Home Blog Page 983

Saba Qamar Gets into Trouble Over Tax Evasion?

saba qamar

Saba Qamar has been flying high with her back-to-back successes in her Bollywood debut, Hindi Medium and Urdu1’s ground-breaking Qandeel Baloch’s biopic ‘Baaghi’. She has earned love from her fans all over the world and we can surely say, she is the luckiest starlet of 2017.

However, some news reports reveal that the haseena has landed herself in big trouble with Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Various reports by Geo, ARY and Dunya News reveal that FBR has sealed her house as she has failed to pay tax on time.

Apparently, she has defaulted on tax worth Rs3.4 million and that’s a pretty massive amount!

According to reports, many notices were sent to Saba by FBR. However, no response was received and hence, her house was sealed by the authority.

Meanwhile, Saba Qamar has denied receiving any notice! So we wonder what the real story is.

However, it is not just Qamar who has made it to the news for all the wrong reasons.

Giving her company is the Lollywood diva, Noor. Seems like FBR has sealed her house as well for tax evasion.

#ThrowBack #NoorBukhari

A post shared by Noor Bukhari (@noorbukhariofficial) on

 

FBR record says that Noor has defaulted on tax worth Rs1.5 million.

Noor has not yet responded to any statements on the matter.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

APBF Condemns Brutal Violence on Rohingya Muslims

The All Pakistan Business Forum on Thursday condemned the brutal violence on the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar, asking the United Nations, developed countries and all other international agencies to raise the voice against this atrocity.

APBF president Ibrahim Qureshi asked Pakistan government as well as the world to stand up for helping Bangladesh provide food, shelter and medical assistance to the refugees, besides putting pressure on Burma to stop violation of the human rights.

He also urged the neighboring countries of Myanmar to provide all possible support to the affected people getting refuge in Bangladesh.

Ibrahim Qureshi mentioned, 

 “The international community should be given a strict message asking them to act against the carnage of Rohingya Muslim community in Myanmar.”

He also added that Burmese government is supporting terrorism that could put the peace of the entire world at stake. He demanded the government of Burma to ensure the rights of minorities, finding durable solutions for stateless Rohingya and holding the culprits accountable.

The APBF is deeply concerned over the massacre of helpless Muslims in Burma and gives a wakeup call to the sleeping international community. He said that silence of United Nations, Organizations of Islamic Countries and global leaders on the massacre of Rohingya Muslims is regrettable.

Though some Muslim countries, including Turkey and Maldives, have taken few steps to prevent further bloodshed yet the situation seems unchanged.

He further mentioned that Aung San Suu Kyi, the ruler of Burma, has failed to ensure peace and protect the Muslim minority while her silence over the issue is being criticized globally. She is one of the few people with the moral authority and mass appeal to influence the situation, but she is not responding to the calls of the international community.

 

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Hurricane Irma: Live Updates, Warning and Images

After Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc across the state of Texas, there is another impending natural threat; Hurricane Irma.

Hurricane Irma has been ranked as a category five storm with sustained wind speeds of 180mph. It is tearing through the Caribbean, currently hurtling across the Virgin Islands. However, now, it is moving away from Puerto Rico and heading towards the Dominican Republic and Haiti. According to forecast, it is set to hit on Thursday.

Watch Video below for details:

Irma has brought destruction across the Caribbean and Barbuda has been left in ruins.

According to the Prime Minister Gaston Browne,

“90% of buildings have been destroyed and 60% of the population is homeless.”

 


Alarmingly, the massive tropical storm is on track to reach Florida, which will be a disastrous hit. Irma is forecast to head towards Cuba and Florida, where mandatory evacuations have been issued to residents in coastal areas, who must leave their homes by Thursday.

While Irma is grabbing all the attention, there are two more hurricanes spinning in the Atlantic Basin:

  1. Tropical Storm Jose
  2. Tropical Storm Katia

In terms of Accumulated Cyclone Energy for all storms so far, 2017 has spiked to well above average in the past week due to Irma. We also have Jose and Katia adding to the tally.

Hurricane Irma, accompanied by Katia and Jose

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

Oil Spill at Seaview Causes Panic and Health Concerns

This Eid ul Azha brought with it floods, rain and a stench that we would definitely love to forget. A surge of garbage was found on the streets right after Eid when animal remains were found strewn across roads without being efficiently disposed of.

