The Year 2023 : through Pakistan

[ghazi52]

2023 in Pakistani dramas: ​

A mixed bag of spunk, grit, and subtlety​

There’s definitely more to the palette now than what we’ve seen in recent years.

Qurat ul ain Siddiqui
26 Dec, 2023

With 2023 coming to a close, it is safe to say that the year saw some evolution in Pakistan’s drama landscape — we no longer have to sit through one-dimensional storytelling of the evil saas bechari bahu variety and there’s definitely more to the palette than what we’ve seen in recent years. However, what has hardly changed is the fact that most stories continue to feature drama around the khandaan and there is not enough experimentation with genres such as thrillers, murder mysteries, horror etc, and without the plots heavily featuring family goings-on.

A welcome addition to the mix has been the new drama channel Green Entertainment, which is pushing boundaries when it comes to content as well as form. Channels such as Express TV and ARY Digital have also experimented with limited series and in some cases produced pretty interesting results.
All in all, 2023 has been a mixed bag, with some dramas dominating conversations for reasons good and bad. Let’s take a brief look at a few of them.

Fairytale​

A Momina Duraid production, written by Sarah Majeed and directed by Ali Hasan, Fairytale tells the story of Umeed, a young girl, who is happy, imperfect, makes mistakes, and wants to live life as well and as fully as she can. With its light take on life, Fairytale is a romance with all the usual tropes but each depicted with a refreshingly modern take. The drama became so popular among young Pakistanis that the team ended up creating a second season soon after — something that wasn’t part of the original plan.
Fairytale’s characters are immensely fun, and the chemistry between the heroine and the hero is what keeps the show alive. If you’re up for humour, some light fun, and something really relatable, Fairytale is just the show for you.

Kuch Ankahi​

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that Kuch Ankahi was perhaps this year’s critical success. Despite a simple, and to some extent traditional, story of relatives circling a man with only female offspring for his property, the drama’s take on the issue is what makes it refreshing.

While the drama’s overall texture is light, it is through its subtlety that it manages to drive home the message that daughters are enough and good enough. Sajal Aly, Mira Sethi, Mohammad Ahmed, Irsa Ghazal, Vaneeza Ahmed, and Qudsia Ali, all played their characters beautifully and those familiar with classic Pakistani dramas of the 1980s will perhaps find hints of Tanhaiyaan and Ankahi in it.

The drama is a real treat, delivering a great message and excellent performances. If I had to pick just one drama to watch from this year, it’d be Kuch Ankahi.

Sar-e-Rah​

This miniseries tells the story of Rania, a young woman who takes to driving her father’s cab after he falls ill. The storytelling here is unique with the audience not only getting to know Rania, but also four others who were passengers in her cab through different points in the series.

Sar-e-Rah effortlessly explores topics that our society usually finds difficult to have conversations on, such as infertility, gender identity, and women empowerment.
Saba Qamar’s portrayal of Rania is superb — no one could have played her better. Sunita Marshall, Saboor Aly, Muneeb Butt, and Hareem Farooq also shine in their roles with excellent performances.

Sar-e-Rah did excellent on the innovation front, not only when it comes to the topics it explored but also when it comes to the storytelling device adopted. Do check it out so you’re not left wanting.

Gunah​

A mini-series of just six episodes, Gunah is an excellent mystery drama that’ll leave you flabbergasted by the time you reach the finale. The drama starts with a woman, Gul Noor (Juggun Kazim), going missing. Her husband, Malik Hayat Khan (Sarmad Khoosat), is hopping mad, and her sister Gul Meher (Saba Qamar) is not helping.
Enter SHO Sabiha (Rabia Butt), who turns out to be a force to be reckoned with, ultimately getting to the bottom of Noor’s disappearance. At the risk of spoiling the story for those who haven’t seen it, Gunah tackles an extremely sensitive topic. The acting is a bit exaggerated at some points, but for the most part, Gunah remains an engaging watch.
Despite the six episodes, the drama is moderately paced and does not extend in duration beyond what makes for efficient and sufficient storytelling. If you haven’t seen it yet, you can easily binge through it over the weekend.

Kabli Pulao​

Kabli Pulao aired on Green Entertainment and ended up collecting a tonne of praise, not just for the drama, but also the network itself, making audiences wonder what else could be coming up on the then newish channel.

Telling the story of Haji Mushtaq (portrayed by Muhammad Ehteshamuddin) and Barbeena, an Afghan refugee widow (Sabeena Farooq), how they get married and how their relationship evolves, Kabli Pulao explores the challenges that people from different cultures experience when trying to develop relationships.

Ehteshamuddin’s portrayal of Haji Mushtaq intricately captures the character’s depth with the drama courageously exploring an unconventional love story. The drama’s commitment to shedding light on refugee struggles marks a refreshing departure from mainstream storytelling.

Farooq’s acting prowess in the role of Barbeena keeps one eagerly anticipating each episode. A seamless blend of a compelling storyline and outstanding performances, Kabli Pulao has a lot to offer and was one of the best stories that 2023 served.

Mayi Ri​

Starring Aina Asif and Samar Abbas Jafri, Mayi Ri began as a cautionary tale portraying the hardships endured by the victims of child marriage. While it transitions into a story revolving more around family politics as opposed to focusing more strongly on the turbulence surrounding underage marriages, the drama does come back to the original message, albeit rather abruptly.

Mayi Ri depicts some of the worst traits from our society — particularly when it comes to parents sealing the fates of their children, poor treatment of women by their husbands, men resorting to multiple marriages at the expense of their existing families, and many other social ills.

Child marriage is a criminal offence in Pakistan and while many potential victims may not know that, this drama effectively conveys that they can approach the law to seek protection.

Baby Baji​

If there’s been a drama that dominated conversations in 2023, it was Baby Baji. For better or for worse, the drama was pretty addictive, and even a guilty pleasure of sorts, particularly when it came to some of its iconic characters such as Azra (played by Javeria Saud) and Baby Baji (Samina Ahmad) herself. The drama does not carry much depth, and perhaps depth wasn’t intended either. Most characters are clear stereotypes — they are either angels or they’re demons, and there isn’t much in between.

To be taken as fast food television, the storytelling in Baby Baji isn’t like your average slowburn Pakistani drama. Slapstick, the drama still tries to deliver a moral message, but fundamentally it entertains and that seems to be its main, if not only, goal. Perhaps check it out for a few episodes? You could get hooked!

Shanaas​

Shanaas was a special addition to this year’s list of unconventional content. It is the story of a young woman Aneesa (played by Hajra Yamin) who finds out rather unceremoniously that she was adopted as a baby. The drama is fundamentally Aneesa’s struggle to find her biological parents, a journey through which she encounters a range of characters connected to her history.
The drama explores the topics of adoption and class differences in a sensitive and thoughtful manner, thanks to the excellent script and remarkable acting by Hajra Yamin, Sania Saeed, Shamim Hilaly, Yasra Rizvi, and others.
Shanaas is an honest effort at exploring a sensitive topic, in a sensitive and tasteful manner, with the writer, the director, and the actors, all doing justice to their respective roles. This one’s a must watch!

Bandish 2​

Last but not least, Bandish 2, not to be confused with the story of Bandish (or Bandish 1) added a touch of horror to the local drama landscape. As the name indicates, the story deals with the themes of jealousy, anger, and ‘revenge’ of some sort by engaging a practitioner of black magic and the drama ends with a lesson as to why one should never pursue such routes.

The horror elements in Bandish 2 do not come anywhere close to Bandish, and the story has ‘more family drama, less horror’ for long stretches with the plot being dragged more than needed. The saving grace here was the outstanding performances by Sania Saeed, Amna Ilyas, Affan Waheed, and child star Hoorain Ikya Ali, amongst others.

Overall, the drama isn’t remarkable, but still worth a mention for experimenting with the horror genre. Despite having an audience, there remains a serious dearth of horror on local television, let alone quality content from the genre — I’m not sure why. But, if you want to check out some local horror content, Bandish 2 isn’t too bad for a one-time watch.

This year was a mishmash of sorts when it comes to Pakistani dramas, but now with more platforms out there, here’s hoping that 2024 will serve up more quality along with the quantity.

2023 in Pakistani dramas: A mixed bag of spunk, grit, and subtlety

There’s definitely more to the palette now than what we’ve seen in recent years.

images.dawn.com

 

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From mountains to space: ​

2023 was full of ‘first’ feats for Pakistanis​

From risky summits to representing Pakistan in media to women and minorities making themselves heard locally, this year has been historic.
Muskaan Mujahid
December 26, 2023

The outgoing year has been full of achievements for Pakistanis, especially women, who have broken barriers and achieved numerous ‘firsts’ in their respective fields.

From accomplishing dangerous feats on mountain peaks to representing Pakistan internationally in the media, and with women and minorities making their voices heard locally, this year has been historic.

