The Punjab government has ordered the closure of all theatres in the province from the 1st to the 13th of Muharram, according to a statement issued by the Punjab Arts Council.

The statement said no stage dramas, theatrical performances and cultural programmes will be allowed throughout the period in observance of the sacredness of Muharram.

Theatre managements have been asked to follow the restriction in letter and spirit and keep all entertainment events suspended for the first 13 days of the Islamic month.

Security arrangements for Ashura are also being finalised across the country.

Pakistani musician Asim Azhar has come up with a statement after being trolled for his recent song’s cover version ‘Tu Hai Wohi Dil Ne Jise Apna Kaha’ and controversy involving social media star Rajab Butt.

Social media was divided over the singer’s take on the famous track, with many users condemning the performance and saying the original song had been ruined.

The dispute escalated when Rajab Butt posted a lip-sync video in support of the song. Asim Azhar thanked the influencer for the gesture but his reply prompted more criticism from social media users who questioned his decision to recognise the support.

Asim Azhar reacts to controversy over his TikTok video. Amid the rising reaction, Azhar took to Instagram to remark that someone praising him and him replying to someone’s appreciation does not mean that he shares the same ideas or principles.

He said he understood the worries of his followers and supporters and agreed with many of them, adding that his purpose was just to respond to kindness with compassion and that the problem was not as serious as it had been portrayed.

On a happier note, the musician asked fans to keep on enjoying his new music and luscious mangoes.

The clarification has not stopped debate on social media. Some admirers believe the singer should not have taken Rajab Butt’s assistance while followers of the influencer have condemned Asim Azhar for stepping away after public response.

Pakistani film and television star Mahira Khan has underlined the need to create awareness about mental health, stating the topic still has social stigma attached to it.

Many individuals still feel ashamed to speak freely about mental health problems, the actress told the media at a British Asian Trust event in London.

Mental diseases should be treated the same as any other medical issue, she said, stressing the need of measures to promote mental wellbeing. The participation of King Charles in the trust’s efforts was also called significant by Mahira Khan.

The actress also decried the occurrences of harassment and violence in the society and said there is a need to change the public attitude and guarantee that those involved are held accountable to set an example.

“We need more awareness and collective action to tackle both the social problems and the mental health issues,” she said.