However, apart from the initial mess, it has now come to notice that the beautiful sea-side that Karachites are proud of is experiencing an oil slick that is stretched over 4 kilometers. This caused panic amongst public visiting the Clifton beach. The oil spill does not pose any serious threat to humans but marine life under the oil will be affected.

It has still not been found as to what caused the oil spill and officials claim that it has not originated from the Karachi Port area but was pushed by Monsoon winds from the open sea and therefore made the landfall to Karachi.

Location of the Spill

It has spread between McDonald’s & The village restaurant near, Seaview Karachi.

An environmental expert, Saqib Ejaz Hussain spoke to Geo News about the Marine Pollution Control Board which could control the oil slick in time before it gets dangerous. He added,

“They have dispersants which help control and break down the oil naturally, the KPT also has a boom which can be used to control the spill.”

He further spoke about the consequences faced if the board would not act quickly,

“If they do not act fast, it could pose a threat to humans as well as marine life.”

The oil spill that is measured to be about 4 kilometres long is now breaking down into pieces across the area. This is due to the impact from heat, it is now changing into tar.

The WWF Pakistan has also informed the public through an awareness video. Watch the video below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Defence Day 2017 Celebrations [View Pictures]

On the September 6, Pakistan celebrated its 52nd Defence Day with full fervor and renewed resolve to defend the country against all threats. Paying homage to those who defended the country with their lives against the Indian aggression and un-called for intervention in 1965.

The Army, Navy and the Air force, of Pakistan joined forces to exhibit their respect, each division in its own unique way. With parades, displaying combat techniques, coloring the sky during the air show and paying respect to the war veterans and the martyrs.

Air Vice Marshal Imran Khalid (front row 2nd L), Air Officer Commanding, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) academy Risalpur, walks with officers at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah during Defence Day ceremonies – Reuters 

Pakistanis look at missiles and a jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP

Pakistanis look at a F-16 jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP  

Pakistanis look at a F-16 jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017.- AFP 

A Pakistan jet fighter (R) drops flares during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP

LAHORE: Commander 4 Corps Lt General Sadiq Ali welcoming war veterans on Defence Day Show at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO

LAHORE: Pakistan Air Force jets demonstrate dangerous and colourful stunts to commemorate the 52nd Defence Day of Pakistan. PHOTO BY: ZUBAIR MEHFOOZ

Karate team performing their skills during exhibition of arms and equipments at Garrison Sports Stadium in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP 

 

APC displayed at Garrison Sports Stadium Hyderabad in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP

GOC Major General Muhammad Ali visiting different stalls and watching arms and equipment displayed at Garrison Sports Stadium in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan – APP

Pakistanis look at missiles and a jet fighter during celebrations to mark Defence Day at the Nur Khan military airbase in Islamabad on September 6, 2017 – AFP


KARACHI, PAKISTAN-SEPTEMBER 06:Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach during celebrations of Defence Day.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)


KARACHI: A contingent of Pakistan Army hold a march-past during Defence Day Parade at Malir Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI:Pakistan Army’s tank crews taking part in the Defence Day Parade at Malir Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Commando of SSG Navy lands at Sea View after free fall from the altitude of ten thousand meters on the occasion of Defence Day Celebrations by Pakistan Navy. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Commandos of SSG Navy repelling down from Seeking Helicopters on the occasion of Defence Day Celebrations by Pakistan Navy at Sea View. ONLINE PHOTO


KARACHI: Sep 06 – Chief inister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah being briefed about F-16 aircraft during Defence Day Celebrations held at PAF Base, Masroor. ONLINE PHOTO

LAHORE: Female Army personnel attend the event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO


HYDERABAD: Army parade during Defence Day event at Hyderabad Garrison. ONLINE PHOTO by Nadeem Khawer


LAHORE: Army Aviation Cobra Gunship helicopter demonstrating its skill during an event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO by Sajid Rana


LAHORE: Children presenting national songs during an event to mark the Defence Day, at Fortress Stadium. ONLINE PHOTO by Sajid Rana


KARACHI: Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach on September 6, 2017.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)


KARACHI: Pakistani Navy soldiers take part in a drill on a beach during celebrations on September 6, 2017.(Photo by Sabir Mazhar)

Pakistan Currency Limit for Travellers Increased by SBP

Good news has been announced for those passengers travelling to and from Pakistan, rules have been revised and the State Bank of Pakistan has raised the limit on Tuesday by more than three times.

