Coke Studio ‘Blockbuster’ puts spotlight on Lahore neighborhood known for music greats

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The image downloaded on July 9, 2024, shows Gharwi Group. (Coke Studio)
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The image downloaded on July 9, 2024, shows the singers of the Coke Studio song “Blockbuster.” (Coke Studio)
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Updated 09 July 2024
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Coke Studio ‘Blockbuster’ puts spotlight on Lahore neighborhood known for music greats

  • Song called “Blockbuster” by Gharwi Group is one of the most popular hits from Coke Studio Season 15
  • Group comprises three sisters from Gharwi Mohalla known for famous singers like Reshma, Mehdi Hassan

LAHORE: The small, congested Gharwi Mohalla in Pakistan’s eastern city of Lahore has produced many legendary folk and ghazal singers like Mehdi Hassan, Naseebo Lal and Reshma. Now, a latest hit by Coke Studio, the longest-running annual TV music show in Pakistan, had added to the list of musical sensations from the neighborhood: the Gharwi Group. 

The song called “Blockbuster” blends the deep vocals of Umair Butt with the energy of Faris Shafi, considered a pioneer of Urdu rap, and the soulful singing of the Gharwi Group, and has garnered over 18 million views on YouTube since it was released on May 25. 

While Shafi was already well known on the Pakistani music scene and Butt has been hugely appreciated for his vocal prowess after the release of Blockbuster, the true breakout stars are Rooha, Sajida and Abida of the all-women Gharwi Group, who have gone from being struggling street singers to viral sensations overnight.

The gang’s appearance in the video, shot in a stylized version of a typical Pakistani neighborhood featuring vibrant colors, heavy traffic, pedestrian hustle and roadside businesses, has also put the spotlight on the Gharwi Mohalla in Lahore’s Shahdara district off the Grand Trunk Road. The neighborhood is steeped in musical heritage and even derives its name from an instrument, the gharwi, a small, round pot typically used to store milk but on the streets of the Gharwi Mohalla also tapped to produce a musical sound. 




The image downloaded on July 9, 2024, shows Gharwi Group. (Coke Studio)

Sajida Bibi, the eldest member of the group and a street singer for the last two decades, said the family traced its roots to the Indian state of Rajasthan.

“Our ancestors, our grandfathers, great grandfathers, all used to live there,” Sajida told Arab News in an interview. “We like singing very much. Reshma is from there [Gharwi Mohalla], Naseebo Lal is from there, Mehdi Hassan is from there.”

The group was discovered by renowned music composer and Coke Studio producer Zulfikar Jabbar Khan, popularly known as “Xulfi,” who came across their videos on YouTube. 

“We used to sing on [Lahore’s] food street, our [videos] were playing on YouTube,” Sajida said. “Then Xulfi bhai saw us, liked us and then gave us this [Coke Studio] song. We were happy to sing it.”

Bibi’s younger sister, Rooha, is married to struggling qawwali singer Roohul Hassan and her 12-year-old daughter Saba has also become an overnight sensation for her cameo in Blockbuster. 

Hassan initially went with the Gharwi Group for rehearsals to look after her baby brother on set. Xulfi heard her singing a lullaby to the boy and got “goosebumps,” he said in a video on his Instagram page, which prompted him to make her part of the production. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Xulfi (@zulfiqarjkhan)

“I was singing lullabies to him when Xulfi uncle heard them and told me why don’t you sing a couple of lines for us too,” she told Arab News. 

The rest as they say is history.

“I want to continue to sing, this is what I’ve always wanted,” Saba added. “This is what all the children in Gharwi Mohalla want to do.”

Now the family, which has always struggled financially, earning little from performances at weddings and other events as well as outside popular restaurants, hopes their fortunes will turn. 

“I’d like to thank all the people covering our story, we are so excited to share our music with the rest of the world,” Rooha said. “The more people like our music, the more motivated we will be to continue with our family tradition.”

In the future, the group will be working on a Punjabi song with Altaf Hussain Tafu Khan, a prominent classical musician and famed tabla player.

