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  • ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ adds Amy Adams as first look at Ryan Gosling unveiled

    ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ adds Amy Adams as first look at Ryan Gosling unveiled

    Hollywood actors Amy Adams and Aaron Pierre have joined the cast of ‘Star Wars: Starfighter,’ led by Ryan Gosling.

    Apart from their casting, Lucasfilm also released a first look at Gosling from the film, which began production in the United Kingdom on Thursday.

    “I feel a profound sense of excitement and honour as we begin production on ‘Star Wars: Starfighter,’” said Shawn Levy, who directs the film.

    “From the day Kathy Kennedy called me up, inviting me to develop an original adventure in this incredible ‘Star Wars’ galaxy, this experience has been a dream come true, creatively and personally. ‘Star Wars’ shaped my sense of what story can do, how characters and cinematic moments can live with us forever,” he added.

    The first image from the film features Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray standing in front of a vehicle that closely resembles the landspeeder used by Luke Skywalker in 1977’s ‘A New Hope.’

    Read more: Star Wars universe expands with Ryan Gosling at the helm

    Directed by Shawn Levy and written by Jonathan Tropper, ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ will be “an entirely original story set in a period of time never before explored in ‘Star Wars.’”

    Apart from Ryan Gosling, Amy Adams, Aaron Pierre Flynn Gray, the cast also includes Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, Matt Smith and Mia Goth.

    Lucasfilm has scheduled the film for a release on May 28, 2027.

    No much is known about the plot and characters of the film, however, Gray’s presence in the first look with Ryan Gosling suggests that the character will play a significant role in the film.

    Before ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ release, ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ will arrive in theatres in May 2026, becoming the first ‘Star Wars’ film to screen after 2019’s ‘The Rise of Skywalker.’

  • NADRA to launch Mobile Drive in UK to ease overseas Pakistanis

    NADRA to launch Mobile Drive in UK to ease overseas Pakistanis

    ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is bringing its Mobile Registration Drive to the United Kingdom, bringing convenient services to overseas Pakistanis in Blackburn (Manchester) and Sheffield (Bradford) on August 30, 2025.

    This initiative is part of NADRA’s broader outreach to facilitate overseas Pakistanis with necessary identification services, such as renewal of Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs), National Identity Cards for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOPs), and Family Registration Certificates (FRCs).

    The mobile drives, as scheduled, will be parked at two different locations, including Blackburn (Manchester) from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM at https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jd9RaSSo9Ggukswy7?g_st=aw and Sheffield (Bradford) from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM at https://maps.app.goo.gl/wVUDd4NEn8Nzj5JW8

    NADRA requests that overseas Pakistani residents bring their old CNICs or B-Forms to expedite processing.

    Dedicated female staff and separate counters will be available to make sure women participants feel comfortable.

    To make things easier, NADRA encourages the use of its Pak ID mobile app. This app lets users apply for CNIC renewals, register births and marriages, and submit applications for government jobs online.

    Further updates and details can be obtained from NADRA’s official Website www.nadra.gov.pk, and WhatsApp Channel https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaH7JG2I1rckS9XnTg23

    For complaints, please visit: https://complaints.nadra.gov.pk

    This mobile registration effort follows successful drives in Banbury and Brierfield earlier in August, reinforcing NADRA’s mission to serve overseas Pakistanis with efficiency and care.

    Read More: NADRA to provide another facility to citizens

    Earlier, The prime institution for Pakistani citizens national identity, National Data Base Registration Authority (NADRA), has kicked off modern one-window operation in union councils (UCs)of tehsil Pasroor, District Sialkot, Mandi Faizabad and District Nankana.

    Through its social media announcement, the NADRA informed that the citizens of the respective UCs and countryside now can take benefit of issuance of identification documents and all the services of renewal in their nearby UCs.

    The people can get their computerised Identity cards, ‘B’ form, family registration certificates, change in marital status and can avail other prime services of the NADRA. 

  • Floodwaters enter Farrukhabad colony as Ravi River overflows in Lahore

    Floodwaters enter Farrukhabad colony as Ravi River overflows in Lahore

    LAHORE: In Farrukhabad Colony near Shahrada, Lahore, a severe flood situation has occurred, as waters from the Ravi River flood have entered residential areas, dipping homes and streets under 2 to 3 feet of water, ARY News reported.

    This rise in floodwaters has caused residents to do a swift evacuation from Farrukhabad and shift their valuables to the rooftops or safer places.

    According to ARY reports, the Ravi River flood at Shahdara is flowing at a dangerously high level of 215,000 cusecs, exceeding its normal capacity.

    The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued advisories, indicating that the flood is forming waves, indicating strong water pressure and speed.

