After being released all over Pakistan last week, the Karachi premiere of the much-awaited revenge-thriller/courtroom-drama ‘Taxali Gate’ took place at Nueplex Cinemas, DHA Phase VIII, Karachi on Saturday 24th February 2024.
The one-hour fifty-one minute movie which has been heralded as anticipated as the box-smashing ‘Maula Jutt’ is helmed by visionary maestro Ali Sajjad Shah aka Abu Aleeha whotook on the dual role of director and screenwriter and is produced by Executive Producer Shabbir Shah, Waqas Hassan Rizvi andAyesha Omar in her debut as a first-time producer under the aegis of the Distribution Club banner. HUM TV is the official media partner for the movie.
The ensemble studded cast includes Ayesha Omar, Yasir Hussain and Mehar Bano in the lead titular roles supported by equally stellar performances by seasoned actors Nayyer Ejaz, Iftikar Thakur, Babar Ali, Alyy Khan, Iffat Omar and Umer Aalam each of them bringing their unique talents to the big screen.
The red-carpet of the movie premiere was well attended by cast-members, crew-members, socialites, family members and members of both extensive print and electronic media.
‘Taxali Gate’ begins with a brief history lesson about Lahore and the inconspicuous lower class red-light area once infamously called Heera Mandi, now renamed Taxali. The title is thus a reference to the gate leading into the locality, and in a broader metaphorical context serves as the audience’s entry into the lives of the characters in the movie.
‘Taxali Gate’ revolves around the murder of two youngsters and their perpetrators and focuses on such themes as sexual consent; social injustice and law enforcement all set against the historical backdrop of Lahore’s walled City.
The movie is an immersive cinematic experience poised to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Pakistani cinema, transfixing hearts and minds alike with its compelling narrative and stellar performances.
Ayesha Omar disclosed that the premiere of the movie coincided on the birthday of her late father and was a birthday gift to him and said about the movie; “it’s a great film with an amazing story and all the actors gave powerful performances. It’s been an amazing journey as my first effort as a producer. We produced the film on a limited budget and it was challenging to film in the outside location but the result was amazing”.
Co-star Yasir Hussain added; “Taxali Gate deals with themes such as social injustice and consent and the film has an international cinema feel to it. My character was very challenging to play but the movie will leave an indelible mark in Pakistani cinema for many years to come”.
Public Relations for ‘Taxali Gate’ was managed by Catwalk Event Management & Productions Pvt. Limited under the helm of Frieha Altaf.
After a palpable buzz the grand premiere of the much-awaited revenge-thriller / courtroom drama ‘Taxali Gate’ took place at Cue Cinemas, Main Gulberg Boulevard, Lahore on Saturday 17th February 2024. The cinematic masterpiece was simultaneously released overseas in the United Kingdom and Canada.
The one-hour fifty-one minute movie which has been heralded as anticipated as the box-smashing ‘Maula Jutt’ is helmed by visionary maestro Ali Sajjad ShahakaAbu Aleeha whotook on the dual role of director and screenwriter and is produced by Executive Producer Shabbir Shah, Waqas Hassan Rizvi and Ayesha Omar in her debut as a first-time producer under the aegis of the Distribution Club banner. HUM TV is the official media partner for the movie.
The ensemble studded cast includes Ayesha Omar, Yasir Hussain and Mehar Bano in the lead titular roles supported by equally stellar performances by seasoned actors Nayyer Ejaz, Iftikar Thakur, Babar Ali, Alyy Khan, Iffat Omar and Umer Aalam each of them bringing their unique talents to the big screen.
The Red Carpet of the movie premiere was attended by cast members Yasir Hussain, Ayesha Omar, Mehr Bano, Iffat Omer, Nayyar Ejaz, Iftikar Thakur and Umer Aalam; director Abu Aleeha, producers Shabbir Shah and Waqas Rizvi. Supportive celebrities who graced the scintillating event included Mustafa Qureshi. Mikaal Zulfiqar, Iqra Aziz Yashma Gill, Fizza Ali, Marhoom Ahmad Bilal, Zeeshan Ali, Qaiser Pia, Sheheryar Cheema as well as both extensive print and electronic media.
‘Taxali Gate’ begins with a brief history lesson about Lahore and the inconspicuous lower class red-light area once infamously called Heera Mandi, now renamed Taxali. The title is thus a reference to the gate leading into the locality, and in a broader metaphorical context serves as the audience’s entry into the lives of the characters in the movie.
‘Taxali Gate’ revolves around the murder of two youngsters and their perpetrators and focuses on such themes as sexual consent; social injustice and law enforcement all set against the historical backdrop of Lahore’s walled City.
The movie is an immersive cinematic experience poised to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Pakistani cinema, transfixing hearts and minds alike with its compelling narrative and stellar performances.
Ayesha Omar disclosed that the premiere of the movie coincided on the birthday of her late father and was a birthday gift to him and said about the movie; “it’s a great film with an amazing story and all the actors gave powerful performances. It’s been an amazing journey as my first effort as a producer. We produced the film on a limited budget and it was challenging to film in the outside location but the result was amazing”.
Co-star Yasir Hussain added; “Taxali Gate deals with themes such as social injustice and consent and the film has an international cinema feel to it. My character was very challenging to play but the movie will leave an indelible mark in Pakistani cinema for many years to come”.
