By Good Times
Faran Tahir’s career spans diverse roles, from Shakespeare’s Othello to a concerned Syrian father seeking refuge with his family, a playboy arms dealer, and the iconic Captain Nemo. As one of the few Pakistani actors in Hollywood, Faran is known for his humility, compassion, and drive. Transitioning from theater to the big screen, he shares insights into life in Hollywood, his early career journey, aspirations for the future, and his latest role in
the Pakistani film UmroAyyar.
HOW DID YOU FIND THE TRANSITION BETWEEN WORKING IN HOLLYWOOD AND PAKISTAN’S FILM INDUSTRY? WERE THERE ANY MAJOR DIFFERENCES IN YOUR EXPERIENCES?
Of course there are many distinct differences between working in Hollywood and working in Pakistan. Hollywood industry being way more established and having a much larger history has more resources and bigger budgets for these ventures. And to be able to work with those people who are the crème of the creme and learning from them was a wonderful opportunity. But at the same time working in Pakistan which is a very different industry, one has to honour the rules and regulations of any industry that you work in. Although Pakistan has fewer resources but I think the creativity in Pakistan is beyond imagination and because of that working with people and trying to find solutions together is a wonderful learning experience.
WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE CHALLENGES AND REWARDS OF WORKING IN BOTH INDUSTRIES?
Both industries have their own challenges. For me the biggest challenge of working in Hollywood was to keep trying to find roles that showed me in a diversified way. And I’m not stereotyped which can happen in an industry which has limited offerings for characters and people like me. On the other hand in Pakistan the challenge is always been structural things. USA is way more structured. To be able to make your way through and have enough focus on what you’re trying to do has always been a challenge for me.
WE HAVE HEARD YOU TALK BEFORE ABOUT BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN THE GLOBAL MARKET CONTENT AND DOMESTIC MARKET CONTENT NOW THAT YOU HAVE WORKED IN PAKISTAN, DO YOU HAVE ANY PLANS TO EXPAND YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN PAKISTANI ENTERTAINMENT?
Having working in Pakistan I was very encouraged by Pakistan film industry. I think it’s high time we share our stories with the global market. Keeping that in mind I’m setting up my own company. Which is a production house make Pakistan which is my home my base. And keep a foot in both industries and push the envelope and
see if we can do some meaningful work. I would like to keep both the careers alive at the same time.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE IN UMROAYYAR AND HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH THE CAST AND CREW?
My experience of working at UmroAyyar was nothing short of being absolutely wonderful. The cast and crew became a family. We were trying to do something that was new and original. And because of that there was such camaraderie between the crew. And I will take this with me a jewel of a memory for the rest of my life
CAN YOU SHARE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE OR ANECDOTE FROM WORKING ON A HOLLYWOOD PRODUCTION VERSUS A PAKISTANI PRODUCTION?
One of the funniest annectodes of my work life in Hollywood was when a director got up and decided to show me how to act like a Pakistani. It was hilarious, frustrating and maddening at the same time. On the Pakistani side, I was once asked to come and direct a high fantasy project and I was sure there would be a studio for me to do it. After getting to Pakistan, I was told that the studio that the studio had not even been constructed yet.
Which created a lot of problems. It was hilarious and very frustrating at the same time.
HOW DO YOU APPROACH ROLES DIFFERENTLY BASED ON CULTURAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HOLLYWOOD AND PAKISTANI CINEMA?
I think regardless of which cinema or industry you’re working in, each character is unique and therefore we
must stay honest to what the characters requirements are. I always approach a character from a unique perspective. Sometimes my Pakistani culture my heritage plays a big part in it. Sometimes it plays a small part in it. And yet it is always a part of of me. So when I work in Hollywood, that uniqueness of my Pakistani experience is a part of my rendition and my approach to the character. But when I work in Pakistan some of my experience
from the US also trickles into my characters.
WHAT DO YOU THINK EACH INDUSTRY CAN LEARN FROM THE OTHER IN TERMS OF FILMMAKING TECHNIQUES OR STORYTELLING?
I think both industries have a lot to offer to each other. Obviously because the west is more advanced in the technology I think Pakistani industry will benefit from learning the technique and ways that are now being used in global story telling. By the same token we Pakistanis have some unique stories which need to be shared with the world and I think it would be a wonderful addition to the world art scene if we can also bring our stories to the forefront.
HOW HAS YOUR BACKGROUND INFLUENCED YOUR ACTING STYLE AND THE ROLES YOU CHOOSE TO PLAY?
