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Erwischt! Dino Ali

People growing up in the 90s would surely remember Dino as an MTV VJ. After that he spent five years in England as a radio jockey (RJ) at BBC Urdu, and now he’s hosting a TV show Ek Dum Live and is an RJ for a radio show Dost Kya Scene Hai on FM91. In addition, he has acted in  Chinar Ghati and Rangreza

By Sana Zehra

What is your real name?

Mohammed Ali Charlie

What are you most known for?

Hosting on television and radio, in particular on the music channels, Indus music and MTV Pakistan.

What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?

A lot of funny and random things happen to me all the time. One time I was discussing with a friend how someone should adapt the famous jasoosi (detective) digest called Imran series for the Pakistan television. That very night while I was going home in a Careem I met a driver who happened to be from the family who have been publishing the books for the past 40 years. The conversation that followed was both funny and insightful.

If you woke up and had thousands of unread emails and could only answer five of them, how would you choose which ones to answer?

Well that’s a tough one because I find it rude not to reply to any form of communication. Ajeeb lagta hai (it feels odd). I guess I would just randomly select which ones to answer.

My worst purchase would be this pair of grey faded jeans I got from the UK. They seemed OK at first but later I looked like a cheesy Tamil hero

Describe the colour blue to somebody who is blind.

I guess I would just say that its calm and relaxing definitely my favourite colour.

What was that one time when you screwed up big time and no one found out?

Generally, I’m a very careful person so I wouldn’t say I mess up big time but little things. Like I’m really bad with names but I always remember faces. So when I meet people who are overly excited to see me and they may have been good friends long ago but I can’t remember their names. I get really embarrassed. I always act that I remember their names and who they are but if they ask me to save their number on my phone I get caught and it’s super embarrassing.

What would you name your boat if you had one?

Something filmi like the SS Nasreen, SS Shabnam or even SS Zubeida.

“A lot of funny and random things happen to me all the time”

Apart from Sana Javed what celebrity would you rate as a perfect 10?

I think all women are perfect 10s in their own way, but I find Iqra Aziz, Hania Amir, Momina Musteshan and Aima Baig very attractive. To be honest I’ve been all over the world and Pakistani women are really beautiful.

Name a fictional character that would be most boring to meet in real life? And which would be most exciting and why?

Any of the female characters you see in local dramas and soaps that would be boring. And most exciting would definitely be Batman I’m a huge fan and just hanging out with him would be awesome.

What is the best and worst purchases you’ve ever made?

Best would be this Calvin Klein leather jacket I bought from Los Angeles, which was super expensive, but totally worth it. My worst purchase would be this pair of grey faded jeans I got from the UK. They seemed OK at first but later I looked like a cheesy Tamil hero.

“I find Iqra Aziz, Hania Amir, Momina Musteshan and Aima Baig very attractive. To be honest I’ve been all over the world and Pakistani women are really beautiful”

What are some things that sound like compliments but are actually insults?

I don’t get it when people say, “Oh I didn’t know you could do that,” or “Wow you can do that too,” and then they stop there and don’t bother telling you if its good or bad.

What quote or saying do people say but is complete bogus?

I find the whole positive people versus negative people a little bogus. I mean just because someone is negative or has a tough time in life doesn’t mean they don’t want life to change or they aren’t trying hard to work things out for themselves. One should give advice without using others as examples.

Dumbest way you’ve been injured?

I remember a long time ago I fell onto a glass table at a friend’s GT while playing darkroom when we were kids. My injuries were quite severe. When I tell that I scars from playing darkroom, it just sounds wrong on so many levels. They always reply, “What was happening in that dark room huh?”

Tell us one thing people don’t know about you?

I’m very close to my faith and do my best to practice as regularly as possible. When people meet me they assume that I’m a hyper fun party boy. I’m actually the complete opposite of that. I know how to have a good time but I also feel that a strong solid relationship with God is far more important.

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The Virginal Love of Layla Majnun

“It’s one of those inexplicable quirks of human nature and the attitude of society that a smooth sailing romance does not arouse so much interest as a tragic one! When a normally eligible man and woman fall for each other and get married, no one takes particular note. People would like to prove that the course of true love never runs smooth. All means, even physical violence, is resorted to in order to thwart the lovers or destroy them if they do not yield’

—S.P. Sharma,The Art of Loving.

One of the most tragic of love stories of all times is that of the seventh century Arabian overs Layla Mujnun, so close that they were two bodies but one in spirit. When Majnun suffered, Layla bore the signs

By Mahlia Lone

During the Umayyad era in the 7th century, a son was born to Shah Amri, an Arab Bedouin chieftain of the Bani Aamir tribe belonging to the northern Arabian Peninsula. The baby boy was named Qays ibn al-Mullawah ibn Muzahim and astrologers predicted that baby Qays would grow up to spend his hife wandering. How right they were.

The lovely Layla al-Aamiriya was born with a golden spoon in her mouth, a princess in all but name, belonging to an extremely wealthy family of the area. Because she was rich, beautiful, well born and well connected, she was expected to marry a veritable prince and further elevate the family’s social standing. Qays met Layla (meaning intoxicating, night or dark beauty in Arabic) at the maktab (elementary school) they both attended as children. Smitten at a young age, Qays would be moon eyed and pay more attention to Layla than to his studies. When the master would cane him, remarkably Layla would cry out and have the marks on her body instead.

