‘Real heroes’: Akshay Kumar credits stuntmen for his successful career

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**‘Real heroes’: Akshay Kumar credits stuntmen for his successful career**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 12:53 pm*

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar recently paid a heartfelt tribute to the stunt performers who have played a crucial role in his successful career. The tribute was featured in the finale episode of *The Great Indian Kapil Show* Season 3, which aired on Netflix.

Speaking sincerely, Kumar said, “Mere liye asli heroes yeh hain. Inki wajah se mera career hai” (These are the real heroes for me. I have a career because of them), saluting their courage and invaluable contribution to the film industry.

### Behind-the-Scenes Support

In an inspiring revelation, the stunt performers shared that Kumar has been quietly supporting their community for years. They disclosed that the actor personally pays life insurance premiums for every member of their union. This generous act came as a surprise to many and highlighted Kumar’s deep commitment to the welfare of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

### Light-Hearted Moments on the Show

The finale was not just filled with emotional tributes but also featured fun, light-hearted interactions. Host Kapil Sharma playfully roasted Kumar for arriving late on the show, poking fun at the actor’s reputation for punctuality. With a smile, Kumar replied, “Arre, mujhe pehle paise nahi mile” (I didn’t get paid yet), entertaining the audience.

### Star-Studded Finale

The finale episode also showcased fan-favorite comedic performances by Kiku Sharda and Krushna Abhishek. Sharda delighted viewers by mimicking the iconic Baburao character from *Hera Pheri*, while Abhishek entertained with his impersonation of Suniel Shetty.

*The Great Indian Kapil Show* premiered on Netflix on June 21 and has featured numerous Bollywood stars over its run, including Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Janhvi Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, and many more.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/great-indian-kapil-show-akshay-kumar-praises-stuntmen-community/story

bollywood, celebrities, entertainment

‘Real heroes’: Akshay Kumar credits stuntmen for his successful career

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**‘Real Heroes’: Akshay Kumar Credits Stuntmen for His Successful Career**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 12:53 pm*

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar recently paid a heartfelt tribute to the stunt performers who have played a crucial role in shaping his illustrious career. The tribute was featured in the finale episode of *The Great Indian Kapil Show* Season 3, which aired on Netflix.

Speaking from the heart, Kumar said, “Mere liye asli heroes yeh hain. Inki wajah se mera career hai,” which translates to, “These are the real heroes for me. I have a career because of them.” He saluted the courage and dedication of the stunt performers who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

### Secret Support for Stunt Performers

In a touching revelation, several stunt performers disclosed that Akshay Kumar has been quietly supporting their community for years by paying life insurance premiums for every member of their union. This generous gesture highlights Kumar’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and security of those who often go unnoticed in the film industry.

### Light-Hearted Moments on the Show

Apart from the emotional tributes, the episode also featured some fun and laughter. Host Kapil Sharma playfully roasted Kumar for being late, despite the actor’s reputation for punctuality. With a smile, Kumar cheekily responded, “Arre, mujhe pehle paise nahi mile,” meaning, “I didn’t get paid yet.”

### Star-Studded Finale

The finale episode was packed with fan-favorite performances, including Kiku Sharda’s hilarious mimicry of the beloved Baburao character from *Hera Pheri*, and Krushna Abhishek’s impersonation of actor Suniel Shetty.

*The Great Indian Kapil Show* Season 3 premiered on Netflix on June 21 and featured several Bollywood stars such as Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Janhvi Kapoor, and Ajay Devgn.

Akshay Kumar’s tribute shines a light on the indispensable contributions of stunt performers, reminding audiences that behind every successful hero on screen, there are real heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/great-indian-kapil-show-akshay-kumar-praises-stuntmen-community/story

cricket, history, records, sports, women's sports

Presenting batters with most centuries in WODI history

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**Presenting Batters with the Most Centuries in WODI History**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 21, 2025, 02:20 PM*

Indian opener Smriti Mandhana has etched her name into the record books by scoring the second-fastest century in Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs). She achieved this remarkable feat in just 50 balls during the third match against Australia at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Mandhana’s explosive innings of 125 runs off 63 balls was a standout performance, even though India (369/10) fell short while chasing a daunting 413-run target.

This century marked Mandhana’s 13th hundred in WODIs, placing her among the elite batters in the format. Let’s take a closer look at the batters with the most centuries in WODI history.