    Residents of Farrukhabad and locals have started the process of evacuation from Farrukhabad in bulk to get to safer areas, and many are moving to temporary shelters. Flood has also entered adjacent areas, indicating the serious concerns and displacements.

    Despite the situation being serious, crowds have gathered near the Ravi Bridge to enjoy, with many busy taking selfies and trying to get closer to the floodwaters. Crowds include children, too, who are not giving ear to the authorities.

    Rescue teams and personnel have repeatedly warned the public to keep a distance and adhere to safety advisories. Announcements are being made by the loudspeakers and mosque networks. But people are not cooperating with the authorities.

    In response to the Ravi River flood, the government of Punjab, in coordination with the Pakistan Army, Rescue 1122 and the district administration, has launched a rescue operation. Medical and relief camps have been established to support affected people and the flood-hit region.

    The authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation and are asking people to help by staying away from riverbanks. They want everyone to remember that playing in floodwaters is dangerous and can make it harder for rescue teams to do their work.

    Read More: PM Shehbaz warns of recurring floods in coming years, urges urgent dam construction

    Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the urgent need to expand Pakistan’s water storage infrastructure to mitigate the impact of devastating flash floods, warning that such disasters are likely to recur in the coming years due to climate change.

  • Pakistan, Germany reaffirm to strengthen bilateral ties

    Pakistan, Germany reaffirm to strengthen bilateral ties

    ISLAMABAD: In the wake of strengthening Pakistan-Germany relations and bilateral cooperation between both nations, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar had a telephonic conversation with German Foreign Minister Dr. Johann Wadephul on Wednesday night, ARY News reported.

    The discussion aimed to reaffirm both nations’ commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across different sectors of mutual interest.

    During the telephonic discussion, both leaders stressed the importance of unwavering mutual support and strategies to foster Pakistan-Germany relations. Additionally, methods to improve economic, diplomatic, and regional collaboration were also discussed, with a mutual focus on enhancing stability and development.

    In the conversation on regional developments, both leaders also showed interest in maintaining open channels for geopolitical discussion.

    This move is part of Pakistan’s efforts to foster bilateral cooperation with other countries, following recent talks with Egypt, Algeria, and other members of the OIC.

    This renewed effort shows that Islamabad wants to build stronger relationships with countries around the world, especially in Europe, by using friendly talks and working together.

    Read More: PM Shehbaz signs deal for Pakistanis to work in Belarus

    Earlier in Islamabad, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a meeting with Belarusian Interior Minister in Islamabad to facilitate skilled Pakistani individuals to work in Belarus.

    This agreement will open new employment opportunities for Pakistani professionals and extend people-to-people ties.

    The MoU signing followed a welcome ceremony by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, presented to a Belarus high-level delegation led by their Interior Minister, Aleksandr Lukashenko, during their recent visit to Pakistan.

    Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan and Belarus are improving their relationship by the passage of time, supported by mutual respect and growing cooperation

    Both sides expressed a mutual desire to work together in different sectors, such as trade, technology, education, and internal security.

    The meeting reflects a broader strategic intent not only to strengthen Pakistan-Belarus relations but also to transform diplomatic goodwill into actionable partnerships.

  • NADRA succession certificate: Major facility announced for seekers

    NADRA succession certificate: Major facility announced for seekers

    ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced the expansion of the facility for obtaining Succession Certificates.

    “The facility for obtaining a Succession Certificate is now available at all NADRA centers nationwide,” the regulatory authority said in a post on its official social media account.

    NADRA- CNIC, NICOP, FRC Information Portal

    It added that citizens can now visit any NADRA center across the country to submit their application with ease.

    Previously limited to selected centers, this service has now been expanded nationwide, allowing citizens to submit their applications for succession certificates at any NADRA office without restriction.

    For more information, citizens can visit NADRA’s official website or contact their nearest center.

    These units are available across Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan—regardless of where the inherited property is located.

    The biometric verification process has also been upgraded for greater convenience. Legal heirs can now verify their identity at the nearest NADRA center or remotely via the Pak ID Mobile App.

    Read More: NADRA Family Registration Certificate fee update – August 2025

    Previously, applicants were required to apply for a certificate in the province where the inherited property was located. This restriction caused difficulties for heirs residing in other provinces.

    While NADRA had introduced biometric verification through the mobile app earlier, application submission still had to be done in the relevant province—posing difficulties for heirs living elsewhere.

    With the latest update, this restriction has been removed, allowing citizens to initiate and complete the entire process from any part of the country.

    A NADRA spokesperson confirmed that official notifications have been issued to all centers equipped with SFUs, enabling citizens to access the service at their convenience.