France Museum A Depiction Of What They Really Looked Like

The years passed and Qays’ love deepened and Layla too reciprocated his love. Thoughts of her possessed his mind at all times. Inspired by his love for her, Qays wrote and recited numerous poems, all dedicated to Layla. Daringly, he even mentioned her name in his poems expressing how much he loved and desired his beloved. He didn’t care that his friends made fun of his besotted state. He wanted to marry her and make her his forever. Although he belonged to the same tribe as Layla, Qays did not belong to the same social class nor have near enough money, so he was hesitant. Finally, he mustered up the courage, went to her parents, and asked for Layla’s hand in marriage. But he was a humble poet and they had been dreaming of a prince. To make matters worse, the match would have caused a scandal due to existing strict Arab traditions. Her father promptly turned Qays down. The two lovers were no longer allowed to see each other.

Keshan Azerbaijani

Layla was married off to a noble and wealthy merchant called Ward Althaqafi belonging to the Thaqif tribe in Ta’if. Though older than her in age, he was described as a handsome man with a reddish complexion, which is why he was called Ward (rose in Arabic). It was a good match but the bride was not happy, in her heart she still longed for her lover.

Qays was heartbroken. He fled the tribe camp and wandered in the surrounding desert. Desolate, he shunned the world and all its worldly trapping wanting to be alone in his misery. His old parents would leave food in the wilderness for their son where he would find it. At times, people spotted him wandering in rags, reciting poetry to himself about his beloved, or writing Layla’s name on the sand with a stick. Day and night, he pined for her. All those who saw him claimed he had lost his sanity, driven crazy by his love. Hence, they nicknamed him “Majnun” and even “Majnun Layla” (driven mad by Layla).

Painting Titled, Reality Of Laila Majnu

“I pass by these walls, the walls of Layla
And I kiss this wall and that wall
It’s not Love of the walls that has enraptured my heart
But of the One who dwells within them”
—Qays ibn al-Mulawwah (Majnun)

References to Layla Majnun in pop culture:

Film

  • In pre-Independence India, the first Pashto-language film was an adaptation of this story.
  • Layla and Majnun was a Tajik Soviet film-ballet of 1960 as well as a Soviet Azerbaijani film of 1961.
  • Pakistani film Laila Majnu (1974) starred Waheed Murad, Rani, Shahid and Zammurd, was directed by Hassan Tariq and music was composed by Nisar Bazmi.
  • In Bollywood, H. S. Rawail’s Laila Majnu (1976) starred Rishi Kapoor and Ranjeeta portraying all “the intense pangs of love, the painful obstacles that lie in its path and a soul-stirring performance by its lead actors.” The film was written by Abrar Alvi, a longtime associate of Guru Dutt and its hit music was composed by Madan Mohan and Jaidev with lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi. The actors fully overact in true Hindi film style and the music and dialogues are sentimental.
  • The Turks made the cinematic drama Leyla ile Mecnun in 1982.
  • Palestinian filmmaker Susan Youssef filmed Habibi (based on the story) in the Gaza strip in 2011.

Music

The tale and name Layla served as Eric Clapton’s inspiration for the title of the famous Derek and the Dominoes’ album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs and its title track in 1971. The song I Am Yours is a direct quote from a passage in Layla and Majnun.

Modern World Literature

  • Turkish novelist and recipient of the 2006 Nobel Prize in Literature, Orhan Pamuk makes frequent reference to Layla Majnun in his novels, The Museum of Innocence and My Name is Red.
  • In his book, A Thousand Splendid Suns, Afghan author Khaled Hosseini often  refers to the character Rasheed in Baku (Azerbaijan) represent the epic love story on blue green tiles.

Theatre

Most recently, Laila The Musical was staged by the British theatre production, Rifco Arts in a 2016 tour of England.

Time passed and one day an old man approached him and told him of his parents’ death. He had been sent by Layla because she knew of Majnun’s love for his parents, and wanted him to know about the tragic event. Maybe she was hoping he would return to civilization. But upon hearing the news, Majnun pledged to live out the rest of his days in the wilderness. Now he had nothing left to return to. Overcome with grief and the regret and guilt for having abandoned his parents to bemoan the loss of his love, he was completely shattered.

Like before, Layla could feel in her body whatever Qays felt. She too was shattered in mind, body and spirit, plus had a broken heart. Her husband took her on a long voyage to Iraq with him. Not long afterwards, in 688 AD, she fell ill and died there. When Qays’ friends came to know about Layla’s death, they went looking for him all over to give him the news. But they could not find him. Qays had felt his beloved’s soul departing. He sensed his way to her grave upon which he flung himself bereft crying inconsolably. There he was found in the wilderness near Layla’s grave. On a rock near the grave, he had carved three verses of poetry, which are the last three verses he ever wrote before he finally joined his Layla in death.

A Miniature Of Nizami’s Work. Layla And Majnun Meet For The Last Time Before Their Deaths. Both Have Fainted And Majnun’s Elderly Messenger Attempts To Revive Layla While

In an alternate version, Layla’s brother, Tabrez, would not allow her to bring a scandal upon them and shame the family name by marrying the crazy Majnun. Majnun blamed Tabrez for his proposal getting rejected and quarreled with him. Stricken with madness over the loss of Layla, Majnun murdered Tabrez. Word reached the village and he was arrested. He was sentenced to be stoned to death by the villagers. Layla could not bear it and agreed to marry another man if Majnun would be exiled instead of put to death. Her terms were accepted and she was married, but in her heart she still pined for him. Layla’s husband realized this and was infuriated. He took it as a personal insult to himself. He rode with his men into the desert to find Majnun. Upon finding him, Layla’s husband challenged him to a duel. The instant her husband’s sword pierced Majnun’s heart, Layla collapsed in her home. Layla and Majnun were buried next to each other as her husband and their fathers prayed for their afterlife. Myth has it that Layla and Majnun met again in heaven, where they loved forever. Layla Majnun did not die in vain, they died for love, and that love has immortalized them.

