This International Women’s Day, we got talking to a few talents from across the border as we celebrate how we have grown leaps and bounds in our understanding of the feminine gender, appreciating their strength and resilience, what they bring to the table and how important it is to give them a favourable nurturing environment for them to flourish.

Pakistani artists who made inroads into Indian entertainment space via their television serials and became a household name, open up about their source of strength and how they envision a better, balanced world for all to thrive.&nbsp;

<h2>Iqra Aziz on Women's Day</h2>

In an exclusive chat with WION,&nbsp;Pakistani artists who we've seen in many Zindagi shows and films spoke to us about their real role models who have inspired them on journey of fame and success.

Commenting on the strong roles she often picks up to play on screen, Iqra Aziz said,&nbsp;"Playing strong female leads has been deeply meaningful, but the strongest women in my life are those who empower me behind the scenes. My mother, in particular, is my rock - supporting me unconditionally through every twist and turn. She has taught me resilience in the face of challenges and given me the courage to break barriers. Her quiet strength and wisdom inspires me daily.”

The actress added,&nbsp;"Another star in my life is my elder sister. She uplifts and motivates me, lending an ear when I need guidance and sharing their own experiences. No matter my achievements, I know they'll keep me grounded. It's the sisterhood of these remarkable women that gives me the confidence to take on new roles and continue growing. Their faith in me makes me believe I can accomplish anything. Portraying bold characters is fulfilling, but it's the real-life women who lift me higher.”

<h2>Saba Qamar on Women's Day</h2>

Hindi Medium fame Saba Qamar, another prolific Pakistani actress said, “It's so heartening to see the deep bonds between women taking centre stage in today's shows and movies. For too long, female characters were depicted as rivals vying for male attention. But some of my most profound connections in life are with other women – my mother, sisters, friends who are like family."

She added, "When we come together with empathy and support, instead of envy, it's empowering beyond measure.”

<h2>Shailja Kejriwal on Women's Day</h2>

Shailja Kejriwal, Chief Creative Officer of Special projects of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited said on the occasion of Women’s Day, “Women’s solidarity forms a robust network of empowerment, shattering barriers and igniting transformation. Through our #TumseMain campaign, Zindagi celebrates this bond, amplifying women’s voices and honouring their resilience, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-shaitaan-review-r-madhavans-sinister-act-isnt-enough-to-save-this-weak-story-697943">Shaitaan review: R Madhavan's sinister act isn't enough to save this weak story&nbsp;</a>

Cinema truly is a reflection of our times. With the younger generation more sensitised about gender roles in the society and in our homes, things have improved for actresses of our time.

They not only have a bargaining power but also command a point of view, something the fairer sex never had to begin with in this industry or any other.&nbsp;

This International Women’s Day, we got talking to a few talents from across the border as we celebrate how we have grown leaps and bounds in our understanding of the feminine gender, appreciating their strength and resilience, what they bring to the table and how important it is to give them a favourable nurturing environment for them to flourish.

This International Women’s Day, we got talking to a few talents from across the border as we celebrate how we have grown leaps and bounds in our understanding of the feminine gender, appreciating their strength and resilience, what they bring to the table and how important it is to give them a favourable nurturing environment for them to flourish. Pakistani artists who made inroads into Indian entertainment space via their television serials and became a household name, open up about their source of strength and how they envision a better, balanced world for all to thrive. Iqra Aziz on Women's Day In an exclusive chat with WION, Pakistani artists who we've seen in many Zindagi shows and films spoke to us about their real role models who have inspired them on journey of fame and success. Commenting on the strong roles she often picks up to play on screen, Iqra Aziz said, "Playing strong female leads has been deeply meaningful, but the strongest women in my life are those who empower me behind the scenes. My mother, in particular, is my rock - supporting me unconditionally through every twist and turn. She has taught me resilience in the face of challenges and given me the courage to break barriers. Her quiet strength and wisdom inspires me daily.” The actress added, "Another star in my life is my elder sister. She uplifts and motivates me, lending an ear when I need guidance and sharing their own experiences. No matter my achievements, I know they'll keep me grounded. It's the sisterhood of these remarkable women that gives me the confidence to take on new roles and continue growing. Their faith in me makes me believe I can accomplish anything. Portraying bold characters is fulfilling, but it's the real-life women who lift me higher.” Saba Qamar on Women's Day Hindi Medium fame Saba Qamar, another prolific Pakistani actress said, “It's so heartening to see the deep bonds between women taking centre stage in today's shows and movies. For too long, female characters were depicted as rivals vying for male attention. But some of my most profound connections in life are with other women – my mother, sisters, friends who are like family." She added, "When we come together with empathy and support, instead of envy, it's empowering beyond measure.” Shailja Kejriwal on Women's Day Shailja Kejriwal, Chief Creative Officer of Special projects of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited said on the occasion of Women’s Day, “Women’s solidarity forms a robust network of empowerment, shattering barriers and igniting transformation. Through our #TumseMain campaign, Zindagi celebrates this bond, amplifying women’s voices and honouring their resilience, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day.” Also read: Shaitaan review: R Madhavan's sinister act isn't enough to save this weak story Cinema truly is a reflection of our times. With the younger generation more sensitised about gender roles in the society and in our homes, things have improved for actresses of our time. They not only have a bargaining power but also command a point of view, something the fairer sex never had to begin with in this industry or any other.