“Tafu has offered us a song based on the success [of Blockbuster],” Rooha said. “We said we’re happy to do it, it’s a Punjabi song, an old Kalaam [folk music].”

Though Tafu does not have the reach of Coke Studio, the ladies of Gharwi Group have big dreams.

“Reshma was like an aunt to us,” Sajida said, referring to one of Pakistan’s most famous folk singers, who died in 2013. “She was famous the world over and we want to follow in her footsteps.”


Pakistan’s foreign minister discusses humanitarian crisis in Gaza with Malaysian counterpart

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Pakistan’s foreign minister discusses humanitarian crisis in Gaza with Malaysian counterpart

  • Development takes place amid US President Trump’s controversial comments on relocating Palestinians from Gaza
  • Ishaq Dar expresses support for convening OIC Council of Foreign Ministers meeting to discuss Palestine crisis 

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with his Malaysian counterpart and expressed steadfast support for the Palestinian cause on Monday, the foreign office said in a statement, amid calls by US President Donald Trump to relocate people from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. 

Dar previously spoke to the foreign ministers of Iran and Egypt on Sunday to drum up support for Palestinians in Gaza. His interactions come after last week’s comments by Trump in which he floated the idea of US administration over Gaza, envisioning rebuilding the devastated territory into the “Riviera of the Middle East” after resettling Palestinians elsewhere, namely Egypt and Jordan.

The remarks have prompted global backlash, mostly from Arab countries who have firmly rejected the proposal and insisted on a two-state solution with an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. 

Dar spoke to Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Hajji Mohamad bin Hajji Hasan over the phone to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the overall situation of the Middle East region, the foreign office said. 

“The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister expressed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people and their just cause,” the statement said. “He also conveyed Pakistan’s support for the convening of an Extraordinary OIC meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers to discuss this urgent issue.”

The development also takes place ahead of Egypt hosting a summit of Arab nations on Feb. 27 to discuss “the latest serious developments” concerning Palestinian territories, its foreign ministry said on Sunday.

Aid trucks have flooded into Gaza after an uneasy ceasefire between Hamas and Israel began on Jan. 19, raising hopes that the war that led to seismic shifts in the Middle East may be headed toward an end. The truce, however, is fragile. 

Israel has said it won’t agree to a complete withdrawal from Gaza until Hamas’ military and political capabilities are eliminated. Hamas says it won’t hand over the last hostages until Israel removes all troops from the territory.

During the 42-day first phase of the ceasefire, Hamas is gradually releasing 33 Israeli hostages captured during its Oct. 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and a flood of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The deal also stipulates that Israeli troops will pull back from populated areas.

In the second phase, all remaining living hostages would be released in return for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and “sustainable calm.” 


England’s Bethell ruled out of Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy— captain

Updated 10 February 2025
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England’s Bethell ruled out of Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy— captain

  • Left-handed Jacob Bethell sat out second ODI against India with hamstring injury
  • England call up Somerset batsman Tom Banton on Sunday as cover for injured Bethell

NEW DELHI: Jacob Bethell is set to miss next week’s Champions Trophy after the left-handed batsman sat out the second one-day international against India with a hamstring injury.

The 21-year-old Bethell made 51 in the opening defeat last week, but was missing on Sunday as India took an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match series in Cuttack.

The 50-over Champions Trophy begins on Feb. 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

“I’m pretty sure (Bethell) has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy, to be honest,” captain Jos Buttler admitted after England’s four-wicket defeat.

“That’s really disappointing for him. Obviously, he played nicely the other day and has been one of the really exciting players,” he added.

“It’s a shame that injury is going to rule him out.”

England have not made an official statement on Bethell’s status, but they called up Somerset batsman Tom Banton on Sunday as cover.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Banton, 26, was due to arrive in India on Monday and join the England squad for the final match of the series in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

Banton has played in six ODIs, with a top score of 58 and averages 26.80 with the bat.

England’s first match in the Champions Trophy is against World Cup winners Australia on Feb. 22.

Final squads must be submitted by Feb. 12.


