Lahore poised to reclaim its cinematic glory

Ali Zafar breaks records in Saudi Arabia with historic concert

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz spearheaded a strategic plan to re-establish Lahore as the epicentre of Pakistan's film industry.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by artists, the chief minister formed a 29-member steering committee with the mission to rejuvenate the film sector and cater to the needs of the artistic community.

This committee is tasked with developing a comprehensive welfare system that includes health insurance, social security, and the creation of a dedicated housing society for artists. Additionally, the initiative will introduce creative centres across Punjab to inspire artistic expression and cultural development. Plans to increase the number of cinemas in the province, along with potential incentives to support the industry, are also being considered.

The Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) was recently lauded for its cultural contributions at the 2024 International Culture Festival in Karachi.

Razi Ahmed, Chairman of Alhamra, accepted a commemorative souvenir on behalf of the LLF, praising the festival as an ambassador of Pakistan's soft image to the world. He dedicated this honour to the writers, poets, and artists who tirelessly contribute to promoting Pakistan's cultural richness and enhancing its global stature.

In observance of Kashmir Black Day, the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, hosted events highlighting the resilience and cultural struggle of Kashmiris.

The programme featured an art exhibition showcasing works that paid tribute to Kashmir, as well as a solidarity walk to honour their enduring spirit. Tahir Raza Hamdani, Secretary of Information and Culture, affirmed that the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people will not be forgotten.

Alhamra's Executive Director, Sarah Rasheed, reiterated the Council's commitment to raising awareness of Kashmiri culture and amplifying their voices on the global stage.

Renowned singer Ali Zafar delighted fans with the release of his new song, Fade, which featured the debut of his wife, Ayesha Fazli, in the accompanying video. The song delves into the impact of the entertainment industry on an artist's mental and emotional health, revealing a more introspective side of Zafar.

In addition, Ali Zafar made history with a record-breaking concert in Saudi Arabia, performing for an audience exceeding 100,000 at Riyadh's Al-Suwaidi Park as part of the Riyadh Season.

Invited by the Saudi Ministry of Information and Culture, Zafar's performance underscored the strengthening cultural ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

A distressing incident involving actress Nargis has come to light, with reports that she was physically assaulted by her husband.

Nargis, who retired from the entertainment industry after marrying Majid Bashir and now runs a beauty salon, was visited by Hina Pervaiz Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority.

Butt assured Nargis of justice, emphasising that violence against women is a "red line" for the Punjab government and that those responsible will face consequences.

Actress Nigaar Chaudhry held a press conference to reveal that her husband was allegedly framed on false drug charges, purportedly instigated by actress Nargis and her husband, Majid Bashir.

Chaudhry stated that these accusations were a reprisal for her refusal to comply with certain social expectations.

She called on Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar to ensure that justice prevails and that her seized property is returned.

A condolence reference was held at Alhamra in memory of veteran actor Abid Kashmiri, organized by the CJFP Oriental Welfare Society.

Esteemed artists such as Khalid Abbas Dar, director Syed Noor, Khalid Moin Butt, Parvez Raza, and Haseeb Pasha attended to honour Kashmiri's contributions.

Speakers praised his unwavering dedication to his craft and the enduring quality of his performances, affirming that his legacy will remain an integral part of Pakistan's cultural heritage.