For those who will be travelling to India, the amount has changed from Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 the SBP mentioned in a statement.

However, the new limit of Rs. 10000, are only for Pakistani bank notes. Passengers will otherwise be allowed to carry up to $10,000 or equivalent notes of any other currency while travelling internationally. This falls under the SBP’s foreign exchange rules.

The revision in policies have been made to facilitate travellers and consider the changing times that have increased the cost of goods and services. Previously the limit for currency carrying to India was only Rs. 500 and Rs. 3000 for the rest of the countries.

Have anything else to add to the story? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Dettol Served Notice For Deceptive Marketing by CCP

The Competition Commission of Pakistan has been keeping a look out for brands that are using deceptive marketing strategies to sell their products.

After serving a notice to various multinational and local juice brands, this time around it is Reckitt Benckiser Pakistan Limited that has received a show cause notice for its brand, ‘Dettol’.

The personal care and hygiene brand is said to be involved in deceptive marketing through the product’s television commercials. CCP has accused Dettol of violating Section 10 of the Competition Act, 2010 by making unjustified and baseless claims.

Reckitt Benckiser had been the one that previously complained about rivals, Colgate Palmolive and Unilever for displaying false claims about their products. The complaints were brought under consideration by the CCP.

The investigation conducted by the CCP found the company making claims that were false in the various TV commercials on air.

Some of the False Claims made by Dettol Include:

1. Dettol soap kills flu-like germs up to 99.9%
2. Dettol provides 24-hour constant protection from germs
3. 24 Hr protection from germs that spread during winters
4. Dettol provides 24 hours germ protection from Cold and Flu
5. Dettol prevents germs (E.coli & S.Aureus) from increasing for up to 24 hours

Watch the recent TVCs by Dettol

RB Ltd has been asked to reply in writing to the CCP within the next fourteen days. CCP has advised the company to take extra care in marketing health related products.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Islamabad’s Centaurus Mall is Charging Rs500 for Entry!

The Centaurus Mall Islamabad,  has much to offer from a full-fledged food court to cinema, and many brands to shop from.

However, a recently shared image has raised many concerns for the residents and visitors both. Apparently, the mall charges entry ticket of Rs 500! Not to forget this amount is not adjustable nor refundable.

This was pointed out by Awais Ahmad Khan and was widely shared on different Facebook groups and other platforms. Just 2 years ago when the mall was first open to the public, the ticket price was set at Rs 100 whereas now it has surged 5 times!

We got in touch with the mall to find out the reason behind this entry coupon and what is the criteria. According to Mr. Sharjeel, the Deputy Manager of Operations, the coupon is for single males who visit the mall and it has been placed for the convenience of families and ladies.

However, now the question arises, why does a male need to pay Rs 500 extra if he wants to hang out with his friends, have a good time, enjoy the weekend, watch a movie and do a bit of shopping?

Secondly, if this coupon is to encourage families then what about men who accompany their families yet they harass females by ogling at them or by passing inappropriate comments?

What about men who are not accompanied by female members? Are they not accounted as a family despite being blood related?

Does the definition of ‘family’ get restricted to having any female company? In such cases, the female can be anyone from being a friend to being a stranger who pretends to be a part of the group.

Social Media Reactions

Shopping malls are for the public’s entertainment, then why discriminate? This initiative by the mall has left us with many unanswered questions. We are still awaiting a representative to get back in touch with us.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Defence Day 2017: Deals You Must Avail!

defence day

The nation gears up to celebrate yet another special occasion today, Pakistan’s Defence Day. Numerous functions will be held across the country paying tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives for Pakistan.

Pakistanis do not need a reason to celebrate and this Defence day, there are smashing deals taking place across the country in honour of the people who lay down their lives to protect Pakistan.

Here are some of the massive deals that you can avail this defence day!

  1. Ginsoy- Extreme Chinese

2. Chen One

3.Pizza Hut

4.Yayvo

5. Chatta’s

6. KFC

The fast food eatery has not released a deal but a contest this year, where the winners will get a KFC voucher.

Have anything else to add? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Alibaba Representatives Visit TCS & Yayvo.com

Representatives of Alibaba Group, the world’s largest online retailer and TCS Holdings, one of Pakistan’s leading courier, logistics and e-commerce providers, met to discuss the potential for B2B and eCommerce market development in the country.