Public Relations for ‘Taxali Gate’was managed by Catwalk Event Management & Productions Pvt. Limited under the helm of Frieha Altaf.
Ambiance Boutique Art Hotels launched its second property in Pakistan in Karachi, City of Lights. The grand opening showcased not only the stunningly designed property and its distinctively-curated art collection but also a unique immersive theatrical performance in which an entire block of the hotel was converted into a ‘walk-through’ theatre, allowing guests to interact with performing actors.
Prominent faces seen at the launch ceremony included Former Senator Javed Jabbar + Mrs. Shabnum Jabbar, Senator Nisar Ahmad Khuhro, prominent economist Ishrat Husain, civil rights activist Jibran Nasir, former foreign minister Khurshid Kasuri, Beacon-house chairperson Nasreen Kasuri, Wajid Jawad, renowned architect and furniture designer Yousaf Shahbaz, Sharmila Faruqi + Hasham Riaz Sheikh, Sanam Saeed, Mohib Mirza, Ayesha Omer, Maria Wasti, Asim Raza, Saqib Malik, Asad-ul-Haq + Farah Haq, Tariq Amin, Fifi Haroon, Rukaiya Adamjee, Tapu Javeri, Nubain Ali, Shamoon Abassi, Hasan Sheharyar Yasin(HSY), Khadijah Shah, Maheen Karim, Saba Ansari, Fouzia Amaan, Sachal Afzal, Tabesh Khoja(Khoji), Fatima Hasan, Mahvaish Rehman, Misbah Momin, Asad + Laila Premjee, Adil + Saima Haider, Adnan + Nida Tapal, Raza + Mehreen Agha, Chandni Saigol, Marium Ahmed, Farah Leghari, Simeen Tapal, Mikaal Habib, Ushna Malik, Rashmi Kumari, Aatiqa Lateef, Mehr Hamid, Ali Ahmed, Asim Butt, Mahjabeen Obaid, Iman Habib and Farah Kapadia Mehboob among others.
Amid the glitz and glamour of celebrities, socialites and fashionistas, a number of artists, designers, corporate leaders, journalists/bloggers and media personalities also attended the event. Also present were Moyena Niazi, hotel architect; Sabeen R. Shiraz, interior designer of the hotel and Deepak Perwani, the hotel’s official stylist who also designed the staff uniforms.
Hosted by Kasim Kasuri, CEO and Chief Design Curator of Ambiance Hotels, the event was marked by ‘Living Art: Episode Two’, an immersive theatre performance directed by theatre actor Vajdaan Shah which bridged the gap between the visual and performing arts. Uber-creative and distinctive, the Living Art’s performance was an amalgamation of 18 different stories inspired by the artwork displayed at Ambiance Hotel, each of which was selected by the Ambiance Curators’ Committee which includes Professor Salima Hashmi former Principal National College of Arts’, Professor Shehnaz Ismail founding member of Indus Valley School, Adeela Suleman Director Vasl Artists’ Association and Ambiance’s own Kasim Kasuri.
Guests were mesmerized as they interacted with the performing actors who individually; in couples and groups told an interwoven tale which included themes of sibling separation, lost love, the trauma of war, regeneration and celebration replete with mad scientists; fem-bots, singing robots, guns, operating theatres and surgeons in scrubs and cake; all buoyed by intense action and stellar believable depictions. Audience members walked through several rooms to follow the trajectory of the performances in four time slots between 06.30PM and 10.30PM.
Living Art:Episode Two
Speaking on the occasion Kasim Kasuri, who describes himself as a ‘serial art collector’, commented; “we built Ambiance to redefine hospitality by offering curated experiences to its patrons as Pakistan’s first network of boutique art hotels. Art is centre-stage at the hotel, not just in terms of the paintings on our walls but in terms of our overall design aesthetic. While staying at Ambiance, you get to live, breathe, and immerse yourself in visually and aesthetically appealing art in multiple forms”.
The newly-launched hotel, a green oasis situated in Clifton Block 5 in the heart of Karachi, showcases over 200 original works of art from emerging and mid-career Pakistani artists including Atif Khan, Mohsin Shafi, Sonia Chundrighar, Beygum Bano, Tooba Ashraf and many others.
The Ambiance Boutique Art Hotel is separated into four spacious blocks and currently has 24 rooms, 10 of which are already operational. In the near future it will offer guests 42 luxuriously-appointed accommodations including the upcoming ‘Ambiance Garden Suites’, each one featuring a lush green private garden. A spa and other facilities are also expected to be launched.
Ambiance Boutique Art Hotel, Karachi.
Between the acts guests luxuriated and enjoyed delicious aperitifs including sushi, grilled chicken strips and chocolate brownies along with refreshing mint and beetroot juices at ‘Ambiance Express’, a first-of its-kind complete hotel restaurant which serves a carefully curated menu of global comfort food.
Later invitees attended a rooftop celebration party hosted by Kasim and Sophia Kasuri replete with cake-cutting, a live DJ and an artist couple, Safwan Subzwari and Marium Kamal working live on vibrant oversize canvas.
Renowned for their thoughtfully-crafted interiors and soulful vibe, Ambiance Boutique Art Hotel first launched in Lahore in October 2020.
Pakistan’s pioneering production and public relations (PR) agency Catwalk Event Management Productions (Pvt.) Limited headed by Frieha Atlaf (popularly known as Queen-of-K), has 32 years of experience and is responsible for orchestrating this unique launch event in Karachi and its public relations (PR).
