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Kashmir HUM Women Leaders Award Honours Nine Iconic Women and Two Dynamic Men from Pakistan and Abroad

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In the midst of beautiful ambience and the anticipation of the audience, the highly-awaited fifth edition of the Kashmir HUM Women Leaders Award concluded on a successful note, honouring eleven remarkable women and two dynamic men from Pakistan and abroad. The awards ceremony, held at the prestigious Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad, recognised the recipients for their outstanding contributions and achievements in various fields, including social work, healthcare, human rights, education, technology and entrepreneurship. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Arif Alvi, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, MNAs, bureaucrats, and socialites. Their presence further solidified the award ceremony’s reputation as the country’s most coveted women’s award.

The event commenced with the national anthem, followed by the hosts of the evening, Hamza Ali Abbasi and Sanam Saeed, inviting President of HUM Network, Sultana Siddiqui, to address the audience.

Amidst a resounding round of applause, Sultana Siddiqui, President, HUM Network, clad in an elegant black outfit, stepped on the stage, smiling and exuding radiance, in an atmosphere pulsating with anticipation of what was to come. She began her speech by thanking Arif Alvi, President, Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Samina Alvi, the first lady, along with the dignitaries and guests present on the occasion. The President expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the President Alvi for gracing the event with his presence.

During her speech, President, HUM Network, emphasised the need for awards such as the HUM Women Leaders Award, to amplify the accomplishments of exceptional women across diverse sectors, both nationally and globally. Pointing towards the significance of these awards, she underscored their role in spotlighting the remarkable advancements made by women and hailed the recipients as trailblazers and beacons of inspiration for future generations. Furthermore, she extended recognition to the international women awardees who have left an indelible mark in their fields, spreading the essence of female greatness worldwide. Ms. Siddiqui expressed optimism that this platform will serve as a catalyst for enhancing the status of women on a global scale.

“These women represent hope, resilience and inspiration for women worldwide. The event commemorates their contributions and accomplishments, aiming to ignite a fresh wave of female leadership.”

The Chief Guest for the evening, Dr. Arif Alvi, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, delivered a compelling speech at the event, highlighting the significance of youth education and the crucial role of child upbringing in ensuring a safer and brighter future for women in Pakistan. Dr. Alvi underscored the crucial role of education in enabling women as well to effectively leverage these resources to realize their aspirations. Encouraging women leaders in attendance, he urged them to embrace mentorship roles, facilitating the empowerment of other women by sharing their expertise. Dr. Alvi emphasized the significance of women supporting and uplifting each other, fostering a culture of opportunity creation. His impassioned speech concluded with the assertion that education for women and children will be the cornerstone of our society’s future development.Bottom of Form

The awards ceremony kicked off with the hosts, Hamza Ali Abbasi and Sanam Saeed, recognizing the advisory committee of the HUM Women Leaders Award (HWLA), which included Ameena Saiyid, Rehana Hakeem, Amin Hashwani, Maliha Lodhi and Dr. Huma Baqai. Nine women and two men, recognized for their outstanding achievements both nationally and internationally, were honoured at the awards ceremony. Among the distinguished female awardees were Dr. Razia Korejo, Sheeba Najmi, Huma Fakhar, Dr. Amanay Asfour, Khursheed Bano, Bibi Amina, Sadiqa Salahuddin, Sheema Kirmani, and Namira Saleem. Additionally, Dr. Prof. Izzeldin Abuelaish and Dr. Amjad Saqib were acknowledged as the male recipients of this year’s awards. Sania Saeed, renowned for her exceptional contributions to media and arts, was honoured with the prestigious Kashmir Golden Plate award at the event.

The event featured extraordinary performances, beginning with Sahir Ali Bhagga and Aima Baig’s dynamic musical presentation, followed by Resham’s captivating dance performance, and concluding with Ahmed Jahanzaib’s enchanting melodic session.

The awards ceremony, scheduled to air worldwide on HUM Network in March 2024, aims to acknowledge and pay tribute to influential women from Pakistan and beyond, who are catalysts for change in their domains. These women represent hope, resilience and inspiration for women worldwide. The event commemorates their contributions and accomplishments, aiming to ignite a fresh wave of female leadership. Through the portrayal of their triumphs and the recognition of their obstacles, HWLA endeavours to promote gender equality, empowerment, and advancement for women everywhere.

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Entertainment

Saba Qamar Opens Up About Her Health Scare: “Mental Stress Can Break You in Ways You Don’t Expect”

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Saba Qamar Heart Attack

In a rare and heartfelt revelation, Saba Qamar has opened up about a deeply personal health scare, a mild heart attack brought on by mental stress.