—

### Smriti Mandhana – 13 Centuries

Mandhana’s blistering 125 in the recent game was her 13th century in WODI cricket. Alongside her centuries, she has also registered 32 half-centuries. In 108 matches, Mandhana has amassed 4,888 runs at an impressive average of 47.92.

The elegant southpaw’s highest score remains 136 off 120 balls against South Africa in Bengaluru last year. Remarkably, all her 13 centuries have come while opening the innings—a testament to her consistency and skill in the crucial opener’s role. No other batter has scored as many centuries from this position.

—

### Suzie Bates – 13 Centuries

With her recent century, Mandhana has equaled New Zealand’s Suzie Bates, who also boasts 13 WODI centuries. Bates achieved her tons against seven different international teams, underlining her versatility.

Over 171 matches representing the White Ferns, Bates has compiled 5,896 runs at an average of 39.83, including 37 fifties. She holds a personal best score of 168 and ranks third on the list of highest run-scorers in WODI cricket history.

—

### Meg Lanning – 15 Centuries

Leading the pack is former Australian captain Meg Lanning with an impressive tally of 15 centuries in WODIs. She reached this milestone in only 103 matches, underlining her dominance at the crease.

Lanning scored 4,602 runs at an outstanding average of 53.51, complemented by 21 half-centuries. She announced her retirement before turning 31, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. Her highest WODI score is an unbeaten 152.

—

Smriti Mandhana’s recent milestone highlights her growing stature among the greats of women’s cricket, as she continues to chase down records and set new benchmarks in WODI history.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/most-centuries-in-women-s-odis/story

addiction, health, medicine, policy, public health

The double burden of disease

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

Pakistan is currently struggling against a public health challenge of a dual nature: the persistence of communicable diseases alongside the rapid rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This double burden of disease strains Pakistan’s already crippling healthcare infrastructure and jeopardizes the well-being of its citizens.

Amidst this complex situation, a new threat has emerged and is spreading at an alarming rate: tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Marketed with deceptive appeal, these products pose a significant and often underestimated risk to an individual’s health.

### What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small sachets placed between the gum and lip, widely advertised as a modern and discreet way to consume nicotine. Unlike traditional tobacco products, these pouches contain nicotine powder extracted from tobacco leaves or synthetically manufactured. Their appeal is enhanced by a wide variety of flavors and the absence of smoke or spit, which are often associated with other tobacco products.

Marketed as tobacco-free or tobacco leaf-free, nicotine pouches have seen a significant recent surge in popularity. This has led to a common misconception that they are harmless.

### The Health Risks of Nicotine

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance with numerous detrimental health effects. Unregulated marketing and the rapid increase in use raise serious public health concerns about its long-term impact.

Nicotine is a potent psychoactive compound that can profoundly affect the human body. Its use leads to addiction—a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. This addiction, particularly when it begins in youth, can disrupt brain development. Normally, the brain continues to develop until a person’s mid-twenties. Early exposure can impair cognitive functions, including attention and learning, and may increase the likelihood of addiction to other substances later in life.

### Cardiovascular and Oral Health Concerns

Clinical trials have well-documented the extensive health risks associated with nicotine. Nicotine use has been linked to several cardiovascular issues: it can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, placing added strain on the heart. Long-term use can contribute to the hardening of artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. These conditions already represent a major part of the NCD burden in Pakistan, and the proliferation of nicotine pouches threatens to exacerbate this crisis.

Local effects of nicotine pouches on oral health are also a serious concern. Placing the pouch directly against the gums can lead to irritation and inflammation. Prolonged and repeated use can cause gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing roots and increasing the risk of dental caries and tooth loss. While the long-term impact on oral cancer is still under study, the potential for chronic irritation and inflammation of oral tissues remains a significant health risk.

### The Regulatory Vacuum and Its Consequences

The market for nicotine pouches in Pakistan is largely unregulated. Their tobacco-free status allows them to bypass many of the regulations and taxes that apply to traditional tobacco products. This regulatory vacuum has created room for aggressive marketing campaigns, especially on social media, targeting young adults and adolescents.

The appealing flavors and discreet nature of these products make them particularly attractive to this demographic, creating a new generation of nicotine users and perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

One recent study highlighted the alarming trend of high nicotine pouch use among young adults in Pakistan, many of whom are unaware of the associated health risks. The lack of robust regulation, combined with deceptive marketing, directly contributes to Pakistan’s double burden of disease.

### The Path Forward: Legislative and Regulatory Action

As NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers, continue to rise, the introduction of easily accessible and addictive nicotine products threatens to worsen this prognosis. This places an immense burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system and economy, draining resources desperately needed for other public health initiatives.