Dawn.com examines some of these milestones across various walks of life, which have left us beaming with pride.

Sports​

Imagine becoming the first Pakistani woman climber to summit 10 peaks above 8,000 metres — renowned mountaineer Naila Kiani achieved that in reality this year. She also became the only Pakistani to ascend seven peaks above 8,000m in six months.

Listed below are her achievements and those of other mountaineers throughout 2023.

April: Mountaineer Sajid Ali Sadpara became the first Pakistani to scale Nepal’s Annapurna peak — the world’s 10th-highest peak standing 8,091m tall — without the support of high-altitude porters and supplemental oxygen.

Days later, Kiani became the first Pakistani woman to climb Annapurna.

May: Sadpara scaled the world’s tallest peak, 8,849m-tall Mount Everest, in Alpine style — without supplemental oxygen or any porter support.

Two days later, Kiani and Nadia Azad became the first two Pakistani women climbers to scale Lhotse, the world’s fourth-highest peak at 8,516m in Nepal.

July: Kiani (yes, again) and Samina Baig attained the feat of becoming the first Pakistani women to summit the world’s ninth-highest peak, the 8,125m-tall Nanga Parbat.

Kiani set another record the same month, becoming the first Pakistani woman to summit Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain at 8,051m.

September: Shehroze Kashif secured the title of being the youngest climber in the world to summit 12 peaks above 8000m as he ascended Nepal’s Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain at 8,163m.

The same week, Lahore-based Ahmed Uzair and Anum Uzair became the first Pakistani couple to summit Manaslu.

October: Kiani and Sirbaz Khan became the first Pakistani duo to summit the 8,201m-tall Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest peak in China’s Tibet.

Saud Shakeel plays a shot during the final cricket Test match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Colombo on July 26, 2023. — AFP/File

Speaking of other sports, batter Saud Shakeel set a world record in July by becoming the first player in Test history to score more than 50 runs in each of his first seven matches.

Pakistan’s women cricketers also shone this year, making history by registering their maiden win over New Zealand not just in the first T20 International but also in the one-day format.

Earlier this year, wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali became the first Pakistani woman to score a T20I century and only the sixth to score one in a T20 World Cup.

In javelin-throwing, Arshad Nadeem won the country’s first-ever medal at the World Athletics Championships as he secured second place in the final in August.

We may not be abiding by the “first” criteria here but it merits a mention that Hamza Khan won the World Junior Squash Championship 2023, becoming the country’s first to do so since 1986.

Entertainment​

Pakistanis did not shy away from exhibiting their love for arts and media either as they set new records.

Arooj Aftab performs at Grammy Awards 2023 in Los Angeles, US on Feb 5, 2023 — Screengrab from Recording Academy via Arab News

After becoming the first Pakistani to win the prestigious Grammy Award last year, Arooj Aftab in February also became the first artist from the country to perform at the Grammys.

Also in February, streetwear label Rastah became the first Pakistani brand to showcase at the London Fashion Week, where it unveiled its ‘VOLUME IX’ collection.

In April, Oscar-winner Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy was announced as the director for the latest Star Wars film, making her the first woman and person of colour to direct a film in the franchise.

In September, the first-ever art exhibition of Pakistani artists was organised in Hungary’s Budapest by the Pakistani embassy there.

Later the same month, Erica Robin, a 24-year-old Christian from Karachi, was crowned as the first-ever ‘Miss Universe Pakistan’ — a win that led to criticism from certain circles but praise from many.

She went on to represent the country for the first time in the global Miss Universe pageant held in November.

Women and minorities in Pakistan​

Shifting focus to a different category of ‘firsts’, women and minorities in Pakistan made significant strides toward achieving parity with men.

Justice Musarrat Hilali takes oath as Peshawar High Court chief justice on April 1. — File photo

In February, the Lahore High Court Bar Association got its first woman secretary since its inception in 1893 following Sabahat Rizvi’s election.

The bar elected Rabbiya Bajwa as the vice president in another record of simultaneously making two women represent it in the cabinet.

In April, Justice Musarrat Hilali was sworn in as the first woman chief justice of the Peshawar High Court. She then went on to become the Supreme Court’s second woman judge.

In July, the PPP’s Sadia Danish was elected unopposed as the first woman deputy speaker of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.

Days later, Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan’s lawmaker Rana Ansar became the first-ever woman opposition leader in the Sindh Assembly after the PTI’s Haleem Adil Sheikh was removed from the position.

In a sports-related development, 28-year-old Hijab Zahid became the first woman general manager in the history of the Pakistan Super League after she was hired by Multan Sultans for the position.

In September, the Supreme Court got its first female registrar after newly sworn-in Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa appointed Okara Additional District and Sessions Judge Jazeela Aslam to the role.

The next month, girls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Swat played the “first-ever” women’s cricket match in the Kabal tehsil despite facing restrictions and roadblocks.

Other religious and gender minorities also blazed new trails, as Samreen Amir was appointed as KP’s first Christian woman additional station house officer.

At the outset of the year, the transgender community was formally included in the Benazir Income Support Programme, being the first instance of a marginalised group getting rights in the program.

Months later, Shahzadi Rai and Chandni Shah became the first transgender members of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation City Council after being elected on reserved seats.

In November — almost a week before the country’s only second Moorat March — the transgender community gathered in Karachi to hold the first ‘Hejra Festival’, aiming to clear misconceptions about them.

Other professions​

In July, a newly unveiled wax figure of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto became the first of a Pakistani personality at Madame Tussauds’ museum in Dubai.

The Pakistani diaspora abroad got representation as British-Pakistani diplomat Fouzia Younis in March became the first British Muslim to be appointed the consul general to Toronto.

In October, Namira Salim made history by becoming the first Pakistani to reach space.

From mountains to space: 2023 was full of ‘first’ feats for Pakistanis​

From risky summits to representing Pakistan in media to women and minorities making themselves heard locally, this year has been historic.
www.dawn.com

 

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7 significant events in 2023 that you may have missed​

In 2023's political fray, several occurrences beckoned for more media attention.

Azhar Khan
December 27, 2023

As our politicians and media pundits bickered over whether or not elections would take place in 2023, the nation experienced yet another tumultous and frustrating year.

The departing year witnessed the seismic events of May 9, a date etched into the national consciousness due to the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. The ensuing developments monopolised the news cycle, dominating public discussions.

However, other significant events also occurred this year, which might have received more attention if the circumstances were any different.

Here, we spotlight seven developments that required deeper reflection and media attention to address broader issues in the country beyond the political circus.

Lights out​

In a nation grappling with soaring utility bills and persistent power outages, a countrywide blackout in January left citizens in the dark, amplifying existing challenges in the power sector. As is now par for the course, the power was not fully restored even on the following day.

The root cause of this extensive outage lay in an unexpected twist—generators produced an excess of power beyond the actual demand. The power minister at the time, Khurram Dastgir, had suggested that a cyberattack could be behind the breakdown.

Mainstream TV predominantly centred on the affected areas in darkness and the restoration efforts, neglecting any substantial discussion on the effectiveness of the power infrastructure and the potential security implications associated with it.

However, discussions on a broader scale were overshadowed by the typical blame game, neglecting crucial questions about fortifying Pakistan’s power infrastructure.

In a nation endowed with nuclear capabilities, such an extensive power outage for such a long time (twice in just four months) should be prompting an urgent need for introspection. The question is: will our power system ever be robust enough to endure unforeseen challenges, or will it forever remain susceptible to a sudden, widespread blackout?

Pakistan’s ‘ingenious’ power conservation solution​

As the new year began, the PDM-led government rolled out a familiar initiative: the early closure of markets for energy conservation, a well-tested measure aimed at addressing the persistent challenges in the country’s power sector.

Predictably, the proposal encountered fierce resistance from the business community, who expressed concerns about potential adverse impact on their operations, and consequently, the broader government revenue.

Although the order wasn’t entirely revoked, it was rendered ineffective due to non-implementation by relevant stakeholders.

Given the recurrence of similar initiatives in recent years facing comparable opposition and yielding inconclusive outcomes, a comprehensive debate was warranted — a debate that should have unfolded across mainstream media and public discourse.

Was the government’s move genuinely beneficial or merely a symbolic gesture? Repeatedly resorting to such measures without ensuring rigorous compliance risks making decision-makers the subject of mockery.

Crucially, since this matter directly ties to the country’s power sector and its improvement, a thorough and extensive debate was imperative. However, such a discourse appeared conspicuously absent in mainstream media, a void that hampered the public’s understanding of the complexities and nuances surrounding the crucial issue.

Of govt servants and free electricity​

A blaze of controversy engulfed the nation as startling revelations came to light: government employees and a select few dignitaries were enjoying the privilege of receiving complimentary electricity units.

Dawn reported that the total cost of free electricity units being used by state-owned entities in the country’s power sector alone ranged between Rs22 billion and Rs25bn per annum, whereas the allowances being given to other government departments’ employees from grade 1 to 22 were also worth billions.