Muhammad Bin Sulayman Known As Fuzûlî

The story of Layla Majnun was well known in Persia as early as the 9th century. Two well known Persian poets, Rudaki and Baba Taher, both mention the lovers. Then, in the twelfth century Persian Muslim poet Nizami Ganjavi wrote five long narrative poems called Panj Ganj (The Five Treasures) of which the third was Layla Majnun. Nizami drew influence from Udhrite love poetry, characterized by erotic abandon and an unquenchable longing for the beloved. He sourced both secular and mystical references about Layla Majnun and portrayed a vivid picture of the famous lovers. His masterpiece inspired many other Persian to write their own versions of the romance. The enduring popularity of the romance influenced countless generation of Sufi writers all over the Muslim world.

This type of love is known as “virgin love” because the lovers never marry each other or consummate their passion. It is a chaste, purely emotional love. Family and society puts up so many roadblocks that they die before they can consummate, hence, the enduring popularity in the conservative Muslim world of such “pure” love stories. This literary motif is common throughout Muslim literature, and is even found in Urdu ghazals.

According to Dr. Rudolf Gelpke, “Many later poets have imitated Nizami’s work, even if they could not equal and certainly not surpass it; Persians, Turks, Indians, to name only the most important ones. The Persian scholar Hekmat has listed no less than forty Persians and thirteen Turkish versions of Layli and Majnun.”

Vahid Dastgerdi agrees, “If one would search all existing libraries, one would probably find more than 1000 versions of Layli and Majnun.”

Uzeyir Hajibeyov Composed The Middle East’s First Opera Based On This Story
Uzeyir Hajibeyov’s Opera

The story of Layla Majnun became very popular in Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani adaptation of the story, Dâstân-i Leylî vü Mecnûn (The Epic of Layla and Majnun) was written in the 16th century by Fuzûlî, pseudonym of the poet Muhammad bin Suleyman. In the late 19th century, Ahmed Shawqi wrote a lyrical play based on Fuzuli’s poetry, now considered one of the best in modern Arab poetry. Fuzûlî also inspired the composer Uzeyir Hajibeyov whose opera on the lovers’ tragic life became Middle East’s first opera, which premiered in Baku on 25 January 1908. A scene from Fuzuli’s poem is even depicted on the reverse of the Azerbaijani 100 and 50 manat commemorative coins minted in 1996 for the 500th anniversary of Fuzûlî’s life.

In the early 19th century, Nizami’s epic poem was translated into English by Isaac D’Israeli (the scholarly father of Prime Minister Benjamin Disreali) bringing it to a wider western audience. Lord Byron called Layla Majnun “the Romeo and Juliet of the East.”

Azerbaijani Writer Ahmed Shawqi Wrote A Lyrical Play Based On Fuzuli’s Poetry
Alleged Layla Majnu Mausoleum
Tomb
Jewish Scholar Isaac D’Israeli Who Translated Nizami’s Epic Poem Into English
Layla And Majnun; A Persian Love Story —Edmund Dulacs Picture Book For The French

In India, according to a rural legend, it is believed that Laila Majnu (South Asian spelling) were actually from Sind. They eloped from their village and found refuge just 2 km from the current Indo-Pak border in the village of Binjaur, 12 to 14 km from Anupgarh town in the Sriganganagar district in Rajasthan before they died. The graves of Laila Majnu are believed to be located. Hundreds of newlyweds and lovers regardless of their religion from India and Pakistan make a pilgrimage to the lovers’ graves. The mausoleum is revered equally by Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians signifying the secular character of love and an annual fair on June on 15th commemorates their enduring love story.

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In Lahore

This fortnights most stylish dressed and why we think so

Who? Sara Walid

Why? Florals are always a good idea and we loves those pants AND that bag AND those sunglasses. Need we say more?

Who? Hajra Lalljee

Why? We love everything about this  look, from the printed skirk to the embellished denim jacket, this outfit is bang on trend

Who? Nina

Why? Because there’s nothing more classic than a white top with blue jeans and it goes into sartorial overdrive when you add those exaegerated sleeves

Who? Alyzeh Gabol

Why? She is a vision in white. Who wouldn’t want to be 23 again!

Who? Mawra Hocane

Why? Chic and simple is always best and we love how Mawra shows just a little bit of sass with her peekaboo crop top

Who? Urwa Hocane

Why? Lovely in lavender, she wears a simple sheath gown with aplomb

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In Lahore

The Designer’s Perspective Sadaf Fawad Khan of SFK Bridals

SFK Bridals by Sadaf Fawad Khan imparts subtlety and modernity. Sadaf’s vision offers youthful glamour that balances traditional detailing with fresh silhouettes. Sadaf discusses her recent collection styled exculsively for GT on her muse, the stunning Anaum Hammad

By Afshan Shafi

How would you describe your design journey?

I’ve been designing for five years now so SFK bridals was a very natural progression for me.

Do you have a muse?

For today’s shoot Anaum is my muse who is truly beautiful and looks stunning in each and every color and every cut.

In life, who would you say is your muse?

I think there are so many well dressed inspirational women across the world so it would be hard to choose one.

What inspires you when you’re designing?

I’m quite a minimalist person anyway and I don’t like ostentatious things, so we always keep that in mind. Motif wise I’ve gone with sticking to patterns, mosaics, florals. As we go further, we’ll develop a signature style so to speak but for now we take inspiration from everything.