I have been very fortunate to have had a wonderful education and training in performing arts. Which always helps me in crafting my characters. On the technical side that is a wonderful blessing, on the artistic side I think my acting style has a lot to do with my heritage and my own experience. I always try to bring something new something different, something more human to every character that I play.
ARE THERE SPECIFIC GENRES OR TYPES OF ROLES YOU PREFER IN ONE INDUSTRY OVER THE OTHER?
I actually focus on story telling and therefore to me all roles are wonderful challenges as long as the story requires it. I don’t make no distinction between roles or industries. I always look for the best story that we can tell.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF PAKISTANI CINEMA EVOLVING, ESPECIALLY IN RELATION TO ITS INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE?
I think Pakistan has a lot to offer. The problem that we have had so far is that we have only explored limited genres of story telling. In order to have a more global presence we would expand our exploration into other genres, other issues and other kind of movies. The strength of any industry is the variety of content that they product and I think we are at the right time and right moment to do those explorations in Pakistani cinema.
ARE THERE ANY PARTICULAR DIRECTORS OR ACTORS FROM EITHER INDUSTRY THAT YOU PARTICULARLY ADMIRE OR WOULD LIKE TO WORK WITH IN THE FUTURE?
There are some wonderful creators in this world and I make it a point to work with people who elevate my
craft. There are wonderful directors and actors across the world and I hope I can get the chance to work
with as many as I possibly can.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING ACTORS LOOKING TO WORK IN BOTH HOLLYWOOD AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL FILM INDUSTRIES?
My advice to all aspiring actors is to always dream big but never shy away from the hard work that goes into achieving those dreams. If our Pakistani actors want to work outside it would be to our benefit if we keep the training and have all the skills and tools that we might require to work in an international industry.
offering films television documentaries events short films and commercials. We’re hoping that by doing so we can elevate pakistans industry and bring more of an international viewership to our content. We will be in operation in about three months and we’re hoping we can take this industry to the next level.
AFTER YOUR RECENT PROJECT, HOW DO YOU ENVISION WHAT TYPES OF CHARACTERS WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPLORE IN PAKISTAN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY?
Having worked in Pakistan I would like to explore more varied characters than what we have currently being offered on screen. I would like to focus more on issues and storylines that are different than just domestic issues. We can bring light to other issues and other kind of characters and people will identify with these kind of
characters and story lines.
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT SCENARIO IF YOU COULD BALANCE YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN THE TWO INDUSTRIES?
I would really like to explore wonderful challenges in both industries and if I could have my choice I would much rather
Photography: MOHSIN KHAWAR
Makeup: PARAGON SALON
Location: ANDAZ RESTAURANT
Step into a reverie of timeless elegance with the enchanting bridal collection b y Mohsin Naveed Ranjha. In the hear t of Karachi ‘s ancient colonial stone buildings, where time seems to stand still, discover a treasury of untold tales with our la test Gold Series bridal collection titled ‘Hussan Ara Mansion! Each delicate stitch in these ensembles serves as a tribute to the narratives of love , joy, and yearning whispered by these age-old walls. From the noble elites to the ordinary souls who once inhabited these halls, their stories are woven into the very essence of our heritage. Inspired by the exquisite tradition of Sola Singhar, acherished beauty grooming ritual of yore , each ensemble is a masterpiece of hand embroidery, reminiscent of the opulent craftsmanship that adorned Pakistani fashion during this golden era. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era of sophistication and splendour.
Muse: @sadafkanwal
Photographer: @rizwan.haq
Stylist: @khojiiii
DESIGNER’S NOTE
Born f rom my journe ys to Karachi , the Hussan Ara Collection is inspired by the weathered colonial buildings
that I encountered. Each time I came across these structures, I found myself immersed in a world of stories. These di lapidated edifices, with their faded grandeur, inspired me deeply. Through this collection, my aim is to honor not just the lavishness of past eras, but also the indomitable spirit of those who dwelled within these historic spaces. The collection is centred on the use of finest textiles and elaborate embellishments. Join us as
we journey back in time, honouring the elegance and resilience of those who came before us, and celebrating the enduring allure of tradition
MOHSIN NAVEED RANJHA (Creative Director)
ABUBAKAR NAVEED RANJHA (Managing Director)
Candlico
Elevate your space with our sleek and stylish candle holders, available in black, silver, and rose gold. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any decor!
These candle holders are perfect for any room, blending traditional craftsmanship & modern design.