The 20th edition of ‘Lux Style Awards’ was a star studded evening that honored winners and announced Life-time Achievements for three noteworthy Entertainment and Fashion legends. The much loved event featured celebrities from the Fashion, Music, and Television fraternities. Due to Covid, this year’s submissions did not receive any entries in Film. The 20th year, a milestone for the Lux Style Awards, that has hosted many glittering gala evenings, was celebrated exclusively with limited presence of media, nominees and performers, adhering to government’s standard operating procedures (SOPs). To assure this, the recorded show was an all-day production and was divided into multiple dedicated slots.
The hosts for the evening included Mehwish Hayat and Ahsan Khan and the duo of Ahmed Ali Butt and Mansha Pasha. Every bit of the show-flow, was designed around the #LSA4Pakistan and focused on building up and appreciating the Pakistan fashion and entertainment industries. The ‘Lux Style Awards’ are much acclaimed for recognizing both the high achievers and encouraging new emerging talent and in its 20th year, the show stayed true to its ethos of recognizing Pakistan’s varied talent.
The day-long red carpet was magnificent as for the first time it included a live catwalk that was a perfect spot to showcase the many varied fashion hits that strolled down. Hosts Dino and Ayesha Omar plus a plethora of channels, electronic and digital were seen in action as celebrities walked down in momentous outfits. While some rushed towards the show, Asim Azhar shared his first Lux Style Awards experience and music nominees; Bayaan, Baluch Twins and Abbas Ali Khan sang snippets of tracks during interviews.
The TRESquad featuring Hareem Farooq, Nimra Jacob, Maha Tahirani and Sarah Zulfiqar made an appearance at the ‘Lux Style Awards’ red-carpet together while Ali Rehman, Uzair Jaswal, Shahbaz Shigri, and Imran Ashraf entertained the media with their antics.
At the red-carpet we loved the ultra-feminine looks with Mira Sethi in jeweled long gloves by Hussain Rehar, to Mushk Kaleem in a gorgeous trail by Sana Safinaz. the ‘Lux Style Awards’ look was classy and elegant with all the excitement and bonhomie, which was was evident to all.
The night began with the national anthem sung by music veteran, Shehzad Roy. Starting off the show, Amir Paracha, CEO, and Chairman of Unilever Pakistan took over the stage to welcome the audience to the milestone 20th year of glitz and glam. He said; “Lux Style Awards began as a means to spread the message of Lux to the audience via fashion, music, television and film but it has become so much more. It has encouraged entertainers to persevere with their talent and continue to bring joy to their fans. The real meaning of the LSAs is the hope that comes with it and how it has battled during tough times, like natural disasters, political instability, or a pandemic. The LSAs have gone on without breaking momentum, transforming from a LUX platform to Pakistan’s platform internationally. Our hashtag this is year is LSA4Pakistan.”
With that, the show opened with a star-studded Lux Style Awards anthem ‘Sitare, sitare, aasmaan kay tarey, keh raha hai yeh pal, aaj hum hain yahan’, which featured a line-up of celebrities. The anthem was composed by Bilal Maqsood and sung by Aima Baig, Uzair Jaswal, Asim Azhar and the Young Stunners. Many celebrities joined the stage such as Mahira Khan, Meera Jee, Ayesha Omar and couturier Ali Xeeshan and show choreographer Frieha Altaf.
Following this, Ahmed Ali Butt, who has continuously entertained audiences with his quick wit and humour and Mansha Pasha, the versatile actress, hosted the music segment. The segment included awards given to the best singer of the year, the best song of the year, best emerging talent and best music video director. It started with music dynamo Bilal Maqsood and Mira Sethi, wearing Hussain Rehar, presenting the best emerging talent in music award to Aziz Kazi for Shantarum, a meditational track. Friends, Asim Azhar and Uzair Jaswal presented the award of best video director to Hamza Bin Tahir for Teri Tasveer by Bayaan. Recently engaged Aima Baig and Shahbaz Shigri graced the stage to present song of the year to Bayaan for Teri Tasveer and singer of the year to Abbas Ali Khan for Mein Yeh Janoun Na. CEO of Airsial, Ameem Hasan joined them on stage to present the latter.
The Unilever Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Award was dedicated to Farida Khanum, known as the Queen of Ghazal during her active years. Famously known for her songs, Aaj Jaane Ki Zidd Na Karo and Woh Ishq Jo Humse Rooth Gaya, Farida Khanum has been a singer with an inner muse who expressed her identity in every song. A dedication of love to her was performed by Mehwish Hayat and Resham to the melodious Punjabi numbers of “Balle Balle” and “Meinay Pairoon Mein Payal Tau Bandhi Nahin”. Both Mehwish and Resham gave the legendary singer a heartfelt tribute through their energetic yet elegant dances, and Unilever Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amir Paracha read out a befitting tribute, standing beside the lovely Mahira Khan on stage. Farida Khanum’s message as she accepted the award was then played out. Ending the segment was the fabulous Tabish Hashmi, a spectacular comedian who has recently rightfully earned fame. Tabish walked down to the audience and roasted some of the nominees, creating moments of laughter.
