Fans of the hit Amazon Prime Video series ‘Mirzapur’ are in for a treat as the character Munna Bhaiyya, played by Divyendu Sharma, is set to make a comeback in a newly announced bonus episode.

The episode, which was initially slated for release on August 24 but faced delays, is now premiering.

The announcement has stirred excitement among fans who have eagerly awaited the return of the iconic character.

Munna Bhaiyya, who met a grisly end at the hands of Guddu Pandit (played by Ali Fazal) in the second season, has remained one of the most memorable characters of the series.

Known for his volatile nature and explosive dialogue, Munna is the son of Akhandanand Tripathi, also known as Kaleen Bhaiyya, the ruthless crime lord of Mirzapur.

Despite his death, Munna’s character left a lasting impact, and his return has been one of the most anticipated events for the show’s fans.

Amazon Prime Video hinted at this surprise return earlier this month with a social media post featuring a photo of Munna Bhaiyya alongside a folder icon labeled “bonus episode.”

Ali Fazal further fueled speculation by revealing in a teaser video that the bonus episode was in the works. In the clip, he urged fans to stay tuned, promising that Munna Bhaiyya’s return would be worth the wait.

Divyendu Sharma, in a promotional video released by the makers, addressed the fans directly, “Hum kya gaye, pura bawaal mach gaya. Suna hai humare loyal fans bohut miss kiye humko. Season 3 me kuch cheezein miss kiye aap. Wo hum khoj ke le aaye hain, just for you.” This has only heightened anticipation for the episode, which promises to explore aspects of the story that were left out in Season 3.

‘Mirzapur,’ an action-packed crime series produced by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, is set in the heart of Uttar Pradesh and follows the power struggles within the criminal underworld.

The series has garnered a massive following since its debut, with Divyendu Sharma’s portrayal of Munna Bhaiyya being a significant factor in its popularity.

Season 3 of ‘Mirzapur’ premiered in July, and the series has already been renewed for a fourth season, which is expected to delve even deeper into the power dynamics and conflicts that have defined the show.

While a specific release date for Season 4 has not been announced, it is rumored to premiere in 2025 or 2026.

In an earlier interview, Divyendu Sharma shared a memorable fan encounter from the show’s international success. While shooting in Scotland, he was recognised by fans, including a group of Brazilian girls who excitedly pointed him out during a video call.

This incident underscored the global reach and appeal of ‘Mirzapur,’ breaking barriers across age, country, and culture.

KARACHI:

Few things in life are as downright repulsive as crawling through traffic after a long day. The motorcycles weave through lines of cars like it’s a video game and there you are—sandwiched between a Corolla and a rickshaw. But not all is lost. Cue up this carefully crafted playlist—because if anything can make rush hour traffic somewhat tolerable, it’s the right soundtrack.

Getting into it

You’re just getting settled in for the long haul. Start with Iraaday by Rovalio and Abdul Hannan. It’s smooth, like the idea of a nice, empty road. Next up, Sukoon by Hassan & Roshaan and Shae Gill. The title says it all. It’s like a cup of chai in music form—calming but not enough to make you fall asleep at the wheel (you need to stay alert for those rogue bikers). Then comes Traffic by Ali Mustafa and Indiedanish — a bit on the nose, but it’s an upbeat reminder that the traffic might suck, but hey, you’ve got good music.

Turning it up a notch

You’ve made it through the early stages. Now it’s time to turn up the volume and inject some energy into this mess. Few songs can get your blood pumping like Groove Mera by Naseebo Lal, Amna Baig, and Young Stunners. This PSL anthem is the audio equivalent of an energy drink. PSL is long over, but this song has a special place in my Spotify.

Call me basic but Hasan Raheem’s Peechay Hut and Zaalima are like instant shots of adrenaline. Follow it up with Jadu by Turhan James and Hamza Akhund. It’s underrated and has that electronic vibe that makes you feel like you’re in a movie montage, except instead of running through a field to catch your true love, you’re avoiding potholes on Tariq Road.