During the full day meeting, the Alibaba team visited TCS offices and the main hub of the courier and logistics business.

During the visit, the delegation met with the TCS management and were briefed on the role and presence of TCS in the domestic market as well as the company’s alliance with the global logistics leader United Parcel Service (UPS) for international express services.

The strength of TCS in the local market combined with its alliance with UPS allows the company to offer its customers a broad range of end-to-end delivery and shipment solutions to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Huawei Reveals the Future of Mobile AI at IFA 2017

Huawei Consumer Business Group unveiled a new era in smartphone innovation. As part of CEO Richard Yu’s keynote address, he revealed Huawei’s vision for the future of artificial intelligence with the launch of the Kirin 970.

By combining the power of the cloud with the speed and responsiveness of native AI processing, Huawei is bringing AI experiences to life and changing the way we interact with our devices.

“As we look to the future of smartphones, we’re at the threshold of an exciting new era,” said Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business Group. “Mobile AI = On-Device AI + Cloud AI.

Huawei is committed to developing smart devices into intelligent devices by building end-to-end capabilities that support coordinated development of chips, devices, and the cloud. The ultimate goal is to provide a significantly better user experience. The Kirin 970 is the first in a series of new advances that will bring powerful AI features to our devices and take them beyond the competition.”

After years of development, Cloud AI has seen broad application, but user experience still has room for improvement, including latency, stability, and privacy. Cloud AI and On-Device AI can complement each other. On-Device AI offers strong sensing capabilities, which are the foundation of understanding and assisting people.

Sensors produce a large amount of real-time, scenario-specific, and personalized data. Supported by strong chip processing capabilities, devices will become more cognitive of user needs, providing truly personalized and readily accessible services.

Kirin 970 is powered by an 8-core CPU and a new generation 12-core GPU. Built using a 10nm advanced process, the chipset packs 5.5 billion transistors into an area of only one cm².  Huawei’s new flagship Kirin 970 is Huawei’s first mobile AI computing platform featuring a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU).

Compared to a quad-core Cortex-A73 CPU cluster, the Kirin 970’s new heterogeneous computing architecture delivers up to 25x the performance with 50x greater efficiency. Simply put, the Kirin 970 can perform the same AI computing tasks faster and with far less power. In a benchmark image recognition test, the Kirin 970 processed 2,000 images per minute, which was faster than other chips on the market.

New developments in AI require joint effort across the entire value chain, involving tens of millions of developers, and the experience and feedback of hundreds of millions of users. Huawei is positioning the Kirin 970 as an open platform for mobile AI, opening up the chipset to developers and partners who can find new and innovative uses for its processing capabilities.

About Huawei Consumer BG

Huawei’s products and services are available in more than 170 countries, and are used by a third of the world’s population, ranking third in the world in mobile phone shipments in 2015. Fifteen R&D centers have been set up in the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China.

Huawei Consumer BG is one of Huawei’s three business units and covers smartphones, mobile broadband devices, home devices and cloud services. Huawei’s global network is built on 20 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the

Pakistani Celebrities Speak Up Against Rohingya Crisis

Our heart goes out to the martyrs of Rohingya Crisis in Myanmar. Children and families are being physically assaulted and some have been burned alive as they attempt to flee the “genocide” of Rohingya in Myanmar.

Keeping in mind this tragic event, various Pakistani celebrities have condemned this attack on Rohingya Muslims and spoken up against this man-made crisis.

Malala Yousafzai’s heartfelt statement on the genocide:

Feeha Jamshed Spoke her Heart out too!

Hamza Ali Abbasi has announced a Protest! 

The diva, Armeena Rana Khan shared her views too:

 

A few Politicians and Public Personalities Have Shared their Opinions too

Daniyal Gilani’s tweet:

Even Waqar Zaka and Veena Malik spoke out against this terrible genocide: 

These celebrities are a few amongst thousands who have spoken up for the rights of the Muslims of Myanmar.

Let us hope the situation gets better for all those surviving under such harsh conditions.

Contributed By: Sakina Haider

Karachi Becomes a Mess After Eid-ul-Azha!

Following the thunderstorm and heavy rainfall that poured down on the city of Karachi, it is evident that Pakistan’s metropolis is not equipped to handle such heavy downpours. Majority of the streets were flooded with water and trash wreaking havoc for the citizens.