In a positive development, the National Assembly passed the NIH bill on August 12. The bill emphasizes the dire need for establishing a national cancer registry to understand the actual burden of disease and to implement a national action plan for cancer prevention and management.

Through this bill, the structure and governance of the National Institute of Health will be strengthened, ensuring the reorganization of the institution and enhancing its performance. The approval marks a significant step toward reforms in the health sector and institutional improvement.

### Urgent Call to Action

To safeguard public health, particularly among the younger population, it is imperative that the government and regulatory authorities take immediate and decisive action:

– **Include nicotine pouches in the taxation stream** to limit widespread use.
– **Bring the sale and distribution of these products under strict regulatory control.**
– **Consider a comprehensive ban on the sale of nicotine pouches** as the most effective and direct way to address this emerging public health threat.

By eliminating this silent scourge, Pakistan can protect future generations and make tangible strides toward reducing the double burden of disease that plagues the nation. The time for action is now.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345109-the-double-burden-of-disease

culture, entertainment, festival, film, regional

Town Talk

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**Urta Lahore: A Festival of South Asian Cinema**

**When:** Concludes Sunday (today), from 4:30 PM onwards
**Where:** Annemarie-Schimmel-Haus, Lahore

Urta Lahore, held in collaboration with Travelling Film South Asia, is a vibrant festival celebrating the richness of South Asian cinema. The festival showcases films that explore themes of resilience, nostalgia, and untold histories, offering audiences a unique cinematic experience.

In its final days, the screening lineup features an engaging selection of feature films and shorts. Highlights include:
– Feature films such as *Cinema Pe Cinema* by Vani Subramanian and *Akash Ganga* by Nirmal Chander.
– Short films like *A Forgotten Summer* by Aliya Z S, Fatima Rahman, Isha Singh, Minha Fathima, and Shreya Mishra; *Made with Love* by Kainat Thebo; and *Hello Guyzz!* by Samiksha Mathur.

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse storytelling of South Asian filmmakers.

—

**Ali Zafar Live!**

**When:** September 27 at 7 PM
**Where:** Alhamra Cultural Complex, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

Experience an electrifying live performance by Ali Zafar at the Alhamra Cultural Complex. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening filled with music and entertainment.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1345127-town-talk

family, politics, social media, society

Tej Pratap warns, ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ awaits those insulting sisters

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**Tej Pratap Warns, ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Awaits Those Insulting Sisters**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 02:17 PM*

Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav, has issued a stern warning to anyone who insults his sisters. He cautioned that such individuals will face the “Sudarshan Chakra” of Lord Krishna.

This statement comes in the wake of a cryptic social media post by his sister, Rohini Acharya, on the platform X (formerly Twitter). In her post, Acharya wrote, *“I have fulfilled my duty and dharma as a daughter and a sister. For me, my self-respect is supreme.”*

### Social Media Speculation and Fallout

Rohini Acharya’s post has raised eyebrows across political circles, sparking speculation about her current relationship with the RJD. Adding to the intrigue, Acharya unfollowed all RJD leaders on social media and set her account to private.

Previously, she had publicly criticized a photograph showing Tejashwi Yadav’s aide Sanjay Yadav seated in the front seat of the party’s campaign van. Unconfirmed reports had suggested she was hoping to receive an Assembly election ticket, though party leadership has denied these claims.

### Family Support: Tej Pratap’s Response

Amidst the political turmoil, Tej Pratap Yadav has come out strongly in support of his sister. He said, *“Rohini is much older than me. As a child, I played in her lap.”*

He also highlighted her sacrifice, noting that she had donated a kidney to their father, Lalu Prasad Yadav. Tej Pratap affirmed, *“I am fully with my sister in the ongoing episode,”* and warned that anyone who insults her would have to face consequences.

### Rivals Seize the Opportunity

Political rivals have not missed the chance to target the RJD following Acharya’s post. Janata Dal (United) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar remarked, *“Rohini Acharya is a daughter who donated a kidney for her father. Now, Lalu Yadav, it is your responsibility to decide who is at fault.”*

As of now, the RJD has not issued any public response to Rohini Acharya’s post or the ensuing controversy.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/tej-pratap-s-sudarshan-chakra-warning-amid-row-over-sister-s-post/story

cricket, development, pakistan, sports, youth empowerment

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

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin 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 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.

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

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

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

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.

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

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.

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.

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

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

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

2025 年 9 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

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.

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.

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

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.

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.