Keep the energy up with Waaday by Miracle Mangal, Rovalio, and HASHAM. It’s catchy, and by now you’re probably convincing yourself that you actually like this whole traffic situation. After all, when else do you get to jam like this? You’re probably full-on dancing in your seat by now, drawing concerned looks from the neighbouring driver.

The rain edit

It’s important to note that to transition into this section of the playlist, rain isn’t a requirement, it’s merely a plus. You can rename it to “The heartbreak edit” if the inaccuracy bothers you.

Start with Melancholic followed by Jhol, both by Maanu. The mood shifts and suddenly you’re feeling a bit more reflective. The Ali Noor anthem, Teray Saath adds to this. There’s a longing in the song that matches the dread in your heart as you see the traffic still hasn’t moved an inch. Behkana by Ali Tariq and Harshdeep Kaur continues this cathartic journey as you screech lyrics at the top of your lungs. The rain can ruin your car, but it can’t ruin your vibe.

And of course, no rain playlist is complete without Atif Aslam. Anything by Atif, really, because his voice is basically the soundtrack to every romantic rain scene ever. So, whether you’re heartbroken, in love, or just really tired of this traffic, Atif’s got your back.

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KARACHI:

As summer reaches its peak, the high travel season is here. Whether you’re counting down the days to a long-anticipated vacation or preparing for a few quick business trips, one thing is clear: a trip to the airport is likely on your agenda. While packing stylish vacation outfits is essential, curating the perfect travel look for the airport is just as important.

Once upon a time, boarding a plane was as glamorous as attending a black-tie gala. In the golden age of air travel, circa the 1950s and 60s, a traveller wouldn’t be caught dead in anything less than their Sunday best. Women glided through terminals in tailored dresses, pearls, and heels, while men sported sharp suits and ties. The idea was simple: if you’re defying gravity, you might as well do it in style.

Fast forward to today, and things have relaxed—a lot. Now, you’re more likely to see passengers in athleisure wear and oversized sunglasses, schlepping their carry-ons like they’re heading to the gym rather than 30,000 feet above the ground. Leggings have replaced pencil skirts, sneakers have stepped in for stilettos, and the only pearls you’ll find are likely attached to a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. But while comfort has taken centre stage, the debate rages on: to dress up or to dress down?

To dress up or down

This is where the great divide comes in. On one hand, you have the “comfort is king” crowd, whose travel uniform consists of anything with an elastic waistband. Then there are those who swear by the old-school adage that dressing up can score you a seat upgrade—or at the very least, a smidge more respect from the flight attendants.

Let’s start with Team Dress Up. This group includes the likes of your mother, who firmly believes that a smart ensemble is your ticket to better treatment at the airport. And honestly, there’s some logic to this. Imagine it: you’re at the gate, the announcement for a delay comes over the speakers, and you’re dressed like you’re about to chair a board meeting. You stand out, in a good way. Maybe the gate agent glances your way and thinks, “That person looks like they belong in business class.” Next thing you know, you’re cutting through a medium-rare steak with extra legroom, while the rest of the plane is crammed into economy.

So, what does dressing up for the airport look like in 2024? It’s not quite the Mad Men aesthetic of yesteryear, but it’s a step above pyjama chic. Think tailored blazers paired with dark jeans, or a crisp button-down with chinos. For the ladies, a chic cable knit sweater with linen trousers can be both comfortable and classy. Footwear? Keep it sleek but sensible. Loafers, ankle boots, or ballet flats can be lifesavers during that sprint between gates.

On the flip side, Team Dress Down argues that unless you’re on a transatlantic flight seated next to Anna Wintour, nobody’s judging what you wear. This camp prioritises comfort over everything, opting for cosy sweatpants, hoodies, and sneakers. They’d rather be caught dead than stuck in tight clothes on a 10-hour flight, even if it means sacrificing the slim chance of an upgrade. Plus, with the rise of luxe athleisure brands, you can still look put together while feeling like you’re in loungewear.

Best of both worlds

There’s no denying that the right outfit can make or break your travel experience. But comfort doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. The trick to merging the two is all about finding pieces that are both functional and fashionable. And who better to look to for some inspiration than the celebs who find themselves at the airport more than their film sets?