Go Micro
Transform any cleanser into a rich, marshmallow-like foam for a more luxurious skincare with Go Micro’s Marshmallow Whip Maker. The marshmallowy makeover creates micro-bubbles, producing a fluffiness that reduces friction and cleanses your skin deeply & more gently.
Kuku
If you are looking out for some exquisite jewellery pieces then Kuku’s Vincent Cuff and Victorian Coin Bracelet are a must have. Their jewellery is 18k Gold Plated and is a testament to timeless style with its textured simplicity, ideal for adding understated elegance to any look.
Photographer: Sajal Sajjad
Makeup Artist: Saima Rashid Bragfrede
Stylist: Hajira Ahmed
Models: Eman Suleman, Aqsa Shah, Minahil Mehmet, Rubab Ali, Zarru Zia, Abid Bangash and Asad Tahir.
Arrange to immerse yourself in a world where creativity knows no bounds with Nine Figures. As the curtains rise on our journey, witness the birth of a revolution — where every stitch tells a story and every design sparks a revolution.
Brand team: @heebakhalid @wasifuddinn @ahmedsiddiqui_
PR @irfanistan
Director & music :@hamzabaande
Makeup & hairstylist: @ss_zubair@qamarbashirofficial
Stylist: @farazsheikhofficial_
Ayesha, with a background in fine arts, operates a home-based cake company, “ Little Pleasures Artisan Cakes”, where she crafts the most scrumptious, breathtaking and intricately designed cakes that are almost surreal in their beauty.
What sparked your interest in baking and decorating cakes, especially themed ones?
As a fine arts student my whole life, I wanted to bring something new to Pakistan. When I launched Little Pleasures in 2012, now almost 12 years old, the concept of artistic and themed cakes was relatively unknown in Pakistan. My goal was to popularize this idea and make it a trend, which I successfully achieved.
Can you describe the most challenging cake you’ve ever made? What was the theme, and how did you approach it?
The most challenging cake was the Nun’s head on a rod cake. It was an hyper-realistic chopped off nun’s head on a iron rod. I know, even its description seems jaw-dropping.
How do you stay updated with current trends in cake design and baking techniques?
I have been on a hunt for new techniques and recipes developing and I have been around the world meeting and learning from new cake artists. I have built a community of some very talented artists from dubai, France, India and Russia. Keeping up with them and their art helps me stay updated with trends and happenings in the Cake business around the world.
Walk me through your creative process when designing a themed cake. Where do you draw inspiration from?
Something I firmly believe in not doing is copying other artists work. So when a customer comes to me with reference picture of a cake they want, I ask them to add customisation or let me design their cake with personalised elements. That is how I start designing every cake and end up with something artistic, personalised and unique.
What ingredients or tools do you find indispensable when creating your cakes?
Sugar and an off set spatula. I just cannot work without these two products.
Can you share a memorable story about a cake you’ve made for a special occasion or event?
Made this fully customised cake for a returning customer for his wife. He requested to carve their wedding vows on the cake and it turned out to be so beautiful and magical.
What techniques do you use to ensure the structural integrity of your cakes, especially when dealing with intricate designs?
Our work hours are from 12-5pm. As a home based business, we take our work hours extremely seriously, and that is how we manage orders.
What is your favorite part of the cake-making process, and why?
My favorite part of the cake-making process is definitely the final result. Achieving that perfect cake is incredibly satisfying and rewarding for me.
How do you approach customer requests for custom-themed cakes? How do you ensure their vision is realized?
We sketch out their orders, select colour palette and elements. We respect all of their requests, whether it’s easy to incorporate in one cake or not. We make sure we find a way to add everything they are asking for.
Have you ever experimented with unconventional ingredients or designs in your cakes? What was the result?
Acrylic cake was a success, we made this glass shine cake using gelatin sheet technique and it ended up looking like an artificial glass jar. It was beautiful and looked surreal.
Where do you see yourself in your baking career in the next 5 years?
In a cake shop, of course!
LADIESFUND, the renowned platform dedicated to empowering women, hosted a memorable mangothemed
Eid Milan event, bringing together a diverse array of guests for a joyous celebration. The occasion was graced by the presence of over 100 esteemed guests from diplomatic circles, corporate sectors, ministries, developmental agencies, press, women SMEs, celebrities, fashion designers, all coming together to mark the joyous festival of Eid.
Sweet Slice
Sweet Slice is one of the finest home-based bakery and is offering some scrumptious and eye catching, customised Eid wooden trays to gift your loved ones.