Pakistani artists to WION on Mother's Day: Real-life role models and making profound connections

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”.&nbsp;

A bench of justices comprising SVN Bhatti and Sanjiv Khanna said that they were not inclined to interfere with the order of the Bombay High Court which had junked the plea filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who claimed that he was an artiste and a cine worker.&nbsp;

"You should not press this appeal. Do not be so narrow-minded," stated the bench. Supreme Court further refused the submission of the plea to expunge some remarks which were made against the petitioner by the high court.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-20-year-old-medical-aspirant-found-dead-in-rajasthans-kota-663788">India: 20-year-old medical aspirant found dead in Rajasthan's Kota</a>

The petitioner had sought the direction of the court for the central government to impose a complete ban on companies, Indian citizens, associations and firms from soliciting or employing any work or performance, entering into any association, or taking any services and so on with any Pakistani artist like musicians, singers, cine workers, technicians and lyricists.&nbsp;

<h2>Bombay High Court calls petition ‘a retrograde step’&nbsp;</h2>

The petition was dismissed by the Bombay High Court which stated that the measures being sought by the petitioner were a retrograde step in the promotion of peace, unity and cultural harmony, and there is no merit in it. "One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country," the court stated.

"A true patriot is a person who is selfless, who is devoted to the cause of his country, which he cannot be unless he is a person who is good at heart. A person who is good at heart would welcome in his country any activity which promotes peace, harmony, and tranquility within the country and across the border," it added.

Watch:&nbsp;India PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine | New Zealand to scrap 'smoking ban'&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pm-modi-visits-tirupati-shrine-new-zealand-to-scrap-smoking-ban-trending-on-wion-663438/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In its order, the high court had stated that music, arts, sports, dance, culture and so on are the kinds of activities which are above cultures, nationalities and nations, and these events bring unity, harmony, tranquility and peace in the country and between countries. &nbsp;

The high court stated how Pakistan was a participant in the Cricket World Cup. He added that this occurred because the Indian government took appreciable positive steps in the interest of harmony and overall peace in consonance with Article 51 of the Constitution of India which is regarding the promotion of international security and peace.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”. A bench of justices comprising SVN Bhatti and Sanjiv Khanna said that they were not inclined to interfere with the order of the Bombay High Court which had junked the plea filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who claimed that he was an artiste and a cine worker. "You should not press this appeal. Do not be so narrow-minded," stated the bench. Supreme Court further refused the submission of the plea to expunge some remarks which were made against the petitioner by the high court. Also read: India: 20-year-old medical aspirant found dead in Rajasthan's Kota The petitioner had sought the direction of the court for the central government to impose a complete ban on companies, Indian citizens, associations and firms from soliciting or employing any work or performance, entering into any association, or taking any services and so on with any Pakistani artist like musicians, singers, cine workers, technicians and lyricists. Bombay High Court calls petition ‘a retrograde step’ The petition was dismissed by the Bombay High Court which stated that the measures being sought by the petitioner were a retrograde step in the promotion of peace, unity and cultural harmony, and there is no merit in it. "One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country," the court stated. "A true patriot is a person who is selfless, who is devoted to the cause of his country, which he cannot be unless he is a person who is good at heart. A person who is good at heart would welcome in his country any activity which promotes peace, harmony, and tranquility within the country and across the border," it added. Watch: India PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine | New Zealand to scrap 'smoking ban' In its order, the high court had stated that music, arts, sports, dance, culture and so on are the kinds of activities which are above cultures, nationalities and nations, and these events bring unity, harmony, tranquility and peace in the country and between countries. The high court stated how Pakistan was a participant in the Cricket World Cup. He added that this occurred because the Indian government took appreciable positive steps in the interest of harmony and overall peace in consonance with Article 51 of the Constitution of India which is regarding the promotion of international security and peace. (With inputs from agencies)

SC calls out ‘narrow-mindedness’, rejects plea seeking complete ban on Pak artists

In a historic ruling, the Bombay High Court denied a petition calling for an outright ban on Indian nationals, businesses, and organizations hiring Pakistani performers, singers, actors, musicians, lyricists, and technicians.

