ell-known actor and host Nadia Khan has publicly expressed support for the much-debated ZEE5 web series Barzakh. Featuring prominent actors such as Fawad Afzal Khan, Sanam Saeed, and Salman Shahid, the series has faced intense backlash from fans for its portrayal of sensitive themes.

Written and directed by Pakistani-British filmmaker Asim Abbasi, known for works such as Cake and Churails, Barzakh has been criticized for its depiction of controversial themes.

Although removed from YouTube Pakistan, the series remains accessible on other international platforms.

In a recent interview, Nadia Khan voiced her support for the series, acknowledging that viewers accustomed to traditional family dramas might not connect with Barzakh’s unconventional narrative.

She hailed the project as a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistani directors and writers, who have long sought success in suspense-driven content. Khan praised the series for its compelling dialogues, gripping storyline, and exceptional cinematography.

She also highlighted the on-screen reunion of Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, which she believes is a significant attraction for viewers.

Yumna Zaidi’s Nayab heads to Jaipur
International Film Festival after Cannes win

umna Zaidi is a prominent Pakistani television actress renowned for her exceptional performances across a diverse range of roles. From the emotionally charged complexities of Rishtay Kuch Adhooray Se to the lighthearted charm of Jugnoo, and the romantic narratives of Zara Yaad Kar and Yeh Raha Dil, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to seamlessly transition between characters, solidifying her position as a leading actress. Her critical acclaim was further cemented through roles in Dar Si Jaati Hai Sila, Inkaar, Pyar Ke Sadqay, Dil Na Umeed To Nahi, and Bakhtawar. Zaidi is the recipient of multiple Lux Style Awards. Currently, she stars in the television serial Gentleman alongside Humayun Saeed and Adnan Siddiqui.

She made her film debut with the sports drama Nayab, which catapulted her to international stardom. Starring alongside Usama Khan, Nayab tells the inspiring story of an aspiring cricketer who defies familial and societal pressures to pursue her dreams. The film’s impressive ensemble cast includes Jawed Sheikh, M. Fawad Khan, Adnan Siddiqui, and Ehteshamuddin.

Nayab has achieved significant international recognition, beginning with its selection for the Jaipur Film Festival following its triumphant showing at the Cannes Film Festival in May. The film’s remarkable achievements at Cannes, where it won Best Foreign Film and Best First-Time Filmmaker awards, have positioned it for further acclaim. Directed by Umair Nasir Ali, Nayab represents a significant milestone for Pakistani cinema, showcasing the country’s talent on the global stage. Selected to be showed at Jaipur International Film Festival, it remains to be seen how the film will perform at the prestigious festival.

Aima Baig’s health scare
raises concerns

akistani singing sensation Aima Baig has unexpectedly found herself in the spotlight due to health concerns. Renowned for her chart-topping hits like ‘Qalabaz Dil’, ‘Befikeriyan’, and ‘Balma Bhagora’, as well as her prominent songs in the film Lahore Se Aagey, the singer has garnered a massive following.

Her journey to stardom, punctuated by appearances on popular shows like ‘Mazaaq Raat’ and Coke Studio multiple times, as well as the prestigious Tamgha-e-Fakhre-Imtiaz, has solidified her position as a popular figure in the Pakistani music industry.

However, a recent Instagram post sent shockwaves through her fanbase. Sharing images revealing a noticeably skinny appearance, Baig disclosed a distressing experience of suffering from what she described as a “mini heart attack,” attributed to excessive travel, sleep deprivation, and overwork. This candid disclosure sparked a flurry of reactions on social media.

While the comments section was flooded with well wishes and support, many expressed confusion over the singer’s use of the term “mini heart attack.” Several medical professionals intervened to clarify that such a condition is medically undefined. Beyond the medical terminology, widespread concern arose regarding Baig’s visibly frail appearance. Countless fans urged her to prioritize self-care, emphasizing the importance of rest and proper nutrition. We concur with the general sentiment and wish Aima Baig a swift recovery.

Fawad Khan drops new track, ‘Taara/Diamonds’, in collaboration with US media outlet

opular actor Fawad Khan has once again captured headlines, this time for his musical endeavors. His latest release is an intriguing fusion of Junoon’s iconic track ‘Taara Jala’ and global superstar Rihanna’s 2012 hit ‘Diamonds.’ The song, as you can imagine, is called ‘Taara/Diamonds’. Directed by Maheen Mustafa, founder of the Seattle-based independent media outlet MTG (Maheen the Globe), Fawad Khan finally returns to his musical roots, singing in a style that is unmistakably his own.

The song also features Bilal Ali (from Kashmir) as a vocalist, and as it hits the chorus, the video is split in two, with one side featuring the original music video with Ali Azmat singing and the other side featuring Bilal Ali. Other artists also contribute to the song including Maria Unera and Maheen Mustafa herself. Maria Unera’s vocal contributions are a standout feature of the production.

Produced by Fawad Khan and executive produced by Maheen Mustafa, the track falls under the electro-pop genre and is most certainly captivating in this age of electro-pop, as Pakistani music continues to gain momentum, in and outside of the country. As a mash-up, taking two original songs and creating a cover, it has its high points. Plus, it is good to see Fawad Khan return to his roots.

However, there are some cover songs that can surpass the originals. Nirvana’s ‘The Man Who Sold The World’ is a classic example, as the song is originally by David Bowie. Closer to home, Abida Parveen’s ‘Gharoli’ cover by Aaroh, Zohaib Hassan’s ‘Pyar Ka Jadu’ cover by Mauj and Vital Signs’s ‘Ajnabee’ cover by Aaroh, as well as dozens of mash-ups in Coke Studio are good examples of how to make a cover song or a mash-up your own.

In the case of ‘Taara/Diamonds’, it is a decent song but one that will always remind you of the originals, making you reach out for those tracks.

The single’s greatest success is its accompanying music video, which is far more arresting as it showcases a montage of celebrated Pakistani and global figures. It features a constellation of luminaries, including the late Nazia Hassan, Riz Ahmed, the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Jansher Khan, Jahangir Khan, Serena and Venus Williams, Samina Ahmed, Nimra Bucha, Atiqa Odho, Viola Davis, the late Chadwick Boseman, Coco Gauff, Nora Al-Matrooshi (the first Arab woman to graduate from NASA’s Astronaut Program), Shehzad Roy, Salma Alam, the late Moin Akhter, the late Mehdi Hassan, the late Ismail Gulgee, the team of Joyland, Sahira Kazmi, Rahat Kazmi, Marina Khan, the late Farhad Humayun, the late Haseena Moin, and Malala Yousafzai.

This mash-up song, when combined with this visually rich montage, feels like a lovely homage to artists, both contemporary and legendary.

As a tribute video, it works. As a song minus the video, it has no lasting value.