Ayna Beauty
Ayna Beauty is a local Pakistani brand with a makeup range that equally matches the standards of all high end makeup brands. Their hydrating lip and cheek tint is making rounds on social media and is a must buy for all those who want a naturally blushed buildable colour to lips cheeks and even eyes.
Durraj Official
Eid is just around the corner and we are all looking out for some trendy yet classy jewellery pieces. Get your hands on these exquisite, gold plated jewellery pieces to add that perfect oomph to your outfits.
We have picked some of the meticulously crafted luxury outfits to make you stand out this Eid.
Introducing Mohsin Naveed Ranjha’s Summer Festive collection. “A celebration of style that floats like a dream through the daylight hours. Din mein Khuwaab is a visual periphery of abundance. As the drapery of the night sky is inadequate to contain the vastness of our dreams, the stars linger, filtering through the sun’s embrace to shield the dreamers of the day.
These ethereal visions transcend the confines of darkness, spilling into the daylight and weaving an unbroken tapestry of imagination and hope. Inspired by the slow summer days, the garments are an ode to ease and lightness, eschewing heavy embellishments for airy adornments in hues of dusty pink, white, lilac, and blue, ensuring comfort during the sweltering summers of Pakistan.
Photography: @asadbinjavedphoto
Concept: @haideralishah_
Stylist: @abdullah_sidiki
MUA: @makeupbyshainal
Jewellery: @amnashariff.jewelry @ayeshaccessories
Videography: @abdulah_mehr
Cured Olive is a culinary haven where the art of charcuterie reaches new heights. With a dedication to crafting diverse and exquisite offerings on a board, they’ve mastered the delicate balance of flavors and textures. Now, expanding their expertise to catered events, they ensure every occasion is elevated with their culinary creations.
Can you describe your journey into the world of charcuterie and catering? What sparked your interest in this culinary specialty?
My journey into the world of catering and hospitality business began after my return from university in California in 2010. My family had recently launched a business focused on wedding halls and I dove right in, overseeing events and managing everything from food preparations to layout for gatherings of up to 1000 guests. Through this hands-on experience and my food tasting skills, I have picked up on the art of layouts and catering spreads. Food has always been central to our family life, and together, we’ve explored various culinary techniques, setting the stage for my venture into charcuterie and catering. It wasn’t until a few years later, while organizing my sister’s party, that I discovered my passion for food styling and creating visually delectable charcuterie boards. The positive feedback from that event, coupled with the encouragement of family and friends, helped me officially launch my own charcuterie and catering business.
What sets your charcuterie boards apart from others? Could you walk us through your creative process when crafting a board?
Our charcuterie boards are distinguished by attention to detail and a unique presentation style. We prioritize locally sourced ingredients, always aiming for preservative-free and natural options whenever possible. Whether it’s a standard or customized platter, our creative process begins by understanding the client’s preferences. If it’s a gift, we pay extra attention from the point of order taking until they are delivered, at every step guiding our clients through. For events, we consider factors like the theme and design the table accordingly. We offer a wide selection of cheeses, homemade dips, a variety of meats, and pair them with the freshest seasonal fruits, flavorsome nuts, and our homemade crackers and breads. Each element is thoughtfully arranged to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, resulting in a visually stunning and delicious board that leaves a lasting impression.
How do you select and source your ingredients for your charcuterie creations?
We prioritize sourcing fresh, locally sourced ingredients from trusted local suppliers whenever possible. Our cheese selection includes both locally sourced options and imported varieties, which at times, can be costly, but still allow us curate unique and aesthetically pleasing boards. We value the efforts of our local cheese producers, whose products enable us to create wonderful and diverse offerings while keeping costs reasonable. In addition to cheeses, we have been carefully working in our homemade dips, artisan crackers and breads, and also offer a variety of meats, and other accompaniments that complement each other and provide a diverse taste
What are some key considerations you keep in mind when designing a charcuterie board for a specific event or occasion?
When designing a charcuterie board for a specific event or occasion, we consider the theme, the preferences of the client, example: any dietary restrictions. We aim to create a balance of flavors, colors, and textures that will appeal to everyone. We also give priority to the presentation of the board and how it can enhance the overall aesthetic of the event for our client.
Could you share a memorable catering experience where your charcuterie offerings were a highlight?