How would you describe SFK in three words?

Comfortable

Classic

Colourful

What was the starting point for this particular collection that you showed at Pfdc?

Since I’m a business graduate, I handle the business side of things and work with my design team who develop the khakas and we together we add to the databank for inspiration. For the recent collection, we looked at the moonbow which is quite a rare phenomenon and uncommon.

What are your plans for expanding SFK in the future?

I think Bridals will remain an integral focus and since there is no bigger category then couture we will keep on expanding with that in mind. We have big plans let’s see how they roll out.

Rapid Fire

Favourite designers (International)

Ellie Saab and Sabyasaachi

Favourite designers (local)

Elan, Muse, Faraz Manan & Zara Shahjahan

Favourite piece of jewellery

A pendant that Fawad has gifted me, which is my favourite so far.

A celebrity you would love to dress

Deepika Padukone

Non-celebrity you would love to dress

Kate Middleton (Laughs)

Favourite fashion show that you attended in person

The recent showcase by Elan. The ambiance, clothes everything was 100/100

Favourite high street designer

Zara

The perfect metallic look for a dholki with a high low hemline adding a modern twist. Pulled back hair gives the right sleekness to the ensemble

 Just the outfit for a glam mehndi with those Shafaq Habib beauties adding the right lustre

Anaum is a knockout in this ivory sari. We love the ruffled fall and pallu and the glints of gold throughout. The deep pink lips and the perfect highlighter finish the look perfectly

We love the entiwining branches of the grand motif here as well as the shimmering fabric. Shiny fuss free hair adds a carefree vibe to this evening ensemble

 Anaum dazzles in a floor length jacket with metallic high waisted trousers. Subtle side swept waves add a traditional elegance to the look

Love the on-trend fringing and high low modernity of this outfit. Anaum rocks those aubergine trousers with strappy heels

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Rangreza The Musical Bilal Ashraf, Ghana Ali and Gohar Rasheed

2017 has been a year of challenges for Pakistani cinema.

With more flops and a few debatable hits, Rangreza’s trailer seems to be a breath of fresh air in the cinema smog.

The trailer looks enticing, Gohar Rasheed especially seems to be a contender for an acting award next year.

Sana Zehra sits down with Bilal Ashraf, Ghana Ali and Gohar Rasheed for a quick rapid fire on love, life and Rangreza

Interview: Sana Zehra

Photography: Arsalan Bilgrami of a.bilgrami studio

Hair & makeup: Nabila’s

Outfits: Deepak Perwani

Jewellery: Kohar

Bilal Ashraf

What’s your favourite place on earth?

Karachi

Favourite food?

Qeema Roti

Denim or pants?

Denim

Collared shirt or t-shirts?

T-shirts

One thing you can’t live without?

Family

What does love sound like?

Sounds beautiful

What’s on your Ipod right now?

Phool khil jaingay

Favourite song to play on the guitar?

Wish I did but unfortunately I don’t know how to play the guitar.

Favourite song to play in the car?

Bulleya from Rangreza

What’s the best song to sing while you’re getting ready for a night out?

Namumkin from Pepsi Battle of the Bands

What’s the best song to put on when you are having a romantic night in?

I don’t know.

If Adele came up to you right now what would you say to her?

Sing

What’s the closest you have ever come to death?

Pretty close. When I was 13 I had a relapse of typhoid and it was pretty bad.

Biggest inspiration?

My father

What turns you off?

Bad body odour

If you weren’t an actor you’d be?

An architect

Favourite perk of the job?

To travel a lot

How did you make your first buck?

Making sandwiches at college

TV series you’d watch to back to back?

Game of Thrones

Song you’d listen to back to back?

Coke Studio’s Uss Rah Paar

First album you ever bought?

Bryan Adams

One thing you are really bad at?

Managing things

One superhero power you would love to have?

Mind control

Favourite fan moment?

It was when I was in London at Selfridges and I had people from across the border come and take pictures with me. Guess they’d seen Jaanan and were super happy to meet me.

Three qualities you want in your partner?

Adventurous, sporty, honest.

Advice to men with a broken heart?

Give it time, it will heal.

Relationship advice to a 15 year old Bilal?

Stay away

Craziest thing you ever did for a woman?

I flew to New York.

What would your ex-girlfriend be thinking right now?

I hope she is not thinking about MR (Mr. Right).

How many donuts are you able to eat in one sitting?

I don’t like donuts.

Favourite kind of cookie?

Double Dark Chocolate Dark from Ben’s Cookies, London

If you were a biscuit what flavor would you be?

Definitely dark chocolate

Who, in your opinion, is the best dressed man in the industry?

Fawad Khan

Who, in your opinion, is the best dressed women in the industry?

Mahira Khan

What song best describes your work ethics?

Born to be Wild

If we came to your house for dinner, what would you make for us?

Burgers

What would your dj name be?

Dj Billo

Would you rather be giant or microscopic?

Microscopic

What’s your favourite colour?

Green

Least favourite colour?

Beige

What’s the weirdest word in the English language?

Burp

What’s your favourite season?

Winter

How do you describe living in Pakistan?

Dangerous and unpredictable

What’s your favourite movie of all time?

Scent of a Woman

Favourite movie in the past five years?

Baby Driver

Favourite TV show that’s currently on?

Game of Thrones

Is this the strangest interview you’ve ever had?

No.

Ghana Ali

Who should every one be following right now?

Dj Khaled

What’s the coolest thing in your wardrobe?