Pak Artists Ban in India: Bombay court rejects plea to ban Pakistani artists from working in India

2022 has indeed been a watershed year for Pakistani pop culture as it broke boundaries to create its space on the global map. Its films particularly 'Maula Jatt' and 'Joyland' and smash hit song 'Pasoori' transcended borders asserting that there was talent in abundance in the country but had so far lacked a vision or the right platform.&nbsp;

For years, Pakistani films and particularly its music has been able to bridge the gap between Pakistan and India - which politics has miserably failed time and again. Pakistani music, its actors, and films and shows have been popular in the subcontinent for decades. In the last decade particularly there has been a growing influence of Pakistani artists in the Indian diaspora, making way for a great cultural exchange between the two countries.&nbsp;

Politics, of course, has on several occasions put a halt to this cultural exchange. One would recall how in 2016, Pakistani artists were banned from working in India. Bans, politics and borders notwithstanding, Pakistani's cultural diaspora grew into prominence in 2022. Not only did its films create box office history and carve&nbsp;a niche in various international film festivals, but its artists broke the cultural barrier and made their presence felt in Hollywood.&nbsp;

The tsunami of 'Pasoori'

For years, the online musical show Coke Studio Pakistan has been producing some of the most authentic and original music of the subcontinent. The success of numerous seasons in Pakistan has resulted in Indian and Bangladeshi versions as well but none have been able to emulate the same success of its Pakistani counterpart. In February, however, the song Pasoori put Coke Studio literally on the global map.&nbsp; 
 
Sung by Pakistani singer Ali Sethi and debutant singer Shae Gill, the song in Urdu-Punjabi,'Pasoori' was composed by Sethi and Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan.&nbsp;

Meaning 'difficulty or trouble', the idea of Pasoori came to Sethi from&nbsp;truck art that he noticed while traveling from Faisalabad to Lahore.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Eqb_-j3FDA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Interestingly, when the song came out, Sethi was already a star singer and had delivered a few hits in previous seasons of Coke Studio. The song initially drew in listeners thanks to Sethi's fan following especially on social media. But the song also introduced the world to the talented and powerful voice of Shae Gill, who until the song's release was known for singing covers of ghazals on her Instagram page.&nbsp;

The lyrics talk about heartbreak, separation, and also of self-acceptance and self-expression - themes that resonate&nbsp;with people of all age groups. 'Pasoori' truly transcended borders. From London to New York to New Delhi- the song was played wherever&nbsp;there was a south Asian population. It became the most-searched song in the world in 2022, as per Google Trends and its music video garnered over 400 million views on Youtube.&nbsp;

Fawad Khan the superstar is back&nbsp;

If 'Pasoori' dominated the charts worldwide, Fawad Khan's 'The Legend Of Maula Jatt' dominated the box office not just on home turf but in the UK as well. Directed by Bilal Lashari, the film was an adaptation of the 1979 cult classic film 'Maula Jatt' and was in the making for a while and even got delayed due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

Featuring star actor Fawad Khan in the titular role, the film was a period drama set in pre-independent Pakistan. Fawad played the titular role of Maula Jatt, a folk hero and a prizefighter who wishes vengeance against Noori Natt (Hamza Ali Abbasi), his archenemy.&nbsp;

It was also termed the most expensive Pakistani film ever and boasted a massive cast, including actors like Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, and Humaima Malik among others. The film not only broke box office records in Pakistan but also garnered a huge collection overseas- a first for the Pakistani film industry.&nbsp;

Internationally, the film made a record $355K from the United Kingdom, the highest opening weekend for any Pakistani or Punjabi film kicking off at No 9 of the box office charts. The film's largest overseas opening in UAE where it reached No&nbsp;1 with over $515,000. In the US and Canada, the film grossed $290K and $235K respectively.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pEWqOAcYgpQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

What more! Not just the audience but the film also fetched great reviews all across. 'The Legend of Maula Jatt' has received mostly positive reviews. Screen International's Namrata Joshi wrote in her review, "Despite its obvious flaws, the inordinate length and a protracted finale, The Legend… remains steadily absorbing and entertaining."

The Guardian's Cath Clarke wrote, " Imagine Game of Thrones crossed with Gladiator and you’ll have something like this entertainingly old-fashioned action movie with epic levels of throat slashing, spectacular scenery and a fair bit of camp."