The emergence of such a provision during a time of financial crisis, rising inflation, and increasing poverty understandably sparked anger among the country’s residents, who were already grappling with these challenges.

The issue gained traction on social media, with people expressing their frustration and calling for an end to the provision of free units to ensure equal treatment for all citizens. However, like many other pressing matters, this issue did not result in any tangible action or extensive media discourse.

Nevertheless, it underscored a critical point that merited contemplation and calls for a comprehensive policy to eliminate the growing disparity between the privileged and the marginalised.

Lal Masjid agitation 2.0​

Seminary students beat up a policewoman during their protest on Jinnah Avenue in Islamabad on June 22, 2023. — Photo by Mohammad Asim/file

Amid persistent security challenges and sporadic attacks targeting both security forces and various regions of the nation, an incident unfolded in June that warranted a closer look. A group of baton-wielding students from Islamabad’s Jamia Hafsa took to the streets of the federal capital, blocking major thoroughfares, including Jinnah Avenue against the attempted arrest of Lal Masjid’s Maulana Abdul Aziz.

The incident, which brought back painful memories of the 2007 violence, saw bamboo-cane-wielding protesters attacking women constables and making threats amid claims from Aziz’s wife that her husband had fired at counter-terrorism department policemen who attempted to apprehend him.

A video from the protest made the rounds on social media, featuring a veiled protester fearlessly confronting a security official and warning: “We have endured the hardships of the Musharraf era. You seem to have forgotten the sacrifices, and that’s why you are obsessed with power. Your slumber will be disturbed if anyone turns up again.”

While this video may not have garnered extensive media attention, its circulation on social platforms sparked contemplation among users regarding the actual state of security in the country.

Certain issues, deemed too sensitive or shrouded in the veil of “national security” often receive limited coverage in mainstream media. However, it is precisely these issues that demand solutions without delay.

Wikipedia ban: Pakistan’s temporary disconnect from the digital knowledge hub​

In a disconcerting move, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority slapped a ban on Wikipedia in February that lasted for three days, depriving thousands of the crucial digital encyclopedia. While the pretext was blasphemous content, the then-government’s inability to swiftly address this issue exposed the hurdles in effectively coordinating with online platforms.

The recurring disruptions and sporadic bans on YouTube over the past decade have sparked condemnation, yet no robust policies have been enacted to prevent such incidents in the future. The focus on coercive measures leading to the Wikipedia ban overshadowed the critical issue — the government’s lack of foresight and long-term planning in advancing the country’s position in the realm of information technology.

As public discourse honed in on immediate concerns, the absence of constructive debates in the media highlighted a glaring gap in addressing the government’s inadequacies and the need for strategic planning to prevent citizens from becoming the ultimate victims.

In Pakistan, the suppression of free speech is an enduring challenge, but as the global landscape evolves into the digital era, mere lip service won’t cut it. Concrete actions are imperative for Pakistan to thrive on the international stage.

Cross-border marriages​

In a year dominated by news of a more serious nature, a heartening happening unfolded in the form of a cross-border marriage. Anju, a 35-year-old mother of two from Rajasthan, India, ventured to Pakistan in July to marry her friend Nasrullah from Upper Dir.

Their union, sealed through a court marriage, garnered attention from media on both sides, yet the coverage remained largely confined to the isolated happening, overlooking the potential for fostering cross-border harmony and connection.

A similar occurrence unfolded around the same month when a Pakistani woman named Seema Haider, a mother of four, crossed into India, albeit illegally, to marry Sachin, a man from Delhi whom she had surprisingly met on the videogame PUBG.

The stories of Anju-Nasrullah and Seema-Sachin serve as poignant illustrations of the brighter side of people-to-people contact. Instead of framing these occurrences as isolated incidents, the media ought to have played a more proactive role in showcasing the broader picture of cross-border peace and understanding that can flourish from such connections.

Such instances should serve as reminders that stories of shared love and connection have the power to transcend borders, promoting a more nuanced and positive portrayal of cross-border relations.

‘Conflict of interest’ in Pakistan cricket​

Cricket holds an unparalleled status as the most followed sport in Pakistan, boasting a vast fanbase. Serving as a unifying force for the nation, cricket resonates deeply whenever Pakistan competes on the global stage in premier contests.

During the ODI World Cup, Pakistan witnessed the resignation of its chief selector, Inzamamul Haq, amid allegations of conflict of interest linked to his association with a player agency.

While the media extensively covered the resignation, the focus remained predominantly on the event itself rather than emphasising the imperative for an inquiry to probe the claims and address systemic issues.

However, the matter seemed to stagnate, possibly influenced by the national hero status attributed to the former player facing accusations.

Such a significant matter required sustained follow-up until reaching a logical conclusion. However, akin to other issues, it was sensationally reported and eventually faded from public attention.

7 significant events in 2023 that you may have missed

In 2023's political fray, several occurrences beckoned for more media attention.

www.dawn.com

 

[ghazi52]

Style trends that ruled 2023​

From quiet luxury and sleek hair to expressive menswear and body inclusivity, here are the trends we hope carry on into 2024.

Foha Raza
Updated 28 Dec, 2023

As the curtains draw on yet another eventful year in the world of fashion, 2023 style trends were ruled by a utilitarian ethos where minimal, practical, and most importantly, personalised statements were in the spotlight. No doubt, 2023 was a year of empowerment, expression, and evolution in style.
The core ideologies that drove the trends this year were authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability, resulting in a shift towards a more conscious, and expressive fashion era. The year set the stage for a more nuanced and empowered style narrative in the years to come.
Without further ado, here are the top style trends that ruled 2023 and why they must endure in 2024.

Quiet luxury​

Stylist Mehek Saeed’s Coperni bag screams quiet luxury — Photo: Mehek Saeed/Instagram

Quiet luxury lead the charge in the world of style trends. It is high time to bid farewell to the era of logo-laden accessories and clothing. The focus has now pivoted toward investing in timeless, personalised pieces of clothing or accessories — a hallmark of 2023.
It is time to prioritise quality of fabric, meticulous stitching, and longevity. In 2023, we saw all the ‘it’ girls and boys of Pakistan endorse this style with great finesse. We anticipate and hope this trend will endure well into 2024 and beyond.

Dewy makeup​

Actor Mamya Shajaffar’s got the dewy skin look down pat — Photo: Mamya.jsk/Instagram

Among the standout trends of 2023, the reign of dewy makeup captured hearts and international runways alike. Departing from heavy applications and matte lip colours, the year centred on celebrating skin’s natural radiance. It embraced a strategic use of highlighters, aiming for that coveted inner beauty glow.
The emphasis wasn’t just on glowing skin but also on glossy lips, reflecting a trend that highlighted a fresh, luminous complexion and a subtle yet glamorous finish. Some of the most celebrated makeup artists in Pakistan like Nabila, Omayr Waqar, Natasha Lakhani and the like paid homage to this style in fashion shoots and bridal looks alike.

Sleek hairstyles​

Ushna Shah’s got the sleek bun down — Photo: Ushna Shah/Instagram

Sleek hairstyles dominated 2023. This trend should continue well into 2024 as it celebrates ease and simplicity, offering looks that are not only chic but also easy to achieve with minimal damage. From polished ponytails to flowing locks, this trend embodies effortless style. A favourite trend of 2023 was beachy waves.

Androgynous fashion​

Gender segregated fashion? Rastah’s never heard of her — Photo: Rastah/Instagram

Androgynous style stood as an enduring trend in 2023, promising not to fade from the spotlight. This style didn’t just offer a diverse range; it continued to pave the way for inclusivity.
Brands like Aomi and Rastah showcased remarkable versatility in their collections. The androgynous style is exceptionally inclusive and blurs the lines between gender segregated fashion. As the year draws to a close, the hope for an even greater prominence of this style in 2024 remains strong.

Minimal accessories​

Vardah Aziz’s statement earrings are everything— Photo: Vardah Aziz/Instagram

Another style that continues its upward trajectory is minimal accessories. Not only is it budget friendly, it helps lend a sleek, clean look to an outfit without overburdening your personal style. The minimal accessories look promotes sustainability, offering the consumer a chance to really invest in timeless pieces.
Minimal accessories trend also surfaced through delicate wristwatches as seen on numerous celebrities and social influencers.

Draped silhouettes and statement sleeves​

Who could forget Mahira Khan’s iconic wedding dress sleeves by Faraz Manan? — Photo: Mahira Khan/Instagram

Eastern womenswear this year saw longer hemlines and draped silhouettes with statement sleeves. All of which are total winners. Longer hemlines lend a taller look, offering more sleekness. Drapes and statement sleeves give room for experimentation and personalisation of style.
An excellent example of statement sleeves was seen on Mahira Khan’s Faraz Manan bridal this year. It steps out of the everyday boring and gives a touch of femininity to the outfit.
Designers like Saira Shakira

to be continued.........