At the moment, it’s a Stella McCartney dress I wore to the Lux Style Awards.

What’s your favourite restaurant in Karachi?

None

What do you love on your pizza?

Mushrooms

Favourite drink?

Virgin Mojito

Dark chocolate or milk chocolate?

Dark chocolate

Weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?

I don’t like sushi

Dogs or cats?

Dogs

Best gift you’ve ever received?

My sister had this beautiful diamond necklace, which I ended up wearing to the Lux Style Awards. She gave it to me without ever wearing it. That was something very special to me.

Last gift you gave a friend?

I gave some makeup and a fragrance to my really good friend.

Jeans or trousers?

I like trousers more.

A person you want to have coffee with?

My sister

Who is Ghana Ali?

A born actress my mom used to say: “She is always acting. Dramay kar rahi hay.” (She is acting like a drama queen).” My parents were both working and I had a lot of time to be on my own and watch a lot of TV. I remember watching a movie with Katrina back to back and ended up cutting my own hair just like her.

Who gave you your breakfast this morning?

My best friend Waqas.

Any thoughts on Rangreza?

Am very close to the cast and crew of Rangreza, it is my family. Everyone has been nothing but nice to me. There were a few problems in the beginning but Munib, Urwa, Gohar and Bilal they have all been extremely nice to me and am super excited about this.

What does GT means to you?

I have spent good times with GT and by the way my original name is Ghana Tahir so GT is my nickname too!

Gohar Rasheed

Describe Gohar Rasheed in three words?

Loyal

Risk taker

Adventurous.

One thing you can’t live without?

People who I love I’m extremely close to them I can’t imagine my life without them.

What’s the coolest thing in this room?

The piano in the back

Favourite season?

Winter

What do you like to do in your extra time?

Dining out and watching movies

Favourite movie?

The list is huge. Gangs of New York, Fight Club, Scent of a Woman so yeah the list goes on.

Favourite movie in the last five years?

Punjab Nahin Jaongi

What’s a book you plan on reading?

My friend Bilal Lashari recommended The Kite Runner. Am really looking forward to reading that.

Iphone or Android?

Neither

Favourite food?

Desi

Do you have a tattoo?

No

Are you in love?

No, not atm.

Favourite solo artist?

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

Favourite song?

I love all Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan songs.

If your life were a song, what would the title be?

How do you like me now by The Heavy.

If you could sing a duet with an actress, who would it be?

Saba Qamar

A historical figure you’d love to have coffee with?

Quaid e Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah

What’s your favorite board game?

Ludo/Parcheesi

What’s your favorite country to visit?

UK

What’s the last country you visited?

Dubai

What country do you wish to visit?

Canada and I’d really like to visit Vancouver.

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

Being a healer.

Is this the strangest interview you’ve ever had?

No, I’ve been through worse.

What does Rangreza mean to you?

Rangreza is my heart! I’m extremely attached to it. My character Waseem Wallay has become my better half I have been living with the character for the past 2 years.

How so?

I have emotionally invested in this character. I changed my appearance for Waseem Wallay and it eventually became a part of me.

What does GT mean to you?

You know being featured in GT was a huge deal, I remember I got featured once and I got myself into trouble (laughs) so yeah I’ve had great time with GT. I grew up with it!

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Austria National Day

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Editor’s Note(November 16-30, 2017)

Mahlia S. Lon

We have a brilliant Memorable Romance for you in this issue: The seventh century Arab lovers of Layla Majnun who died pining for each other. When I started researching into their lives, I thought how dumb they died so young. What’s the point of that? What I discovered was that this story belongs to a whole sub-genre of tragic love stories in literature of the Muslim world called “Virgin Love Stories.” The relationship between the lovers is never consummated but based solely on an emotional connection so strong that without the “hit” they get from each other, the lovers go mad and die. In repressed societies like ours, all of us have felt the tug of an emotional connection and we don’t realize that it’s literally based on an addiction with the other person acting like a drug. We feel high in that person’s company and low without it. Sufi literature, Urdu ghazals, even Subcontinental films, especially of an older era, all tell the stories of this chaste and pure love, whether it’s between a person and his maker or between two individuals regardless of their relationship. Baring one’s soul is so much more intimate than baring one’s body.

Leaving philosophizing aside, the hip and happening cast of Rangreza regale us with all with their exploits in this GT. They are a riotous lot as you will discover and full of the vigor and hopefulness of youth. In addition, fashion designers par excellence, Farah Talib Azib and Sadaf Fawad Khan share the trends of this bridal season so we can all appear to our best advantage. Dive in!

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SHY ALLURE Actor Bilal Abbas Khan

Pakistan has a new heartthrob—the intensely charming and extremely handsome, Bilal Abbas Khan. Famed for those oh so beautiful eyelashes and his particular brand of smouldering innocence, Khan is a breath of fresh air. Starring alongside Sajal Aly in the popular drama O Rangreza, this truly versatile actor is sure to hit the big time. Bilal speaks to Afshan Shafi about his journey, romantic side and more

“The weirdest habit I have isbeing lazy and clumsy”

What has been your most favourite role to date and why?

My most favourite role to date (while I do feel it’s too early in my career to have favourites) is the one I am playing at the moment in O Rangreza, because this is the first time that I am playing a role that is completely different to my personality. This character is a sensitive and emotional boy who is completely opposite to my own personality.

If you had to choose a profession other than acting, what would it be and why?

No other profession to be honest. Since childhood I wanted to be an actor in theatre, television or cinema. This is my calling and I hope I am good enough to do this till the day I die.

Which actor is your greatest inspiration?

