Yearly Archives: 2025

cricket, development, pakistan, sports, youth empowerment

PMYP-Qalandars’ journey to discover Pakistan’s future cricket stars continues

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When we talk about cricket in Pakistan, we talk about passion, dreams, and an undying love that transcends generations. From the narrow streets of Jhelum to the bustling grounds of Peshawar, cricket is more than just a game — it is a language every child understands.

The Prime Minister Youth Program (PMYP)-Lahore Qalandars Cricket Talent Hunt is giving this passion a direction, a structure, and most importantly, a future. This landmark initiative, led by Lahore Qalandars under the umbrella of PMYP, is no ordinary campaign. It is a national movement aimed at discovering, nurturing, and empowering the next generation of cricketing stars.

Recently, the caravan of talent hunt trials made its way through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with stops in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar. Before that, the energy of Sialkot and Jhelum had already set the stage, proving that our youth are ready to grab opportunities with both hands.

What makes this programme truly special is not just the numbers—though thousands of boys and girls thronged the trials with unmatched energy—it is the intent. These are not random camps or short-lived events; this is a well-thought-out, professionally managed setup, guided by Lahore Qalandars’ experienced coaches and support staff.

The trials have been meticulously designed to provide fair, transparent, and structured opportunities to every participant, regardless of background, city, or resources.

These trials are more than a hunt for fast bowlers, batsmen, or all-rounders. They symbolize hope: hope for a young boy in Kohat who dreams of bowling the fastest ball in the world; hope for a girl in Abbottabad who wants to represent Pakistan on the international stage; and hope for families who believe that cricket can change their destinies.

One cannot overlook the vision behind this initiative. Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana has rightly acknowledged the extraordinary support from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Without their commitment, such a massive and inclusive program would not have been possible.

Their combined effort sends out a powerful message: that Pakistan’s youth matter, and their dreams deserve platforms as grand as this.

The recent trials in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar were nothing short of festivals. Youngsters arrived with their kits, eyes gleaming with ambition, and hearts pounding with excitement. The discipline and determination they displayed were a reminder of the deep cricketing roots in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The same spirit was visible earlier in Sialkot and Jhelum, where the response was equally overwhelming. In fact, the Jhelum trials gained international recognition when US Charge d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker graced the occasion, highlighting the global relevance of such initiatives. Federal Minister Bilal Kiyani’s presence further underlined the government’s commitment.

The beauty of these trials lies in the inclusivity. For the first time in a long while, both boys and girls are given equal opportunities to showcase their skills under professional supervision. This is not only redefining the future of cricket in Pakistan but also challenging long-held stereotypes about women in sports.

The fact that thousands of girls have stepped forward to participate is itself a historic achievement.

For years, we have complained about the lack of grassroots structures, the absence of systematic talent grooming, and the wasted potential in remote areas. Today, through the PMYP-Lahore Qalandars collaboration, we are finally addressing those gaps.

Some of the youngsters in these trials will one day shine on the international stage, just like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and other stars unearthed by Lahore Qalandars in the past. The raw talent is already there; it only needs to be polished, guided, and given the right exposure.

The journey, of course, is far from over. The trials will soon move to Swat, Mardan, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. If the response so far is any indication, the upcoming stops will see an even greater wave of participation.

This continuity ensures that no corner of Pakistan is left out, and every child with a dream gets a fair chance.

The progress of these trials truly symbolizes a new dawn for Pakistan cricket. This initiative goes far beyond the mere selection of a handful of players; it is about cultivating a culture where raw talent is discovered, nurtured, and celebrated.

It is about instilling in our youth the unshakable belief that with hard work, discipline, and the right opportunities, their dreams can be transformed into reality.

The PMYP-Lahore Qalandars Talent Hunt is, in every sense, a cricketing revolution in motion — a movement that is rewriting the narrative of grassroots development in Pakistan.

With such visionary steps, we can confidently affirm that the future of Pakistan cricket is not only bright and secure but destined to shine with unmatched brilliance.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345090-pmyp-qalandars-journey-to-discover-pakistans-future-cricket-stars-continues

cricket, development, pakistan, sports, youth empowerment

PMYP-Qalandars’ journey to discover Pakistan’s future cricket stars continues

Leave a comment

When we talk about cricket in Pakistan, we talk about passion, dreams, and an undying love that transcends generations. From the narrow streets of Jhelum to the bustling grounds of Peshawar, cricket is more than just a game—it is a language every child understands.

