the colours of life, relationships and festivities. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Khawaja said the song was created in January and released in October, drawing inspiration from changing seasons and the idea of colours returning to life. "As we say, autumn comes after spring. So we need colours. When colours change, that is how it got the name Tere Rang," she said.
Eagerly-awaited 'Mango Jatt' holds festive music launch
KARACHI: Actor and producer Hareem Farooq says her upcoming Punjabi-language film Mango Jatt is intended for audiences across Pakistan and not just Punjabi-speaking viewers, as the film prepares for its theatrical release on October 16. Speaking to The Express Tribune at the film's music launch in Karachi, Farooq said the project had been a challenging but rewarding experience, adding that bringing it to the screen was a success in itself.
'World Culture Festival projects our identity'
KARACHI: Sindh's Minister for Culture and Tourism Zulfiqar Ali Shah has said the World Culture Festival has become an important platform for projecting Pakistan's soft image and positive cultural identity to the world. Speaking at a press conference in Karachi on Wednesday about the third World Culture Festival 2026, Shah said the festival would begin on October 29 and continue until November 22.
Art turns social issues into study of emotion
KARACHI: Art Scene Gallery in Karachi is hosting a two-person exhibition titled In Each Other's Frame, featuring works by artists Adeen Habib and Safwan Sabzwari. The exhibition brings together two distinct artistic approaches, with colourful and expressive works exploring contemporary social realities. The display has attracted art enthusiasts, with the artists' use of colour, form and visual language drawing attention from visitors.
We have limited ourselves, says Bushra Ansari
KARACHI: Veteran actor Bushra Ansari has called for greater creative freedom in Pakistan's film industry, saying Pakistani cinema cannot compete internationally if filmmakers remain restricted to a limited range of subjects and themes. Speaking to Express Tribune, Ansari reflected on the state of Pakistani cinema after recently praising an Indian Punjabi film 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' based on the Partition of India.
Austrian Jazz Ensemble entertains Karachi audience
KARACHI: The Austrian Jazz Ensemble performed in Karachi as part of a collaboration between the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi and the Austrian Embassy, presenting an evening of jazz music. The performance was part of a series of activities leading up to the World Culture Festival Karachi 2026.
Pak singer Daniya Kanwal lights up New York's Times Square Original
KARACHI: Pakistani rapper, dancer and choreographer Daniya Kanwal was featured on a Times Square billboard in New York, marking another milestone in her growing music career. Kanwal, who was named the EQUAL Pakistan Ambassador for the third quarter of 2026 by Spotify, has emerged as one of the newer voices in Pakistan's hip hop scene, combining rap with South Asian influences and lyrics centred on identity, womanhood and the experiences of young women.
'Rangeen' brings youthful romance to Coke Studio Nu.WAV
KARACHI: Coke Studio Nu.WAV has released Rangeen, a new collaboration between singers Hasan Raheem and Izzchugtai, produced by Umair. The track blends hip-hop and contemporary pop with more traditional musical elements, building its story around longing, infatuation and the imagined possibilities of young love. According to the team behind the song, Rangeen began with a beat created by Umair and shared with Hasan Raheem.
'Pak films must give audiences a reason to buy a ticket'
KARACHI: Pakistani actor Zara Noor Abbas believes filmmakers cannot expect audiences to support local cinema simply out of loyalty. Pakistani films, she said, must first give people a reason to spend their money and time at the cinema. Speaking to The Express Tribune about her upcoming film Sheroes, Abbas said audiences want to be entertained, and filmmakers must repeatedly prove themselves by creating films that offer both enjoyment and confidence in the local industry.
'Shaandaar' concludes with triumph of justice over power
KARACHI: Express Entertainment's crime thriller 'Shaandaar' has come to an end with its final episode, bringing a story of power, influence and injustice to a conclusion where truth ultimately prevails. Throughout the drama, the story explored how influential and powerful individuals could use their money, connections and social standing to manipulate circumstances and evade accountability. However, the finale delivered a clear message: no amount of power can keep the truth buried forever.
Waste plastic to art: From Nisbat Road to Troutman Street
KARACHI: For visual artist and sculptor Khalil Chishtee, art is not merely a profession or a medium it is a way of life shaped by memory, place and everyday experiences. His latest solo exhibition, Nisbat Road to Troutman Street, brings together a new body of work inspired by two places that have played an important role in his life: Nisbat Road in Lahore, where he grew up, and Troutman Street in Brooklyn, New York, where he has been based for many years.