 

[ghazi52]

Cont;d..

Foha Raza
Updated 28 Dec, 2023

Functional handbags​

Sabah Bano Malik knows how to rock a functional handbag — Photo: Sabah Bano Malik/Instagram

The retirement of micro bags has been long overdue. Not only are they heavy on the pocket but offer little to no practical use. As we head into 2024, in this crippling economy, there must be more functionality in style. If anything, this year taught us it is time to embrace the crossbody bags, baguettes and totes that add style rolled in with practicality.

Expressive Menswear​

Mohtaram knows how to dress men in style— Photo: Mohtaram Co/Instagram

In menswear style, 2023 gave men more space to add drama in their outfits. Gone are the days when men were expected to endorse a mundane suit — morning, noon, and night. This year allowed men to embrace a more dynamic and expressive wardrobe.
There was more diversity for men through addition of prints, signature emblems, accessories and layering options. We saw brands like Republic Menswear, Mohtaram and Munib Nawaz create collection that are expressive and masculine.

Inclusivity and body positivity​

We definitely want to see more bodies of all sizes in fashion — Photo: Generation/Instagram

In the lead-up to 2024, the momentum behind body positivity and inclusivity needs to continue and carve out a more substantial presence in the world of style.
Although a few brands in Pakistan have taken steps to broaden their plus-size offerings, there remains an urgent call to prioritise this effort further. Brands such as Generation and Khaadi are championing campaigns that challenge ageism and celebrate diverse body types through their clothing lines. We hope this trend will not only endure in 2024 but even further!

Style trends that ruled 2023

From quiet luxury and sleek hair to expressive menswear and body inclusivity, here are the trends we hope carry on into 2024.

images.dawn.com

 

[ghazi52]

Terrorism, tourism and the tumult that was 2023 — Prism’s year in review​

This recap offers only a small glimpse into what we've covered this year. To read more, scroll down on the Prism page for articles on the topic of your choice.

Prism
December 31, 2023

The year 2023 has not been kind to the vast majority of people. Inflation wreaked havoc on the world economy, rising global temperatures brought about even more destruction and if that weren’t enough, new frontiers opened up for humans to kill each other. That is not to say that good things didn’t happen — amid all the darkness, there were glimmers of hope, shining through random acts of kindness by heroes who don’t wear capes.

At the local level, the year started with a staring contest between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the finance czar, Ishaq Dar — that set the tone for one of the highest inflationary spirals in the country’s history. Over the next few months, we saw a judiciary in turmoil, a polity so polarised, it invented new ways to snuff out the opposition and a state that made every excuse in the playbook to deny people the power of the ballot and often, their basic civil rights.

Here at Prism, we tried our best to make sense of it all — to provide you with in-depth analysis of events that directly or indirectly impacted you. We tried to do so objectively and included as many credible voices as possible. We asked economists to explain why consumer goods were going beyond the common man’s reach, asked lawyers why the Supreme Court was embroiled in controversy, security experts to explain the resurgence of terrorism in Pakistan and human rights activists to explain how Israel could get away with murdering thousands of children.

We covered the protests in France, the marches for women’s rights in Pakistan and the declining space for dissent in the country. We covered so much more, it would be impossible to recall everything in this space.

For the sake of a recap, however, here are the Prism editor’s picks for the year 2023, arranged in no particular order of relevance or prominence.

Floods, drugs and cultural patrimony: Tackling antiquities trafficking in Pakistan​

Pakistan is home to some of the world’s oldest civilisations. Unfortunately, over the years, it has fallen prey to the insatiable greed of antiquities traffickers. This is further compounded by the fact that most of the trafficking is done while the authorities silently look the other way. British-Pakistani barrister Fahrid Chishty wrote about the controlled and coordinated transnational trafficking rings that illicitly introduce cultural commodities from South and Central Asia into western art markets.

His write-up explored the legal framework governing the movement of cultural assets in Pakistan, the societal phenomena that make these cultural assets vulnerable, the stakeholders who stand to profit from the racket and the routes and channels through which the trade is carried out.

Policy debate: How the Sindh govt is rendering thousands homeless in the name of development​

Over two years, the Government of Sindh demolished 6,600 homes and displaced 66,500 people in a bid to make more room for stormwater drains. Only after they had demolished the structures did they realise that they had no resettlement or rehabilitation policy for the displaced population.

Dawn.com staffer and KAS fellow Hawwa Fazal spoke to affectees, activists, politicians and bureaucrats, besides poring through court orders and official documents to understand how the government machinery worked, why no one thought of a resettlement policy earlier and how the government’s missteps impacted thousands of citizens who lost their homes overnight.

Morocco’s blue city of Chefchaouen is more than just an Instagram aesthetic​

Journalist Zahrah Mazhar took us on a magical journey through the alleyways of Morocco in this four-part series, starting with a stopover in insta-perfect Chefchaouen.

“Walking through Chefchaouen feels like strolling through a movie set. It’s too blue, too perfect, too scenic,” she wrote. “When you purposefully get lost because the blue hues from every other lane beckon for a photo, you’re reminded that it’s a real city with inhabitants who may or may not be tired of visitors peeking into alleys and doorways, and taking a picture of every nook and corner.”

Why is Karachi dug up — DHA’s drainage dilemma​

If you live in Karachi or have visited it in recent years, you would be familiar with the agony of attempting to traverse its dilapidated roads, many of which remain dug up for the better part of the year.

Dawn.com staffers and KAS fellows, Hawwa Fazal and Muzhira Amin, partnered up for this report on the repair works in the upscale neighbourhood of DHA. The roadworks, it turned out, were part of the DHA administration’s plans to upgrade its stormwater drainage system. Read the report to see what they found.

Lessons from Indonesia: Key takeaways for Pakistan for reducing military interventionism​

Political economist Uzair Younus shed light on Pakistan’s need for a robust debate on security sector reforms. In order to do this, he argued that Pakistan can draw from decades of global case studies and literature from countries such as Chile and Indonesia which have had much more authoritarian regimes and their elites have found a way to reform the system from within.

“With Pakistan facing the most serious crisis to its national cohesion since 1971, it is important for reform-minded citizens, especially the ruling civilian and military elites, to study the experience of countries like Indonesia,” he wrote. “By drawing the right lessons from states that are a bit further ahead in their reform journey, Pakistan’s ruling elites can set a reforms agenda that achieves success while avoiding the mistakes others have made.”

The resurrection of the TTP​

With the return of the Afghan Taliban to Kabul on August 15, 2021, the TTP was seemingly emboldened, both ideologically and operationally. Since then, the group actively started a process of re-inventing itself, shifting from a ragtag militia to a full-blown insurgency, culminating in January 2023 with the adoption of a new administrative and operational structure, which saw the group being remodelled on the contours of the hierarchy of the Afghan Taliban.

Journalists and security analysts Iftikhar Firdous, Riccardo Valle and Ihsanullah Tipu Mehsud teamed up for this report on the resurgence of the TTP, which had witnessed a lull in its activities in preceding years.

“With the return of the Afghan Taliban in Afghanistan, jihadist movements such as the TTP are feeling re-energised and emboldened. In the so-called Islamic Emirate, Pakistani outfits have found a model to emulate and practically adopt in the quest of their jihadist objectives against Pakistan,” they wrote.

Why the French are up in arms against the police​

Political scientist Laurent Gayer explained why French citizens were up in arms against the police as rioting spread to 553 municipalities across the country in the wake of the police killing of Nahel Merzouk — the 15th person to be shot dead during a traffic stop in the past one year alone.

Gayer drew in from his research on the post-colonial legacy of the French police to explain why incidents like these kept happening and why the state’s response aimed at disbanding the protests through more violence would do more harm than good.

From pharaohs to prime ministers: Now you see them, now you don’t​

Dawn.com staffer and KAS fellow Wara Irfan produced a stellar write-up on Damnatio memoriae, a latin phenomenon that literally translates to ’condemnation of memory — a loosely defined group of processes, which involve destruction, erasure, and silence. These processes are also understood as “memory sanctions”.

The write-up was inspired by the ‘damnatio memoriae’ of former premier Imran Khan — who faced a barrage of legal cases, swift reprisal for anyone speaking out in his favour and a near-complete blackout of the former premier from the mainstream media.

The practice, Wara found, dates back to the ancient Egyptians, evident in artefacts from pharaoh Akhenaten’s tomb. Instead of worshiping gods of the traditional pantheon, Akhenaten’s sole devotion to the god Aten was considered heretical.

Hybrid 2.0: How did P̶r̶o̶j̶e̶c̶t̶ PM Shehbaz fare?​

When it comes to explaining the inexplicable, there’s no one better than the hilariously witty Abdul Moiz Jaferii, whose scathing words spare none. In this case, it was outgoing premier Shehbaz Sharif, whose performance Jaferii summed up in this piece.