The Prime Minister Youth Program (PMYP)-Lahore Qalandars Cricket Talent Hunt is giving this passion a direction, a structure, and most importantly, a future. This landmark initiative, led by Lahore Qalandars under the umbrella of PMYP, is no ordinary campaign. It is a national movement aimed at discovering, nurturing, and empowering the next generation of cricketing stars.

Recently, the caravan of talent hunt trials made its way through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with stops in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar. Before that, the energy of Sialkot and Jhelum had already set the stage, proving that our youth are ready to grab opportunities with both hands.

What makes this programme truly special is not just the numbers—though thousands of boys and girls thronged the trials with unmatched energy—it is the intent. These are not random camps or short-lived events; this is a well-thought-out, professionally managed setup, guided by Lahore Qalandars’ experienced coaches and support staff.

The trials have been meticulously designed to provide fair, transparent, and structured opportunities to every participant, regardless of background, city, or resources. These trials are more than a hunt for fast bowlers, batsmen, or all-rounders. They symbolize hope: hope for a young boy in Kohat who dreams of bowling the fastest ball in the world, hope for a girl in Abbottabad who wants to represent Pakistan on the international stage, and hope for families who believe that cricket can change their destinies.

One cannot overlook the vision behind this initiative. Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana has rightly acknowledged the extraordinary support from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Without their commitment, such a massive and inclusive program would not have been possible.

Their combined effort sends out a powerful message: that Pakistan’s youth matter, and their dreams deserve platforms as grand as this.

The recent trials in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar were nothing short of festivals. Youngsters arrived with their kits, eyes gleaming with ambition, and hearts pounding with excitement. The discipline and determination they displayed were a reminder of the deep cricketing roots in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The same spirit was visible earlier in Sialkot and Jhelum, where the response was equally overwhelming. In fact, the Jhelum trials gained international recognition when US Charge d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker graced the occasion, highlighting the global relevance of such initiatives. Federal Minister Bilal Kiyani’s presence further underlined the government’s commitment.

The beauty of these trials lies in the inclusivity. For the first time in a long while, both boys and girls are being given equal opportunities to showcase their skills under professional supervision. This is not only redefining the future of cricket in Pakistan but also challenging long-held stereotypes about women in sports. The fact that thousands of girls have stepped forward to participate is itself a historic achievement.

For years, we have complained about the lack of grassroots structures, the absence of systematic talent grooming, and the wasted potential in remote areas. Today, through the PMYP-Lahore Qalandars collaboration, we are finally addressing those gaps.

Some of the youngsters in these trials will one day shine on the international stage, just like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and other stars unearthed by Lahore Qalandars in the past. The raw talent is already there; it only needs to be polished, guided, and given the right exposure.

The journey, of course, is far from over. The trials will soon move to Swat, Mardan, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. If the response so far is any indication, the upcoming stops will see an even greater wave of participation. This continuity ensures that no corner of Pakistan is left out, and every child with a dream gets a fair chance.

The progress of these trials truly symbolizes a new dawn for Pakistan cricket. This initiative goes far beyond the mere selection of a handful of players; it is about cultivating a culture where raw talent is discovered, nurtured, and celebrated.

It is about instilling in our youth the unshakable belief that with hard work, discipline, and the right opportunities, their dreams can be transformed into reality.

The PMYP-Lahore Qalandars Talent Hunt is, in every sense, a cricketing revolution in motion—a movement that is rewriting the narrative of grassroots development in Pakistan. With such visionary steps, we can confidently affirm that the future of Pakistan cricket is not only bright and secure but destined to shine with unmatched brilliance.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345090-pmyp-qalandars-journey-to-discover-pakistans-future-cricket-stars-continues

cultural conservation, heritage preservation, pakistan, religious sites, sikh community

Saving historical heritage

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The octagonal base of the famous samadh of Maha Singh, the father of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which was built in Sheranwala Bagh in Gujranwala in 1837, has partially collapsed. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), tasked with maintenance and preservation, has attributed the collapse to heavy rainfall.

As a result, there is an imminent threat that the 80-foot-tall structure, featuring a dome atop its octagonal base, may fall onto a nearby school. This situation calls for immediate attention from the authorities concerned.