The second segment of the show starred the Laal Kabootar star Mansha Pasha and the brilliant Mehwish Hayat together. The ladies asked Asima Haq, Director of Beauty and Personal Care at Unilever Pakistan to introduce the ‘Lux Style Awards’ newly initiated Lux Change Makers Award. Asima Haq said, “This award has been created to recognize the change-makers in the industry. As a brand ‘Lux’ has always endorsed a positive attitude towards everything feminine and this award recognizes the female strength of women in the industry that has created change in the world with their art and content.”
Asima Haq then announced the award posthumously for the late Haseena Moin, playwright par excellence, as the first recipient of the award. The iconic Haseena Moin wrote memorable female characters. A tribute to her played out, which featured celebrities like Behroze Sabzwari and Marina Khan who spoke about Haseena Moin’s larger-than-life energy and how she created dreams. She was a woman who knew her worth and wanted to showcase women who carried the same attitude, leading to characters like Dhoop Kinaray’s Dr. Zoya. Haseena Moin’s award was accepted by her niece Sadaf, who spoke of how her aunt, her father’s sister, inspired so many to live out their lives with courage and independence.
To present the Lifetime Achievement Award in Fashion, Safinaz Muneer Co-founder of Sana Safinaz, and Shamoon Sultan, founder of Khaadi were given the honors to award legendary Fashion Designer Banto Kazmi. Banto Kazmi has been an inspiration for many younger than her in the industry, as well as to the girls whose lives she has added much joy into, by bringing color to their bridal dresses and weddings.
Debonair, male model, Hasnain Lehri and chic female model, Mushk Kaleem came on stage to start off the awards in the fashion category; best emerging talent and best hair and makeup artist. The best emerging talent in fashion was bagged by a promising model, Sarah Zulfiqar.
Salman Ahmed, musician, famously known for band Junoon and actress, Azekah Daniyel continued the segment and went on to award best fashion photographer and achievement in fashion-pret. Achievement in fashion pret was won again by Generation who wanted to thank their customers, adding that every time somebody wears a generation outfit, they add a sentence to their colorful story.
Ahsan Khan, the host for the second bit of the fashion segment, joined Mehwish Hayat and invited two former LSA winners’ Nadia Hussain and Fouzia Aman to present the Best Menswear Designer award to Ismail Farid. The gorgeous Sunita Marshall and high-end designer Hasan Sheharyar Yasin (HSY) announced model of the year (female) and this award was won by Mushk Kaleem, who was dressed in an extravagant stand-out hot pink gown. Ayesha Omar and Azfar Rehman were welcomed onto the stage to present the model of the year (male) award to Sachal Afzal. Ayesha Omar looked stunning in an all-gold, gemmed body-hugging dress.
Achievement in fashion-luxury and bridal were announced by Emaad Irfani and Saboor Ali. Tabish Hashmi roasted some of the fashion category nominees and the breaks of entertainment were appreciated.
The last segment of the show was hosted by Ahmed Ali Butt and Mansha Pasha. The elegant Youmna Zaidi announced the best emerging talent award, followed by dapper Imran Ashraf announcing Best Writer and Best Television Director. To no surprise to the audience, Umera Ahmed won the best writer award for Alif, an artistically pleasing drama and Farooq Rind won the award of best television director for Pyar Ke Sadqay.
A heart-tugging performance by Asim Azhar in the middle of the awards made the audience emotional as he sang “Nimmi Nimmi” an original by the late Farhad Humayun, the Overload vocalist who was remembered for leaving this world too soon. An obituary video played behind Asim as he sang, featuring industry stalwarts who were no more. Tweets by celebrity friends were also shared on screen.
Television’s biggest night was swept by the two Hum television serials Ehd e Wafa and Pyaar Kay Sadqay, with Ehd e Wafa walking away with Best television serial and Yamna Zaidi sweeping the Best Actress Awards for Critics and Viewer’s Choice categories. For the men, it was Bilal Abbas for Pyar Kay Sadqay and Danish Taimoor for Geo’s Deewangi.
The grand finale featured a plethora of power-packed performances by the Parey Hut Love stars Mahira Khan, Meera and Sheheryar Munnawar for the perfect finale. Director Asim Raza and Producer Fizza Ali Meerza talked about how 2020 ruined the film industry by shutting down cinemas and halting projects. While no films were made, the desire to make films lives on, and as everybody knows music and film go hand in hand.
Mahira Khan, Sheheryar Munawar, Ahmed Ali Butt, and Meera jee, performed on the lively songs that stayed popular all year round and were played multiple times at weddings: Haye Dil Bechara, Ik Pal, and Morey Saiyaan. Each performance looked spectacular because of the graphics behind and the magic created by Nomi Ansari, with every performer’s outfit stitched with intricate detail to be noticeable on stage.
This year’s Lux Style Awards were partnered by Sialkot-run state of the art airline, AirSial as the travel partner, Tresemme as hair partner, Magnum as snack partner, Lipton as beverage partner, Geo Television as media partner and A.F Fergusons as award’s auditors.
The backstage was buzzing with the help of booths put up by sponsors. Celebrities prepared backstage by the Tresemme booths as Tresemme announced two best tressed (dressed) awards for celebrities who exhibited trend and style backstage. Nimra Jacob and Ali Rehman won these titles along with iPhone 12s.