Speaking in a recent interview about the importance of mental health, the Kamli star shared that she underwent angiography just a day after the episode, adding, “By the grace of Allah, I’m feeling much better now.”

“We think we’re strong until life proves otherwise”

Saba spoke candidly about how easily emotional strain can turn physical:

“We all believe we’re strong enough to handle anything life throws at us, but sometimes that pressure builds up. It can turn into anxiety, depression, even a heart attack.”

She went on to reveal that her doctors listed nearly 20 potential causes behind her condition.

“It’s not always cholesterol. Sometimes stress, grief, or emotional pain quietly attack your body,” she explained.

A Reminder to Take Mental Health Seriously

Calling mental health “the most important part of our well-being,” Saba urged people not to dismiss what they’re feeling.

“Don’t ignore your mind. Your body listens to it more than you think,” she said.

It’s worth noting that on August 1, the actress was hospitalized mid-shoot after suddenly feeling unwell. Doctors later advised her to take a month-long break for complete recovery.

Now on the mend, Saba’s message is clear: even the strongest hearts need rest, care, and compassion.

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Drama

Where Jinns Meet Humans

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The Pakistani drama industry has always been a place where magic happens when the right blend of artists, stories, and vision come together. Every once in a while, audiences can sense that something extraordinary is about to arrive, and HUM TV’s upcoming project “Jin Ki Shaadi, Un Ki Shaadi” is one of those rare productions. Starring the internationally acclaimed Wahaj Ali and the immensely talented Sehar Khan in their first-ever on-screen pairing, and helmed by the masterful direction of Saif e Hasan, the drama promises to captivate viewers with its unique story, compelling characters, and grandeur.

Wahaj Ali, who began his acting journey in 2015 with Ishq Ibadat, has risen to become one of the most admired actors in the country. His remarkable ability to bring depth, truth, and emotional intensity to his roles has earned him fans not just in Pakistan but across the globe. With memorable performances in dramas such as Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi, Bikhre Moti, Fitoor, Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha and Jurm, along with his portrayal of Imam Rumi in Jo Bichar Gaye, he has established himself as an actor of great versatility. Blockbuster serials like Ehd-e-Wafa and Tere Bin further elevated his stardom, making him one of the most sought-after names in television today. His contribution to cinema with Superstar added another dimension to his career, proving that his artistry transcends mediums.

Opposite him stands Sehar Khan, a name that has charmed audiences with her innocence, vibrance, and natural screen presence. Starting her career in 2018 with Sanwari, Sehar quickly earned recognition for her engaging performances and versatile roles. Born in Islamabad, she has worked in popular dramas such as Rang Mahal, Zakhm, Mushk, Fairy Tale and Tan Man Neel o Neel, each showcasing a different shade of her acting talent. The phenomenal success of Fairy Tale brought her into the limelight like never before, with her chemistry in the drama becoming a talking point everywhere. The appreciation translated into a well-deserved HUM Award in 2024 for Best On-Screen Couple, further solidifying her place as one of the brightest young stars of the industry.

The drama comes to life under the direction of Saif e Hasan, whose name is associated with some of the finest productions in Pakistani television. Starting with Dil Ki Madham Boliyan, he has given the industry masterpieces such as Sang-e-Mar Mar, Sammi, Ehd-e-Wafa, Parizaad and Tan Man Neel o Neel. Known for his ability to weave stories that are emotionally charged and visually striking, Saif e Hasan has won numerous accolades, including Lux Style Awards, for his outstanding contribution to the craft. His vision promises to make Jin Ki Shaadi, Un Ki Shaadi not just another drama, but a memorable experience for viewers.

What makes this drama stand out is its unusual yet refreshing storyline. It is not just a tale of love, but a satire laced with humor, fantasy, and raw emotions. The title itself hints at its clever theme, portraying how society often obsesses over others’ marriages while overlooking their own realities. The narrative follows two brothers, Asad and Ali, who, in accordance with their late parents’ will, are compelled to live in their ancestral mansion. Once there, they encounter a family of jinns, which sets the stage for a rollercoaster of events. The twist arises when the unmarried brother, played by Wahaj Ali, is bound by a condition: he must marry within six months or lose his inheritance. What unfolds is a fascinating blend of comedy, suspense, and emotion, with a parallel love story between a jinn and a human adding further depth and intrigue. It is a story of love, loyalty, and the clash between human and supernatural worlds, crafted in a way that will keep audiences hooked.

Alongside Wahaj Ali and Sehar Khan, the drama boasts a stellar supporting cast including Arslan Naseer, Romaisa Khan, Sidra Niazi, Syed Jibran, and Nadia Afghan. With a strong lineup of performers, every character in the drama promises to leave an impression. The story has been conceived by Shamoon Abbasi and written by Syed Nabeel, whose script blends wit, emotions, and drama with seamless finesse. The production is in the hands of MD Productions, a banner that has consistently delivered quality dramas that resonate with audiences at home and abroad.