—

### Historical Background

According to *Umdat-ut-Tawarikh* (the official court diary of the Sikh Darbar at Lahore), Daftar III, in 1836, General Hari Singh Nalwa of Gujranwala submitted designs for the samadh of Maha Singh to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The Maharaja sanctioned a grant of Rs 12,000 for its construction next to the fortified city.

The samadh was constructed in 1837 at a corner of Sheranwala Bagh, formerly known as Hazuri Bagh. Along with the samadh, a baradari (a twelve-door pavilion) was also built within Sheranwala Bagh under the oversight of General Hari Singh Nalwa.

A subsequent reference appears in Daftar III in 1838, when Maharaja Ranjit Singh sanctioned the allocation of a village to his son, Kharak Singh, for the upkeep of Sheranwala Bagh and the samadh of his father situated within it.

John Murray mentions the samadh in his 1883 *Handbook of the Panjab*, stating:

> “At 1/4 mile beyond the station is the samadh of Maha Singh, father of the great Ranjit. It is a very handsome structure, 81 feet high to the top of the gilt ornament on the summit. It is an octagon, each side of which measures 25 feet. Thirteen steps lead up to the vestibule. The inner room, where there are knobs that mark the places where the ashes [of Maha Singh] are deposited, is 27 feet 2 inches broad. The breadth of the whole building is 60 feet.”

—

### Observations from the Early 20th Century

Dhanna Singh, a Patiala inhabitant, visited Sikh gurdwaras throughout British India by bicycle between 1930 and 1934. He visited this historical location on October 9, 1932.

He observed that the central chamber of the samadh had been converted into a gurdwara by the local Sikh community, featuring the *parkash* (daily display) of the Siri Guru Granth Sahib. At that time, Sheranwala Bagh remained in the ownership and designation of the samadh, although local government administered it.

These arrangements concerning the samadh, baradari, and Sheranwala Bagh persisted until 1947.

—

### Post-Partition Developments and Current Condition

After the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, the local government continued to maintain Sheranwala Bagh, despite it being registered under the name of the samadh. However, the stewardship and upkeep of these historical sites fell under the jurisdiction of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB).

The Board deserves acknowledgment for refurbishing the baradari, although some experts have taken issue with the ostentatious nature of the project. The samadh, meanwhile, was largely disregarded by the ETPB, except for the erection of a brick wall around it, isolating it from Sheranwala Bagh. No significant maintenance has been conducted at the samadh since 1947.

The authors visited the samadh in 2024 and documented its lamentable state, providing photographic evidence of deterioration due to insufficient upkeep.

—

### Causes of the Collapse and Accountability

The ETPB’s attribution of the recent damage to torrential rains that devastated both the Charrhda (East) and the Lehnda (West) Punjab in recent weeks is questionable.

The principal reason for the collapse appears to be the prolonged neglect of the historical site, for which the ETPB may be held responsible. The recent rains likely served only as the final straw that broke the camel’s back.

The ancient Arabic adage is pertinent here: the agency permitted the historical samadh to deteriorate for almost eight decades. This underscores the agency’s negligence in maintaining and conserving Sikh monuments under its care.

The ETPB must acknowledge responsibility for the collapse, which is primarily due to inadequate maintenance of the historical site.

—

### Positive Measures and Future Prospects

Meanwhile, the agency’s initiatives to deliver prompt aid and stabilize the site to avoid further collapse from a safety standpoint are commendable.

In a recent statement, the chairman of the ETPB mentioned measures implemented at the site, including consultancy sought from expert preservation companies to restore the building to its original grandeur and elegance, considering its heritage value and significance.

This statement serves as an official apology and a pledge to restore the historical landmark. The actual outcome will be revealed in the coming years as the ETPB fulfills its chairman’s commitment to the people of Pakistan and the Sikh community.

—

### Broader Concerns on Sikh Heritage Preservation in Pakistan

The recent partial collapse of this samadh is not an isolated incident. In 2023, Gurdwara Roori Sahib—a gurdwara commemorating the visit of Siri Guru Nanak Sahib, situated near Lahore—collapsed following rainfall.

This pattern suggests systemic shortcomings in the repair and preservation of Sikh monuments in Pakistan.

Although the ETPB effectively maintains prominent historical gurdwaras in urban areas, it has made minimal efforts to preserve Sikh religious sites in rural regions. These rural sites often include substantial land and properties generating consistent income for the ETPB, yet the revenue appears to be absorbed into general Board funds rather than allocated exclusively for upkeep.