Fawad has also enjoyed a huge fan following in India even though he was last seen on the Indian screen in Karan Johar's 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' way back in 2016. Owing to his huge fan following and growing interest in the film, the makers are now keen to have a limited release in India in 2023.&nbsp;

The joy of 'Joyland'

Who would have thought that a love story of a transgender, made in Pakistan, would get such immense love internationally? Which is why director Saim Sadiq's 'Joyland' was special. It made heads turn with its sensitive representation of the LGBTQ community and it was lauded for its brave storytelling across the world. Joyland became the first Pakistani film to premiere at Cannes Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation after its screening and also won Jury Prize and Queer Palm prize for best LGBTQ, queer, or feminist theme movie at the festival. 
 
The film also won accolades at Toronto International Film Festival and the Busan film Festival this year. Critics world over lauded the film for its sensitive narration of gender norms, discovering sexuality, patriarchy in the subcontinent and how society perceives the LGBTQ community in a certain way.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gy9bNgbZMJI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

While the film was cleared for a domestic release in Pakistan in August, it later faced opposition before its release in October. Many raised objections to certain scenes depicted in the film and termed it as 'erotic' and an online campaign ensued to pressurise the government to lift the ban. The film eventually got a release (with some cuts in the film) in the domestic market on November 16. It is Pakistan's official entry to the Oscars 2023 category in the best international film category and trade pundits feel it has a high chance of getting nominated in the category.&nbsp;

The marvel of 'Ms Marvel'

Imagine the south Asian community being represented in a Marvel film. Well, the 'dream' sort of came true as Marvel released its web series 'Ms Marvel' on Disney +. The web series, based on the 'Ms Marvel' character, was made by artists and writers of Pakistani origin. It was also Marvel's first attempt at tapping into the south Asian market, where its superhero films have been popular and created box office history for over a decade.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m9EX0f6V11Y" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>&gt; 
 
The web series, set in New York, narrates&nbsp;the story of Kamala Khan, a 16-year-old fangirl of the Avengers who struggles to fit in until she gains her own superpowers. The show starred hordes&nbsp;of south Asian actors with actress Iman Vellani playing the titular character.&nbsp;

Created by Bisha K&nbsp;Ali, the episodes were directed by &nbsp;Adil &amp; Bilall and gave a very accurate depiction of the South-Asian community in an American show. While the reviews were mostly mixed on the series, it was lauded for its sensitive depiction of the partition. The episode particularly won hearts for its sensitive portrayal of the horrific incident from pages of history which later defined the bitter relationship between Pakistan and India.&nbsp;

It would be unfair to say that before 2022, the west has never noticed artists from Pakistan. Filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has won two Oscars for her work in the documentary shorts category. Actors like Riz Ahmed and Kumail Nanjiani have also earned critical praise for their past work but 2022 was a year when the country's art and artists truly shined globally. It was the year when an LGBTQ-themed film from a rather conservative country took centre stage at Cannes, it was the year when an Urdu-Punjabi song made the world croon in unity and it was also the year when Kamala Khan, an American citizen of south Asian origin joined the Avengers-&nbsp; making the year truly special for the country's talent.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

2022 has indeed been a watershed year for Pakistani pop culture as it broke boundaries to create its space on the global map. Its films particularly 'Maula Jatt' and 'Joyland' and smash hit song 'Pasoori' transcended borders asserting that there was talent in abundance in the country but had so far lacked a vision or the right platform.