Rural women artisans bring Sindh's crafts to Karachi
KARACHI: Handcrafted textiles, traditional clothing, jewellery and baskets made by rural women from across Sindh are drawing visitors at a three-day crafts exhibition in Karachi. The 18th Sartyoon Sang Crafts Exhibition, being held at Ocean Mall in Clifton, brings together thousands of products made by women artisans from different districts of the province.
Srha Asghar longs for 'unconventional' drama roles
KARACHI: Pakistani actor Srha Asghar wants to see more variety in the roles offered to women on television, and says she is particularly interested in playing a character that is sporty, active and driven by something beyond the usual domestic conflicts. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Asghar, who will appear as Zoya in the Upcoming Express Entertainment drama Ikhtiyar, said she does not have a fixed formula for choosing projects.
'We need new stories, diverse characters in dramas'
KARACHI: Veteran Pakistani actress Shaista Jabeen has called for more original stories and diverse characters in television, saying the industry is increasingly relying on repetitive themes and familiar character types. Jabeen is currently set to appear in Express Entertainment's upcoming drama Ikhtiyaar, which features an ensemble cast including Shahroz Sabzwari, Srha Asghar, Faiza Hassan and Yasir Nawaz.
Sohail Sameer apologises after intimate scene sparks backlash
KARACHI: Pakistani actor Sohail Sameer has apologised after an intimate scene from his recently released short film Doosri Aurat triggered criticism on social media. The crime-thriller short film, presented by Oriental Entertainment, features Sameer in an intimate sequence with his female co-star. A promotional clip from the film, showing the two characters hugging and kissing while exchanging suggestive dialogue, was shared on social media and quickly drew criticism from viewers.
Bridal fashion show draws star-studded crowd in Karachi Original
KARACHI: A glamorous bridal fashion show in Karachi brought together an array of Pakistani actors, television personalities, models and social media stars, turning the runway into a celebration of traditional bridal fashion with a contemporary touch.
'I was sick of commercial music': Atif Aslam
KARACHI: After nearly two decades, Pakistani singer Atif Aslam is returning to the album format with Subh Aye Na a project he describes as a deeply personal journey of self-exploration, creativity and artistic freedom. Speaking to The Express Tribune at the album launch, Aslam said the release carries a very different feeling for him because it comes 18 years after his last album. "Very much excited, because after 18 years we are releasing the album.
Ali Zafar draws big crowds across North America
KARACHI: Ali Zafar's latest North American tour has turned into one of his biggest international runs, drawing crowds across eight cities while bringing Pakistani music to large audiences in the US and Canada. The Pakistani singer and actor recently wrapped another major leg of his Roshni Tour with a sold-out show at Houston's Arena Theatre, where more than 4,000 fans turned up on August 14. The Houston concert also saw Zafar receive recognition as a cultural ambassador.
'Rahon Main' introduces novel concept on Express News
KARACHI: After more than three decades of experimenting with television, radio, film and digital media, creative content creator, director, writer, actor and producer Azfar Ali is returning to television with Rahon Main, a new show airing on Express News. Known for youth-centric satire and unconventional formats, Ali has been behind projects including Sab Set Hai, Dreamers, Light On Hai and To Be Honest.
Spotify picks 50 outstanding Pakistani songs of 2026
Spotify's editorial team has highlighted 50 Pakistani songs that it says have stood out during the first half of 2026, reflecting the changing sounds and themes of the country's music scene. The selection, titled "The Best Pakistani Songs of the Year So Far 2026", includes songs ranging from pop and ballads to experimental music, reinterpretations of older classics and Pakistani hip-hop.
Meera footage resurfaces as maid denies assault
KARACHI: Pakistani actress Meera has once again come under discussion on social media after CCTV footage appearing to show a confrontation between her and her domestic worker went viral. The footage, which has been circulating widely on social media, appears to show Meera involved in a heated exchange with her maid and allegedly engaging in a physical altercation. In an earlier video, the maid, identified as Yasmeen, had accused the actress of physically assaulting her.
'English Only' explores language barriers, self-confidence
The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi presented the comedy-drama "English Only" as part of its ongoing Alumni Series. The production is the seventh play in the School of Visual and Performing Arts (SOVAPA) Alumni Series. Written by American playwright Sanaz Toosi, the play has been adapted and directed by Awab Farhat. The cast features Farhan Alam, Kiran Amin, Nafees Qamar, Sanobar Ahmed and Awab Farhat, who delivered strong performances. The 90-minute play is being staged in both Urdu and English.