Mehwish Hayat absolutely nailed casual airport chic. In one of her many travel looks, she rocked a bold red and black cropped sweatshirt that screamed sporty vibes, paired with sleek black jeans that kept things stylishly streamlined. Her multi-coloured sneakers were a fun pop of colour, adding a playful touch to the ensemble, while that cap (a celebrity staple while travelling) created an aura of mystery around her.

Asim Azhar served up the ultimate laid-back traveller vibe with his trusty guitar slung over his shoulder. The musician was ready to serenade the skies. Dressed in a sleek black Adidas track jacket and rocking a backward white cap, Asim was all smiles, clutching his iced coffee, which is basically the ultimate airport accessory for anyone who knows the true meaning of jet lag.

Sonya Hussaiyn brought some serious edge to her airport style in an oversized lavender jacket cinched perfectly at the waist. Paired with classic black leggings and chunky ankle boots, she found the perfect balance between comfort and glam. Those round sunglasses were the finishing touch, adding just the right amount of retro flair.

So, there’s the proof that you can blend the comfort of athleisure wear with glamour, ending up with an airport look that will make your walk down the aisle to your seat feel like a catwalk instead. The most important thing is to feel good in what you’re wearing because that confidence will carry you through even the most turbulent of flights.

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KARACHI:

Business leaders and experts have called for leveraging over 50% of Pakistan’s untapped and arid lands for agriculture to elevate the country’s exports. Speaking at the International Conference on AgriTech Trade and Investment during the second day of the three-day 25th ITCN Asia 2024 at Karachi’s Export Centre, they emphasised the vast potential of Pakistan’s agricultural sector.

The event, organised by Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan Pvt Ltd, attracted significant attention from industry leaders. Mohammad Atif Hanif, CEO of Al-Barka Bank Pakistan Limited, underscored the immense opportunity for Pakistan’s agriculture sector. He explained that the country is currently feeding 250 million people and exporting $8 million worth of agricultural products. However, the potential remains far greater.

“With a 50% yield per acre across almost every crop, Pakistan can significantly increase its agricultural output. Every 10% growth in yield could enable us to feed another nation, demonstrating our immense export potential,” Hanif remarked.

He also highlighted the challenges of financial inclusion in rural areas, noting that 100 million adults in Pakistan lack bank accounts, with 75% of them engaged in agriculture. Out of this vast unbanked population, only 2.5 million are borrowing customers in the agriculture sector.

Hanif pointed to success stories from other countries, such as Ecuador, where corporate investment in shrimp farming transformed the nation into the world’s largest shrimp exporter within a decade. Similarly, some Pakistani textile companies have begun investing in shrimp farming, capitalising on the country’s 1,000 km coastline. These efforts are expected to yield significant results in the near future, as Pakistan embarks on corporate farming initiatives.

Additionally, Hanif discussed the Halal food industry, which has reached a global market size of $1 trillion. Pakistan’s Halal food sector has already exceeded $500 million in exports, offering a lucrative opportunity for the banking, agriculture, and corporate sectors. He also identified the olive sector as a promising area for development. Spain currently produces 40% of the world’s olives, but Pakistan has the potential to produce 1.5 times more than Spain in its underutilised arid lands.

Zubair Motiwala, CEO of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and Chairman of the Businessmen Group (BMG), outlined his vision for increasing the country’s exports. He noted that Pakistan’s core export sector, textiles, accounts for 70% of the nation’s exports. However, he pointed out that other challenges, such as high utility costs and rising interest rates, continue to hinder business growth.

Motiwala stressed the importance of value-added agricultural products in boosting exports. “We have 54 million hectares of cultivable land, yet we are utilising less than 50% of it. We must expand both vertically and horizontally,” he said. The BMG chairman stressed the need for mechanised farming, improved seed development, and better communication from farms to markets. He highlighted the potential for fine packaging of crops like maize and rice, which could significantly increase their export value.

Motiwala also noted that value-added agricultural products could fetch prices up to seven times higher than raw commodities, while also generating employment in the sector.

Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, shared optimistic figures showing that agriculture technology had driven 6.25% growth in the sector in 2023-2024, with crop growth at 11.03%. He stressed that these figures mark just the beginning of Pakistan’s agricultural future.

KARACHI:

As August 28 turns one of Hollywood’s most visionary directors a year older, it’s time to dim the lights, silence your phone, and settle in for a journey through the dark and twisting corridors of David Fincher’s mind. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, haunting visual style, and penchant for exploring the shadowy recesses of human nature, Fincher has crafted a body of work that continues to captivate and unsettle audiences in equal measure.

To celebrate the birthday of this cinematic icon, we’ve curated a quartet of Fincher’s finest – four films that showcase the evolution of his craft and the themes that have defined his career. So grab your popcorn (and maybe leave a light on), as we dive into a day-long marathon that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the world around you.

1. ‘Se7en’ (1995)

We begin our Fincher fest with the film that put him on the map and still sends shivers down viewers’ spines nearly three decades later. Se7en plunges us into a rain-soaked, nameless city where two detectives – the soon-to-retire William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and the hotheaded David Mills (Brad Pitt) – hunt a serial killer whose gruesome murders are inspired by the seven deadly sins.

From its haunting opening credits sequence to its gut-punch of an ending, Se7en established Fincher as a master of atmosphere and tension. The film’s oppressive urban setting becomes a character in itself, mirroring the decay and moral rot at the heart of the story. As Somerset and Mills descend further into the killer’s twisted world, Fincher ratchets up the dread with each revelation, culminating in one of cinema’s most shocking and memorable finales.

What makes Se7en the perfect opener for our marathon is how it lays the groundwork for Fincher’s career-long obsessions: the thin line between order and chaos, the depths of human depravity, and the often futile struggle to find meaning in a seemingly random universe. It’s a grim worldview, to be sure, but one that Fincher explores with unflinching honesty and dark beauty.

2. ‘Fight Club’ (1999)

As we shake off the gloom of Se7en, our next stop is the cultural phenomenon that is Fight Club. Based on Chuck Palahniuk’s novel, this anarchic satire follows an unnamed insomniac narrator (Edward Norton) whose life is upended by the charismatic Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt). Together, they form an underground fight club that evolves into something far more dangerous and all-consuming.

Fight Club marked a stylistic leap forward for Fincher, blending his noir sensibilities with a manic energy and pitch-black humour. The film’s frenetic editing, fourth-wall-breaking narration, and hallucinatory visuals perfectly capture the fractured psyche of its protagonist and the collapsing world around him.

Beyond its technical virtuosity, Fight Club cemented Fincher’s reputation as a provocateur. The film’s exploration of masculinity in crisis, rampant consumerism, and the allure of destructive ideologies remains as relevant and controversial today as it was upon release. Love it or hate it, Fight Club demands to be grappled with – a trait shared by much of Fincher’s work.

3. ‘Gone Girl’ (2014)

Next in our Fincher marathon is Gone Girl, his electrifying adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s 2012 bestseller. This twisted tale serves as the director’s razor-sharp dissection of modern marriage, media manipulation, and the elaborate facades we construct in the age of constant surveillance. When Amy Dunne (Rosamund Pike) disappears on her fifth wedding anniversary, all eyes turn to her husband Nick (Ben Affleck). As the investigation unfolds, we’re taken on a twisting journey that constantly upends our expectations and allegiances.

Gone Girl showcases Fincher’s evolution as a storyteller, swiftly blending elements of psychological thriller, dark comedy, and scathing social commentary. The film’s clinical visual style – all cool tones and precise framing – provides the perfect backdrop for its exploration of performative identities and the gap between our public and private selves. Pike’s tour-de-force performance as Amy is the standout, creating one of cinema’s most memorable and complex antiheroes.

4. ‘The Social Network’ (2010)

As we cap off our August 28 Fincher birthday marathon, we turn to one of the director’s most acclaimed works. This electrifying drama chronicles the founding of Facebook and the legal battles that followed, centering on the brilliant but socially awkward Mark Zuckerberg (Jesse Eisenberg).