The 20th Lux Style Awards was conceived & directed by Frieha Altaf at Catwalk, show dancing choreography by Nigah, show script by Nabeel, Fizza & Ahmed Ali Butt, television production by Nadeem J, hair & makeup by Nabilas & NGents, event design by Jalal Salahuddin, official photography by Faisal Farooqui at Dragonfly, performance costumes by Nomi Ansari, show styling by Mavi & Rao, team Reactivate for all the content on Lux’s own social media handles and finally Talking Point for awards management, and digital media and print media.
This year’s event was its 20th years since its inception and this make LSA as the first Pakistani Awards Show to reach that milestone! Some of the highlights of this year’s 20th Lux Style Awards are to start from Pakistan’s most sought after face, i.e. Mahira Khan, she was the star of this show with three impeccable and outstanding performances. Her popularity has gone beyond borders and she truly is a superstar of this era and has been associated with Lux for ages.
Apart from regular segments and performances this year’s Lux Style Awards added some uniqueness to their fold by adding an event’s anthem for first time. This star studded anthem feature 20+ celebrities and was another nod to their hashtag #LSA4Pakistan. This anthem was composed by Bilal Maqsood and aimed to commemorate the 20th year of Lux Style Awards. A star studded performance was a tribute to the emerging talent and the many personalities who have performed on the LSA stage
Tabish Hashmi, now a known comedian for his sardonic wit and humor was something not experienced before at an award show. He kept the show alive by dropping in to roast nominees, something that we don’t see enough of in Pakistani shows.
A news award was also initiated, which seemed very important, the Change Maker’s Award for artists who push the envelope for their narrative of those Pakistani women who bring about a change in society
One of other main highlight of this year’s LSA was it being very well-organized with an ample amount of space for everyone present. This very well-organized show with plenty of spread out photo opportunities, at no point people were squished together. This meant nobody was pushing anybody and the air conditioning was at chilled temperatures throughout the show. The show followed proper standard operating procedures (SOP) throughout.
US-based brand Encounter Scents under the aegis of Dua Fragrances held its Virtual Launch on June 5, 2021 with great fanfare. The virtual event with strict Covid SOPs in place was orchestrated by Catwalk Event Management & Productions.
Hosts Mahsam Raza, CEO of Dua Fragrances and Encounter Scents; and Partner and Board Director, Actor/TV Host and Producer Faysal Quraishi invited guests to a cool ambience replete with socially distanced white benches; a dainty flower-filled barrow fragrance counter – which held samples of the five existing Encounter Scents For Him and For Her fragrances including ‘COMPLIMENT‘; ‘CONFIDENCE‘; ‘ROMANTIC‘; ‘SEDUCTION‘ and ‘IN THE CLUB‘- and delicious hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.
Guests included myriad members from the entertainment industry including actors Shahzad Nawaz; Aijaz Aslam; Nabeel Zafar; Naveed Raza; Haroon Shahid; Zain Afzal; Faizan Shaikh; Aadi Adeal Amjad and actress and model Dur-e-Fishan Saleem as well entrepreneur and designer Asim Jofa, publicist Rasik Ismail and a medley of leading bloggers, Vloggers, media and talented contestants from the game show ‘Khush Raho Pakistan’ which Faisal Quraishi hosts.
Host Dino Ali interviewed guests on the Encounter Scents carpet and queried them about their favourite Encounter Scents fragrances and about their colleague Faysal Quraishi’s passion for fragrances. Some celebrity guests were tested during a blindfold game in which they were asked to try and guess any of the 10 existing scents.
Dino later invited the men of the hour Mahsam and Faysal on stage with it’s two large screens which show-reeled a 90 second promo film and congratulatory shout outs from gift box recipients (who highly praised the brand’s fragrances) including actors Saba Faisal; Ahsan Khan; Sana Fakhar and Rabab Hashim as well Mustafa Hemani, CEO of Hemani Group and Frieha Altaf CEO of Catwalk Event Management & Productions.
On stage Faysal Quraishi reminisced about his struggling days during which he would still make saving up to buy fragrances a priority, highlighting his lifelong passion for scents. “When you meet someone something that is indelibly remembered and lingers on after the encounter is the fragrance that the other person was wearing,” Faisal said, adding that he and partner Mahsam had a similar passion for perfume and that there was “a story behind each of the Encounter Scents fragrances.” Mahsam Raza reiterated this fact when he explained the genesis of one of the fragrances, Confidence for Him.
“Each ingredient was cherry picked according to all the fragrance notes my father liked” adding that all the ingredients used in Encounter Scents are derived straight from the source without a middleman. Mahsam went on to speak and enthuse about the brand’s philosophy: “Encounter Scents is dedicated to providing its loyal customers with an assortment of high quality fragrances for all of life’s special moments according to different preferences.”
When a blogger and influencer asked what set Encounter Scents apart from other perfume brands and why anyone should endorse or buy from the brand, Faysal answered stoically. “What are some important qualities that should be in a fragrance apart from a pleasant scent? Firstly other people should immediately notice the scent and remember it so it makes a lasting impression. Secondly, scents should be long-lasting; two qualities Encounter Scents inhabits.”
Mahsam and Faysal also spoke about their focus on establishing the fragrances in Pakistan and about then “working on many other plans and developing other products” When asked about possible brand ambassadors Mahsam said they would look for certain qualities in their picks:
“Our male and female brand ambassadors should be relatable; innocent and down-to-earth; have a sense of style and they must have a passion for and love perfumes.” When asked if Faysal would lend his name on a signature scent, both partners smiled and said there is an upcoming “surprise” that will be unveiled shortly.
