Entertainment

Mustafa Zahid Reacts to Amaal Mallik’s Awarapan 2 Song Recreation; Fans Want the Original ‘Toh Phir Aao’ Voice Back

The announcement of Awarapan 2 has already stirred nostalgia among movie lovers, but it’s the return of its iconic music that has started an emotional conversation online. As composer and singer Amaal Mallik unveiled his recreated version of To Phir Aao for the sequel, Pakistani vocalist Mustafa Zahid—the unforgettable voice behind the original soundtrack—responded with warmth, while fans made one thing clear: they still want the original voice back.

Released in 2007, Awarapan may not have set the box office on fire during its initial run, but over the years it evolved into a cult favorite. Much of that enduring appeal came from its haunting soundtrack, particularly To Phir Aao and Tera Mera Rishta, both sung by Mustafa Zahid. Even today, the songs remain closely associated with the film and continue to resonate with listeners.

As excitement builds for the sequel, Amaal Mallik took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that he had composed and performed the title track for Awarapan 2. Calling it the finest work of his career, the singer described the opportunity as the fulfillment of a dream he had cherished since he was 16.

“The #SoulOfAwarapan is what I always called it until Mukesh Bhatt sir gave it a name,” Amaal wrote, thanking Vishesh Films and producer Mukesh Bhatt for trusting him with a project he had long hoped to be part of. He also revealed that the song’s lyrics were penned by celebrated lyricist Rashmi Virag.

While introducing the new track, Amaal made sure to acknowledge the artist whose voice helped define the original film. In a heartfelt post, he praised Mustafa Zahid’s contribution to Awarapan, calling him “my brother from another mother” and thanking him for creating melodies and vocals that continue to leave a lasting emotional impact.

He added that the emptiness and emotion in Mustafa’s rendition still “haunts” and “heals” him, admitting that recreating the legacy would not have been possible without the magic of the original soundtrack.

Mustafa Zahid responded with equal grace. Reposting Amaal’s message, he wrote, “Lots of love Amaal, remember borders are dangerous but then so is love. Take Awarapan legacy to another level, the stage is all yours Mere Bhai.”

The exchange between the two musicians was widely appreciated online, with many fans praising the mutual respect they showed despite belonging to different countries. However, the conversation also reignited calls for Mustafa Zahid to lend his voice to the sequel.

Many social media users expressed disappointment that the singer is not returning to perform the recreated tracks, arguing that his distinctive vocals were an inseparable part of Awarapan’s identity. Several fans wrote that while they are excited to hear Amaal’s interpretation, the original soundtrack’s emotional depth remains unmatched.

The buzz comes just days after the makers released the teaser for Awarapan 2 to mark the 19th anniversary of the original film. Emraan Hashmi reprises his role as Shivam, with Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Suvinder Vicky, Vijayant Kohli, and Atul Kumar joining the cast. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, written by Bilal Siddiqui, and produced by Vishesh Bhatt, the film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on August 14.

Directed by Mohit Suri, the original Awarapan featured Shriya Saran, Mrinalini Sharma, Ashutosh Rana, Purab Kohli, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Shaad Randhawa alongside Emraan Hashmi. Although the film received a modest response upon release, it gradually earned cult status, thanks in large part to its compelling story and timeless music.

With nostalgia running high and expectations soaring, Awarapan 2 has already become one of the year’s most anticipated releases. Whether Amaal Mallik’s fresh take can recreate the emotional magic of Mustafa Zahid’s iconic vocals remains to be seen.

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‘Aag Lagey Basti Mein’ returns to cinemas on popular demand

Pakistani comedy Aag Lagey Basti Mein has returned to cinemas across the country following strong public demand after its Eid-ul-Fitr release.

Starring Mahira Khan and Fahad Mustafa, the film performed well despite releasing alongside local titles Delhi Gate and Bullah, as well as international films Ready or Not 2: Here I Come and Project Hail Mary.

The film reunites Mahira and Fahad after Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad. They play Almas and Barkat, a married couple whose contrasting personalities and hidden truths drive the story.

Mahira’s Almas is a fashion-loving dreamer determined to move to Dubai, while Fahad plays Barkat, a restrained and conflicted man trying to avoid his family’s criminal path. After marriage, the couple discover that both had concealed important details about their lives.

Their financial struggles force Almas to work as a maid and Barkat as a janitor. Their situation worsens when Barkat is accused of theft, pushing the couple into a chaotic journey involving poverty, crime and their dream of reaching Dubai.

The film blends comedy with social issues, including child labour, financial hardship and the influence of criminal groups. Guest appearances and comic situations add energy, while Javed Sheikh and Tabish Hashmi feature in key supporting roles.