On the frontline: Over 300 women officers join Balochistan police amid rising security threats

Updated 10 February 2025
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On the frontline: Over 300 women officers join Balochistan police amid rising security threats

  • Female officers will participate in snap checking of vehicles, conduct investigations and carry out raids
  • They completed seven-month training alongside their male colleagues, including intense shooting practice

QUETTA: In the heart of Quetta’s Fayaz Sumbal Shaheed Police Lines, 24-year-old Nimra Muhammad Suleman stands poised among over two dozen female police officials, all preparing for their morning parade.

Having completed a rigorous seven-month training in January at the Police Training College on Quetta’s outskirts, Suleman is driven by a singular purpose: serving and protecting the women and children of Balochistan’s conservative tribal society.

Pakistan’s largest province in terms of landmass, the country’s southwestern region of Balochistan has long grappled with security challenges, with separatist groups intensifying their insurgency in recent years, notably by employing female suicide bombers.

Two years ago, a 30-year-old mother of two blew herself up at Karachi University, killing a group of Chinese academics to avenge Beijing’s decision to jointly undertake infrastructure and energy projects with Pakistan.

The collaboration did not sit well with separatist Baloch outfits, who accuse Pakistan of exploiting the province’s natural resources without benefiting the local population— an allegation denied by successive governments, which say they are carrying out development projects to improve people’s quality of life.

Given the changing nature of the threat, law enforcement agencies have also inducted more female officials in recent years.

“We are not lady constables,” Suleman said while speaking to Arab News on Friday. “We are police officers, and we can do everything by standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our male colleagues, including protecting women and children and countering terrorism.”

Security personnel stand guard outside the Fayaz Suambal Shaheed Police Lines in Quetta, Pakistan, on February 7, 2025. (AN Photo)

The recent graduation of over 1,600 cadets from the Police Training College, including 386 women from 32 districts, marks a transformative moment for Balochistan’s security.

“In other areas such as Punjab and Sindh, [women] police constables were in higher proportion. And now in Balochistan, a very large batch has passed out this time,” she continued. “We will now be equal [in terms of our strength] to Punjab and Sindh.”

Nimra Muhammad Suleman (center) a police cadets, marches at the Fayaz Suambal Shaheed Police Lines in Quetta, Pakistan, on February 7, 2025. (AN Photo)

According to the provincial police department, the newly graduated women police officers have completed various training sessions alongside their male colleagues, including intense shooting practice and lessons on sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.

Now, female officers will also take part in snap checking of vehicles, conduct investigations and carry out raids against suspected criminals.

“When I was posted here in 2014, the total strength of women police personnel was 32, but as crime rates against women increased, the department raised the number to over 500,” said Station House Officer Zarghoona Kakar who trained Suleman and her batch.

“From now on, women will be seen everywhere in Balochistan because the time has changed when women police officers were limited to raids and office work,” she added.

The integration of these female officers comes at a critical juncture. In 2024 alone, Balochistan reported nearly 40 attacks against its police force, resulting in 25 fatalities and 61 injuries.

For many of these newly inducted officers, joining the police force required overcoming societal and familial hurdles. Javeriya Sarwar, another graduate, emphasized the importance of parental support.

Javeriya Sarwar (first right) and Nimra Muhammad Suleman (left) stand guard for a regular parade at the Fayaz Sumbal Shaheed Police Lines in Quetta, Pakistan, on February 7, 2025. (AN Photo)

“Many people in Balochistan have a negative mindset toward sending their daughters to the police department, but girls should join the police force since it provides us the opportunity to serve the masses,” she said.

Initially, Sarwar’s father was hesitant about her career choice, but she persuaded him to allow her to pursue her passion for policing.

“A man in uniform can sacrifice his life for the country,” she said. “With Balochistan being plagued by terrorism, it was my passion to sacrifice everything for the police force and Pakistan.”