On top of that, the preparations for Eid-al-Adha were severely affected, so much so that even sacrificial animals were part of the casualty count.

According to SAMAA TV, five sacrificial animals were killed after an electrical wire fell down and electrocuted the cattle.

Thankfully, the day of Eid saw clear skies, easing peoples apprehensions. However, the aftermath of the downpour remained to be a problem in most of the areas of Karachi.

And for a city in an Islamic country where the sacrificial ritual is an annual practice, it’s appalling how unprepared the authorities were for the waste disposal that followed. Karachi is submerged in a putrid stench from the rotting of offal, that are heaped on the roadsides.

Despite the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB), being awarded a budget of Rs2.95 billion, the output is barely visible. According to a statement by Raza Garzedi, director of Shehri-Citizens for a Better Environment in The Express Tribune, the government has failed to activate the city-wise municipal system. He blamed the chaos of management on the power struggle between the MQM and PPP, due to which the citizens are suffering.


Video Courtesy: Dawn.com

Moreover, the stagnant rainwater mixed with the remains of the animals, serves as a serious health hazard for citizens, with the chances of gastrointestinal, diarrhea and typhoid being spread.


Contributed By: Abeer Anwaar

Mujhay Jeene Do Drama on Urdu1: Gohar Rasheed to Wow the Audience Once Again!

gohar rasheed

The actor that is everyone’s favorite baddie, Gohar Rasheed, will be starring in Urdu’s upcoming drama, ‘Mujhay Jeene Dou’.

This time around, Rasheed will not be donning the full-blown antagonist avatar but will be close to an anti-hero. The star that looks for risky projects, moves to break his own stereotype.

In an exclusive interview, Gohar Rasheed opened up about his upcoming project.

Q. Who was your inspiration to choose an acting career?

When I started doing theater I was in 3rd grade, so I did not even know what the word inspiration meant back then. However, when I joined the industry I researched about acting and the actors that’s when I started forming my views.

My all out inspiration is Daniel Day-Lewis and I tend to follow his footsteps to whatever level I can. In Pakistan, the Late Moin Akhtar inspired me.

Q. You always seem to play the antagonist, is this a wholehearted choice?

GR: I personally think that a hero is always a hero, but a villain gets more margin in terms of acting and also that’s the character that increases the curiosity level of the audience. He keeps them on their toes.

Villains are unpredictable so their actions come as a shock and it adds the suspense of the story. That is why I feel baddies get more chance to grow in terms of acting. That’s the kind of thing I look for, a meatier and substantial role. Plus I feel the writers focus more on the villain because we all know that the hero saves the day. What will the villain do? That’s the question. It is what keeps you guessing. Therefore it gives me more room to act.

Q. Tell us about ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’

GR: The story deals with a child marriage which basically, I think is a major issue in our rural areas.

The drama ‘Mujhe Jeene Do’ is by John Hopkins and directed by Angeline Malik. When you take such a decision you usually have no idea that what will be the repercussions of this decision. We talk about the consequences of it.

While reading the script, some scenes were horrifying. You think that this act is done to a person who has no idea of what this all means. I mean it’s just a little girl and you have wedded her off.

This drama serial is dealing with all those taboos attached to these things, things that need to be spoken about. Our audiences especially in the rural areas but even in the urban ones need to be informed and made more aware of such topics.

Q. What is your role in the upcoming drama ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’?

GR: This time it’s not a baddie!

You have to break your own stereotypes. I want to bring something new to the audience because they have some sort of expectations from me.

The character’s name is Naseeb. He is a good guy in the play. The reason why I chose this character is that in this play, you can’t determine just within the first 15 minutes if he is a good guy or a bad guy. His decisions determine whether he is right or wrong so in this way it is realistic.

This character had a “human element to it” which is why I opted for it.

The actions he takes due to peer pressure and some legit circumstances. What he does after marriage is what this story is all about.

Q. How do you get into a character? How do you prepare for it? What kind of research do you do?

GR: The psyche of the character was hard to get into. While performing, I used to take some time and go sit with Angeline. Discuss how to get into the mindset of this character because I haven’t experienced these situations or anything remotely similar to it. She used to give references to help me out and make the situations a little easier to understand.

For people like my character, it’s just that “ye larki hai”.

I did a lot of research and got the stats for the rural area because this is the norm there. The number of child marriages seems to be increasing. There is a law against it, but no one knows about the basic fundamental rights that protects under-aged people being forced into marriage.

