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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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Farhan Saeed Celebrates Sybil Suhail’s Win

Farhan Saeed

Farhan Saeed, former frontman of the renowned Pakistani band Jal and now a singer-songwriter and actor, took to Instagram to publicly express his pride after Sybil Sohail became the first Pakistani woman to win the gold medal at the Asian Weightlifting Masters Championship in Doha, Qatar.

In a simple Instagram Story, Saeed tagged Sohail herself and wrote, “Proud moment. Congratulations.” Adding a Pakistani flag emoji at the end of his short but sweet message to lock in his national pride, Saeed’s simple message captured the essence of the country’s joy and pride in Sohail’s achievement

This gold medal marked not only her debut in international weightlifting but also a significant milestone for Pakistani women in strength sports.

Previously a decorated powerlifter, Sohail holds titles such as Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion and Asian Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. Transitioning to weightlifting, she set out with a clear ambition: to raise Pakistan’s flag at major Asian events.

“I aim to make my country proud, make my family proud. We have sacrificed a lot for the sport, but I need to make sure that all of that effort and dedication pays off,” Sohail told The Express Tribune in Doha.

Also Read:Hania Aamir & Farhan Saeed Face Criticism Over Comments On Pahalgam Incident

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Ayeza Khan Criticized for Remarks after Sana Yousaf’s Murder

Actress Ayeza Khan is facing widespread criticism for her statement following the horrifying murder of 17-year-old TikTok star Sana Yousaf, with many accusing her of victim-blaming and showing a lack of empathy.

In a now-viral Instagram Story, Ayeza wrote, “Let’s all understand the pros and cons of social media, especially when it comes to our security. Keep your addresses, car numbers, regular spots, and children’s details private. It’s not safe, it’s just not safe.

Share less. Times have changed. Recognize that the audience you have today isn’t the one you personally chose. It’s from all over the world.
Let’s take responsibility for what we share. May Allah protect us all and keep us in good company. Ameen.”

Social media users quickly criticised the timing and tone of her message. Critics argue that by emphasising digital privacy instead of addressing the gender-based violence that led to Sana’s death, Ayeza inadvertently shifted the blame toward the victim.

One user commented, “Ayeza Khan once again effortlessly portraying her lack of brain cells. Stop blaming women for getting murdered and START BLAMING MEN FOR MURDERING them.”

Another wrote, “In other words, Ayeza Khan blamed the victim….?
Great. Now we know where it’s coming from… Your husband is playing toxic roles on national TV, setting terrible examples, and you’re here blaming the victim.”

Many pointed out the irony in her message, citing her husband Danish Taimoor’s frequent portrayal of violent and misogynistic characters in television dramas; roles that, some argue, normalise abusive behaviour and contribute to the unsafe climate women navigate daily.

A user stated, “When a girl says no and faces violence, we shouldn’t question her choices—rather, we should condemn the abuser. Ayeza Khan needs to understand this. Victim blaming solves nothing.”

Another added: “Classic ‘pick me’ behavior from Ayeza Khan. Couldn’t even post a prayer for the deceased had to lecture about social media. Also, your husband makes trash psychotic dramas that glorify this stuff. How about calling that out?”

Also Read: Was Hania Aamir Missing from Nayel Wajahat’s Big Day?

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Celebrities Demand Exemplary Punishment in Sana Yousaf’s Brutal Murder

The tragic murder of 17-year-old TikToker and MBBS student Sana Yousaf has shaken Pakistan to its core — and now, the country’s biggest celebrities are speaking out with one voice: justice must be swift, and the punishment must set an example.

On a quiet day that turned into a national nightmare, Sana was gunned down in front of her mother and aunt — allegedly by her own cousin — for nothing more than saying “No.” A simple, rightful refusal to unwanted advances cost her her life.

This chilling case, steeped in violence, entitlement, and gendered rage, has prompted an outpouring of grief and fury from across the nation. Among those leading the call for accountability are Pakistan’s most prominent actors, who have used their platforms not just to mourn, but to demand justice that speaks louder than hashtags.

Mahira Khan, who has long used her voice to amplify social justice issues, didn’t mince words. “An example needs to be made,” she said, urging the legal system to ensure that Sana’s killer receives the kind of punishment that sends a powerful message: Women are not disposable. No means no. And murder will not go unpunished.

Actress Sajal Aly echoed the nation’s heartbreak, lamenting that a young girl full of life and dreams was shot dead simply for exercising her right to reject a man. “How many more?” her post seemed to ask — a question that has haunted too many families, too many daughters.

Maya Ali expressed open frustration and fury, demanding the harshest consequences for the perpetrator. “He should be hanged,” she wrote, voicing what many felt: that justice, in this case, must be clear, public, and absolute.

Imran Abbas, deeply disturbed, called on authorities to treat this case not as an isolated tragedy, but as part of a horrifying pattern of violence against women. His words carried the weight of sorrow and the urgency of action: this must stop now.

Veteran actress Nadia Jamil, known for her activism, also shared her devastation at Sana’s murder. She reminded her followers that behind every trending hashtag is a real girl, a real life cut short — and a grieving family left with nothing but silence where laughter once lived.

The suspect, now in custody, has reportedly confessed. The weapon was recovered. The evidence is there. What remains to be seen is whether Pakistan’s justice system will rise to the occasion — not just for Sana, but for every woman who’s been silenced, threatened, or killed for daring to say no.

This is not just about one girl. It is about all of them. It is about reclaiming the basic human right to live, to reject, to be safe in one’s home — even from those who share your blood.

Sana Yousaf should have been studying, smiling into her phone, and planning a future. Instead, her name has become a rallying cry.

Read more: Pakistani Celebrities Condemn Online Misconduct Toward AVM Aurangzeb

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