One of our most memorable catering experiences was a dholak event where we created a desi grazing table consisting of charcuterie and canapé food items. The bride, who was from England, had high expectations, and it was a bit challenging to fuse together the two cultures. For the table decoration, we incorporated traditional flowers like gainda, motia, and nargis to keep it in-line with the theme of the event. Some of our dessert items were particularly unique, showcasing the union of the two cultures. For instance, we created ‘artisan white chocolate jalebi barks’ and ‘rasmalai tres leche’ dessert shots. The bride shared her heartfelt appreciation, making us grateful for the opportunity to make her important day special.
How do you stay updated with current trends and techniques in the world of charcuterie and catering?
Staying updated with current trends in anything, including charcuterie, is best done through social media. We keep an eye on international trends set by industry professionals and adapt them using locally available resources, with our own personal touch. For instance, we were amongst the first locally to introduce the “pepperoni roses” concept to our charcuterie boards. Initially, people were hesitant to include them on their boards, often requesting more of another item instead. However, now we find everyone asking for them, even when offered other meat options. This trend seems to have solidified its place. We’ve also noticed those who have been around for longer, incorporating this feature into their offerings. It’s rewarding to see the trends we introduced, inspired by international markets, gaining recognition and making an impact locally. I believe in mutual inspiration to continuously improve and bring the latest trends to the local market.
Additionally, I recently completed professional kitchen certification from Scafa, Lahore this year, which is a level 2 programme about French cuisine, world cuisines, desserts, and much more. Such an experience was invaluable, learning from teachers like Chef Rob and my amazing group! I look forward to incorporating many of my learnings from Scafa into our future plans.
Can you discuss any challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you’ve overcome them?
One of the challenges we faced was managing logistics. In the beginning, it was often difficult to explain to customers that a platter cannot be transported on a bike because the setting would be affected. Over time, we established systems to inform customers about these issues effectively and now offer reliable delivery options.
Another improvement we made was streamlining our platter arrangements by creating standard settings and categorizing them into different sizes. We realized that not everyone wants a customized arrangement, which can be more time-consuming and expensive. This change has saved time for both our clients and us, as we previously offered only customized settings for every order. Now, clients can easily pick what they would like to order from the menu description, knowing exactly what they’ll receive. Additionally, we frequently seek feedback from our clients to continuously improve our quality and ensure customer satisfaction.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the field of charcuterie and catering professionally?*
My ad vice would be to start with a passion for food and creativity. Take the time to learn about different ingredients and presentation techniques. Building a good rapport with the new clients and seeking feedback from them can also help improve your offerings. Most importantly, stay open to new trends and ideas!
In your opinion, what are the essential elements of a successful charcuterie board?
The important elements of a successful charcuterie board should have a mix of flavors, colors, and textures so that many further flavors are buildable from the mixed options available on the board. The more options of ingredients, the more fun the clients will have building their own bites based on their taste preferences. The next important aspect is that it looks appetizing and inviting with its colors and presentation. Finally, if there are any dietary restrictions from the client’s end, those must be carefully taken into consideration and worked around.
How do you balance flavors, textures, and visual appeal when creating your charcuterie boards?
Balancing flavors, textures, and visual appeal involves selecting a diverse range of ingredients that work well together. We provide a wide variety of cheeses, dips, and meats to choose from, each offering different textures and flavors, and pair them with fresh seasonal fruits, freshly baked crackers and breads, various flavors of nuts, and other accompaniments. As for the visual aspect, we arrange the ingredients in a way that creates a tapestry of flavors and visual delight to be discovered, ensuring that the board is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Beautiful 2 kanal house in phase 6 Dha (Open House) that came into the market for a full viewing. Designed by Mmad.design & Pr by Rubia Moghees.
Skin by Trillium
Skin By Trillium is the talk of the town! Their face washes and serums are revolutionizing skincare, tackling active skin problems with a blend of well-researched ingredients. It’s no wonder they’re the new game changer in the beauty world!
Aura by Alia
Eid is just around the corner and khussas are a perfect pick to pair with all our desi/traditional outfits. Aura by Alia are offering the most comfortable khussas with a thick cushion making them wearable all day long. These metallic khussas are a must buy!
Pomegranate Linen
If you are looking out for some beautiful and affordable table and tea linen sets then Pomegranate Linen is a must check. They offer some refreshing floral designs and also offer a wide range of customisable, hand painted cot sets for your little munchkins.
Summer seems practically made for getting lost in a good book. But if you find yourself in a reading slump try some of these books to reignite your passion for reading. From romantic comedies to gothic mysteries and classic literature — whatever your taste — we’ve got you covered!