2022 has indeed been a watershed year for Pakistani pop culture as it broke boundaries to create its space on the global map. Its films particularly 'Maula Jatt' and 'Joyland' and smash hit song 'Pasoori' transcended borders asserting that there was talent in abundance in the country but had so far lacked a vision or the right platform. For years, Pakistani films and particularly its music has been able to bridge the gap between Pakistan and India - which politics has miserably failed time and again. Pakistani music, its actors, and films and shows have been popular in the subcontinent for decades. In the last decade particularly there has been a growing influence of Pakistani artists in the Indian diaspora, making way for a great cultural exchange between the two countries. Politics, of course, has on several occasions put a halt to this cultural exchange. One would recall how in 2016, Pakistani artists were banned from working in India. Bans, politics and borders notwithstanding, Pakistani's cultural diaspora grew into prominence in 2022. Not only did its films create box office history and carve a niche in various international film festivals, but its artists broke the cultural barrier and made their presence felt in Hollywood. The tsunami of 'Pasoori' For years, the online musical show Coke Studio Pakistan has been producing some of the most authentic and original music of the subcontinent. The success of numerous seasons in Pakistan has resulted in Indian and Bangladeshi versions as well but none have been able to emulate the same success of its Pakistani counterpart. In February, however, the song Pasoori put Coke Studio literally on the global map. Sung by Pakistani singer Ali Sethi and debutant singer Shae Gill, the song in Urdu-Punjabi,'Pasoori' was composed by Sethi and Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan. Meaning 'difficulty or trouble', the idea of Pasoori came to Sethi from truck art that he noticed while traveling from Faisalabad to Lahore. Interestingly, when the song came out, Sethi was already a star singer and had delivered a few hits in previous seasons of Coke Studio. The song initially drew in listeners thanks to Sethi's fan following especially on social media. But the song also introduced the world to the talented and powerful voice of Shae Gill, who until the song's release was known for singing covers of ghazals on her Instagram page. The lyrics talk about heartbreak, separation, and also of self-acceptance and self-expression - themes that resonate with people of all age groups. 'Pasoori' truly transcended borders. From London to New York to New Delhi- the song was played wherever there was a south Asian population. It became the most-searched song in the world in 2022, as per Google Trends and its music video garnered over 400 million views on Youtube. Fawad Khan the superstar is back If 'Pasoori' dominated the charts worldwide, Fawad Khan's 'The Legend Of Maula Jatt' dominated the box office not just on home turf but in the UK as well. Directed by Bilal Lashari, the film was an adaptation of the 1979 cult classic film 'Maula Jatt' and was in the making for a while and even got delayed due to the pandemic. Featuring star actor Fawad Khan in the titular role, the film was a period drama set in pre-independent Pakistan. Fawad played the titular role of Maula Jatt, a folk hero and a prizefighter who wishes vengeance against Noori Natt (Hamza Ali Abbasi), his archenemy. It was also termed the most expensive Pakistani film ever and boasted a massive cast, including actors like Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, and Humaima Malik among others. The film not only broke box office records in Pakistan but also garnered a huge collection overseas- a first for the Pakistani film industry. Internationally, the film made a record $355K from the United Kingdom, the highest opening weekend for any Pakistani or Punjabi film kicking off at No 9 of the box office charts. The film's largest overseas opening in UAE where it reached No 1 with over $515,000. In the US and Canada, the film grossed $290K and $235K respectively. What more! Not just the audience but the film also fetched great reviews all across. 'The Legend of Maula Jatt' has received mostly positive reviews. Screen International's Namrata Joshi wrote in her review, "Despite its obvious flaws, the inordinate length and a protracted finale, The Legend… remains steadily absorbing and entertaining." The Guardian's Cath Clarke wrote, " Imagine Game of Thrones crossed with Gladiator and you’ll have something like this entertainingly old-fashioned action movie with epic levels of throat slashing, spectacular scenery and a fair bit of camp." Fawad has also enjoyed a huge fan following in India even though he was last seen on the Indian screen in Karan Johar's 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' way back in 2016. Owing to his huge fan following and growing interest in the film, the makers are now keen to have a limited release in India in 2023. The joy of 'Joyland' Who would have thought that a love story of a transgender, made in Pakistan, would get such immense love internationally? Which is why director Saim Sadiq's 'Joyland' was special. It made heads turn with its sensitive representation of the LGBTQ community and it was lauded for its brave storytelling across the world. Joyland became the first Pakistani film to premiere at Cannes Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation after its screening and also won Jury Prize and Queer Palm prize for best LGBTQ, queer, or feminist theme movie at the festival. The film also won accolades at Toronto International Film Festival and the Busan film Festival this year. Critics world over lauded the film for its sensitive narration of gender norms, discovering sexuality, patriarchy in the subcontinent and how society perceives the LGBTQ community in a certain way. While the film was cleared for a domestic release in Pakistan in August, it later faced opposition before its release in October. Many raised objections to certain scenes depicted in the film and termed it as 'erotic' and an online campaign ensued to pressurise the government to lift the ban. The film eventually got a release (with some cuts in the film) in the domestic market on November 16. It is Pakistan's official entry to the Oscars 2023 category in the best international film category and trade pundits feel it has a high chance of getting nominated in the category. The marvel of 'Ms Marvel' Imagine the south Asian community being represented in a Marvel film. Well, the 'dream' sort of came true as Marvel released its web series 'Ms Marvel' on Disney +. The web series, based on the 'Ms Marvel' character, was made by artists and writers of Pakistani origin. It was also Marvel's first attempt at tapping into the south Asian market, where its superhero films have been popular and created box office history for over a decade. > The web series, set in New York, narrates the story of Kamala Khan, a 16-year-old fangirl of the Avengers who struggles to fit in until she gains her own superpowers. The show starred hordes of south Asian actors with actress Iman Vellani playing the titular character. Created by Bisha K Ali, the episodes were directed by Adil & Bilall and gave a very accurate depiction of the South-Asian community in an American show. While the reviews were mostly mixed on the series, it was lauded for its sensitive depiction of the partition. The episode particularly won hearts for its sensitive portrayal of the horrific incident from pages of history which later defined the bitter relationship between Pakistan and India. It would be unfair to say that before 2022, the west has never noticed artists from Pakistan. Filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has won two Oscars for her work in the documentary shorts category. Actors like Riz Ahmed and Kumail Nanjiani have also earned critical praise for their past work but 2022 was a year when the country's art and artists truly shined globally. It was the year when an LGBTQ-themed film from a rather conservative country took centre stage at Cannes, it was the year when an Urdu-Punjabi song made the world croon in unity and it was also the year when Kamala Khan, an American citizen of south Asian origin joined the Avengers- making the year truly special for the country's talent.