For example, Gurdwara Boali Sahib (behind the Sunehri Masjid) in Lahore has been dismantled, yet the agency allegedly maintains oversight of over 110 shops affiliated with the gurdwara and collects rent.

—

### Documentation of Sikh Heritage Sites in Lahore District

Dr. Tarunjit Singh Butalia, co-author of this essay, analyzed about ten Gurmukhi texts created before 1947 that mention Sikh historical shrines in the current Lahore district. His research, *Sikh Historical Shrines in Pakistan: Lahore District* (April 2025), identifies over 40 historical shrines.

– 5 of these shrines have operational gurdwaras.
– 1 is well-preserved but no longer functions as a gurdwara.
– 14 sites remain intact but have been occupied by locals or repurposed for other uses, such as graves or educational purposes.
– 8 sites are currently in disrepair due to neglect.
– 14 sites have disappeared or been replaced by modern structures.

Their exact locations are documented in Dr. Butalia’s publication.

—

### Recommendations and Conclusion

The situation is regrettable given that the ETPB claims to be the protector of historical Sikh holy sites in Pakistan.

The ETPB should:

– Produce a comprehensive list of Sikh heritage sites in its jurisdiction, including the associated land and properties.
– Ensure that revenue generated from these properties is allocated specifically for upkeep, maintenance, and repair.
– Take immediate restoration measures for deteriorating historical religious monuments.
– Clear areas currently occupied by Partition refugees and renovate the buildings accordingly.
– Install historical heritage markers at all pertinent locations—especially those demolished—to educate the public about their past existence and significance.

Failure to maintain these sites despite generating revenue risks eroding the Sikh community’s trust in the ETPB’s ability to protect their sacred historical places.

As the saying goes, deeds will convey more meaning than spoken words.

—

### About the Author

Mazhar Abbas is the author of *The Aftermath of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971: Enduring Impact* (Routledge, 2024). He holds a PhD in history from Shanghai University and is currently a lecturer at Government College University (GCU), Faisalabad, and a research fellow at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), Islamabad.

He can be contacted at: mazharabbagondal87@gmail.com
Follow him on X (formerly Twitter): @MazharGondal87
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345070-saving-historical-heritage

cricket, development, pakistan, sports, youth empowerment

PMYP-Qalandars’ journey to discover Pakistan’s future cricket stars continues

Leave a comment

When we talk about cricket in Pakistan, we talk about passion, dreams, and an undying love that transcends generations. From the narrow streets of Jhelum to the bustling grounds of Peshawar, cricket is more than just a game — it is a language every child understands.

The Prime Minister Youth Program (PMYP)-Lahore Qalandars Cricket Talent Hunt is giving this passion a direction, a structure, and most importantly, a future. The landmark initiative, led by Lahore Qalandars under the umbrella of PMYP, is no ordinary campaign. It is a national movement aimed at discovering, nurturing, and empowering the next generation of cricketing stars.

Recently, the caravan of talent hunt trials made its way through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with stops in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar. Before that, the energy of Sialkot and Jhelum had already set the stage, proving that our youth are ready to grab opportunities with both hands.

What makes this programme truly special is not just the numbers. Thousands of boys and girls thronged the trials with unmatched energy, but it is the intent behind the initiative that stands out. These are not random camps or short-lived events; this is a well-thought-out, professionally managed setup, guided by Lahore Qalandars’ experienced coaches and support staff.

The trials have been meticulously designed to provide fair, transparent, and structured opportunities to every participant, regardless of background, city, or resources.

These trials are more than a hunt for fast bowlers, batsmen, or all-rounders. They symbolize hope — hope for a young boy in Kohat who dreams of bowling the fastest ball in the world, hope for a girl in Abbottabad who wants to represent Pakistan on the international stage, and hope for families who believe that cricket can change their destinies.

One cannot overlook the vision behind this initiative. Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana has rightly acknowledged the extraordinary support from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Without their commitment, such a massive and inclusive program would not have been possible.

Their combined effort sends out a powerful message: Pakistan’s youth matter, and their dreams deserve platforms as grand as this.

The recent trials in Kohat, Abbottabad, and Peshawar were nothing short of festivals. Youngsters arrived with their kits, eyes gleaming with ambition, and hearts pounding with excitement. The discipline and determination they displayed were a reminder of the deep cricketing roots in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The same spirit was visible earlier in Sialkot and Jhelum, where the response was equally overwhelming. In fact, the Jhelum trials gained international recognition when US Charge d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker graced the occasion, highlighting the global relevance of such initiatives. Federal Minister Bilal Kiyani’s presence further underlined the government’s commitment.