However, the story’s sudden shift from emotional drama to dark slapstick comedy in the second half feels abrupt. Some scenes also run longer than necessary, while the visuals occasionally resemble television production rather than polished cinema.

Despite its uneven pacing and tonal changes, Aag Lagey Basti Mein delivers several entertaining moments. Mahira and Fahad’s chemistry remains its strongest feature, making it an enjoyable lighthearted watch for families and friends.

Entertainment

Huma Saleem’s Instagram Vanishes Hours After Harassment Claims Against Unnamed Pakistani Cricketer

Pakistani model Huma Saleem has found herself at the center of a growing controversy after her official Instagram account suddenly became inaccessible, just hours after she posted a series of serious allegations against an unnamed Pakistani cricketer.

Users attempting to visit Huma’s Instagram profile are now greeted with a message stating that the page is no longer available, sparking widespread speculation across social media. The timing has fueled public curiosity, as the account disappeared less than a day after the influencer publicly accused the cricketer of harassment, emotional abuse, and intimidation through a series of Instagram Stories.

In the now-unavailable posts, Huma claimed that the cricketer had threatened and harassed her despite the two having no contact for nearly two months. She described him as a “cheat, fraud, and womaniser,” alleging that his behavior had crossed every boundary and left her feeling compelled to finally speak out.

The model further revealed that the alleged mistreatment had been ongoing throughout what she described as an abusive relationship. According to Huma, she had chosen to remain silent in the past but felt she could no longer ignore what she said had become a pattern of emotional abuse. She stated that the latest incident pushed her beyond her limit and convinced her to share her side of the story publicly.

Beyond the allegations of personal harassment, Huma also accused the unnamed cricketer of attempting to damage her reputation by contacting people connected to her personal and professional life. She alleged that he reached out to her colleagues, family members, and workplace associates in an effort to tarnish her image and credibility.

The influencer also hinted at making additional claims in the future, including allegations involving the alleged misuse of funds connected to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). While she did not provide supporting evidence publicly, Huma stated that she intended to hand over relevant material to her legal team and pursue the matter through the courts.

In her statements, Huma maintained that there were two sides to every story, accusing the cricketer of misleading others about their relationship while also claiming that he had cheated on her and damaged her reputation. She said legal proceedings were being prepared and that she expected the matter to move forward in the coming days.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the identity of the cricketer has not been disclosed publicly. As of now, no individual has come forward to respond to the claims, and no official statement has been issued on behalf of the alleged individual. Likewise, the Pakistan Cricket Board has remained silent on the issue.

Entertainment

Anniqa Meraj Becomes Pakistan’s First-Ever Representative at the Miss World Pageant

Pakistan is set to achieve a major milestone on the international beauty pageant stage as Anniqa Meraj has officially been crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026, earning the distinction of becoming the first Pakistani woman to represent the country at the prestigious Miss World competition.

The historic announcement was confirmed by the Miss World Organization through its official website and Instagram page on Thursday, marking a new chapter for Pakistan’s growing presence in global pageantry. Meraj will represent the nation at the 75th Anniversary Edition of the Miss World Festival, scheduled to take place in Vietnam from August 9 to September 5.

The crowning ceremony was held at Lahore’s iconic Faletti’s Hotel, where Anniqa Meraj received the coveted title in a celebration attended by pageant officials and supporters. During the same event, Attaullah Gujjar was also crowned Mr. Pakistan World, adding another highlight to the occasion.

At just 24 years old, Meraj has already built an impressive profile that extends far beyond beauty pageants. Holding a degree in Business Administration and Economics, she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Auditing and Accounting, balancing academic excellence with an active career on the international stage.

Speaking about her aspirations, Meraj shared that her long-term goal is to become a State-Authorised Public Accountant. Alongside her professional ambitions, she also hopes to use her platform to champion causes close to her heart, particularly children’s rights and girls’ education, believing these initiatives can contribute to a stronger future for Pakistan.

This is not her first experience representing Pakistan before a global audience. Over the years, she has proudly carried the national flag at several international competitions, including Miss Earth, Miss Global, Miss Cosmo, Miss Eco International, and Miss Aura International. Her journey has also been decorated with success, including winning four titles at the Freedom of the World competition held in Kosovo.

Pakistan’s debut at the Miss World pageant represents another significant step in the country’s expanding presence in international beauty contests. While this will be the nation’s first appearance at Miss World, Pakistan has steadily gained recognition in recent years through participation in other major competitions.

Representatives such as Erica Robin and Roma Riaz have previously brought Pakistan into the global spotlight through the Miss Universe platform, earning praise for confidently showcasing the country’s culture, talent, and diversity on the world stage.