Encounter Scents is currently developing another set of six additional fragrances to the line; three for men and three for women. Mahsam enthuses that the Encounter Fragrances are currently sold out in the US solely by word-of-mouth; blind buys and trust.
After brief introduction by Mahsam Raza and Faysal Quraishi , some celebrities were invited by the host to share their views, and first one to come up was Shahzad Nawaz, Shahzad Nawaz congratulated Faysal Qureshi and Mahsam Raza on their launch of ‘Encounter Scents’ and said; “as far as fragrances are concerned, I consider myself a bohemian, but once I got my hands on ‘In the Club by Encounter Scents’, my perception changed. This fragrance ‘In the Club by Encounter Scents’ with its strong fragrance and aroma gives it an Alpha feel to it”.
Aijazz Aslam congratulated Faysal Quraishi on launch of ‘Encounter Scents’ and said; “since I have been knowing Faysal Qureshi, I have always seen that perfume was a must for him. Even during his initial times when budget use to be minimal, when even we went around to shop, first this he use to opt for was always a perfume”. He further added by saying; “Faysal use to say, I don’t want to sell a perfume bottle, I want to sell a perfume”.
Dur-e-fishan said; “I liked the strong fragrance and it resonates with my taste of fragrance”. Other celebrities who also shared their reviews on stage included Tehseen Javaid, Sana Faysal, Nabeel Qureshi, Aadi Adeel Amjad, Naveed Raza and may more.
Encounter Scents fragrances will initially be available only online in Pakistan on the brand’s website with payment made through Shopify. The ordinarily PKR 13,500 fragrances will be offered at an introductory sale price of PKR 10,000 each, accessible through the company’s website www.encounterscents.pk
Day three and the finale of the groundbreaking ‘Catwalk Cares’ Virtual Fashion Show was filled with high-voltage glamour and star power including uber-luxe sartorial showcases by fashion royalty and showstopper appearances by Sarwat Gilani, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Ayesha Omer and Kiran Malik.
The couture king of kaleidoscopic colour Nomi Ansari opened episode three and said he was happy to see the whole fashion industry, designers, models, team-Nabila and Catwalk forging together united and supporting the front-liners and the industry, while remaining strong and supporting one another. He also spoke about the difficulty of the ration distribution work he was involved in but exulted about Pakistan being “an amazing nation”. Equally elegant and graceful was the four-looks “Festive Couture” capsule of signature Nomi Ansari pieces modeled by Ansari’s favourite muse veteran super-model Fauzia Amaan including a shimmery midnight blue sari worn with a backless cut-out blouse; a classic twirly can-can sharara in pastel floral hues; a black and silver glittery lehngha choli and a pastel floral kaleidoscopic sharara with matching sleek top. Ebullient bright and uplifting the capsule exuded effortless glamour.
Safinaz Muneer of powerhouse fashion giant Sana Safinaz felt Catwalk Cares was “an amazing initiative” and thanked Frieha Altaf while continuing to “pray for the front-liners”. The label’s three piece fusion couture capsule “Anatalya” was inspired by Greco Roman statues and, draping techniques from classical antiquity and modeled by dusky Maha Taharani who paid tribute to the front-liners using luxurious georgette and a colour palette of deep solid hues which were transposed onto contemporary and minimalistic silhouettes embellished with pearls and crystals in floral motifs, and accessorized with hand cut brooches and belts. These included an inky-navy blue asymmetric cold -shoulder georgette shirt artfully draped and cinched at the waist for all the right reasons with a crystal and pearl, floral motif hand cut brooch accentuating the waistline. Matching flared pants completed this signature Sana Safinaz East meets West couture look.In a maximalist shade of crimson, a fiery georgette shirt took a cue from draping techniques used in classical antiquity with an antique silver hand- made belt encircling one side of the waist with the accompanying red raw silk pants adding texture and interest.Finally with a free flowing silhouette for fuss -free glamour, a jewel toned forest green shirt was adorned at the navel with a silver hand- cut fluttering butterfly in incandescent silver crystals with the front -open shirt worn over elegant forest- green pants creating an elongated and sleek look. Classic Sana Safinaz elegance and high-voltage glamour at its finest.
Sonya Battla the maven of minimalism said she was excited to be part of ‘Catwalk Cares’ and thought the exercise was “a considerate and well thought out effort to celebrate the brave front-liners while bringing the industry together and challenging it to be creative while observing social distancing during the lockdown”. Battla’s three piece capsule collection “Chawkhandi” was inspired by the embossed clay etching found at the historic Chaukhandi Tombs and wove together classic prints and Springtime hues for timeless ready- to-wear pieces in pure cotton paired with elegant chiffon dupattas. Battla’s muse was actor and social activist Sarwat Gilani whose own minimalist personal style mirrors that of the designer. Sarwat effortlessly glided in an easy breezy day look in a deep carnation hue; matching white separates that can be dressed up or down depending on one’s mood, and lastly a classic black number that boosts one’s evening style up a notch. With a timeless aesthetic each of the pieces that focus on the draping of the fabric and how it complements the body are closet staples leaving room for one to accessories and play around with one’s individual aesthetic. Classic, versatile and easy breezy elegance for myriad occasions. Sarwat Gilani while shown to be practicing her ten steps catwalk said she was extremely proud and excited to be part of Catwalk Cares and “saluted the front-liners who worked tirelessly to ensure that we all stay safe and healthy” and further lauded Catwalk Cares as “Fashion with a Cause!”