The beauty of these trials lies in their inclusivity. For the first time in a long while, both boys and girls are being given equal opportunities to showcase their skills under professional supervision. This is not only redefining the future of cricket in Pakistan but also challenging long-held stereotypes about women in sports.

The fact that thousands of girls have stepped forward to participate is itself a historic achievement.

For years, we have complained about the lack of grassroots structures, the absence of systematic talent grooming, and the wasted potential in remote areas. Today, through the PMYP-Lahore Qalandars collaboration, we are finally addressing those gaps.

Some of the youngsters in these trials will one day shine on the international stage, just like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and other stars unearthed by Lahore Qalandars in the past. The raw talent is already there; it only needs to be polished, guided, and given the right exposure.

The journey, of course, is far from over. The trials will soon move to Swat, Mardan, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. If the response so far is any indication, the upcoming stops will see an even greater wave of participation.

This continuity ensures that no corner of Pakistan is left out, and every child with a dream gets a fair chance.

The progress of these trials truly symbolizes a new dawn for Pakistan cricket. This initiative goes far beyond the mere selection of a handful of players; it is about cultivating a culture where raw talent is discovered, nurtured, and celebrated. It is about instilling in our youth the unshakable belief that with hard work, discipline, and the right opportunities, their dreams can be transformed into reality.

The PMYP-Lahore Qalandars Talent Hunt is, in every sense, a cricketing revolution in motion — a movement that is rewriting the narrative of grassroots development in Pakistan.

With such visionary steps, we can confidently affirm that the future of Pakistan cricket is not only bright and secure but destined to shine with unmatched brilliance.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345090-pmyp-qalandars-journey-to-discover-pakistans-future-cricket-stars-continues

entertainment, globalization, industry, media, television

Netflix’s First Pakistani Original Faces Delay

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As streaming giants race to capture diverse audiences, Pakistan finds itself at a crossroads. Netflix’s first Pakistani original series promised to put the country on the global entertainment map, but production delays have raised questions about whether Pakistan is truly ready for this moment.

Netflix’s much-talked-about series *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* has become a double-edged sword for the country’s television industry. Billed as the streamer’s first Pakistan-themed original, this adaptation brings together stars including Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Ahad Raza Mir, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Hania Aamir, Maya Ali, Bilal Ashraf, and Iqra Aziz.

Ever since word first got out in 2023, expectations have remained unusually high. By Pakistani standards, this project is seriously ambitious. Filming has taken place across multiple countries and has mixed established stars with fresh faces. Netflix has called it their most significant Pakistani production yet. That scope alone makes it feel like a turning point—a chance for Pakistani drama to step out of the regional curiosity box and onto the global stage.

After missing its original premiere month of June 2025, questions remain unanswered. Local media is now talking about a window later in the year as production and post-production continue to drag on. The delay might frustrate fans, but it also highlights something bigger.

Creating a project that ticks Netflix’s technical and editorial boxes, while keeping its Pakistani soul intact, is incredibly challenging. The real question is whether Pakistan is ready for this moment.

Other countries have already learned how to use Netflix to amplify their storytelling voices. India’s *Sacred Games* and *Delhi Crime* helped establish what prestige local originals could look like. South Korea’s *Squid Game* changed the game for global television. Australia and the UK have entered Netflix with their own domestic stories.

Pakistan, meanwhile, is showing up late to a party where audiences are already overwhelmed by international content. Being late doesn’t lower the stakes—it raises them.

A star-studded cast is no guarantee of success. Hits don’t just happen because you throw money and famous faces at something. If Pakistan’s first Netflix original feels watered down—more English and less Urdu, more generic South Asia and less distinctly Pakistan—then what story is it actually telling? And if the technical elements like editing, sound, and visual effects don’t meet Netflix standards, viewers will just click away.

A stumble could reinforce the idea that Pakistan can’t deliver at an international scale. At the same time, it seems unfair that one show has to carry so much symbolic weight. No single production should prove an industry’s worth. But delays have a way of intensifying that pressure.

The longer *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* is delayed, the more it becomes the test of whether Pakistan can compete with its neighbours and peers on streaming platforms. If the series succeeds, it could open doors for everyone who comes afterward. If it doesn’t, there will still be lessons about infrastructure, creative decisions, and the trade-offs that come with working alongside global platforms.