“Shehbaz Sharif knew he was stepping up only to fill the role his predecessor had decided was beneath him,” he wrote. “He knew he was going to have to fit into the outfit originally stitched for the person before him. He needed to lose quite a bit of democratic weight in very little time, even as he piled on frequent flier miles to consult his elder brother.”

Jaranwala residents had little to begin with — the violent mob took away their hope too​

Journalist Sarah Eleazar travelled to Jaranwala where a mob had ransacked and vandalised 91 homes of Christian citizens as well as around two dozen churches over blasphemy allegations. Reporting from the ground, Eleazar found a community in fear even as authorities attempted to provide them with a sense of security.

“As residents of Jaranwala pick up the pieces of what remains of their lives, there is little doubt that the horrors of August 16 will haunt them for generations,” she wrote. “And while monetary compensation may ease some financial burden, one can only hope that the state finally realises its promise to its most vulnerable citizens — the protection of life and property guaranteed to all, irrespective of faith, caste or status.”

Lost and found in Skardu — where mountains meet the soul​

With the news cycle getting bleaker by the day, Dawn.com staffer and KAS fellow offered some welcome respite by taking us along on a trip to the second-highest plateau in the world, popularly known as the Deosai Plains, located in Skardu.

“The thing about Skardu is that everywhere you see — twirl and you will get my point — the horizon is blanketed with white and brown peaks, smiling. It is almost inconceivable that the mountains could be this close to you,” she wrote.

Justice under siege: The year of Umar Ata Bandial​

Outgoing Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial was a divisive figure to say the least, particularly towards the end of his tenure. Barrister Asad Rahim Khan perfectly encapsulated his stint as the CJP in this write-up, shining a light on his shortcomings as well as his accomplishments.

“For the most part though, this was a decent man in an indecent time — each ‘good to see you’ was greeted with howls of anger; serving ministers would go purple with incitement; and calls to resign (read: calls by the shadowlands to clear the field) were a constant,” he wrote.

The language of genocide: How Israel dehumanises Palestinians​

Over the last couple of months, Israel has committed atrocities worse than one would have considered possible in this day and age. What’s ironic is that it has also been given carte blanche to do so by world powers, who have in turn been more than willing to regurgitate its narrative.

Political scientist Yumna Fatima attempted to cut through the noise and pick apart Israel’s attempts at dehumanising Palestinians. “It is inconceivable — the idea that anyone would deliberately kill other humans en masse in such a way. And this is often the question we are left asking: how is it humanly possible to treat thousands of other humans — even infants — in such a manner?”

“It’s easy enough. You just have to know the right words. The ones that will allow both observers and perpetrators to think: This is fine. This is acceptable. This is what the victims deserve,” she wrote.

Afghan refugees are leaving — and Pakistanis are enjoying the spoils they leave behind​

With the world fixated on the atrocities being committed in Gaza, the Government of Pakistan decided it had had enough of caring for refugees. On October 3, the government announced that an estimated 1.7 million undocumented refugees would have to leave the country or risk being forcibly evicted.

While the announcement was for all undocumented refugees, the brunt of the move was borne by Afghan refugees, many of whom had come into Pakistan to escape the Taliban government following the fall of Kabul. As the deadline to leave neared, hundreds of thousands of refugees scrambled to gather their belongings, sell off the goods and businesses they wouldn’t be able to take with them and find transport to take them to the border — leaving them susceptible to exploitation.
Journalists Mutee-ur-Rehman in Karachi and Jamaima Afridi in Peshawar partnered up for this report on the heart-wrenching situation that the refugees found themselves in as they hurried to get across the border in time.

From Balochistan to Islamabad: Why I have been marching since I was 12​

Missing persons activist Sammi Deen Baloch is on a mission — and she will not rest until she finds out what happened to her father, who was alleged forcibly disappeared 14 years ago. Here, Sammi explained why hundreds of families had yet again marched on Islamabad to protest the practice of enforced disappearances and demand answers from authorities regarding the whereabouts of their loved ones.

“Like all other young girls, I should have dreamt about a career, to get married and raise my own children one day, to live a fulfilled life and grow old in peace — but the only dream I have is to see my father one day,” she wrote. “To realise this dream, I have been marching, organising protests, staging sit-ins, and moving from one office, court, and commission to another for the last 14 years.”

Terrorism, tourism and the tumult that was 2023 — Prism’s year in review

This recap offers only a small glimpse into what we've covered this year. To read more, scroll down on the Prism page for articles on the topic of your choice.

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Weddings, lawsuits and cricket — the most read Dawn Images stories of 2023​

Is there anything more representative of Pakistani interests than our top stories this year?

Images Staff
30 Dec, 2023

2023 was a real rollercoaster but two things remained constant — Pakistanis’ interest in other people’s weddings and cricket. From Mahira Khan to Fatima Bhutto, weddings made up 30 per cent of our top stories this year — a feat topped only by cricket which accounted for 35 per cent of our stories.

The one thing that surprised is us no Bollywood stories made it to our top 10 — but hey, in our books that’s a good thing.

1. Pakistan’s sweetheart Mahira Khan ties the knot​

Published on October 2
It’s no surprise that our top story of 2023 was Mahira Khan’s wedding — she is Pakistan’s sweetheart, after all. People were fascinated with the entire shindig — but the pièce de résistance was her wedding in Bhurban and her wedding outfit à la Faraz Manan.
You can read the story here.

2. The Pakistan versus India World Cup match has everyone asking what in the world just happened​

Published on October 14
Our second most-read story didn’t really surprise us because months later, we’re still wondering what happened in our World Cup match against India. We may be a culture section, but cricket is as much a part of our culture as it is a sport and there’s nothing Pakistanis love to talk about more than cricket — unless you count politics.
The Pakistani side’s collapse in the World Cup was one of the most stunning moments of 2023 — people were literally shook. How could a team that had such amazing players and such great cohesion play so poorly?
You can read the story here.

3. Shaheen Shah Afridi ties the knot with Shahid Afridi’s daughter Ansha in an intimate nikah in Karachi​

Published on February 3
Surprise, surprise another wedding made it to our top 10, this time of one of our cricket sweethearts — Shaheen Shah Afridi. Pair him up with a former sweetheart’s daughter and you’ve got a match made in cricket fan — and paparazzi — heaven.
Shaheen asked for privacy and well-wishes for his wedding and while people sent their prayers and wishes, privacy wasn’t really granted to the happy couple. Which leads back to our point about Pakistanis and their insane fascination with other people’s weddings.
You can read the story here

 

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4. Kubra Khan threatens to sue YouTuber Adil Raja for defamation​

Published on January 3
This was truly one of the most random and strange stories of 2023 — a YouTuber and self-described geopolitical analyst known for his political commentary making defamatory insinuations about four female actors while going after top army brass and then backtracking spectacularly after being threatened with a lawsuit.
His allegation that four “top models and actresses” would fraternise with former officials as well as with politicians. He was unable to substantiate his claims with proof other than claiming it was revealed to him by “sources”.
He mentioned the initials of the four women he made claims about — MK, MH, SA and KK or AK. The confusion in the last set of initials was compounded when he claimed to have said AK after Khan’s tweet threatening legal action.
You can read the story here.

5. Outrage online after PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah Khan’s disparaging remarks about Mahira Khan, Anwar Maqsood​

Published on March 21
Another day, another man making rude remarks about a woman. This time it was PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah Khan who made remarks about Mahira Khan and Anwar Maqsood after videos of Maqsood’s comments on Maryam Nawaz and Marriyum Aurangzeb went viral online.
He straight up character assassinated both and made disparaging remarks about their mental health. Not cool but not surprising when it’s coming from a Pakistani politician.
You can read the story here.

6. Dear PCB, you DO remember Imran Khan was the captain in 1992, right?​

Published on August 17
This was a rather silly story, in our opinion. The PCB released a video on August 14 paying tribute to the country’s cricket legends and missed a big one — Imran Khan. Politics aside, Imran is truly one of our greatest cricketers and captained the team to its first World Cup, so his exclusion was both ridiculous and comical. Twitter definitely thought so too.
You can read the story here.

7. ‘Welcome to Phadda Super League’: Multan Sultans won the match but players’ fights won the internet

Published on March 16
As Pakistanis, one thing is for sure — we love drama. And the drama peaked during the Multan Sultans versus Lahore Qalandars match this past PSL.
The match was filled with heated moments but a face-off between the Qalandars’ Shaheen Shah Afridi and the Sultans’ Kieron Pollard had netizens grabbing their popcorn.
You can read the story here.

 

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8. Author Fatima Bhutto ties the knot in Karachi​

Published on April 28
One more wedding made it to our top 10 — that of author and activist Fatima Bhutto. Fatima, the daughter of the late Murtaza Bhutto and granddaughter of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, married Graham, on Thursday at their family home of 70 Clifton and people loved the simplicity of their celebrations.