Eisenberg leads a stellar ensemble cast that brings the early days of Facebook to life. Andrew Garfield shines as Eduardo Saverin, Zuckerberg’s best friend and co-founder, whose eventual betrayal forms the emotional core of the film. Justin Timberlake steals scenes as Sean Parker, the charismatic Napster founder who seduces Zuckerberg with visions of Silicon Valley glory. Armie Hammer pulls double duty as the Winklevoss twins, privileged Harvard rowing champions who claim Zuckerberg stole their idea.

At first glance, The Social Network might seem like a departure for Fincher. Gone are the serial killers and nihilistic antiheroes, replaced by Ivy League dorm rooms and Silicon Valley boardrooms. Yet the film fits perfectly into Fincher’s oeuvre, exploring themes of obsession, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power.

Working from Aaron Sorkin’s crackling script, Fincher brings his trademark precision to the world of tech startups and legal depositions. The film moves at a breakneck pace, with rapid-fire dialogue and a propulsive editing style that mirrors the frenzied energy of its young protagonists.

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s pulsing electronic score further enhances the sense of a new world being born – and the old one crumbling away. From the Henley Royal Regatta sequence (a tour de force of digital wizardry) to the claustrophobic coding montages, every frame is composed with purpose and style.

At its core, The Social Network is a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. Zuckerberg’s rise to become the youngest billionaire in history comes at the cost of his closest friendships and, arguably, his own humanity. Eisenberg’s performance is a marvel of subtle complexity, showing us glimpses of the loneliness and insecurity that drive Zuckerberg’s relentless ambition.

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KARACHI:

When it comes to Desi bridal fashion, the landscape is as diverse as it is glamorous, with looks ranging from the traditionally regal to the daringly minimalist. Gone are the days when a bride’s options were limited to just a handful of traditional choices. From the timeless allure of a classic red lehenga to the fresh appeal of pastels, and even the stripped-down elegance of minimalist designs, brides are finding inspiration in the weddings of their favourite stars.

These three celebrity bridal looks had us contemplating a spontaneous trip down the aisle just for the chance to dress up—or, if you’re already hitched, nudging your partner to splurge on a vow renewal for the ultimate fashion statement.

The timeless bride

Iqra Aziz epitomises the quintessential South Asian bride with her stunning choice of a traditional red lehenga. Adorned with intricate embroidery and embellishments, her outfit exudes an air of timeless elegance. Paired with equally bold and heavy makeup, Iqra’s look is nothing short of regal. The rich red hue, complemented by the glimmer of gold in her accessories, makes her every inch the traditional bride we’ve come to admire in Desi weddings. While some may argue that the classic red bridal look is a tad predictable, there’s no denying that Iqra absolutely pulled it off with style. One thing that the red option has going for it is that red just so happens to be everyone’s colour, even if they aren’t particularly fond of it.

The contemporary bride

Stepping away from the conventional red, Mahira Khan redefined bridal fashion by opting for an ethereal ice-blue ensemble by Faraz Manan. As bridal trends evolve, we’re seeing more brides embracing softer, pastel shades over the traditional deep reds and maroons. Mahira’s choice couldn’t have been more perfect, especially against the lush, green backdrop of Bhurban. The delicate beadwork on her outfit, coupled with her soft, understated makeup, highlighted her natural beauty, making her look like she had stepped right out of a fairytale. This move towards lighter colours reflects a shift in bridal fashion, where elegance is now seen in subtlety.

The minimalist bride

And then there’s Alia Bhatt, who took minimalist bridal fashion to a whole new level at her intimate home wedding. Eschewing heavy embellishments and dramatic makeup, Alia’s look was all about simplicity. She wore a beautifully understated Sabyasachi saree, with minimalistic design elements that spoke volumes in their subtlety. The lack of heavy makeup further emphasised her natural glow, and the entire ensemble was pulled together by her exquisite heirloom jewellery. Alia’s look has become the ultimate Pinterest save for minimalist brides everywhere, proving that sometimes less really is more.

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The Federal Cabinet has approved recommendations submitted by the Rightsizing of the Federal Government Committee for the merger and dissolution of 82 State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

The Cabinet, which met in Islamabad today with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the chair, while assenting to the recommendations, also constituted a committee to protect the interests of employees, who will be affected by the merger and dissolution of various departments.