'Pasoori' to 'Joyland': 2022 was the year when Pakistan took its art to the world 

In the narrow alleys of the poor Pakistani neighbourhood of Lyari -- known for drugs, gang wars and a low literacy rate -- young children and youths are learning about peace and love crossing the boundaries of faith, from string puppets.

Puppet show in Pakistan teaches compassion regardless of faith

Amid a&nbsp;furore over ban on Pakistani artists and technicians from working in the Indian film industry, the Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image (MAMI) on Monday decided to boycott Pakistani movies.

The organisers of the Mumbai Film Festival have decided not to exhibit any Pakistani film in this year&#39;s edition after a local social organisation threatened to protest against the event.&nbsp;

The Pakistani film &quot;Jago Hua Savera&quot; which was to be screened at the 18th edition of the festival, being held from October 20-27, has also been banned.&nbsp;

&quot;Given the current situation, the Jio MAMI 18th Mumbai Film Festival with Star has decided not to programme &#39;Jago Hua Savera&#39; as part of the Restored Classics Section,&quot; organisers of the festival said in a statement.

The outfit, Sangharsh, had accused the organisers of playing with the nationalist sentiment of people of India, at a time when tensions are high along the border with Pakistan.

The group has also sought police permission to stage a protest against the screening of the 1958 Pakistani film at MAMI festival.&nbsp;

The film that tells the tale of life in a small fishing village during the days of undivided Pakistan (now independent Pakistan and Bangladesh) was shot in Dhaka.&nbsp;

Prithvi Mhaske of Sangharsh Foundation, who had filed the complaint against the organisers for the screening of the film said, &quot;if Mami has decided to not screen the film, we welcome the decision, that they have understood the sentiments.&quot;

Some from the industry too welcomed the decision saying the priority right now should be the national sentiment.

Directed by AJ Kardar, &quot;Jago Hua Savera&quot; was also selected as the entry from Pakistan for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 32nd Academy Awards in 1960.

On Friday, the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India (COEAI) also decided to boycott Fawad Khan starrer `Ae Dil Hai Mushkil` and said their decision has been taken considering the patriotic sentiments of the country amid tensions between India and Pakistan.

A state political body, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), had earlier issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Pakistani actors to quit India and protested against the release of their movies.&nbsp;

(WION with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Organisers decided to boycott Pakistani movies at the event after a social organisation accused MAMI of playing with people's sentiments

Amid a furore over ban on Pakistani artists and technicians from working in the Indian film industry, the Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image (MAMI) on Monday decided to boycott Pakistani movies. The organisers of the Mumbai Film Festival have decided not to exhibit any Pakistani film in this year's edition after a local social organisation threatened to protest against the event. The Pakistani film "Jago Hua Savera" which was to be screened at the 18th edition of the festival, being held from October 20-27, has also been banned. "Given the current situation, the Jio MAMI 18th Mumbai Film Festival with Star has decided not to programme 'Jago Hua Savera' as part of the Restored Classics Section," organisers of the festival said in a statement. The outfit, Sangharsh, had accused the organisers of playing with the nationalist sentiment of people of India, at a time when tensions are high along the border with Pakistan. The group has also sought police permission to stage a protest against the screening of the 1958 Pakistani film at MAMI festival. The film that tells the tale of life in a small fishing village during the days of undivided Pakistan (now independent Pakistan and Bangladesh) was shot in Dhaka. Prithvi Mhaske of Sangharsh Foundation, who had filed the complaint against the organisers for the screening of the film said, "if Mami has decided to not screen the film, we welcome the decision, that they have understood the sentiments." Some from the industry too welcomed the decision saying the priority right now should be the national sentiment. Directed by AJ Kardar, "Jago Hua Savera" was also selected as the entry from Pakistan for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 32nd Academy Awards in 1960. On Friday, the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India (COEAI) also decided to boycott Fawad Khan starrer `Ae Dil Hai Mushkil` and said their decision has been taken considering the patriotic sentiments of the country amid tensions between India and Pakistan. A state political body, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), had earlier issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Pakistani actors to quit India and protested against the release of their movies. (WION with inputs from agencies)

No Pakistani films at Mumbai Film Festival after protest threats

Mohammad Ali sits before a painting of a semi-naked man and declares his work has never been censored in conservative Muslim Pakistan where an artistic vanguard are challenging taboos in the chaotic city of Karachi. 
 