‘Good Material’ by Dolly Alderton
From the New York Times best-selling author of ‘Ghosts’ and ‘Everything I Know About Love’ comes a story of heartbreak, friendship and how to survive both.
Andy loves Jen. Jen loved Andy. And he can’t work out why she stopped. Now he is waiting for his stand-up career to take off, wondering why everyone else around him seems to have grown up while he wasn’t looking.
Set adrift on the sea of heartbreak, Andy clings to the idea of solving the puzzle of his ruined relationship. Because if he can find the answer to that, then maybe Jen can find her way back to him. But Andy still has a lot to learn, not least his ex-girlfriend’s side of the story…
In this sharply funny and exquisitely relatable story of romantic disaster and friendship, Dolly Alderton offers up a love story with two endings, demonstrating once again why she is one of the most exciting writers today, and the true voice of a generation.
‘What We Talk About, When We Talk About Love’ by Raymond Carver
If you’re a fan of minimalism, the name Raymond Carver will undoubtedly be present on your bookshelf. ‘ What We Talk About When We Talk About Love’ is one of his best-known short story collections, and “Viewfinder”, like many of the other stories in the collection, is centred around how we interact with each other in our everyday lives, and our failed attempts at connection that lead to states of self-alienation.
With its spare, colloquial narration and razor-sharp sense of how people really communicate, the collection was to become one of the most influential literary works of the 1980s.
Deceptively easy to read and impossibly concise, Carver’s short stories are ones that you will be re-reading again and again, with fresh eyes every time.
‘Funny Story’ by Emily Henry
If you’re looking for the ultimate light-hearted beach read, this one’s for you.
The inimitable Emily Henry is back with a story of opposite attraction and fake relationships. ‘Funny Story’ tells the tale of Daphne, who was engaged to Peter—until they moved to his hometown in Michigan, where he realized he was in love with Petra, his childhood friend. The polished Daphne decides to move in with Petra’s ex, the disorganized and slightly unkempt Miles. Daphne and Miles then fake a relationship until they potentially, maybe, you’ll-have-to-read-to-find-out-if-they make it.
‘Things We Do Not Tell The People We Love’ by Huma Qureshi
A breathtaking collection of stories about our most intimate relationships, and the secrets, misunderstandings and silences that haunt them.
A daughter asks her mother to shut up, only to shut her up for good; an exhausted wife walks away from the husband who doesn’t understand her; on holiday, lovers no longer make sense to each other away from home.
Set across the blossoming English countryside, the stifling Mediterranean and the bustling cities of London and Lahore, ‘Things We Do Not Tell The People We Love’ illuminates the parts of ourselves we rarely reveal.
‘Normal People’ by Sally Rooney
Sally Rooney has a way of writing about people that makes them feel real. More than just “convincing”, her portrayals of human interactions feel so extraordinarily regular and grounded in reality. If you are a fan of the television miniseries, get to know Marianne and Connell all over again this summer by reading the novel. ‘Normal People’ is an effortlessly enjoyable read, all whilst being an honest, heartfelt study on the roles that we play in each others’ lives, consciously or subconsciously, and how we all have the ability to alter the people around us for better or for worse.
‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ by Helen Fielding
Written in the form of a personal diary, the novel chronicles a year in the life of Bridget Jones, a thirty-something single working woman living in London. She writes about her career, self-image, vices, family, friends, and romantic relationships.
No doubt you will have heard of the iconic film adaptation of the same name, starring Renee Zellweger, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant. If you are looking for a fun, light read to really sink into your hot-girl summer vibes, ‘Bridget Jones’ Diary’ is the perfect choice. Hilarious and concerningly relatable at points, this book is the book to propel you back into reading after a slump, and is sure to have you giggling to yourself the whole time.
‘Summer’ by Edith Wharton
If you love a good 20th-century classic which explores romance and girlhood while also providing insightful social commentary, Edith Wharton’s ‘Summer’ is the novel for you.
Four words aptly encapsulate this novel: summer fling gone wrong. Young and naive, protagonist Charity Royall falls madly in love with the wealthy Lucius Harney. Starting off as an ethereal fairytale romance, its plot quickly unravels, descending into a gut-wrenching tragedy which exposes the reality of class divisions and the worst of human betrayals. Set in a remote and insular town in New England, the small-town girl is constantly stifled by limitations – just one of the many challenges faced by unemancipated young women of the early 20th century.