No specific actor. I believe every actor is an inspiration for new performers like me. However, I really admire the works of Nauman Ejaz, Al Pacino and Marlon Brando a lot!

On the set we learn from every actor and they inspire you to do better with each scene. It’s an evolutionary and learning process.

What kind of characters would you love to play in the future?

Oh there is so much to do for me in all genres. The wish list could just go on…

Would you ever like to play a role diametrically opposed to your public image?

I am lucky that I have gotten a role like O’Rangreza to play so early in my career. It’s really different from my real self to be honest. And this is the basic reason I got into this profession, to focus on the craft of acting and play diverse personalities every day.

What kind of contemporary actors would you compare yourself with? Or would like to emulate?

I don’t compare myself to any actor. Everyone has a different way of approaching a role respective to their career. I just want to focus on my own work.

Who are the most (local) talented actors of your generation in your opinion?

Feroze Khan, Ahad Raza Mir and Wahaj Ali.

Rapid Fire

Favourite perk of the job?

The ability to evoke emotion

Worst pitfall of the job?

Constant pressure

What’s the last thing you binge-watched?

Narcos

The weirdest habit I have is…

Being lazy and clumsy

Most romantic thing I have ever done…

Yet to come (haha)

Hottest woman in Pakistan:

Mahira Khan

What is your dream car?

Lamborghini

Love is…

Eternal

A character I wish I had played is…

Raj Kumar Rao in Trapped

Classical Art or Modern Art?

Classical

What do you judge people for that you probably shouldn’t?

On how they easily judge other people

One thing I just won’t eat is…

Beef

Celebrity crushes local/international?

Mahira Khan, Angelina Jolie

Dogs or cats?

Neither (not really a pet person)

A historical figure you’d love to have coffee with?

Mohammad Ali

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

Invisibility

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Sparkling Sana Bucha

Sana still has her pink stuffed bunny from her childhood called bunny wunny!

Having faced some of the toughest personalities in Pakistan when she was working as a news anchor, Sana Bucha’s personality and her no-nonsense gutsiness has made her one of the most inspiring and dynamic women in the country. She recently made a mark as an actress by working  in the movie Yalghaar and we have heard there are many more projects underway. We love this actress and advocate who inspires us to embrace every ounce of who we are! Sana Zehra gets together with Sana Bucha for a quickie

Nickname that really annoys you…

Sana “Bitch”a

Sana still has her pink stuffed bunny from her childhood called bunny wunny!

Weirdest habit you have is…

I am so OCD, which is a problem for everyone because I want the cushion in place and I want the carpet proper so yeah, I guess that is a weird habit.

First thing that comes to your mind…

About Laikan?

Counternarrative

About Botox?

Necessity

Regarding the red carpet?

Overrated

Awards?

Recognition

Favourite movie?

I love Ijazat, Peter Pan, Pulp Fiction, Legends of the Fall. There is not one favourite, I have many.

What would be a good theme song for your life?

I get knocked down but I get up again.

Whose brain would you like to pick?

Ahmed and Ijaz

Whose brain would you like to have had?

No, I want to keep my own brain please.

If you could be successful in another profession, which would you choose?

Writer

If you could commit one crime without being caught…?

I’d kill someone.

Sana still has her pink stuffed bunny from her childhood called Bunny Wunny!

Greatest work of art?

Me

If you could invent anything?

A clock that moves really slowly

What colour describes you best?

Black

What object best represents your personality?

You know those cuboids with different colours, I am that with different colours.

What period of history most fascinates you?

60s

Worst work experience?

Laikin

Change one thing about your childhood?

I wish my parents hadn’t gotten divorced.

Do you believe in magic?

Yes

Are you superstitious?

Yes, very

What would you like to be known for?

A good heart

If you could have witnessed one event in history?

I would really like to have seen Hazrat Khadija marrying the Holy Prophet (SAW).

If you could ask God one question?

Why do you continue to love me and bless me after all the wrong that I have done in life?

Single most valuable thing you’ve learned?

Ok, this is something really important and I just learned this. I thought professionalism and passion are the same thing. They are not. Please learn this early in your life.

The five most important things in life?

My parents

My husband

Good friends

A little bit of money

A purpose and meaning in life

If you could be reincarnated as someone you know?

My father

Reincarnated as an animal?

I’m so hyper and have so much energy that I think I’d be a good horse.

The most difficult question you could be asked?

Why don’t you love yourself?

Last time you cried?

Last night

Sana’s backup plan?

I have no backup plan.

Guilty pleasure?

Chocolates

Favourite toy growing up?

I still have it. It’s my pink bunny called “Bunny Wunny.”

Which economic policies would turn Pakistan into a growing economy?

Our economic policies are so inherently flawed. First and foremost, we need to set our priorities straight. Taxation is important of course. We need to focus on real life issues such as clean water, electricity, health care, etc. only then we can move forward.

Morning or Night?

Oh night.

What’s on your iPod right now?

Lots of artists and U2 for sure

Pop or Sufi?

Sufi

Lipstick or Lip-gloss?

Lip-gloss

Favourite season?

Summer

Blow dry or air dry?

Wet

Diamonds or Pearls?

Diamonds

What does GT mean to you?

Globetrotting. I know its good times but for me its globetrotting.

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Romee Khan The Star Power!

They make music with the instruments they were born with — their voices!

Music is a passion, a fever for those who think of nothing else and reach out to the audience with their soulful voice. Emerging as the new vocalist with major star power, Romee Khan is creating quite a buzz in the music world with his powerful vocal cords and heart touching songs.