I coincidentally met a little girl, in the outskirts of Lahore, where we were shooting who was married. I was just shocked.

Q. How is the experience of working with Sarmad Khoosat and Nadia Jamil?

GR: I always wanted to work with Nado (Nadia Jamil). Incidentally, from my struggling days, I had wanted to work with her because she is such a brilliant actor. Offset she is a sweetheart, it is fun to be with her. On the set, she is the one creating the shor sharaba. She is basically the life of the party.

With Sarmad, not many people know this but I have done my second telefilm for Geo with him. Back then he was a director. Now seeing him as an actor, I was blown away (referring to Sarmad’s performance as Manto). I suggested that we should get him on-board. It has been a learning experience working with them. It’s a good ensemble and combination of actors. It is a place where we learn while having fun too.

Q. Share with us a crazy story from the sets of ‘Mujhe Jeene Dou’.

GR: Since we have only shot a small spell as of yet only one comes to mind.

So basically [an incident happened ] while [we were] shooting an intense scene with Nado and Ali Tahir. Our characters were in the heat of the moment, arguing about a very serious issue. It was going great, but out of nowhere we heard sounds like ‘khar-khar‘.

We looked at the source of disturbance and noticed two of the goats, tied to the tree in the background were busy making love. We had to call the scene off because of those two goats. It was hilarious the whole crew was in fits.

Q. A trend has emerged of creating dramas based on social issues. How do you think this impacts the society?

GR: Naturally, nobody wants to face their guilt or fear. As a human being, we all avoid situations that put us into discomfort when we are in the wrong. That is why I am not over ambitious about this project. We may not change the world but I feel if this show can prevent even one girl from getting married and facing such a miserable life; then I would consider myself lucky to have done the job.

Moreover, we are going to dub the show in the regional languages as well like Sindhi, Punjabi and it will be broadcasted at smaller channels as well because our target is to create awareness in rural areas. We hope people see this drama with a neutral and open mind. They need to unlearn some things that have become the norm. They need to know that customs like these are not okay.

Q. O21, Main Hoon Shahid Afridi, and Seedlings were your first projects on the silver screen. Currently, you are working on 2-3 more (Yalghaar, Rangreza, Maidaan and Kambakht). How would you say you have grown as an actor?

GR: As an actor, one thing I am glad about is that I have evolved. It’s something I can vouch for. It is definitely a learning curve. The earlier films are when the new wave of Pakistani cinema was emerging; these films were the first batch. I was young at that time, it was all new to me.

Now as an actor, I am more open to taking risks. Plus I do not take myself so seriously and I am comfortable in transforming myself according to the demands of the character.

Like my long hair and mustache right now is for Rangreza. Right after this project, I have to go clean shave and shed off some weight. So I like taking risks and doing something new that is what I have gained working on these films.

Q. When you take-up projects, is there anything in particular which you look at first, like an interesting plot twist, or something, which makes you say yes to the project?

GR: It all depends on how unusual or risky the project is. The quintessential, good-looking boy-next-door, those stereotypes are very boring for me. They do not excite me at all. I do not want to see myself in such roles I feel there are lots of others who fit into it and are happy with these roles.

I want to see myself as an anti-hero.

For example, Deadpool or Lewis’s role in Gangs of New York. Roles that push the envelope further those that do not fit in a box. You can’t label them. That is what I look for.

I feel Mikael from Mann Mayal was such a character who everyone hated in the beginning but near the end, after his death. People actually sympathized with him and felt that he deserved a chance.

I like doing projects that trigger mixed emotions of hatred and sympathy.

I might do contemporary or quintessential roles down the lane, but not right now.

Q. Any actor/actress you would like to work with in the future?

GR: Daniel Day-Lewis. He is the epitome of acting. I really want to work with him.

In Pakistan, I would love to work with Bushra Ansari. We are in the talks for a project so hope it happens. With boys, I have worked with almost everyone.

Q. Of all the roles you have played, which was your favorite?

GR: The next one. It is always the next one.

Q. 5 years down the lane, where do you see yourself?

GR: I have no idea. I never plan my future, because the future is not in our hands.

The post first appeared on VeryFilmi.com

 

 

 

Google Launchpad Accelerator is Open to Pakistani Startups!