These 82 entities are being transformed into robust institutions through digitization, smart management, efficient governance, transparency, and swift implementation to provide better facilities to the common man.

The Federal Cabinet was informed that in the first phase, enforcement of the committee’s recommendations has begun in six ministries.

This will help improve government performance, correct use of human capital, and policymaking as well as end unnecessary delays in implementation of decisions.

The Cabinet was briefed that savings worth one hundred and thirty million dollars have been made by stopping the import of Urea and providing uninterrupted gas supply to Urea factories.

The Prime Minister appreciated the decisions taken by the Ministries of Finance, Energy and National Food Security to ensure the provision of an unhindered supply of Urea fertilizer during the upcoming Rabi crop season.

The Cabinet was also given a detailed briefing on the implementation of austerity measures as per the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to reduce government expenditure.

The Federal Cabinet approved the continuation of the austerity measures which include voluntary waiver of salary by cabinet members, a ban on the purchase of government vehicles other than essential vehicles such as ambulances, a ban on the purchase of new equipment and machinery, a creation of new government posts, unnecessary travel abroad at government expense and ban on medical treatments abroad.

Appreciating the implementation of austerity measures by federal ministries, the Prime Minister directed them to ensure the continuation of the same.

The Federal Cabinet condemned in strongest terms the incidents of terrorism in Balochistan and the cowardly attacks by terrorists on innocent citizens.

Fateha was offered for the martyred civilians and security personnel during these incidents.

The Cabinet emphasised taking strict action against the terrorist elements involved in these incidents.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced free entry for students to the second Test match against Bangladesh, but with certain conditions.

According to a statement issued by the PCB, students must wear their uniforms and present a valid school ID card to gain entry to the stadium.

Admission to VIP enclosures, including Imran Khan and Javed Miandad enclosures, will be subject to seat availability, while students can freely watch the match from the premium enclosures such as Miran Bakhsh, Shoaib Akhtar, Sohail Tanvir, and Yasir Arafat.

The policy of free entry does not extend to the PCB Gallery or the Platinum Box.

Additionally, the free shuttle bus service, which was provided during the first Test, will continue for the second match as well.

Previously, during the first Test in Rawalpindi, the PCB had made entry free for fans on the last two days due to low spectator turnout.

The decision to offer free entry this time is aimed at encouraging families and students to support their cricket stars and enjoy the match over the weekend.

In the first test match on Sunday, Spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan took seven wickets between them to secure Bangladesh’s maiden win over Pakistan in five-day cricket, a stunning 10-wicket victory in the first Test in Rawalpindi.

Mehidy grabbed 4-21 and Shakib 3-44 to trigger a Pakistan collapse on the fifth day, with the home side dismissed for 146 runs in 55.5 overs.

That left Bangladesh a target of just 30 runs, which openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam reached in 6.3 overs.

Zakir (15) hit the winning boundary, with Shadman at the other end unbeaten on nine, as their squad celebrated a memorable victory.

Mohammad Rizwan top-scored for Pakistan in the second innings with 51, including six boundaries, but the home team were staring at defeat on 108-6 at lunch.

A holiday crowd of nearly 5,000 expected Pakistan to fight out a draw but Mehidy bowled Rizwan and trapped last man Mohammad Ali for a duck in successive overs.

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto dedicated the win to people who were killed in political turmoil that resulted in the ouster of premier Sheikh Hasina this month after weeks of student-led protests.

ISLAMABAD:

The International Monetary Fund’s Executive Board meeting will not take up the $7 billion bailout package to Pakistan for approval as it is not part of agenda for the current week.

IMF has issued the Executive Board meeting’s schedule for September 4, which does not include Pakistan’s request for $7 billion bailout package.

However, the finance ministry is optimistic that the fund’s board will approve the loan during the month of September.

According to finance ministry sources, the government is wooing China, Saudi Arabia and UAE to roll over $12 billion loan. Besides, Pakistan has also sought $1.2 billion loan from Saudi Arabia to brdige a $2 billion financing gap.