'Money should not be a privilege to flaunt' Original
KARACHI: For actor Shamoon Abbasi, playing morally complex characters comes with a challenge that extends beyond the screen: convincing audiences that the person they see in a drama is a fictional character, not a reflection of the actor himself. Speaking to The Express Tribune about his role in the 16-episode crime drama Shaandaar, Abbasi said actors often face misconceptions when they take on controversial or negative roles.
'Between Being and Becoming' explores identity, the unseen
KARACHI: An exhibition bringing together the works of artists Fatima Khalid and Imran Gul has opened at Sanat Initiative, exploring the changing relationship between identity, memory, perception and everyday life. Titled Between Being and Becoming, the exhibition opened on Tuesday evening and brings together two distinct artistic practices that examine how people understand themselves and the world around them.
Express's 'Bhanwar' explores travails of single mothers
KARACHI: Mansha Pasha reflects on how Shaheen's journey in Bhanwar became more than a fictional portrayal, offering a glimpse into the emotional, financial and social realities faced by women raising children on their own. In Express Entertainment's Bhanwar, Shaheen is a widowed single mother who runs a small home-based online food business while raising her young son.
Atif Aslam inspires new Spotify interactive feature Original
KARACHI: Every Atif Aslam fan has a story, and his music is at the heart of it. Some fans have followed him for years, while others discovered him through playlists, friends, or social media. Some listen during quiet moments, while others eagerly await every new release.
Celebrities demand justice after child's death
KARACHI: Pakistani actor Ayesha Omar expressed grief and anger over the alleged rape and death of a 1.5-year-old girl in Karachi. Sharing the news on her Instagram Stories, she wrote "We are in the lowest of lows. What is this society? What is this country? What do we really stand for? We collectively need to ask ourselves that and figure out a way forward.
Five authors, two characters: Unique story collection launched
KARACHI: A rare literary collaboration bringing together five acclaimed Pakistani writers to tell different stories centred on the same two characters was unveiled at the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA). Titled Zareena and Abid, the book features five original short stories by Senator (retd) Javed Jabbar, Naeem Sadiq, Rehana Alam, Taha Kehar and Talat Rahim.
Pakistan's leading artists display their work at Karachi expo
KARACHI: A new group exhibition, Handle With Care, has opened in Karachi, bringing together ten of Pakistan's leading figurative artists in what curator Scheherezade Junejo describes as a deeply personal and fearless exploration of the human experience.
Spotify selects HAVI as RADAR Pakistan artist for Q3 2026
KARACHI: Music streaming platform Spotify has named Pakistani singer-songwriter HAVI as its RADAR Pakistan artist for the third quarter of 2026, making him the latest emerging musician to join the platform's global artist development programme. HAVI, whose real name is Abdur Rahman Sajid, has gained attention for his emotionally driven songs and storytelling.
Stronger public, private sector support urged for NAPA Original
KARACHI: Former senator and ex-federal minister Javed Jabbar has called for stronger public and private sector support to ensure the long-term sustainability of the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), saying the institution has reached a stage where it can expand its role in Pakistan's cultural landscape.
Fashion meets glamour at Karachi runway spectacle
KARACHI: A vibrant fashion showcase in Karachi brought together some of Pakistan's leading designers, models, and celebrities as the latest bridal and party wear collections took centre stage in a glamorous runway event. Held under the title "Style Runway Fashion Show" as part of Pakistan Season 18, the event celebrated creativity, elegance, and contemporary fashion.
Express Entertainment's 'Shaandaar' breaks new ground Original
KARACHI: A man is killed on a road. The case makes headlines. Social media erupts with questions. Then, slowly, attention shifts elsewhere.But what happens when such incidents are not treated as isolated crimes, but as part of a larger pattern? That is the question at the heart of Shaandaar, a new crime thriller airing on Express Entertainment. The 16-episode drama, directed by Wajahat Rauf, draws inspiration from several real-life roadside killing cases that have sparked public debate in Pakistan.
Pakistan's film industry gets much-needed shot in the arm
KARACHI: Pakistani stars Fawad Khan and Iqra Aziz are set to appear together on the big screen for the first time in an upcoming feature film directed by Murtaza Chaudhry, with production already underway. Director Murtaza Chaudhry confirmed to The Express Tribune that he is helming the feature film. Chaudhry is widely known as one of Pakistan's pioneers of political satire, having first gained fame through 4 Man Show and BNN .