Pakistani restaurants showcase culinary expertise, artistic creativity at Riyadh Food Festival 

Updated 10 February 2025
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Pakistani restaurants showcase culinary expertise, artistic creativity at Riyadh Food Festival 

  • Food festival organized from Feb. 5-9 featured prominent Pakistani restaurants, country’s iconic truck art
  • Pakistani embassy in Riyadh says event provided “excellent opportunity” for country to promote food industry

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani restaurants showcased their culinary expertise and artistic creativity during the five-day Riyadh Food Festival in Saudi Arabia, a statement from Pakistan’s embassy in the Kingdom said on Sunday, offering visitors from across the world a taste of the country’s cuisines and delicacies. 

The festival, which was held from Feb. 5-9 under the patronage of the Culinary Commission of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, brought together diverse culinary traditions and cultural experiences from around the world, with Pakistan making a significant impact through its rich flavors and vibrant artistic heritage, the Pakistani embassy in Riyadh said. 

Among other outlets, Pakistan was represented at the festival by three prominent restaurants--Zouq Nihari, Lahore Village and Tikka Masala. 

“Visitors had the opportunity to indulge in traditional delicacies and an array of delectable Pakistani street food, all of which received an enthusiastic response from food lovers in Riyadh,” the embassy said. 

A Pakistani kiosks called "Lahori Village" is pictured at Riyadh Food Festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 6, 2025. (Pakistan Embassy in Saudi Arabia)

It said Pakistan’s pavilion at the festival also featured two dedicated retail kiosks showcasing the country’s culinary and artistic brilliance. Mehran Foods, a leading name in Pakistani spices, set up a display of its premium spice range, offering visitors a chance to experience Pakistan’s “bold and aromatic flavors.” 

A special kiosk dedicated to Pakistan’s iconic truck art was also set up at the festival. It featured intricately designed truck art wares such as hand-painted decorative pieces, household items and souvenirs. 

“A live painting demonstration by skilled Pakistani truck artists further captivated audiences, allowing visitors to witness the meticulous craftsmanship and cultural storytelling embedded in this unique art form,” it said. 

A painter paints a truck at Riyadh Food Festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 6, 2025. (Pakistan Embassy in Saudi Arabia)

“The enthusiastic response from visitors underscores the growing appreciation for Pakistani cuisine and craftsmanship in Saudi Arabia,” Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia said in a statement. 

The embassy said the festival provided an excellent opportunity for Pakistan to strengthen its cultural ties with Saudi Arabia while promoting its food industry and artistic heritage to a wider audience. 

“The Embassy of Pakistan remains committed to fostering deeper cultural exchanges between the two nations and looks forward to future collaborations that showcase Pakistan’s rich traditions on the international stage,” it said. 


Pakistan president in Lisbon to condole death of Aga Khan IV

Updated 10 February 2025
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Pakistan president in Lisbon to condole death of Aga Khan IV

  • Prince Karim Aga Khan IV passed away at age of 88 last week in Lisbon 
  • Asif Ali Zardari to meet Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari is in Portugal’s capital Lisbon to offer his condolences on the death of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, state-run media reported on Monday. 

The late Aga Khan, who led the global Ismaili community for nearly seven decades, passed away last week at the age of 88. His death was announced by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Ismaili religious community.

A private funeral service took place at the Ismaili community center in Lisbon on Saturday, attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Spaincs King Emeritus Juan Carlos, Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. He was laid to rest on Sunday at a private ceremony in Aswan, Egypt.

“President Asif Ali Zardari is set to meet Prince Rahim Agha Khan in Lisbon, Portugal,” state broadcaster Radio Pakistan said. “During the meeting, he will extend his condolences on the passing away of late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.”

The Pakistani president will also meet his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa during his trip to the country, the state media said. 

Following the late Aga Khan’s passing, his eldest son, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, 53, was named the Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary Imam of the community, in accordance with his father’s will.

The AKDN, founded by the late Ismaili leader, has been instrumental in various development projects in Pakistan, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral regions. Initiatives such as the Aga Khan Rural Support Program have focused on poverty alleviation, health care, education and cultural preservation, significantly contributing to the socio-economic development of these areas.

The Ismaili community in Pakistan, numbering in the hundreds of thousands, has benefited from these initiatives, which have also had a positive impact on the national economy through improved infrastructure and human development.