     

  • Karachi rain alert: NDMA warns of heavy rainfall from August 30

    Karachi rain alert: NDMA warns of heavy rainfall from August 30

    KARACHI: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recently released a rain alert, indicating that Karachi may have heavy rainfall in the upcoming monsoon spell, starting from August 30 and will last until September 02, ARY News reported.

    In the recent Karachi rain alert, NDMA has indicated that the other cities will also be affected by the rainfall, including Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Tharparkar, Sukkar, Ghotki, Larkana, Jacobabad, Kashmor, and Dadu. Other nearby areas may also have rain.

    According to NDMA, the upcoming rain can cause urban flooding in the city.

    Previously, the Meteorological Department had issued a prediction that it was not going to rain in Karachi for next coming days; however, the city may have light drizzling only during the day and night.

    It is worth noting that during heavy rain in Karachi last week, the city was turned into a river. In many areas, boats had to be sent to rescue affected residents.

    Due to electricity and other rain-related incidents, the lives of 15 people were claimed, while a partial flood snatched the livelihood of many people.

    With over 200 millimetres of rainfall recorded, the city’s structure was badly disrupted, and roads are badly ruined now. It has been more than a week now since it rained in Karachi, and the rainwater mixed with sewage is present in the damaged areas of roads.

    Even days after the rain stopped, citizens have been facing prolonged power outages.

    The Karachi rain alert is released to aware citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary activities that could cause any unforeseen situation.

    Read More: President Zardari urges support for flood-hit victims

    Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari had expressed profound sorrow over the flood destruction during the intense monsoon weather across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit Baltistan.

    President Asif Zardari, in his official statement, extended deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and assured all affected people that the government is with them during this hard time and will assist them by all means.

  • Call of Duty: World War II returns to PC Game Pass

    Call of Duty: World War II returns to PC Game Pass

    Activision has announced bringing back Call of Duty: World War II to the Microsoft Store and Xbox PC App.

    In a statement, the developer announced that the 2017 title was available for PC Game Pass players, more than a month after it was taken down.

    Call of Duty: World War II was delisted from PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store on July 4 after hackers accessed players’ PCs and install malware.

    While Activision did not explicitly mention the hacking activity behind the decision, it did say that the game was pulled to investigate “an issue.”

    The developer had delisted the Call of Duty: WWII from the PC Game Pass, however the Xbox version remains active since its launch in June.

    Not much is known about the issue and its fix as Activision usually avoids talking about security issues in its games, saying that disclosing such information would only help bad actors create new workarounds and exploits.

    Read more: Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 gameplay footage, release date revealed

    Call of Duty: WWII from developer Sledgehammer Games was launched on November 3 on PC, Xbox One, and PS4.

    The game takes take place between 1944 and 1945, and engages players in combat across many of the most iconic locations of World War II.

    Gamers play as Ronald “Red” Daniels, with supporting squadmates including soldiers voiced by Josh Duhamel, Jeffrey Pierce, Jonathan Tucker, and Brett Zimmerman.

    The next entry in the franchise is Black Ops 7, which is set in 2035, over 40 years after the events of its predecessor, and will feature a star-studded cast.

  • Blood moon eclipse to light up skies over Pakistan on THIS day

    Blood moon eclipse to light up skies over Pakistan on THIS day

    ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said that the country will witness its first blood moon eclipse of the year during the night between September 7 and 8.

    According to a statement issued by the PMD, the rare celestial event occurs during a total lunar eclipse, during which the moon appears red due to the Earth’s shadow, hence the name “Blood Moon.”

    The lunar eclipse will begin on September 7 at 8:28 PM with the penumbral phase, followed by the partial eclipse starting at 9:27 PM. The eclipse will reach its peak at 11:12 PM and the partial phase will end at 12:57 AM on September 8. The eclipse will completely conclude at 1:55 AM, making the total duration approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes.

    A part from Pakistan, the Blood Moon will be visible across much of the world, including Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Pacific region. Countries such as India, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and Saudi Arabia are also expected to experience the full view of this astronomical event. Observers in parts of western North America and eastern South America will also be able to witness the eclipse.

  • Mega Hawlucha Revealed in Pokémon Legends: Z-A Gameplay Trailer

    Mega Hawlucha Revealed in Pokémon Legends: Z-A Gameplay Trailer

    Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set to release on October 16, 2025, introduced Mega Hawlucha, the 51st Mega Evolution, alongside other exciting additions like Mega Dragonite and Mega Victreebel. This Kalos-native Pokémon’s dramatic transformation has sparked massive buzz among fans, showcasing its enhanced design and battle prowess. Here’s everything we know about Mega Hawlucha in Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

    Lifestyle News from ARY News

    A recent gameplay trailer for Pokémon Legends: Z-A unveiled Mega Hawlucha, highlighting its dynamic transformation into a powerhouse of the Kalos region. The Wrestling Pokémon’s new form features a bold black-and-gold mask, a robust collar, and flowing cape-like feathers, amplifying its luchador and superhero aesthetic. Fans on X and other platforms are buzzing with excitement over Mega Hawlucha’s striking design and enhanced capabilities.