We loved that she went to the ACF animal shelter soon after to celebrate with some cute animals.
You can read the story here.

9. ‘Welcome back to purana Pakistan’: The power may be out but Pakistani Twitter’s humour is not​

Published on Jan 23
Is it really Pakistan without power outages and snappy Twitter takes? We’re taking you back to before Twitter was X and to some of the snappiest takes of all time.
You can read the story here.

10. A father’s acceptance of his intersex son in Sar-e-Rah has Twitter tear-eyed​

Published on March 1
This was a more touching story and we’re so glad it made it to the top 10. People reacted to a sweet scene in drama Sar-e-Rah in which a father and and his intersex son spoke about acceptance.

The scene in question featured Nabeel Zafar playing the father who has a monologue in his head with God after a conversation with his son, praying he can be there every step of the way to protect him from this cruel world and support him in every way possible.
You can read the story here.


Happy New Year, everyone and happy reading!

Weddings, lawsuits and cricket — the most read Dawn Images stories of 2023

Is there anything more representative of Pakistani interests than our top stories this year?

images.dawn.com

 

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Inflation, IMF and investment — did Pakistan learn anything from 2023?​

2023 was truly the year where inflation destroyed the remaining confidence across households.

Uzair M. Younus
December 28, 2023

It is becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of all that ails Pakistan. 2023 was essentially a year where crises across the political, economic, and security domains coalesced in a way that few could have imagined. And while the near- and long-term implications of the collapse post-2008 democratic order are yet to fully play out, the economic crisis has reached a point where even urban upper-class citizens are beginning to feel the pinch.

Here are the key events that perhaps sum up the agony of 2023.

Inflation — a monster that refuses to be tamed
Pakistani media is known to use the “mehengai ka toofan” [storm of inflation] line to grasp the attention of inattentive eyeballs, but 2023 was truly the year when inflation destroyed the remaining confidence across households. The depreciating currency, rising energy prices, and the second- and third-order effects on yet another ongoing IMF programme ensured that inflation continued to wreak havoc across large swathes of the economy.

All this happened while the central bank remained committed to its medium-term inflationary target, a testament to the institution’s delusions. Others also joined in on the action to argue that the base effect would soon lead to lower inflation.

But this was not the case and consumer prices rose by nearly 30 per cent during the calendar year, according to the consumer price index published by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.

The consumer price index in Pakistan clocked in at almost 30pc for 2023. — Chart accessed via www.imf.org
For those looking for a positive spin, Pakistan ranked first in the subcontinent when it comes to inflation — Bangladesh came in second with 10pc, while India finished dead last with a 6pc increase in its consumer price index during the same period.

Dar’s staring contest with the IMF ends in defeat
The House of Sharif’s return and entry into the good books of those that matter most is the stuff of legends. But even more legendary was the return of Ishaq Dar to the finance ministry, with Mr Dar reminding those who still cared about the economy that he has a 25+ years of experience in dealing with the IMF (that this experience itself ought to be a disqualification from the job of finance minister is a topic for another column).

While the dollar was initially scared of Mr Dar’s return to Islamabad, and he set in motion another attempt to maintain a peg for the rupee (leading others to make their own peg of choice to ease the pain), 2023 was the year in which Daronomics was defeated.

The IMF ultimately won the staring contest, but Dar’s ghosts continue to linger on in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

An obsession with a stronger rupee makes sense, given that it creates some space to control inflation, especially given the country’s energy import needs. But such measures provide only short-term relief, as evidenced numerous times in the past.

Will 2024 lead Pakistan’s policymakers to choose a different path? This remains to be seen, but given that the House of Sharif is apparently the frontrunner in the upcoming elections, another futile attempt at Daronomics cannot be ruled out.

SIFC — the solution for all ills, future and current
Pakistan’s elite need four-letter acronyms to convey that the “taqdeer” [destiny] of the country is about to change. While they typically spin these acronyms as changing the destiny of the country for the better, the outcome is often exactly the opposite.

2023 was the year when the red carpet was rolled out for the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), focusing on everything including mining and agriculture. Pakistanis at home and abroad were beseeched to not lose hope by powerful individuals who vowed to make Pakistan a G20 economy by 2030. Roadshows were conducted and investments were sought through the SIFC in a bid to turnaround the economic prospects of the country.

In addition, big targets were set for growing exports, including a $100 billion IT export target. Shortly after announcing the target, however, internet services were disrupted in the country to prevent a virtual jalsa by a party that is struggling to even retain its electoral symbol.

Since the economy is all about data, here is a fun-fact for you: Pakistan attracted $2.1bn in foreign direct investment inflows in both 2022 and 2023, despite all the focus on the SIFC and the billions that were supposedly coming in from the Gulf. Maybe 2024 promises more in FDI as the SIFC mechanism matures?

As the saying goes “umeed pe dunya qayam hai” [the world survives on hope].

What comes next in 2024?
Predicting things is a near-impossible task in Pakistan. After all, back in 2021, many were planning for a 10-year uninterrupted period of rule, only to face unimaginable repression (that is condemnable and ought not to be tolerated) in 2023.

But what is clear is that three key risks will continue to cast a dark shadow over Pakistan and its economy — inflation, instability, and indecision.

With the country needing another IMF programme soon after the current one ends, the inflationary cycle is far from over. There are many who expect that this will not be the case, but the austerity-driven policies that the IMF will impose, and the additional pricing adjustment that a new programme will demand, make it likely that the upward trajectory of prices will continue in the near-term.

With elections coming up fast, it is difficult to know exactly what the new ruling dispensation in Pakistan will look and feel like. But the ongoing crackdown against Imran Khan and those who have courageously remained loyal to him suggests that things are unlikely to settle in the near-term. If the electoral process is handled in a ham-fisted way, the illusion of stability created through repression may be swept away, leading to another round of confrontation that is currently not being baked into most scenarios being discussed. The hybrid regime seems to have survived for now, but it is perhaps the weakest it has ever been.

Given Imran’s popularity, the economic pain felt by citizens across classes, and the seething anger among a younger generation that is refusing to bend the knee to the status quo, a new ruling dispensation will have, in the best of circumstances, very limited space to embark on a reform agenda. As such, more indecision may be around the corner, meaning that 2023 may look and feel like nothing by the time December 2024 comes along.

For the betterment of Pakistan and its beleaguered citizens, one can only hope and pray that these risks do not materialise.

Inflation, IMF and investment — did Pakistan learn anything from 2023?

2023 was truly the year where inflation destroyed the remaining confidence across households.

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Goodbye 2023, Welcome 2024​

Omair Alavi
December 30, 2023

Illustration by Sumbul

The year 2023 will go down as a very successful one for many people, and a forgettable one for others. It was the year when Australia won the Cricket World Cup for the record sixth time, Pakistan entered the 3D film arena with its first 3D flick and Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem further strengthened his credentials with an impressive show at the World Athletics Championship.

It was also the year when Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic went past Spaniard Rafael Nadal’s record of most Grand Slam titles, and he has all the chances in the world to extend his lead with the Australian Open in January 2024.

However, it wasn’t a successful year for superheroes, whose films failed more than they succeeded in cinemas. The same fate followed the Pakistan cricket team, which failed to reach the final of the Asia Cup as well as the World Cup, despite reaching the World No. 1 position in One-Day Internationals.

The upcoming year promises to be an exciting one in the world of sports, since a lot of happenings will be taking place during the next 12 months, such as the Olympic Games, the T20 World Cup, the Euro football championship known as Euro 24, besides the African Cup of Nations and Copa America, where the best footballers will represent their countries.

Not just that, a lot of big-budget films will grace a cinema screen near you; you can mark your calendars before the clock strikes 12 and January 1 rolls in, because the Minions, Garfield, Kung Fu Panda and Sonic the Hedgehog will be waiting for you in 2024.

The year which was 2023!

The one memory of 2023 that will remain etched in the minds will be the failure of the once-invincible superhero genre. In a year when The Flash finally made it to the screens, Indiana Jones returned for one last assignment, and Shazam! saved the world, the superhero genre was on the decline.

Neither was the small-sized Ant-Man able to save the genre, nor could The Marvels. And even though the Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse were able to keep the flag high enough for others to follow, it wasn’t high enough.

Yes, Barbie and The Super Mario Bros. Movie were able to infuse a new life into the cinema industry, but it will take more than a doll and a plumber to maintain that graph in the coming years.

It was a memorable year for Pakistani cinema since the first completely made in Pakistan 3D animated film Allahyar and the 100 Flowers of God was released during this year. Sadly, it was the only film aimed at the younger audience, but one hopes that next year will not disappoint them.

As for sports, the Pakistan Cricket team managed to reach the top position in the International Cricket Council’s ODI ranking, but that wasn’t enough for them to even qualify for the grand finale of the Asia Cup and the 50-over World Cup. Yes, Babar Azam stayed in the top 10 batter’s ranking in all formats throughout the year, but a trophy eluded the Green Shirts during the 12 months.