&quot;I have done some pretty bold and risky works but luckily I did not face any,&quot; says the 27-year-old, a rising star who paints figurative, contemporary images exploring gender, politics and sex. 
 
Ali has a theory about why, in a developing country where women are traditionally veiled and even unproven allegations of blasphemy can stir mob violence, he has been so free. 
 
&quot;People, a lot of them don&#39;t have access to even a decent meal and if they are starving you cannot make them interested in art instead of food,&quot; he says. 
 
Pakistan remains deeply bound to strict religious norms, even though art bursts from unexpected places, such as the acid-trip trucks wild with bells and bright, elaborate images that traverse the country. 
 
In recent years Karachi&#39;s concrete sprawl has become home to a rush of galleries and dealerships bullish on the country&#39;s art market as a new generation challenges constraints that date back to the Islamisation of the 1980s. 
 
In the port city&#39;s trendy Canvass Gallery, owner Sameera Raja takes AFP on a tour of the nude and homosexual art on display. 
 
&quot;These are not the things which are taboos in our society, at least not in the art-related population,&quot; she says. 
 
&quot;Having said that, it doesn&#39;t that mean I am going to socially risk the artist by putting it up on a the public platform. Absolutely not,&quot; she swiftly adds. 
 
Public exposure 
 
Raja is all too aware that, despite the confidence of artists such as Ali - whose paintings have so far been confined to galleries and private spaces - such art only finds safe haven in showrooms like hers and in the bedrooms of the Pakistani elite. 
 
Her caution is echoed by other artists, such as third-year visual arts student Hadiqa Asif at Karachi University. 
 
&quot;If we want to make a sculpture so we must be aware that it should not cause any harm to the society,&quot; she says, chiselling at a piece of wood. 
 
Some artists point to the Islamisation of Pakistan by military dictator Zia ul-Haq in the 1980s as a ground zero of sorts for conservative taboos, and other forms of art that flourished because of them, such as calligraphy. 
 
&quot;During the regime of Zia ul-Haq there was much noise of imposition of Islamic government in the country,&quot; prominent Pakistani artist Mashkoor Raza, famous for his abstract images of women and horses, recalls. 
 
&quot;Our seniors would draw nudes, but fearing their arrest they started calligraphy of the religious verses and Sufi poetry.&quot; 
 
He said he found himself unable to earn a living, and worked in a textile mill as a designer for nearly a decade, using his savings to buy brushes, paints and canvas. 
 
Zia was assassinated in 1988, and the 1990s saw galleries and art shops mushroom in urban centres like Karachi. 
 
&quot;After the 90s, I became the owner of my own home, car and whatnot,&quot; says Raza, who now lives in a posh neighbourhood fanned by the city&#39;s sea breezes. 
 
Estimates by gallery owners and art critics put the number of galleries, framers and dealers in Karachi alone in the hundreds. 
 
&quot;They are growing exponentially, it&#39;s a huge market, I think,&quot; comments Raja the gallery owner. 
 
No nudes are good nudes? 
 
This fresh dynamism is having a potent effect, argues Munwar Ali Syed, an art professor at the state-run Karachi University. 
 
&quot;Of course, we are very cautious here to censor human body parts,&quot; he says. &quot;There are some limitations.&quot; 
 
But the squeezing of liberal thought does not stifle creativity, he claims - rather it spurs his students in new directions. 
 
&quot;When you realise that there are some limits and boundaries which you can not cross, you work more creatively,&quot; he says, citing a sculptor named Mohammad Ismail. 
 
Eight years ago, Ismail fell from the second storey of a building where he was supervising construction and broke his back, leaving him confined him to a wheelchair for life. 
 
Now the 35-year-old crafts twisted, skeletal sculptures from metal. 
 
&quot;My own skeleton got distorted so I focus on it,&quot; he tells AFP, seated next to a worktable as he puts the finishing touches on a new piece. 
 