Born on June 18th 1996, this young supernova dove into the realm of songs and music at the tender age of nine. Romee is an enigma; a child star from an immensely talented and educated family. Despite the fact that he has been performing, creating and improvising almost since he was old enough to walk, Romee is as humble and down to earth as they come. He may have hordes of fans and photographers surrounding him whenever he steps out in public, but he is an intensely private man who lives with his family in London.

While still just a teenager, he created his own home studio to record his songs. Despite being comparatively new, he was signed by the big banner of T series for a recording deal. In 2013, he started releasing music and today he is trotting the globe and performing live in  popular shows, sharing the stage with icons like Mika Singh, Atif Aslam, Ali Zafar, Bohemia, Kamal Raja, Abhay Deol, Ali Azmat, Nargis Fakhri, Sonu Sood and many others. His recent performances with Tony, Sonu and Neha Kakarr in New Zealand and Australia were such a raving success that another USA tour is planned with them for November this year.

Romee is quickly climbing the ladder of success due not only to his powerful voice but also to his unique stage presence and charisma. He has achieved quite a few recognitions, like The Amazing International Singer award presented to him by the king of Indian music Buppi Lahri himself and Best International Singer presented by Nargis Fakhri. His performance with Sajid Wajid Musical group and Shilpa Shetty was commendable and soon we should expect to see him with the fabulous Sushmita Sen.

Romee is never satisfied. There are so many different avenues and so many different things that he wants to do and is excited about. From Philadelphia to Atlanta, from New York to India, he has performed for millions in packed arenas swaying to his hit  songs Rab di and Teri Yaad. Keep your eye on this fast rising star.

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In Lahore

This fortnight’s most stylishly dressed & why we think so

Who? Anjum Nida Rahman

Why? This Samsung executive sporting a statement jacket epitomises how to appear polished and well turned out at a high profile work event

Who? Sehyr Saigol

Why? The doyenne of the fashion world is polished in a simple cream jacket. Less is more ladies, look and learn

Who? Musharraf Hai

Why? The managing director of L’Oreal is always a thorough professional yet so much fun. We love women like her who do it all!

Who? Shoaib Malik

Why? Awarded the Most Stylish Sports Personality at the Hum Style Awards 17, the cricketer is dressed to impress in a Scottish tartan jacket

Who? Ayesha omer

Why? The winner of the Most Stylish TV Actress at the Hum Style Awards 17 is wearing a breath-taking princess gown by a Russian fashion designer

Who? Laaleen Sukhera

Why? This journo/author/ communications professional looks elegant in a full length Murtaza Hussain coat with a thankfully bling free Brazilian lace collar framing her face

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In Lahore

Singapore Diary

By Maria Mahesar

It came as a shock to my friends and family when I decided to spend my holidays in Singapore. Their (family and friends) suggestion was the usual i.e. Thailand, London or Dubai especially the latter since it was closer to home.  Contrary to the popular recommendations, I opted for Singapore mainly to attend the Singapore Grand Prix.

On September 13th I boarded the flight to embark on the rather unusual route to Singapore from Karachi i.e. via Dubai. But once I landed in Singapore, the pollution-free breeze, greenery and infrastructure immediately made me forget about the long flight, boredom and loud baby cries I had encountered on the flight. This time on strong insistence of my friend I opted for Airbnb and booked a studio apartment in China Town that was 10-15 minutes away from all the central tourist points of Singapore.

My first three days revolved around Formula 1 activities, attending the training, qualify round and of course the main race. Watching the cars in real life was like a teenage dream come true, the passion, excitement experience on the race day was phenomenal! A large number of people sporting their favorite team jerseys, caps and merchandise showed up at the venue chanting in support of their team, and even though it rained the race went on as planned.

Once the Singapore Grand Prix fever was over it was time to embark on some typical touristy adventures i.e. wandering around the streets, tasting new cuisines, shopping and of course asking your friend to take your photograph at every step of your adventure.

First stop, the much talked about Haji Lane. If you’ve ever visited Singapore I doubt if you had missed out on this beautiful fashion paradise. There’s something so special about the beautiful yet quirky graffiti displayed on the walls of the narrow lanes of Haji Lane that cannot be described in words.  The cozy roadside cafes, pop art shops, compact book shops, antique shops make you instantly fall in love with this tourist hotspot. Instead of two hours, I ended staying there for 8 hours and got most of my shopping done from there. Also getting my first ever tattoo from the much talked about tattoo parlor called Visual Orgasm located in Haji Lane makes this place even more memorable. While I continued to be mesmerized and fascinated by Haji Lane, I did take some time out to visit the famous Marina Bay Gardens, China Town shopping street and Universal Studios.

Home to a diverse ethnic group means you get to meet people from all corners of the world including Pakistanis and of course get to taste some amazing mouthwatering dishes such as Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, Char Kuay Teow, Char Siew Rice/Noodles.

There were some great things to learn from this country such as people patiently waiting in queues for their turn, cleanliness maintained on the roads/streets, how Singaporeans respected and obeyed the law, most importantly their openness and hospitality towards tourists. All these reasons and more have convinced me to visit Singapore at least once a year.

As I left for Changi Airport on September 20th for Dubai I couldn’t hold back my tears, without any exaggeration I had the best time in the longest time. Singapore you continue to amaze me, I’ll be back soon!

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In Lahore

Designer spotlight Mona Imran

Fashion designer, Mona Imran last showcased her collection Goldrush at FPW 16 to positive reviews. Her signature look is a mix of rich golds and reds with intricate hand embroidery. Sana Zehra catches up with Mona in Karachi

What sparked your interest in fashion?