‘The Bell Jar’ by Sylvia Plath
‘The Bell Jar ‘ is a classic read for any twenty-something-year-old who might be feeling lost and unsure about who they are and where they’re headed.
Esther Greenwood, a scholarship student blessed with both beauty and brains, has just embarked on a summer internship at a prestigious New York fashion magazine. Isn’t she living the picture-perfect life? Well, at least on the surface! As we progress through the novel, we witness the rapid degeneration of her mental state, which is not least catalysed by the dinning tumult of her internal conflicts. Upon acknowledging the shocking disparity between reality and expectation after taking a first brave step into the adult world, her sense of disappointment and disbelonging conquers the best of her.
‘The Bell Jar ‘ is a highly distinctive and unusual book, and although the era of the 1950’s it represents has faded and disappeared into history, the power of this novel does not dissipate.
‘Rebecca’ by Daphne Du Maurier
Mystery fans will absolutely devour this spine-chilling gothic masterpiece by famed 20th century novelist Daphne Du Maurier. The novel depicts an unnamed young woman who impetuously marries a wealthy widower, before discovering that both he and his household are haunted by the memory of his late first wife, Rebecca.
This horror novel sheds light on the palpable impact which the dead can produce on the living. Before you know it, its eerie yet dreamlike depiction of both mansions and nature alike will be etched in your mind.
‘Picnic At Hanging Rock’ by Joan Lindsey
Lindsay’s swoony, mysterious novel about a group of boarding school girls who disappear without a trace from a day trip to Australia’s Hanging Rock in 1900 is another book perfect for mystery lovers. The novel is both dreamy and haunting with Lindsey prefacing the book with a coy note that suggests the story is factual. The unsettling atmosphere is perfect for a quiet summer afternoon and fans of novels like ‘Gone Girl’ and ‘Sharp Objects’ will find this 20th Century classic particularly enjoyable.
Brand: Zeb.Zeeshan
Concept: @muhammadzebjanjua
Photography: @asadbinjaved
Models: @realrabia, @abeerasad & @hiba chaudary
MUA: Saima Rashid Bargfrede
Stylist: @Meheksaeed
Fatima Shaheen is a Barrister by training. She holds a degree of Bachelor in Law from University of London & was called to the Bar in England & Wales at The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn.
Fatima has diverse work experience from that ranging to hard core litigation to corporate advisory work; from human rights advocacy to influencing law/policy making. Additionally, her TV career spans to around 13 years where she has worked with various private TV Channels hosting different genre of shows. She joined PTV in 2012 with her show ‘Qanoon Bolta Hai’, a popular show recognised by the Pakistani Government to help it fulfill its’ international obligations as per Pakistan’s Periodic Report on compliance with CEDAW in 2017.
Since 2019, Fatima has also been hosting a social issues based English talk show ‘The Society’ at PTV World. Fatima was nominated as ‘Ponds Miracle Woman’ of the Year 2018 & her work has been officially recognised & acknowledged by Pakistan’s first ever ‘Women in Law’ Publication too.
Fatima, you are recognized as one of the most influential women in Pakistan, could you share a bit about yourself and your educational journey?
I did my O & A Levels from Lahore Grammar School after which I completed my University of London, LLB Honours Degree. Then I went to London for my BAR and studied the Bar Vocational Course at Inns of Court School of Law (now City Law School).
A lot of people don’t know this but I don’t come from either a legal or a media background—rather I come from a family of doctors!
From receiving professional education in Law to building your career in media, tell us about the transition. What compelled you to change your field?
People often ask me that question. A lot of people do not know but in addition to conducting my TV shows, I have been teaching law….furthermore I am also working as an independent legal consultant. Hence it would be wrong to say that I have changed my field completely.
Earlier on in my career, I have worked with top notch lawyers like Asma Jahangir, Justice Ayesha Malik (now sitting a Supreme Court Judge). I always wanted to make most of my practical experience of the profession. I wanted to share my knowledge through media ,and TV allowed me to do just that. I used media to translate all my practical knowledge/ experience of the legal profession for the betterment of the Pakistani masses.
What is the ultimate goal that you want to achieve by spreading awareness and giving life to real taboo issues in Pakistan?
I am a strong believer of the fact that awareness is empowerment for all,especially for women/vulnerable segments of the Pakistani society. Those who are unaware of their rights cannot claim them. Hence my ultimate aim in conducting informative shows is to ‘empower’ the Pakistani society at large.