The on-screen pairing of Wahaj Ali and Sehar Khan has been a long-standing wish of fans, who have often expressed their desire to see the two together. With this project, that wish finally becomes a reality. Their combined star power, undeniable charisma, and acting prowess are expected to bring electrifying chemistry to the screen, making Jin Ki Shaadi, Un Ki Shaadi one of HUM TV’s landmark productions.

The drama premiered on 8th September and airs Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 PM on HUM TV. With its refreshing concept, powerful performances, and captivating direction, Jin Ki Shaadi, Un Ki Shaadi is entertaining audiences and leaving a lasting impression in the world of Pakistani drama.

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In Tune

Faakhir Mehmood – Music Embedded in the Soul

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Meeting an artist whose voice defined an era, Faakhir Mehmood greets you not with the air of a pop legend, but with the warmth of an old friend. Witty and friendly, Faakhir’s journey from the Awaz days, crafting patriotic anthems and soulful ballads is a chapter in Pakistan’s music history.

Now, as digital waves replace cassette decks and TikTok trends redefine hits, Faakhir continues making melodies and staying true to what first pulled him into music. “Honestly, it feels like riding a wild musical roller coaster,” he smiles, reflecting on his journey. From engineering classrooms to global stages, the transformation has been surreal. “I barely recognize the engineer-turned-musician in old pics!”

Faakhir’s musical career first took flight with Awaz, the iconic ’90s pop band that helped shape the sound of a generation. And while the band has long disbanded, the memories remain golden. “What I miss the most is the friendship, the chaos,” he says fondly. “Haroon’s energy, Asad’s stratocaster riffs, my frantic keyboard noodling… and those epic moments when we’d finally agree on a final version of a song. It was electric.”

From those jam-packed, impromptu sessions to today’s meticulous studio marathons, Faakhir’s process has evolved with time but the same heart remains. “Back then, we’d jam until someone had to escape for a date,” he laughs. “Now it’s long hours in the studio, powered by karak chai or a strong Americano.”

While his discography is filled with iconic hits, it’s ‘Kaash Hum Juda na Hotay’ from the album Mantra that holds the deepest place in his heart.“It came from a very personal space,” he shares quietly. “It still gives me goosebumps every time I hear or sing it.” His breakout solo anthem, “Dil na Lagay Pakistan”, still stirs hearts across the country—something he says was born out of youthful hope and a desire to connect with the nation. “I wanted to give people a proud, emotional wake-up call for loving the country. It just came in my heart one day.”

And who could forget ‘Mahi Ve’—the song that became a cultural reset? “Ironically,” he chuckles, “that melody was actually a rejected jingle from an ad I did. Later, I turned it into a full-fledged song. Never thought it would become a classic!”

A man of many hats—composer, singer, director—what role does he enjoy the most? “Composing,” he answers instantly. “It’s like cooking a fusion dish. But performing live? That’s the ultimate high. That energy, that crowd—it’s addictive.” Despite the quieter public presence in recent years, Faakhir’s creativity hasn’t slowed down. “I’m always composing,” he reveals. “I have tons of unreleased material sitting in my vault.”

Still, he admits the changing tides of the music industry have been a lot to keep up with. “Streaming, social media, TikTok—it’s overwhelming,” he says honestly. “I desperately need someone to help me with that part!” He credits Coke Studio for keeping local music alive and ever-evolving. “It’s like a chemistry lab,” he says. “Taking old, new, folk, pop—mixing it all together to create something that resonates with everyone. It’s genius.”

To young musicians trying to find their voice in this fast-paced world, his advice is delightfully simple,“Stay weird. That’s your flavour,” he says. “Learn the tools, sure, but don’t let them erase your creative spark.”

Behind the scenes, Faakhir still surprises fans. Did you know he’s a certified electrical engineer? “Yes, I can probably fix your Wi-Fi router,” he jokes, “but only after I’ve tuned a piano.”

As for what’s next, the composer hints at a few exciting collaborations. “They’re brewing,” he says with a mischievous grin, “but I’m so lazy! Fingers crossed.”

If he could give his younger self any advice? “Pace yourself. Don’t be lazy, don’t get too comfortable.”

And what does success look like to Faakhir Mehmood in 2025? He smiles thoughtfully. “A peaceful home, a cup of karak chai, a melody on the keys… and knowing that someone out there still hums one of my songs and understands the heart behind it.”

In the end, how does he want to be remembered—not just as a musician, but as Faakhir? He answers simply, without pause, “As someone genuine, generous, kind-hearted… and who truly loved his craft.”

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