Besides cricket, Pakistan had an impressive year in other sports — javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem reached as high as the second position at the 2023 World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary, and remains Pakistan’s brightest chance to win a medal in the Olympic Games to be held in 2024. Rising star Hamza Khan won the World Junior Squash Championship 2023, to make Pakistan a champion in the sport after 37 years.

Pakistan’s finest e-sports professional Arsalan Ash also made a name for himself when he won the 2023 EVO (Evolution) Championship event, Tekken-7 (video game) tier-1 competition. This was his fourth EVO title after winning it twice, first in 2019 and now in 2023.

Last, but not the least, both Pakistan’s men’s and women’s football teams won important qualifying matches, and even though a qualification might seem difficult at the moment, they were able to instil the belief in football players of the country that they could win at the international level.

On the international tennis circuit, it was Novak Djokovic’s year, who reached the final of all four Grand Slams and won three of them. While he is the current champion of the Australian Open, the French Open and the US Open, he lost the Wimbledon to Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, who would be aiming to dethrone him in 2024. However, with 23 Grand Slams on his shelf, Djokovic is not an easy challenge for anyone during the next 12 months.

Get ready for 2024!

The next 12 months will be a treat for all those who plan and make the most of the present, after all, it would be amazing to witness the Paris Olympic Games, the T20 World Cup, as well as the Euro 2024, among other sports events during the next year. It will also be the year when your favourite live-action and animated characters will make a return to cinemas, new characters will try to displace them and a Lion King prequel will take you to the days when Simba’s father Mufasa was little.

Meet Sonic, Garfield and Mufasa

If you are a cinema enthusiast, then you need to know exactly what you can expect in the coming 12 months. From live-action remakes to blockbuster sequels, every kind of flick is likely to grace a cinema near you, beginning with Kung Fu Panda 4 in March, and concluding with Mufasa: The Lion King in December.

The first film aimed at the young audience will be Kung Fu Panda 4, where Jack Black will return as the voice of Po after eight years and will be on a mission to find a new dragon warrior so that he might have a shot at becoming the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace.

While Po will return to the cinema in the early part of March, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire will release at the end of the month and bring back the whole crew that saved the world in Ghostbusters: Afterlife. The film will reunite the whole cast led by Paul Rudd, but will also introduce Kumail Nanjiani to the franchise where the Ghostbusters will have to work hard to save the world from another Ice Age.

Promising new franchises such as The Ark and the Aardvark will make their presence felt in April, while Ryan Reynolds’ fantasy adventure IF will grace the cinema screens in May, alongside The Garfield Movie where Chris Pratt will be the voice of the laziest cat in the world.

The Inside Out gang will return in the summer with Inside Out 2, while Gru and his minions will make their comeback with Despicable Me 4 as well, on what Americans term as their Independence Weekend. In August, Harold and the Purple Crayon will make its live-action debut while the lovable, marmalade-crazed Paddington will visit Peru in Paddington in Peru in November.

Things will speed up in December with the release of the third instalment of Sonic the Hedgehog, the second coming of The Karate Kid, and the origin story of Mufasa: The Lion King. While Sonic will feature the fastest hedgehog in the world battling bad guys with the help of his friends, the Karate Kid sequel will bring together the first Karate Kid and the second master, played by Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan respectively.

As for Mufasa: The Lion King, for anyone who has ever shed a tear at the death scene of Simba’s father, be it in the animated version or the live-action one, this movie is something closer to home. Featuring the vocals of Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr and John Kani, the film might be the final release of 2024. Fans of the Spider-Man franchise are still hopeful that Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse will make it to the screens during 2024, but it seems unlikely considering the calendar is full of films that were intended to release in 2024.

Football action around the year!

Even though the FIFA World Cup is still two years away, football fans around the world would be able to watch their favourite players in action the whole year round. In January, the African Cup of Nations will take place in which the best African players will be seen in action.

In June, the action will move to America and Europe for two different tournaments; both the Copa America and Euro 2024 will be held simultaneously, making it nothing short of a feast for the fans of the game. While Lionel Messi would be representing his country Argentina in Copa America, Cristiano Ronaldo could be seen in action for Portugal in Euro ‘24.

Djokovic might raise the bar higher!

He won three of the four Grand Slams in 2023, and that will be enough motivation for Serbia’s Novak Djokovic, who wishes to add more titles to his already 23 Grand Slams. Although he is already the only male tennis player to win 23 Grand Slams, he wants to become the only singles player to cross 25 Grand Slams.

Currently, Australia’s female legend Margaret Court holds that record, but since there is no stopping Djokovic, he might overtake her. After all, he will have to stay fit for the first eight months, since the Australian Open takes place in January, the French Open is held in May, Wimbledon is spread across June/July and the US Open is played in August.

Who’ll rule the world?

The 20-over Cricket World Cup will be played for the first time in the United States of America this year in June 2024. And if it is held successfully, it will open new doors for the sport. England will be defending their title, but with the sport entering a new territory, every team might have a chance and, who knows, a team with no T20 title might take a shot at it and win.

While a handful of countries will take part in the T20 World Cup, the very best athletes from every country in the world will gather in Paris during July and August to battle for supremacy at the Olympic Games. Not only will Paris become the second city after London to host the game for the third time, but the Games will return to the city exactly 100 years after the last time it played hosts.

A few days after the game’s conclusion, the Paralympic Games will also be held at the same venue where athletes with disabilities will represent their country and aim for a medal.

 

[ghazi52]

THE YEAR THAT WAS, THE YEAR AHEAD​

From Inpaper Magazine
December 31, 2023

Say goodbye to 2023, welcome in 2024, with the hope that there is some respite from the shocks, tribulations and instability of the past year. But in case you need a reminder of what is hot and what is not, Eos offers a cheat sheet...

Published in Dawn, EOS, December 31st, 2023

THE YEAR THAT WAS, THE YEAR AHEAD

Say goodbye to 2023, welcome in 2024, with the hope that there is some respite from the shocks, tribulations and instability of the past year.

www.dawn.com

 

[RescueRanger]

Great thread.

 

[ghazi52]

From economic to political mayhem, Pakistan hopes for a better 2024..​

The year 2023 has undoubtedly been a challenging one for Pakistan, as the nation grappled with a multitude of issues that had far-reaching consequences. From the relentless surge of inflation to escalating militant attacks, and the intensification of institutional clashes and political instability, Pakistan faced an array of challenges that tested its resilience.

Throughout the year, numerous stories emerged that not only dominated headlines but also left a profound impact on the country’s political landscape, social fabric, and economic stability. These stories shed light on the pressing issues that Pakistan continues to confront.

Imran Khan’s arrest

Imran Khan, the founder chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was arrested in Lahore after being found guilty in the Toshakhana case and given a three-year prison sentence by a district and sessions court in the federal capital.

The PTI founder and former prime minister avoided arrest for months and urged his supporters to thwart attempts to apprehend him. There was rioting and protracted standoffs between the police and Khan’s followers as a result of the PTI founder’s effort to elude arrest.

The event set off a protracted political cycle of instability that is still hurting Pakistan’s ability to remain a cohesive entity.

The IMF and Pakistan reach an agreement

At the end of June, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pakistan achieved a significant breakthrough when they came to a $3-billion agreement on a Stand-by Arrangement (SBA) which immediately allowed the disbursement of about $1.2 billion in July. This gave the economy some respite to implement several stringent steps to stabilise the situation after months of a volatile situation.

The IMF agreement was viewed as a huge benefit for Pakistan and its struggling economy.

By lowering the likelihood of a possible default, the cash from the international lender opened the door for additional contributions from Pakistan’s bilateral and multilateral allies. Furthermore, it helped in stabilising the currency market and grounded expectations for inflation, economic expansion, and interest rates.

National Assembly dissolved

On August 9, 2023, President Dr Arif Alvi assented to the premature dissolution of the National Assembly shortly after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif forwarded the summary.

“The president dissolved the National Assembly on the advice of the prime minister under Article 58-1 of the Constitution,” read an official statement issued by the President’s Office.

With the dissolution, the turbulent five-year term came to an end.

Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar takes oath as interim prime minister

Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was sworn in as caretaker prime minister on August 14. Kakar was nominated as caretaker PM on August 12 after outgoing Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly (NA) Raja Riaz and outgoing PM Shehbaz Sharif agreed on his selections.

The caretaker government under PM Kakar will oversee the upcoming elections, which were announced for February 2024.

After spending years in exile, Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz announced the return of its supremo, Nawaz Sharif, who had been living in self-exile in London for four years, as soon as it was established that elections would take place on February 8 of the next year.

The ousted PM was sentenced to ten and seven years in prison in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia references, respectively. However, after his return on October 21, he was acquitted in both cases.