Debate & discussion about real taboo issues be it child rape, honour killings or domestic abuse etc definitely sensitizes the society about the same. It helps shape societal attitudes in developing zero tolerance for such crimes. Media, as we all know, has a strong role in making & breaking stereotypes &/or in changing perceptions—I (in my limited capacity) try to use my television shows to do just the same.
We know TV Anchor Fatima Shaheen. Tell us something personal about yourself, something which we don’t know?
I am glad I am a principled and secure person, I do not believe we need the opinions or pronouncements of others to feel validated or feel we have self-worth. I believe the most subversive thing a woman can do is be happy with herself. I surround myself with a group of likeminded friends, who I know I can trust fully. But I must also admit a weak spot of mine—I am notoriously impatient, especially if I sense a weak or flawed argument. If you want to win me over, you either have to be genuinely kind or you have to bribe me to dessert. I’m big on sweets!
What stimulates you to come up with new ideas for your shows?
Several things shape the scope and direction of each show. I actively follow news and latest developments to ensure my shows are up to date and topical, I like to deepen people’s knowledge and information regarding what is happening all around them. I also quite like meeting new people of diverse backgrounds and differing experiences, this helps me deepen my own understanding and offer fresh perspectives on television. As they say, everybody has a story to tell and I have met hundreds of people with stories worth telling.
How do you manage time for yourself in such a busy routine?
To be honest, this has always remained a struggle. I am always striving to be better at time management, which I find easier on the weekends when I am “off” but as we all know, the news never sleeps! I also am quite nocturnal, something I am actively working on changing. But of course the success of a person is based on how diligent they are to their priorities. I work hard to ensure I give time to my work and of course, make time for the most important people in my life too.
Your love for fashion speaks for itself! Who are your favorite designers nationally & internationally?
Sania Maskatiya, Bunto Kazmi & Fahad Hussayn top my list of favorites in Pakistan. Love Coco Chanel’s statement pieces & her distinct signature style, which reflects clearly in all her pieces. Big fan of Elie Saab & the attention he gives to detail in his line. My list would be incomplete without Manish Malhotra & Sabyasachi Mukerjee; both of whom I love for their feminine, exquisite yet balanced designs.
What are the social challenges faced by women in Pakistan’s media Industry? Especially when dealing with sensitive topics?
It isn’t easy being a woman in media anywhere in the world. I would say there is general pressure on a wide variety of issues. First is the painful salary gap between female and male individuals, everyone knows it’s true and yet we are still stuck with this injustice. Yet woman must always work thrice as hard to be seen as credible as their male colleagues. I recall in my early days I was refused a show because I looked too young to be talking about challenges such as domestic violence, divorce, etc. People will flock to hire a young girl if she comes across as a dumb blonde, and seat her next to a smart enough middle-aged or higher male counterpart, showing that gender discrimination is alive and well in our society. Yet I believe these challenges produce real stars because women are tenacious and determined. That is why you have several fantastic female anchors and reporters worthy of admiration.
We know your love for travelling! Which countryyou visited left a lasting impact on you?
I went to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil a few years ago and I must say it was one place which left a lasting impact on me. Brazilians’ ability to smile on everything that came their way, their positive energy and infectious vibes and their zest to celebrate today, likethere is no tomorrow definitely left me thinking…why it is so important to celebrate life even when its isn’t good! I met ‘real’ people in Brazil and that is what made the trip so memorable for me!
If you could have coffee with any celebrity/public/historical figure, who would you choose?
I would have coffee with Princess Diana—I am a die hard fan of the late Princess; her looks, her style, her love for humanity, and her kindness will always make her a source of fascination for me. I would like to ask her one question—how did she gain the courage to speak up for what she believed in….against ALL odds?!
In an age of social media and instant access to public figures, how do you manage to maintain an aura of mystery around you?
I think its’ because I am selective about what I share online—I post to keep my followers and fans interested, but not to bore them with every tiny detail of my life. Your aura is established from the tone you set for yourself, the access you give others into your personal space—be spontaneous, but do not let them see everything!
Who has influenced your decisions the most—whether it is in real life or your career?
My mother and my best friend…both. They are two people I always turn to for advice and support. Both of them have always encouraged me to do things—I might just not have done staying in my comfort zone. Later on, these things have turned out to be the perhaps the best decisions of my life!
Your message to your fans?
Love yourself first & everything else will then fall into line!
Photography by: Marib Shahid Alvi
Makeup by: Layla Belal
Wardrobe by: Noreen & Neelam
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