Omar Farooq, Creative Director of multiple award-winning menswear label Republic opined that he thought Catwalk Cares was “a brilliant initiative and very creative of Frieha Altaf who is always good at what she does”. Republic also used a celebrity showstopper in the form of TV and film heartthrob Mikaal Zulfiqar who dazzled in a navy blue cotton shalwar kurta worn with a midnight blue tropical wool waistcoat embossed with a hand-embroidered Republic emblem-logo. Mikaal while shown to groom himself backstage hoped that “we would soon revert to the old normal from this new normal “and said he would continue to send his “salaans and duas to the brave front-liners.”The other two pieces in Republic’s capsule “Majorelle”, which was inspired by the ebullience of botanical gardens were worn by supernova model Walid Siddiqui and included a sky blue short kurta worn with slim pants and faded inky and botanical hued embossed waistcoat and a similar white and grey combo. Smart, sleek and fashion- forward ‘Majorelle ‘ also exuded an uplifting positivity.
Global glam-couturier Faraz Manan said he felt that Catwalk Cares was a “symbol of hope and resilience” while supporting and paying respect to the brave front-liners and his participation was about what he and his label do best: “remaining positive”. His summer couture capsule which had an easy breezy resort vibe imbibed the essence of the signature classic Faraz Mannan aesthetic and was modeled by his close friend and muse;, actor, model , fashion entrepreneur and all round stylista Kiran Malik. The three piece capsule included a sleek, shimmery ivory Grecian draped sari hybrid; a breezy cream bell-sleeved opera overlay coat worn with slim pants and a short tunic and a soft canary sleeveless shirt tunic worn with flared pants. Kiran who was seen to be making up her face with ZERO.com make up by Nabila the makeup partner for ‘Catwalk Cares’ said she was super excited to be part of the virtual fashion show and thanked Nabila for tutoring her for her makeup look while paying tribute to the brave front-liners.
The finale designer bridal couturier Shehla Chatoor who said she was excited to be part of an exercise that united the Fashion world introduced her luminous collection “Noor: The Divine Light”; a light of hope to counter the bleak pandemic. Using rich fabric including gossamer tulle and pure organza, in luminescent hues of ash grey and cream-white, two stunning handcrafted ensembles were fashioned into sleek, contemporary silhouettes and beautifully embellished with, intricate, rich traditional embroidery including Zardosi, thread-work, mirror-work and deft cut-work elements dovetailed with modern pearl and Swarovski accents and modeled by statuesque supernova model Mushk Kaleem of whom Shehla says “her fiery elegance lights up Shehla’s clothes” ushering in a fresh modern nuance to the Fashion world, the individual objects d’art-paired with coordinating jeweled protective masks, using signature Shehla embroideries and silhouettes were offset with contemporary details such as sculpted organza ruffles, scallops and voluminous pleating details that offered an element of refreshing vivacity, captivating glamour and versatility. To further represent this seamless blend of the bold and the elegant Shehla chose actor, host singer and fashionista Ayesha Omer as her showstopper calling her “the ultimate Shehla Chatoor IT girl. Ayesha dazzled in a floral embroidered can-can sharara skirt paired with a sleek backless stomach-baring long-sleeved blouse end noted with an Elizabethan type ruffle made from fresh flowers. Exquisite, regal and uber-glamorous ’Noor’ was effervescently uplifting, radiating both hope and ebullience.
The Catwalk Cares Virtual Fashion Show ended on a positive high note with images and footage of the brave front-liners in their PPE suits posing together and receiving Eid outfits by participating designers at Indus Hospital and the Expo Center from Frieha Altaf CEO of Catwalk Events & Production whose innovative brainchild and CSR effort united the Fashion industry and entertained the Pakistani populace for three days. Especially touching and befitting were the final appreciative claps of gratitude by the participating designers, celebrities and models thanking the brave front-liners for their brave service.
Pakistan Zindabad!
Watch Pakistan’s first ever “Catwalk Cares” Virtual Fashion Show Day 03/Episode 03 below :
Pakistan’s first ever ‘virtual fashion show’- the brainchild of Frieha Altaf CEO of Catwalk Event Management & Productions was postponed in respect to the memory of those who tragically lost their lives in the PIA A-320 jet crash including Pakistani supermodel Zara Abid. This ‘‘Catwalk Cares’’ Virtual Fashion Show will be airing on 05th, 06th & 07th of June 2020 (on YouTube -@ 07:00 PM) and (on Facebook – 09:00 PM).
The innovative digital fashion show in which 19 leading Pakistani brands show capsule pieces from their latest collections began on Day One with a general overview of all the six participating designers and their models repeatedly spouting what may now be the new ground reality in fashion show presentation: “virtual fashion show” which seemed jarring to say the least!
This was followed by more laudatory comments from participating designers and models espousing that the show is a tribute to the front-liners including Amir Adnan who said “designers care about them (front-liners) Catwalk cares about them and Fashion cares about them”
Show director Frieha Altaf thanked all the designers, models and front-liners and as a preview to the collections again reiterated that the show was dedicated to the front-liners and hoped that the Eid garments given as kind gestures of gratitude “put a smile on their faces”. Altaf further stated some statistics about the 364 Covid-19 affected health workers in Sindh seven of whom had lost their lives as well as five police officers who had passed away.