In his homecoming rally, former prime minister and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif said he had “no desire for revenge” and that all institutions must work together for Pakistan to succeed.

The former three-time premier is hoping to make it to the helm for the fourth time following the national elections.

Military trial of perpetrators of May 9 attacks

After Imran was first arrested on May 9, party workers and his supporters resorted to violent clashes that damaged several government buildings, including police stations and military installations. To contain the escalating hostilities, the PDM-led government dispatched military personnel to Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad.

Following the end of the hostilities, the government declared that the imprisoned protestors would face trial under the Official Secrets Act and the Army Act. The military leadership, on its part, has vowed to try protesters under the Army Act.

There is concern that using military courts to try civilians could set a risky precedent and threaten the nation’s democratic system.

SIFC formed to propel growth in Pakistan’s industrial and agricultural sectors

To draw in foreign investment, Pakistan established the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). Outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated at the time that the council represented a “unified approach” to help the nation escape its economic crisis. “It will include our institutions particularly the institution of Pakistan Army, lead by COAS General Asim Munir, who has personally contributed in this programme in a way that has no parallel in the past,” he said.

With the army chief sitting on the body’s apex committee and the army acting as the national coordinator for both the apex and executive committees, the military will have a key role in the new organisation.

Expulsion of illegal foreign nationals

Pakistan decided to expel unlawful foreign nationals, primarily Afghans, from the country due to an increase in terrorist attacks and economic hardship. Of the approximately 4 million Afghan refugees living in Pakistan, Pakistan maintains that 1.7 million were unauthorized.

Pakistan’s relations with the Afghan Taliban may be impacted by the decision, but Islamabad insists it won’t back down from its efforts to drive out illegal immigrants.

DG ISI Lt Gen Nadeem Ajnum gets extension

Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar stated in November that the head of Pakistan’s primary intelligence organization, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), will be serving for an extended period to maintain “continuity” of policy at a time when the nation is experiencing an increase in militant assaults.

One of the most important roles in Pakistan is the DG ISI, which operates at the intersection of national and international politics.

Prognosis for 2024

Many may contend that Pakistan had a difficult year in 2023. Some of the lessons learned include protracted political turmoil and growing security threats.

Let’s hope that Pakistan will experience stability and prosperity in 2024.

From economic to political mayhem, Pakistan hopes for a better 2024

The year 2023 has undoubtedly been a challenging one for Pakistan, as the nation grappled with a multitude of issues...

www.brecorder.com

 

[ghazi52]

Pakistan sports: flashes of individual brilliance, but team-work triumphs elusive​

Syed Ahmed Raza

The year 2023 for Pakistani sports was a medley of triumph and tears, where individual athletes carved their names in stone while team-level dreams danced just out of reach.

Cricket saw Fakhar Zaman’s bat sing sonnets of sixes, javelins soared as Arshad Nadeem rewrote records, and snooker witnessed Ahsan Ramzan ascend to world champion – yet victory’s chorus remained elusive for national teams. Was it a year of unfulfilled promises, or one of foundations laid and lessons learned?

The answer, perhaps, lies in the intricate details given below:

Cricket

Lows:

2023 was a year of dashed hopes and unfulfilled potential for Pakistan’s cricket team. The home turf failed to provide solace, as they were held to a frustrating draw in the Test series against New Zealand and could only manage a split verdict in the T20Is.

Crossing the border brought no change in fortunes, as Pakistan succumbed to a humiliating series defeat against Afghanistan in the shorter format.

The Asia Cup offered a glimmer of hope, with victory against Nepal and Afghanistan, but rain and defeats extinguished their fire. They stumbled in crucial matches against India and Sri Lanka, falling short of reaching the coveted final.

The ICC Cricket World Cup promised redemption, but even defeating heavyweight New Zealand and consistent Bangladesh couldn’t propel Pakistan beyond the group stage. Mohammad Rizwan emerged as a lone beacon of brilliance, scoring two centuries and topping Pakistan’s scoring charts, but his individual heroics weren’t enough to carry the team across the finish line.

Down under, the wounds of the World Cup disappointment were ripped open with another Test series defeat in Australia. Losing the first two matches in Perth and Melbourne dashed any lingering hopes of a comeback, leaving Pakistan to ponder a year that brought little cheer and much to reflect upon.

Highs:

However, the outgoing year wasn’t all gloom and doom for Pakistan’s cricket. On home soil, they roared back against New Zealand, clinching the first ODI series win after 12 long years. Beyond borders, the Test specialists found their magic touch, conquering Sri Lanka in their own den. Even the future stars, Pakistan Shaheens, shone brightly, lifting the prestigious Emerging Asia Cup trophy after vanquishing arch-rivals India in a thrilling final. These moments of triumph, though scarce, offered pockets of joy and a glimpse of the potential simmering within the green jersey.

Hockey

While 2023 wasn’t gilded with triumphs for Pakistani hockey, it wasn’t devoid of hope either. The year offered a contrasting tale of senior struggles and promising flickers from the junior ranks.

Lows:

The senior men’s team grappled with inconsistency, failing to qualify for the World Cup for the second consecutive time. The Asian Champions Trophy saw flashes of potential amidst disappointing losses. Wins against China and Malaysia were overshadowed by heavy defeats to India and Malaysia, culminating in a fifth-place finish. These performances highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, training, and talent development within the senior team.

Highs:

However, amidst the shadows, the junior team’s journey in 2023 was a beacon of optimism. They carved their way to the Asia Cup final, narrowly falling to India after a spirited display. While their World Cup campaign ended in an eighth-place finish, it showcased resilience and grit. Victories against New Zealand and draws against hockey powerhouses like Belgium instilled hope for the future.

The junior team’s performances offer a glimpse of promising talent waiting to blossom. This success underlines the importance of investing in grassroots programs and nurturing young players. Perhaps, the lessons learned from the senior team’s struggles can pave the way for a more robust development pipeline and improved infrastructure.

Football

Highs & Lows

While 2022 marked Pakistan’s return to the international football scene after the FIFA ban, 2023 witnessed some historic milestones and encouraging growth for the nation’s footballing aspirations.

The men’s team, despite not securing victories in major tournaments, etched their name in history with Pakistan’s first-ever win in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, defeating Cambodia 1-0. This triumph propelled them to the second round of the 2026 Qualifiers, a first for the country. While facing tough losses to Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan, the team remains resilient and ready to fight for further progress in the coming year.

Pakistan’s women’s team also painted a bright picture, showcasing their potential with key victories. Starting with a second-place finish in the Four Nation Cup in Saudi Arabia and a late-game winner against Comoros, they proved their mettle. Although the Paris Olympics Qualifiers didn’t go their way, they claimed a historic win over Tajikistan, their first major victory since re-entering the international scene. This triumph signifies the team’s steady development and unwavering spirit.

Snooker

Pakistani snooker players chalked up a year of stunning triumphs in 2023, proving their prowess on the global stage. Teenage sensation Ahsan Ramzan continued his meteoric rise, adding another crown to his collection.

Reigning IBSF World Champion, Ramzan remained undefeated in the U21 Asian Snooker Championship held in Iran, culminating in a 5-2 victory over Iranian opponent Milad Pourali Darehchi. This continental conquest cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with.

Professional cueists Asjad Iqbal and Muhammad Asif also etched their names in the record books. Asif delivered a patriotic punch on Independence Day, stunning snooker legend Stephen Hendry in the British Open qualifiers. This historic win against the seven-time world champion resonated throughout the nation.

Earlier in the year, Asjad Iqbal showcased his talent at the Snooker Shootout, defeating former English Open runner-up David Gilbert and European Masters champion Jimmy Robertson in a single day. This impressive display ignited hope for a bright future for Pakistani snooker.

Athletics

Pakistan’s ace Javelin Arshad Nadeem etched his name in history at the World Athletics Championships in Oregon. Battling an elbow injury and limited competition experience, Nadeem defied expectations to finish a remarkable fifth in the men’s javelin final, the first Pakistani athlete ever to break into the top eight.

Despite the injury and a lack of major competitive opportunities leading up to the Championships, Nadeem remained undeterred. While Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Olympic silver medalist Jakub Vadlejch occupied the podium, Nadeem’s fifth-place finish was a testament to his unwavering spirit and the immense potential of Pakistani athletics.

Overall:

As the curtain falls on this year’s drama, it does so with a bittersweet truth: individual talent abounds, the collective chorus of victory remains unsung.

But 2024 stands poised on the precipice, a blank canvas awaiting the strokes of champions. Will it be then that the long-awaited symphony of victory rises, weaving a triumphant melody into the tapestry of Pakistani sporting history? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain - the brushstrokes of the future are being painted even now.

Pakistan sports: flashes of individual brilliance, but team-work triumphs elusive

The year 2023 for Pakistani sports was a medley of triumph and tears, where individual athletes carved their names...

www.brecorder.com