Launchpad Accelerator give us an opportunity to work with and empower amazing developers, who are solving major challenges all around the world — whether it’s streamlining digital commerce across Africa, providing access to multimedia tools that support special needs education, or using AI to simplify business operations.

That’s why we’re doubling down on our efforts and opening up applications for the next class of the program to more countries for the first time starting today. Here’s the full list:

  • Asia: Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka & Myanmar
  • Central and Eastern Europe: Estonia, Romania, Ukraine, Belarus & Russia
  • Latin America: Costa Rica, Panama, Peru & Uruguay
  • Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Tanzania, Tunisia & Uganda

They’ll be joined by our larger list of countries that are already part of the program, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam and the Czech Republic

The application process for the equity-free program will end on October 2, 2017, at 9PM Pakistan Standard Time.  Later in the year, the list of selected developers will be invited to the Google Developers Launchpad Space in San Francisco for 2 weeks of all-expense-paid training.

What are the benefits?

The training at Google HQ includes intensive mentoring from 20+ Google teams and expert mentors from top technology companies and VCs in Silicon Valley. Participants receive equity-free support, credits for Google products, PR support and continue to work closely with Google back in their home country during the 6-month program. Hear from some alumnus about their experiences here.

What do we look for when selecting start-ups?

Each startup that applies to the Launchpad Accelerator is considered holistically and with great care. Below are general guidelines for our process to help you understand what we look for in our candidates.

All startups in the program must

  • Be a technological startup
  • Be targeting their local markets
  • Have proven product-market fit (beyond ideation stage)
  • Be based in the countries listed above

Additionally, we are interested in what kind of startup you are. We also consider;

  • The problem you are trying to solve. How does it create value for users? How are you addressing a real challenge for your home city, country or region?
  • Does your management team have a leadership mindset and the drive to become an influencer?
  • Will you share what you learn in Silicon Valley for the benefit of other startups in your local ecosystem?
  • If you’re based outside of these countries, stay tuned, as we expect to add more countries to the program in the future.

We can’t wait to hear from you and see how we can work together to improve your business

ARY Digital and TV One in Trouble With PEMRA!

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has been on a roll, gone are the days of private television channels airing content as they please. The media watchdog is always monitoring the quality of content airing on local channels. This time around it is ARY Digital and TV One that have gotten themselves in trouble with PEMRA.

The ban on various media outlets have been due to showing programs or dramas that do not adhere to the standards and guidelines set by PEMRA.

ARY digital and TV One have been issued a ‘WARNING’ for ‘indecent’ content being aired on the 28th and 29th of August on their morning shows. 

ARY Digital – Good Morning Pakistan

TV One – Aap Ka Sahir

Read the Official Notice Sent to ARY and TV One!

As included in PEMRA’s notice, the morning shows were said to be offensive to the commonly accepted standards of decency and exploit cultural and religious values of viewers.

PEMRA has warned both the channels and asked them to become vigilant while airing morning shows. A proper selection of content and language should be in compliance with PEMRA Laws.

PEMRA Took to Twitter to Announce the News!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Mawra Hocane Unveils Her BB Cream Secrets!

Fair & Lovely, a brand known for more than a decade, hosted a bloggers meet up for BB cream with social media queen, Mawra Hocane as the new face of the campaign. The evening was hosted by fun and quirky Komal Aziz with exciting activities and games for the attendees at the event.

Mawra Hocane Stuns in a beautiful white ensemble by Lavish Alice at the Fair & Lovely Bloggers Meetup

Exquisitely decorated, Café Flo was a beautiful sight to look at with floral arrangements in peach, white and gold. In addition to that, the attendees were shown three
looks of Mawra Hocane made with BB cream. They were revealed for the very first time and were made especially for the masses, taking into account the time constraints and busy schedules of girls nowadays.

Mawra and Komal Interacting with the Bloggers! 

 

We love the quirky hashtag Mawra sported at the event!

The videos were kept simple and easy for everyone to understand. Mawra Hocane created, college, evening and a wedding look with BB cream. Fair & Lovely BB cream is dual purpose cream that gives natural coverage for a flawless no makeup look. It is also buildable for all your wedding and evening looks. BB cream has SPF 15 which makes it an even better
option to wear whenever stepping out of the home. It is ideal for girls who want to get ready in no time.

How adorable is Mawra’s candy clutch!