Actor Ahsan Khan returns to cinema in horror film 'Faramosh'
KARACHI: Pakistani filmmaker Abu Aleeha is preparing to bring horror back to the spotlight with Faramosh (Forgotten), an ambitious British-produced horror film that marks Ahsan Khan's return to the big screen after a long hiatus. Produced by Emberline Studios, Faramosh will be filmed across the picturesque locations of Lancashire, UK.
Sangeeta reveals why Naeema Butt was dropped from her film
KARACHI: Veteran Pakistani actress, filmmaker, and director Sangeeta has made surprising revelations about actress Naeema Butt, saying she was initially cast in her upcoming Punjabi film but was later removed due to her attitude and interference in the casting process. Speaking in a recent interview, Sangeeta revealed that Naeema Butt was originally selected for an important role in her upcoming film Mukho.
'Naql-e-Makani': Tale of prejudice, social stigma comes alive in Karachi
KARACHI: Rajinder Singh Bedi's celebrated play Naql-e-Makani has been revived at Studio II of the Arts Council Karachi, offering audiences a powerful reminder of how fear, gossip and social judgement can shape people's lives. Presented as part of the SOVAPA Alumni Series, the 60-minute Urdu production received an enthusiastic response from theatre lovers, who praised its compelling storytelling and strong performances.
Music wins hearts as Abida Parveen, Asim Azhar perform in Karachi
KARACHI: A charity music festival in Karachi brought together music, celebrities and a good cause. The event featured both pop music and Sufi kalam, attracting people with different musical tastes. However, some problems with the event management were also seen. The Charity Musical Fest 2, organised by Prem Nagar, was held at Moin Khan Academy. Several well-known celebrities attended the event, including actors Hania Aamir, Parveen Akbar, Nadia Hussain and Adnan Jilani.
'Journey from ancient memory to contemporary art'
KARACHI: For artist Rahat Ali, the past is not something locked away in a museum or preserved in the pages of history. It is something that continues to live, evolve and find new meaning through the eyes of the present. His latest solo exhibition, Forgotten Sky, explores the relationship between archaeology, antiquities and literature, bringing historical objects and contemporary artistic expression into conversation.
New fellowship for Pakistan's emerging women documentary filmmakers announced Original
KARACHI: Two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has announced the eight fellows selected for the latest edition of Patakha Pictures' Claim the Frame programme, which will support four documentary films by emerging women filmmakers from across Pakistan.
Express Entertainment's 'Missing Darling' ends with many layers
KARACHI: Express Entertainment's 15-episode crime thriller Missing Darling has concluded its run, leaving audiences with a mystery that came full circle. Breaking away from the formula of conventional family dramas, the series blended police investigations, the entertainment industry, media culture, human psychology and suspense into a story that earned praise for its unconventional approach. The drama begins with the sudden disappearance of actress Nina Kashif.
'Likes have replaced work'
KARACHI: Pakistani actor and writer Mohammad Ahmed has criticised what he described as the growing trend of seeking online fame by attacking others instead of focusing on meaningful work, saying social media has turned criticism into a shortcut to popularity. In a video message, the actor used satire to question the mindset of people who, according to him, resort to insulting colleagues and public figures to gain attention when they are struggling professionally.
Karachi celebrates automotive heritage with antique car book launch
KARACHI: A coffee table book documenting Pakistan's antique automobile heritage was launched at the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) in Karachi on Saturday, bringing together vintage car enthusiasts, historians and heritage conservation advocates. The launch ceremony opened with an exhibition of antique vehicles, followed by a short documentary introducing the Antique Cars Museum and its collection.
Memorable 'Kanya' dance show celebrates Pak-Sri Lanka friendship
KARACHI: A special Sri Lankan cultural dance performance, "Kanya," was held in Karachi through a collaboration between the Arts Council of Pakistan and the Consulate General of Sri Lanka. The event aimed to further strengthen cultural ties between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
'Bhanwar' exposes dark side of AI: Deepfakes, workplace manipulation, fight for truth
KARACHI: As artificial intelligence continues to transform digital communication, Pakistani drama Bhanwar has brought one of today's most alarming technological threats into mainstream storytelling: AI-generated deepfake videos. The drama explores how artificial intelligence can be misused to manipulate reality, damage reputations, silence dissent, and spread misinformation an issue that is becoming increasingly relevant in Pakistan and around the world.
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