Either way, Pakistan can’t keep sitting on the sidelines while others shape what it means to be global in entertainment.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345082-netflixs-first-pakistani-original-faces-delay

entertainment, globalization, industry, media, television

Netflix’s First Pakistani Original Faces Delay

Leave a comment

As Streaming Giants Race to Capture Diverse Audiences, Pakistan Finds Itself at a Crossroads

Netflix’s first Pakistani original series promised to put the country on the global entertainment map, but production delays have raised questions about whether Pakistan is truly ready for this moment.

Netflix’s much-talked-about series *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* has become a double-edged sword for the country’s television industry. Billed as the streamer’s first Pakistan-themed original, this adaptation brings together stars including Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Ahad Raza Mir, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Hania Aamir, Maya Ali, Bilal Ashraf, and Iqra Aziz.

Ever since word first got out in 2023, expectations have remained unusually high. By Pakistani standards, this project is seriously ambitious. Filming has taken place across multiple countries and has mixed established stars with fresh faces. Netflix has called it their most significant Pakistani production yet. That scope alone makes it feel like a turning point — a chance for Pakistani drama to step out of the regional curiosity box and onto the global stage.

However, after missing its original premiere month of June 2025, questions remain unanswered. Local media is now talking about a window later in the year as production and post-production continue to drag on. The delay might frustrate fans, but it also highlights something bigger: creating a project that ticks Netflix’s technical and editorial boxes, while keeping its Pakistani soul intact, is incredibly challenging.

The real question is whether Pakistan is ready for this moment.

Other countries have already learned how to use Netflix to amplify their storytelling voices. India’s *Sacred Games* and *Delhi Crime* helped establish what prestige local originals could look like. South Korea’s *Squid Game* changed the game for global television. Australia and the UK have entered Netflix with their own domestic stories.

Pakistan, meanwhile, is showing up late to a party where audiences are already overwhelmed by international content. Being late doesn’t lower the stakes — it raises them.

A star-studded cast is no guarantee for success. Hits don’t just happen because you throw money and famous faces at something. If Pakistan’s first Netflix original feels watered down — more English and less Urdu, more generic South Asia and less distinctly Pakistani — then what story is it actually telling? And if the technical elements like editing, sound, and visual effects don’t meet Netflix standards, viewers will just click away.

A stumble could reinforce the idea that Pakistan can’t deliver at an international scale.

At the same time, it seems unfair that one show has to carry so much symbolic weight. No single production should prove an industry’s worth. But delays have a way of intensifying that pressure. The longer *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* is delayed, the more it becomes the test of whether Pakistan can compete with its neighbours and peers on streaming platforms.

If the series succeeds, it could open doors for everyone who comes afterwards. If it doesn’t, there will still be lessons about infrastructure, creative decisions, and the trade-offs that come with working alongside global platforms.

Either way, Pakistan can’t keep sitting on the sidelines while others shape what it means to be global in entertainment.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345082-netflixs-first-pakistani-original-faces-delay

cricket, politics, sports

Mithun Manhas emerges as front-runner for BCCI president post: Report

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**Mithun Manhas Emerges as Front-Runner for BCCI President Post: Report**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 21, 2025, 07:51 AM*

Former Delhi cricketer Mithun Manhas has emerged as the leading candidate for the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). According to Cricbuzz, the final decision is expected to be announced on Sunday morning, just hours before the nomination deadline.

**Election Details and Nominations**

Manhas has been nominated by the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) for the upcoming BCCI election and Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for September 28. Despite facing competition from notable contenders such as Sourav Ganguly and Harbhajan Singh, Manhas has solidified his position as a strong candidate.

Former Indian Test cricketer Raghuram Bhatt is also in the fray and is expected to arrive in Mumbai on Sunday to file his nomination.

**Strategic Discussions Ahead of the Polls**

A key meeting in New Delhi on Saturday saw the presence of BCCI office-bearers and former officials, who deliberated on potential office-bearers for the upcoming elections. A source close to the meeting revealed that there is a 90% chance of Manhas being chosen as the next BCCI president.

While Bhatt is likely to secure a spot on the apex council, Arun Dhumal is anticipated to continue his role as IPL chairman. The final round of discussions will take place Sunday morning, just before nominations close in the afternoon.