Day one kicked off with retail game-changer Khaadi whose collection ‘Bohemia’ described by KHAADI CEO Shamoon Sultan as all about “expressing one’s individuality in a fun way” was modeled by: Robina Khan. Set against a brightly-hued ethnic backdrop the four-piece capsule included vibrant fuchsia cobalt, citrine and tangerine ethnic prints transposed onto short belted bell-sleeved tunics and layered tasseled coats offset with traditional carry-on bags A vibrant and ebullient collection that gave hope in these dark times . Both designer and model thanked the front-liners for their brave services and vowed to continue to support them.
Before the next designer Maheen Karim’s showcase ‘Parizad’ which isartfully juxtaposed behind-the-scenes communications between Maheen and her chosen model Rahhima Ali, which added a bit of interest and showed the art of coordination via social media ‘Parizad’ was supposed to have been showcased at the cancelled Hum Showcase but Maheen believed Catwalk Cares was the perfect platform to showcase the capsule. Maheen had collaborated with Image Fabrics and transposed their materials into classic Maheen Karim silhouettes creating a collection “made by strong independent women two from Image Fabrics and three at Maheen Karim” Parizad was ostensibly all about empowered women and the all-white five piece capsule included swirly one-shoulder lace evening gowns; three-layered bolero tops worn with jodhpur pants and a gorgeous sari/stole hybrid evening look offset with traditional ethnic jewelry including teekas To reiterate the fact the show was a CSR activity with Fashion indubitably “caring” both designer and model again gave out thankful shout-outs to the front-liners including “doctors, nurses and policemen and women”.
The next designer Amir Adnan a forerunner of the Pakistani Fashion industrycalled show director Frieha Altaf a pioneer and was happy and excited to be part of the innovative digital fashion show that was “’paying tribute to the front-liners” His four looks Summer Festive Eid collection was modeled by enthusiastic rising star Subhan Awan and used a simple palette of lilac and deep purple juxtaposed with black and white and was transposed onto slim long and short shalwar kameezes and elegantly coordinated plain and printed waistcoats and buttoned prince coats Ironically it was a male model who was highlighted using the make-up kit Zero Make Up by NABILA which is the official hair and make-up partner for Catwalk Cares!
Huma Adnan called Frieha Altaf ‘a powerhouse who needs no introduction” as she explained why she chose supermodel Abeer Rizvi for the tribal-influenced collection because of her indigenously tribal features. The five looks ‘Kuchi’ collection was inspired by Kandahar Afghanistan and included long flowing white kuchi skirts worn with short embroidered tops and kuchi kaftan dresses in cerise, black, and pink florals organically hand-printed by Afghani refugees whom Huma closely works with. and was also paying tribute to , The festive fusion and easily translatable resort wear collection was accessorized with signature Huma Adnan handmade jewelry made by the same Afghan refugee women, Well-edited behind the scenes looks of Abeer trying on the festive tribal jewelry was energizing. Keeping in step with the dire pandemic times we are living in, Huma also showcased matching reusable and washable masks which are also available for sale while calling the front-liners “our true heroes and patriots”.
The ever eloquent and pioneering couturier Shamaeel Ansari: said she was delighted to be part of Catwalk Cares and was happy that Catwalk was “taking the first lead and that her went out to the front-liners” The opulent three piece capsule collection ‘The Light of Darkness’ was elegantly modeled by Fahmeen Ansariin myriad well-lit and close-up shots and included black and silver backless short bell-sleeved tunics worn with slim cropped cigarettes pants; scarlet one shoulder frilly tunics worn with coordinated protective masks and a luxurious gold and black high-collared opera coat with slit kimono sleeves replete with leather gloves that exuded high voltage drama and glamour!
The sixth and last designer of Day One Nida Azwer spoke about the virtual show as “the new way forward to accepting and adapting to the new normal and Catwalk Cares as a way to keep us entertained in these trying times”. Model Fahmeen Ansari before showcasing Nida Azwer’s luxury formal collection Anemone’ highlighted the versatility of TRESemmé hair products – TRESemmé being the official Hair Partners for Catwalk Cares – with a fun montage of her washing and blow drying her tresses The four piece ‘Anemone’ capsule included timeless pieces carefully hand-embroidered using the finest quality fabrics enhanced with delicate crystal, traditional intricate resham & zardozi embroidery. The season-less separates that included kalidars and jackets which can be paired in multiple ways radiated in soft hues of pinks, gold silver and ivory and are indubitably collector items.
Day one ended with a heart-warming photo montage tribute to supermodel Zara Abid (1992-2020) and “all the precious lives lost on the tragic PIA A-320 jet crash” against a lilting soundtrack of iconic Pakistani band Strings 2018 hit ‘urr Jaoon’ (fly away) . The montage included glowing tributes by friends and colleagues who had worked with the late super model including designers Sana Safinaz, Khadijah Shah of Élan and Nomi Ansari and models and actresses Mushk Kaleem,Abeer Rizvi and Saba Qamar who had narrated the debut short film ‘Sikka’ in whichZara acted in a double role.
Deft, edgy, well executed and well-edited and genuinely highlighting the fact that Fashion and Catwalk truly cares, day one was an encouraging and inspiring harbinger of more great fashion with heart to come.
Watch Pakistan’s first ever “Catwalk Cares” Virtual Fashion Show Day 01/Episode 01 below :
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