The highlights of the event were the fun games, chit chat and rapid fire with Mawra which she answered with all honesty

Ms. Amal Jaffri, Category Head, Unilever shared her thoughts,

“Fair & Lovely BB cream is a foundation plus fairness cream that gives a natural coverage for everyday use. Its formula derived is light-weight that has the benefits of a fairness cream and the coverage of a light weight foundation. We hope that people try our product and give us a positive response!”

Hassan Rizvi of BBPR

The star of the show, Mawra with the Bloggers who attended the StayBBeautiful Event!

Farhat Mehboob, Managing Editor, Brandsynario

Salima Feerasta, Editor in Chief, Karachista

Mehreen and Amal

 

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Drug Abuse in Pakistani Schools on Rise!

The future of Pakistan is in great danger. With drug sellers aiming towards educational institutions, there is a great risk for the younger generation as they are getting involved in drugs and moving away from education.

In order to work against these drug sellers and to make Pakistan a Narcotics free country, Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) has started an Anti-drug dealing campaign.

The ANF has arrested around 20 drug dealers in different drug dealing incidents, under an ‘Anti-drug supply’ in educational institutions.

ANF Director Brigadier Basharat Malik said that in the duration of 3 campaigns launched last year, ANF has arrested 347 people involved in drug dealing and a huge cache of narcotics was recovered from them.

What the ANF acquired:

Around 6.4 kg drugs (6.25 kg hashish and 26-gram ice) has been recovered from the 20 drug sellers arrested which included a female drug seller. According to International drugs price, these were worth a whopping amount of Rs. 70,00,000.

Along with the recovery of 450 grams of hashish, 3 drug sellers who were suspected near Judicial Colony Rawalpindi, were arrested from Gulzar Qaid, Rawalpindi.

The Culprits:

Muhammad Shahbaz, Naveed Iqbal, and Raja Mohammad Dawar are the arrested drug dealers who had been supplying drugs to the students of Roots School System and Capital University of Science and Technology.

Naseer Khan, a biker in Rawalpindi was also arrested with 250 grams of hashish and has been involved supplying drugs to different schools and colleges.

Previously, Chief Minister Sindh had mentioned in a press statement to Geo News saying,

“The government would bear expenses of the students receiving education in the public sector while educational institutions in the private sector would be instructed to start a policy of blood screening for each and every student at least once in a year.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

PIA is Offering a Massive Eid-Ul-Azha 2017 Discount!

PIA has just raised its game! The aviation service has just rolled out an ah-may-zing Eid offer! All those who plan to travel during the holidays are in great luck.

PIA’s Discount For Eid-Ul-Azha 2017

A whopping 25% discount is being offered by the airline on all domestic flights!

VALIDITY

Booking kick starts from 30 August 2017. And discounts will be offered for the first two days of Eid, September 02 and September 3rd.

 HOW TO AVAIL THE OFFER

Flights can be booked through the PIA website now to avail of Eid discount.

In case of passenger rescheduling flights against the tickets bought for Eid days, the discount offers will be withdrawn.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates!

 

 

Punjab Nahi Jaungi Gets a Thumbs Up from Film Critics!

Last night marked the premiere of the much-awaited Lollywood film, Punjab Nahi Jaungi. The night was full of glamour and glitz with lots of celebrities attending the event! The film boasts of a stellar star cast that includes Humayun Saeed, Mehwish Hayat, and Urwa Hocane!


The showbiz fraternity came out to support Humayun and the gang on their movie and a few celebrities we love such as Mahira and Ali Zafar wished the team beforehand too!

Ali Zafar

Mahira Khan

The star of the show, Humayun was Excited and nervous before the premiere!

After watching the movie, the verdict is finally out and here’s what people have to say about Punjab Nahi Jaungi!

The movie is a definite hit!

 From celebrities to directors everyone is all praises for the movie!

The movie seems to have done wonders and people can’t stop raving about it! PNJ is the first movie in 2017 that has received such a warm response from audiences. Film and media critics have also given the movie a thumbs up!

Another film in the race which is also releasing this Eid Ul Azha is Na Maloom Afraad 2 which stars the dapper Fahad Mustafa, Hania Aamir, Javed Sheikh, Mohsin Abbas Haider and Urwa Hocane. With an equal powerhouse cast to PNJ, we are yet to see what happens at the box office and which film wins the coveted blockbuster spot!

We definitely can’t wait to get our hands on tickets for the film.