&quot;I searched the intricacies of the skeleton, I drew my strength from it and I tried to support myself through this.&quot; 
 
 
<img alt="" class="img-responsive" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/pakistan_art1-20160703055614.jpg" /> 
 
Despite the shift and the brimming confidence of artists like Mohammad Ali, change, already decades in the making, remains slow. 
 
For many sex - contrary to the received wisdom - still doesn&#39;t sell. 
 
&quot;I don&#39;t think that there is a room for the nude in Pakistan other than what an artist makes privately for themselves,&quot; Durriya Kazi, head of the visual arts department at Karachi University, told AFP. 
 
&quot;I don&#39;t think it is relevant to our society.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

In recent years Karachi has become home to a rush of galleries as a new generation challenges constraints that date back to the 1980s

Mohammad Ali sits before a painting of a semi-naked man and declares his work has never been censored in conservative Muslim Pakistan where an artistic vanguard are challenging taboos in the chaotic city of Karachi. "I have done some pretty bold and risky works but luckily I did not face any," says the 27-year-old, a rising star who paints figurative, contemporary images exploring gender, politics and sex. Ali has a theory about why, in a developing country where women are traditionally veiled and even unproven allegations of blasphemy can stir mob violence, he has been so free. "People, a lot of them don't have access to even a decent meal and if they are starving you cannot make them interested in art instead of food," he says. Pakistan remains deeply bound to strict religious norms, even though art bursts from unexpected places, such as the acid-trip trucks wild with bells and bright, elaborate images that traverse the country. In recent years Karachi's concrete sprawl has become home to a rush of galleries and dealerships bullish on the country's art market as a new generation challenges constraints that date back to the Islamisation of the 1980s. In the port city's trendy Canvass Gallery, owner Sameera Raja takes AFP on a tour of the nude and homosexual art on display. "These are not the things which are taboos in our society, at least not in the art-related population," she says. "Having said that, it doesn't that mean I am going to socially risk the artist by putting it up on a the public platform. Absolutely not," she swiftly adds. Public exposure Raja is all too aware that, despite the confidence of artists such as Ali - whose paintings have so far been confined to galleries and private spaces - such art only finds safe haven in showrooms like hers and in the bedrooms of the Pakistani elite. Her caution is echoed by other artists, such as third-year visual arts student Hadiqa Asif at Karachi University. "If we want to make a sculpture so we must be aware that it should not cause any harm to the society," she says, chiselling at a piece of wood. Some artists point to the Islamisation of Pakistan by military dictator Zia ul-Haq in the 1980s as a ground zero of sorts for conservative taboos, and other forms of art that flourished because of them, such as calligraphy. "During the regime of Zia ul-Haq there was much noise of imposition of Islamic government in the country," prominent Pakistani artist Mashkoor Raza, famous for his abstract images of women and horses, recalls. "Our seniors would draw nudes, but fearing their arrest they started calligraphy of the religious verses and Sufi poetry." He said he found himself unable to earn a living, and worked in a textile mill as a designer for nearly a decade, using his savings to buy brushes, paints and canvas. Zia was assassinated in 1988, and the 1990s saw galleries and art shops mushroom in urban centres like Karachi. "After the 90s, I became the owner of my own home, car and whatnot," says Raza, who now lives in a posh neighbourhood fanned by the city's sea breezes. Estimates by gallery owners and art critics put the number of galleries, framers and dealers in Karachi alone in the hundreds. "They are growing exponentially, it's a huge market, I think," comments Raja the gallery owner. No nudes are good nudes? This fresh dynamism is having a potent effect, argues Munwar Ali Syed, an art professor at the state-run Karachi University. "Of course, we are very cautious here to censor human body parts," he says. "There are some limitations." But the squeezing of liberal thought does not stifle creativity, he claims - rather it spurs his students in new directions. "When you realise that there are some limits and boundaries which you can not cross, you work more creatively," he says, citing a sculptor named Mohammad Ismail. Eight years ago, Ismail fell from the second storey of a building where he was supervising construction and broke his back, leaving him confined him to a wheelchair for life. Now the 35-year-old crafts twisted, skeletal sculptures from metal. "My own skeleton got distorted so I focus on it," he tells AFP, seated next to a worktable as he puts the finishing touches on a new piece. "I searched the intricacies of the skeleton, I drew my strength from it and I tried to support myself through this." Despite the shift and the brimming confidence of artists like Mohammad Ali, change, already decades in the making, remains slow. For many sex - contrary to the received wisdom - still doesn't sell. "I don't think that there is a room for the nude in Pakistan other than what an artist makes privately for themselves," Durriya Kazi, head of the visual arts department at Karachi University, told AFP. "I don't think it is relevant to our society." (AFP)

Taboo or not taboo? Artists expose naked truths in Pakistan