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Sarmad Khoosat Delves into Dark Comedy, Discusses Manto’s Lasting Influence on Upcoming Project

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In an illuminating conversation with Khaleej Times, filmmaker and actor Sarmad Khoosat embarked on a journey to unveil the profound legacy of the legendary Saadat Hasan Manto. The interview delved into the intricate details of Manto’s enduring influence on Khoosat’s work.

With a keen and candid perspective, Khoosat skillfully navigated the intricate terrain of Manto’s literary brilliance, offering a captivating insight into the profound influence that this unparalleled maestro of words has wielded on the acclaimed filmmaker’s artistic journey.

Stumbling upon what he termed as frequent “snide remarks” urging him to “Aur bano Manto” (Become another Manto), Khoosat serendipitously discovered the literary genius. Recounting this fateful discovery, he shared, “While living in temporary quarters due to a house fire, I chanced upon Manto in my dad’s collection. Reading him left me dumbstruck that such scandalous literature existed in Urdu.”

Lasting Legacy of Manto For Sarmad Khoost

Khoosat further revealed, “I went to a boy’s school and had an English education but Manto stayed within me quietly, though, in college we discussed him animatedly.” Commending the invaluable contributions of the esteemed writer, the filmmaker eloquently expressed, “Manto wrote unfiltered that could sometimes sound crude but he struck at the heart of the problem and broke all stereotypes of gender, religion, biases and class.”

Khoosat, expressing a profound connection, actively embraces adapting tales from the literary genius Manto. He sheds light on his creative journey, emphasizing the meaningful relationship forged with Manto’s family.

“For TV, I had adapted a Manto story called Harnaam Kaur and his daughter found my number and called me,” Khoosat shared. “First she was angry that the channel hadn’t called her. Then we got talking and I went over for chai and bonded with his three daughters. His middle daughter Nusrat has worked with Ayesha Jalal. Whenever I perform Manto, the girls have front-row seats and attend with their families. In fact, they encouraged me with my other work as well and loved Kamli.”

In 2013, Khoosat’s cinematic exploration of Manto’s life aligned with Indian actor and filmmaker Nandita Das’s biopic starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Despite simultaneous timelines, Khoosat emphasized the uniqueness of each cinematic endeavour. The convergence of these narratives resulted in a meaningful encounter between Khoosat and Nandita at a Rekhta event in Delhi, where they discussed their respective works.

Shedding light on the same, Khoosat stated, “I want to do a dark comedy with an actress I haven’t worked with in a long time.” He added, “An artist is always ridden with self-doubt. But over the years, I have realised there is a loyal audience for my work. Thanks to them and Manto, my journey has just got more interesting and I have found a stronger voice.”

Also Read: Sarmad Khoosat Trying his best to save Zindagi Tamasha

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Did Imad Wasim Secretly Married For The Second Time? Fans Demand Answers

Pakistani cricketer Imad Wasim has built a successful career representing both the national team and various franchise leagues. Throughout his journey, his family has remained in the public spotlight. His wife, Sannia Ashfaq, and their children frequently appear alongside him, cheering him on during matches.

Recently, however, Imad Wasim found himself embroiled in controversy after people spotted him socializing with influencers in the UK while his pregnant wife stayed back home. The incident quickly sparked public criticism and raised questions about his personal life.

Sannia Ashfaq shared a cryptic message, revealing that she had to carry their third child on her own. She later posted a picture of their three children with the caption, “My World.”

Imad Wasim has been actively involved with the Pakistan Champions Team, and his posters have circulated widely on the internet. Meanwhile, fans reacted strongly to the promotional material as Sannia Ashfaq continued sharing frequent posts about their children.

The internet has erupted with criticism over Imad Wasim’s alleged cheating, with many users urging Sannia Ashfaq to move on and leave him for good. One user wrote, “Only an unlucky man leaves such a beautiful family.” Another commented, “Unfollow the man who doesn’t love you or your children.” A third added, “These kids are so innocent—this is just wrong.”

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Saba Qamar Returns to TV Spotlight

Saba Qamar

Saba Qamar makes a powerful comeback to television with Pamaal, an upcoming drama that explores emotional trauma, identity, and resilience.

Set to air soon on Green Entertainment, Pamaal features Saba as Malika — a character shaped by personal struggle and the woman who raised her.

The drama’s first teaser has already sparked buzz online, showcasing Saba’s raw, emotionally charged performance that hints at a deeply moving story.

Known for fearless roles in Cheekh, Baaghi, Fraud, and Sangat, Saba continues to embrace narratives that go beyond surface-level storytelling. She also earned critical acclaim for her film work in Lahore Se Agay and Hindi Medium, strengthening her status in both TV and cinema.

With over 6.2 million followers, Saba quickly stirred reactions from fans who called the teaser “powerful” and “relatable.”

Taking to social media, Saba shared her personal connection to Pamaal and urged women to watch it with open hearts. She clarified that the drama doesn’t follow a typical romantic plot but instead reflects how women often lose themselves trying to meet others’ expectations.

“This is about real women who hide their pain behind smiles, who are strong even when they’re breaking inside,” she wrote.

She explained that Malika’s story captures the quiet endurance and emotional exhaustion many women live with daily. “Most women will see a part of themselves in Malika — in her silence, her strength, and in the battles no one else sees,” she added.

Saba emphasized that Pamaal is more than just a drama — it’s a mirror meant to inspire healing, self-worth, and introspection. She hopes viewers will see themselves in the story and find comfort in knowing they’re not alone.

Written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah, known for emotionally rich storytelling, and directed by Khizer Idrees, with Tehreem Chaudhary as producer, Pamaal promises to deliver one of the year’s most compelling serials.

As anticipation builds, Saba Qamar’s heartfelt connection to the project suggests Pamaal may soon leave a lasting mark on Pakistani television.

Also Read: Saba Qamar Joins UNICEF Campaign Against Child Marriage

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Mehwish Hayat Defends Sahir Lodhi

Mehwish Hayat

Actress Mehwish Hayat responded to the viral trend of celebrities and influencers imitating Sahir Lodhi on social media, urging people to practice kindness and respect.

Recently, Sahir Lodhi’s official social media accounts shared videos showing him seemingly “unaware” while preparing for meetings. These clips, which appeared overly staged and featured repetitive expressions, quickly went viral.

As the videos circulated, social media users flooded them with humorous comments. Several well-known actors and influencers—such as Faisal Qureshi, Yasir Nawaz, and Aijaz Aslam—joined the trend by posting light-hearted imitations of Sahir’s dramatic style.

What began as routine content turned into meme material as celebrities and influencers mimicked Lodhi’s behavior, drawing massive attention online.

However, Mehwish Hayat stepped in to call out the mockery. She defended Sahir Lodhi and urged people to show more compassion.

“Every human being deserves basic respect,” Mehwish wrote on Instagram. “One should not abandon the rule of decency and gentleness while criticizing someone’s style.”

She emphasized Sahir Lodhi’s dedication, stating, “He’s worked consistently, shown up with passion, and built a name in an industry that’s not easy to survive in. It’s really not fair how some people mock him, forgetting that he’s human, just like the rest of us.”

She concluded by saying, “You don’t have to agree with someone’s style or choices, but basic respect should never go out of fashion. Let’s normalize kindness, especially toward those who keep showing up, no matter what the world throws at them!”

Also Read: Mehwish Hayat, Yo Yo Honey Singh Could Face UK Performance Ban

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