It’s my passion.

How has your work evolved over the course of years?

We all grow in terms of our work. The essence of my brand is modern cuts but staying true to our roots. We make wearable clothes for Pakistani women.

What is the biggest fashion mistake women make?

Overdoing makeup

What was the first break you got in your career?

My first bridal show

What is your source of inspiration?

I find inspiration in everything—books, music, nature.

Favourite place to find budget buys?

Sapphire

Favourite place to shop in Karachi and why?

Dolmen Mall Clifton, where all brands are under one roof.

If you’d choose to give any celebrity a makeover who would it be and why?

Anushka Sharma, she’s got a lot much to offer.

What are the must-haves a woman must have in her closet at all times?

Bags, a good watch, and of course, a sexy black evening dress.

Favourite all time designer?

Versace

If one is really stuck and don’t know what to wear, what would you suggest?

A black flared cocktail outfit with an embellished belt.

Item worth splurging on?

Chanel bag

Who is the most difficult celebrity you’ve worked with?

All celebrities think they deserve to be treated a certain way and have this totally over the top attitude.

Favourite vacation spot?

London

Have you ever been in love?

I believe everybody has fallen in love at some point.

Any fashion related message?

Shop till you drop.

Any styling advice?

Don’t style past your comfort zone.

What are the key trends for bridal and wedding wear for the upcoming season?

Simplicity

Pastels

Trendy cuts

Long dresses

What are classic silhouettes that flatter every woman?

Well tapered and well finished

What trends would you like to see die?

Modern contemporary

What trends would you like to see more women experiment with this season?

From futuristic fabrics to tonal dressing, fashion is throwing some frivolous, and some revolutionary ideas our own way for the new season.

What do you hope to see more of from designers in bridal and wedding wear this season?

Peplum

One shoulder

Hi-lo drapes

What does GT mean to you?

Old is gold.

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In Lahore

Top Trends

By Afshan Shafi

Sana Safinaz

Ruffles Galore 

Gold by Reama Malik x Wasim Khan

Jewelled Classics 

Shiza Hassan

Modern Tissue

Ali Xeeshan

Optic Brightness

 Mahgul

Sleek and Chic

 Nickie Nina

Exuberant traditionals 

Sadaf fawad khan

Goldfinger 

Shamsha Hashwani

Royal hues Zuria Dor

Iridescent splendour

Fahad Hussayn

Ethnic Allure

Nomi Ansari

Proud as a peacock 

Saira Shakira

Young & Sassy 

Sania Maskatiya

Princess Bride

 

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In Lahore

The lowdown on film, books, television, music & happenings

By Staff writer

Movies:

Thor: Ragnarok

Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok—the destruction of his home world and the end of Asgardian civilization—at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela (Cate Blanchette). But first he must survive a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger—the Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo)

Also starring Idris Elba, Tom Hiddleston and Anthony Hopkins, the film is set to release on the 3rd of November, 2017.

Music:

HOT 100

TOP 5

# Song Name Artist
1 Rockstar Post Malone Featuring 21 Savage
2 Bodak Yellow (Money Moves) Cardi B
3 1-800-273-8255 Logic Featuring Alessia Cara & Khalid
4 Look What You Made Me Do Taylor Swift

 

Books: 

CRAZY RICH ASIANS —by Kevin Kwan

Crazy Rich Asians takes you behind the scenes of some of Asia’s wealthiest families. When Rachel Chu agrees to go on holiday to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick, she imagines that this will just be a fun summer, a chance to meet his family and see Singapore, before returning to the simple life they live in New York. But Rachel has no idea that Nick is Nick Young (of THE Youngs, one of Singapore’s most established and wealthiest families). Rachel is thrown into a storm of gossip, money, interfering relatives, family secrets, and some seriously mean girls. The bonds of their love are tested, and Rachel must decide whether she can handle being in love with Nick and, therefore, being tangled up in his family.

TV Series:

Mindhunter

Netflix’s latest binge worthy show, Mindhunter, is a detective drama executive produced by David Fincher and Charlize Theron. It explores the psyche of some of America’s most infamous serial killers. Based on the nonfiction book Mind Hunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit, the show follows a pair of FBI agents in 1979 that interview and analyze imprisoned mass murderers in order to prevent future crimes. For crime drama fans this one is truly a must watch.

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In Lahore

Editor’s picks for what’s new in town

1. Fashsouq.com Fashionably Early for the New Term

Dubai-based e-commerce site Fashsouq.com, set to officially launch this October, boasts a portfolio of luxury brands including Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Valentino as well as popular high street brands, such as Zara, Massimo Dutti and H&M. The Dubai-based e-commerce site also represents a range of beauty brands, such as Huda Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills, YSL Cosmetics, Benefit Cosmetics, Kylie Cosmetics and Beautyblender.

Ali Ahmed launched the site as a solution to the retail limitations of the region. “Practically hordes of shoppers travel from other countries in the Middle East and from India and Pakistan to Dubai just with the sole purpose to shop. With this site, I’m hoping to take Dubai to them.”

2. Tivoli & Sumo   

Originally founded in 1990 as Tivoli & Sumo, this quaint little eatery was Lahore’s first Japanese fusion restaurant. Now reimagined and reinvented, Sumo once again opens its doors for patrons for a truly contemporary Japanese experience.

3. House of Shazia Cheema      

We can’t get over the amazing decor by the maestros at House of Shazia Cheema. The have taken the wedding industry by storm with their creativity and attention to detail. Follow their amazing work on Instagram @houseofshaziacheema or call 03234198926 to book.

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