**Profile: Mithun Manhas**

Mithun Manhas, 45, boasts an impressive domestic cricket career spanning 18 years from 1998 to 2016. He played 157 first-class matches, amassing nearly 10,000 runs at an average of around 46. He captained Delhi to the prestigious Ranji Trophy title during the 2007-08 season.

Although Manhas never represented India at the international level, he was regarded as one of the most dependable players in domestic cricket. Off the field, he has gathered valuable administrative experience through his work with the JKCA and his participation in BCCI’s AGMs on behalf of his state.

As the countdown to the elections continues, Mithun Manhas appears poised to take on a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket administration.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/mithun-manhas-emerges-front-runner-for-bcci-president/story

entertainment, globalization, industry, media, television

Netflix’s First Pakistani Original Faces Delay

Leave a comment

As streaming giants race to capture diverse audiences, Pakistan finds itself at a crossroads. Netflix’s first Pakistani original series promised to put the country on the global entertainment map, but production delays have raised questions about whether Pakistan is truly ready for this moment.

Netflix’s much-talked-about series *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* has become a double-edged sword for the country’s television industry. Billed as the streamer’s first Pakistan-themed original, this adaptation brings together stars including Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Ahad Raza Mir, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Hania Aamir, Maya Ali, Bilal Ashraf, and Iqra Aziz.

Ever since word first got out in 2023, expectations have remained unusually high. By Pakistani standards, this project is seriously ambitious. Filming has taken place across multiple countries and has mixed established stars with fresh faces. Netflix has called it their most significant Pakistani production yet.

That scope alone makes it feel like a turning point—a chance for Pakistani drama to step out of the regional curiosity box and onto the global stage.

However, after missing its original premiere month (June 2025), questions remain unanswered. Local media is now talking about a release window later in the year, as production and post-production continue to drag on. The delay might frustrate fans, but it also highlights something bigger.

Creating a project that ticks Netflix’s technical and editorial boxes, while keeping its Pakistani soul intact, is incredibly challenging. The real question is whether Pakistan is ready for this moment.

Other countries have already learned how to use Netflix to amplify their storytelling voices. India’s *Sacred Games* and *Delhi Crime* helped establish what prestige local originals could look like. South Korea’s *Squid Game* changed the game for global television. Australia and the UK have entered Netflix with their own domestic stories.

Pakistan, meanwhile, is showing up late to a party where audiences are already overwhelmed by international content. Being late doesn’t lower the stakes—it raises them.

A star-studded cast is no guarantee for success. Hits don’t just happen because you throw money and famous faces at something. If Pakistan’s first Netflix original feels watered down—more English and less Urdu, more generic South Asia and less distinctly Pakistani—then what story is it actually telling?

And if the technical elements like editing, sound, and visual effects don’t meet Netflix standards, viewers will just click away. A stumble could reinforce the idea that Pakistan can’t deliver at an international scale.

At the same time, it seems unfair that one show has to carry so much symbolic weight. No single production should prove an industry’s worth.

But delays have a way of intensifying that pressure. The longer *Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo* is postponed, the more it becomes the test of whether Pakistan can compete with its neighbours and peers on streaming platforms.

If the series succeeds, it could open doors for everyone who comes afterwards. If it doesn’t, there will still be lessons about infrastructure, creative decisions, and the trade-offs that come with working alongside global platforms.

Either way, Pakistan can’t keep sitting on the sidelines while others shape what it means to be global in entertainment.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345082-netflixs-first-pakistani-original-faces-delay

business, entertainment, sports

Vince McMahon appears at WWE Wrestlepalooza: Blink and you miss it cameo

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Former WWE chairman Vince McMahon made a surprise cameo at the start of Wrestlepalooza on Saturday.

This appearance marked his first involvement with the event since stepping down from his role as executive chairman of TKO in January 2024. McMahon has not been part of the company since his resignation earlier this year.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-vince-mcmahon-appears-wwe-wrestlepalooza-blink-miss-cameo

general

Oscar Hilado: Legacy of purpose, principles

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MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine business community and civil society are mourning the loss of Phinma Corp. chair emeritus Oscar Hilado, an influential industry leader, education champion, and staunch tennis patron.

Hilado dedicated a lifetime to guiding some of the country’s top corporations while also helping the underprivileged. He would have turned 88 on November 8.
https://business.inquirer.net/548251/oscar-hilado-legacy-of-purpose-principles