    Mega Hawlucha’s revamped appearance emphasizes its Fighting/Flying-type roots, with a physique built to absorb powerful attacks. In the trailer, Mega Hawlucha faces off against Machamp, showcasing its resilience and signature move, Flying Press. This move allows Mega Hawlucha to lure opponents into striking before countering with devastating precision, making it a formidable contender in battles.

    The introduction of Mega Hawlucha marks the third confirmed Mega Evolution for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, following Mega Dragonite and Mega Victreebel. This reveal underscores the game’s focus on reviving the Mega Evolution mechanic, a fan-favorite feature from the Pokémon series. By spotlighting Kalos-native Pokémon like Mega Hawlucha, the game strengthens its connection to the Kalos region, hinting at potential new Mega Evolutions for other regional Pokémon.

    The emphasis on Mega Hawlucha and Mega Evolutions suggests Pokémon Legends: Z-A will deliver a fresh and strategic battle experience. Set to launch on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, the game promises to captivate fans with its innovative approach to Pokémon battles and lore.

    The reveal of Mega Hawlucha has ignited speculation about additional Kalos Pokémon receiving Mega Evolutions. With the game’s release date approaching, fans are eager for more updates on Mega Hawlucha’s abilities and other surprises in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Stay tuned for more news as the October 16, 2025, launch draws closer.

  • UAE Dirham to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today- August 28, 2025

    UAE Dirham to Pakistani Rupee Rate Today- August 28, 2025

    Dubai, August 28, 2025 – The UAE Dirham (AED) has edged down to 76.74 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today, a slight decline of 0.01 PKR from yesterday’s rate of 76.75 PKR, as verified by trusted financial sources tracking interbank and open market rates.

    AED to PKR- Latest Rates

    This minor dip follows a robust June, when the AED gained 0.81 PKR, climbing from 76.44 PKR at the month’s start to 77.25 PKR by its close, peaking at 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. Despite this small drop, the Dirham’s resilience underscores the United Arab Emirates’ innovative economic strategies and its pivotal role as a global financial powerhouse. This movement in the AED-PKR exchange rate carries significant implications for trade, remittances, and economic strategies between the UAE and Pakistan in 2025.

    The UAE Dirham, established as the UAE’s official currency in 1973, is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 3.6725 AED to 1 USD, managed by the Central Bank of the UAE. This fixed peg ensures the AED’s reliability, making it a trusted currency for global commerce and investment across the UAE’s seven emirates, from Dubai’s vibrant markets to Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks. In contrast, the Pakistani Rupee, Pakistan’s currency since 1948, operates as a floating currency under the State Bank of Pakistan’s oversight, making it susceptible to fluctuations driven by domestic economic conditions, global market trends, and geopolitical events, which often challenge Pakistan’s financial stability.

    Today’s AED-PKR exchange rate of 76.74 PKR reinforces the economic bond between the UAE and Pakistan, presenting both opportunities and challenges. For the millions of Pakistani expatriates working in the UAE, the still-robust Dirham continues to enhance remittance values, which reached $717.2 million in June 2025, per State Bank of Pakistan data, cementing the UAE as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. These funds are a lifeline, supporting essentials like education and healthcare while driving economic activity in regions such as Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the elevated exchange rate sustains high import costs for UAE goods, from luxury electronics to everyday commodities like food and clothing, putting pressure on Pakistani businesses and consumers facing inflation. The AED’s tie to the US Dollar may further strain Pakistan’s trade deficit and increase costs for servicing debts in USD or AED. Economists recommend Pakistan focus on boosting export growth, diversifying trade partnerships, and implementing policies to stabilize the PKR to address these challenges.

    The UAE’s economic vitality continues to fuel the Dirham’s strength. The nation has strategically shifted from oil dependency to a diversified economy, investing heavily in technology, renewable energy, and thriving tourism and trade sectors. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become global hubs, attracting significant foreign investment, as evidenced by World Bank reports. The Central Bank of the UAE’s meticulous oversight ensures the Dirham’s dependability, reinforcing[groupId]reinforcing its status as a trusted currency for international transactions. This economic resilience supports the AED’s steady performance, even amidst today’s slight decline, making it a cornerstone of the UAE’s financial influence.

    The Dirham’s slight dip to 76.74 PKR today reflects a minor adjustment in the UAE’s strong economic landscape, while Pakistan continues to navigate trade and debt challenges, making this a key topic for businesses, expatriates, and policymakers in 2025.