In a remarkable display of resilience and cultural pride, the ancient city of Timbuktu, Mali, hosted a vibrant fashion event titled the ‘Caravan for Peace.’ The two-day showcase, held in an open field on the city’s outskirts, featured young models adorned in colorful traditional attire, symbolizing hope and unity in a region long plagued by jihadi violence. Renowned African fashion designer Sidi Ahmed Seidina Ali, popularly known as Alphadi, spearheaded the event, urging Timbuktu natives to return and contribute to the city’s revival. ‘Let us all come! All those born in Timbuktu, return to your homeland, return to your hometown to work and show that this city is magical,’ Alphadi passionately declared. The event, organized in collaboration with local authorities, highlighted the creativity of dozens of local designers and models, many of whom have endured the scars of conflict. Timbuktu, once a pre-colonial hub of Islamic learning, has faced years of attacks by the al-Qaida-linked JNIM militant group. While authorities report improved security, sporadic violence persists, as evidenced by a recent attack on Malian army positions. Alphadi, a native of Timbuktu and a celebrated figure in African fashion, emphasized the importance of peace and the potential of young talents. ‘Modernity is not only in Paris, not only in New York, not only in Japan. Modernity is also here at home,’ he asserted, calling for mutual understanding and harmony. Local officials lauded the event as a step toward restoring Timbuktu’s former glory. Issaka Nazoum, president of the Regional Council of Timbuktu, described the caravan as a call for ‘social cohesion and living together.’ The fashion show not only celebrated Mali’s rich cultural heritage but also served as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of its people.
分类： entertainment
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Wahaj Ali talks acting challenges, diversity in Pakistani dramas, and his Dubai connection
Wahaj Ali, a prominent figure in Pakistani television, has carved a niche for himself with his versatile performances in dramas like ‘Tere Bin’ and ‘Jo Bichar Gaye’. With a career spanning nearly a decade, Ali has consistently chosen roles that challenge the norm, from the bitter yet witty Basim in ‘Ishq Jalebi’ to the intense and conflicted leader in ‘Jo Bichar Gaye’. His latest venture, ‘Jin Ki Shadi Un Ki Shadi’, a horror-comedy, marks a departure from his usual serious roles, showcasing his commitment to diversity and innovation in his craft.
In a recent interview, Ali opened up about his journey, the challenges of the Pakistani drama industry, and his creative philosophy. He emphasized the importance of choosing scripts that resonate with him, regardless of their commercial appeal. ‘I don’t care if it’s a big ‘banner’ project or not,’ he stated. ‘My strength lies in playing different, performance-oriented characters.’
Ali also highlighted the scarcity of good writers in the industry, noting that actors often bear the brunt of criticism when a project fails, despite their efforts to salvage poorly written scripts. ‘Actors are merely tools,’ he remarked. ‘If the direction or the story isn’t good, it can be challenging to showcase your craft.’
Reflecting on his career, Ali shared that every failure has been a learning opportunity. ‘You don’t learn a lot from success,’ he said. ‘The fear and the want are essential. The important thing is not to know what to do, but to know what not to do.’
Looking ahead, Ali is working on a couple of scripts that he hopes will further enhance his craft. ‘I don’t have any dream project,’ he admitted. ‘Whenever I work on a project, I turn it into a dream project.’
Ali also expressed his admiration for Dubai, which he considers a second home for many Pakistanis. ‘The infrastructure, safety, and variety of experiences in Dubai set it apart from many cities,’ he said. ‘It’s amazing how the city adapts to weather changes and offers multiple indoor options.’
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Hong Kong artists shine bright at Florence Biennale
The 15th Florence Biennale has become a global stage for artistic brilliance, with four Hong Kong artists—Liu Hongrui, Eva Ku, Cheng Xiaowei, and Ho Chun-yu—showcasing their unique works among 600 artists from 84 countries. The event, renowned for its celebration of diverse styles and techniques, highlights the richness of contemporary art. Jacopo Celona, the Biennale’s director, emphasized the inclusion of Hong Kong artists as a testament to the event’s philosophy of diversity across painting, photography, and fine art jewelry. Liu Hongrui’s *White Landscape*, an oil and distemper on canvas, blends surrealist influences with personal memories of Hong Kong and England, creating a serene yet expressive piece. Eva Ku’s *A Midsummer Night’s Dream* and *Earth’s Cry* reflect her eclectic inspirations, from fairy tales to environmental themes, while Cheng Xiaowei’s *The Bronze Era* jewelry collection reinterprets ancient Chinese bronze artifacts with a modern twist. Ho Chun-yu’s camera-less photography series, *From Cloud to Ground*, explores the interplay of analog and digital techniques. Together, their works embody the Biennale’s theme of dualism and unity, blending tradition and innovation, East and West, and inner and external worlds. The exhibition runs through October 26 at Fortezza da Basso in Florence.
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At a pumpkin festival near Berlin, powerful women take shape — one gourd at a time
The Klaistow Farm near Berlin has transformed into a vibrant celebration of pumpkins, drawing thousands of visitors to its annual Pumpkin Festival. Now in its 22nd year, the event showcases over 100,000 pumpkins of 500 varieties from around the world, each meticulously labeled with its name and origin. The festival, which began in 2004 as Germans embraced the American tradition of Halloween, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting up to 12,000 visitors on weekends and 5,000 on weekdays. This year’s theme, “Women’s Power,” features 15 larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures depicting iconic figures such as Frida Kahlo, Pippi Longstocking, and Cleopatra. The festival also offers a culinary journey with pumpkin-inspired dishes, from stuffed pumpkin to pumpkin crème brûlée. Families can explore the farm’s winding paths, marveling at creative displays like Marge Simpson’s hair made of winter squash and Elsa from “Frozen” adorned in pale yellow pumpkins. The event not only celebrates the pumpkin’s versatility but also highlights its historical journey from America to Europe, as recounted by Antje Winkelmann, co-owner of the family-run farm. Visitors can purchase 30 different types of pumpkins and indulge in a variety of pumpkin delicacies, making it a must-visit autumn destination.
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Sam Ryder: I felt I was worthless
Sam Ryder, the UK’s Eurovision sensation, has embarked on a transformative journey, both personally and musically, culminating in his latest album, *Heartland*. After achieving global fame with his Eurovision hit *Space Man*, Ryder faced a series of challenges that tested his resilience and authenticity. His debut album, rushed in the aftermath of his Eurovision success, received mixed reviews, with critics labeling it as uninspired. The situation worsened when his record label dismissed the team that had supported his rise, prompting Ryder to leave the label and pursue an independent path. This decision, while empowering, led to a period of self-doubt and depression. Ryder retreated from the spotlight, locking away his phone and questioning his worth as an artist. However, a move to Nashville, the spiritual home of country music, marked the beginning of his recovery. Inspired by the city’s creative energy, Ryder found solace in long, solitary walks and reconnected with his faith and partner, Lois Gaskin-Barber. These experiences shaped *Heartland*, an album that reflects a newfound maturity and authenticity. Departing from the retro rock of *Space Man*, Ryder explores a more introspective sound, blending soulful vocals with a desert aesthetic he calls ‘Frontier Soul.’ Tracks like *Armour* and *Better Man* delve into themes of vulnerability and resilience, while others pay tribute to his enduring relationship with Gaskin-Barber. Despite the struggles, Ryder remains optimistic, viewing his trials as a test of his positivity. ‘What is optimism, if it’s not tested?’ he reflects. With *Heartland*, Ryder has not only reclaimed his artistic identity but also solidified his place as a musician of substance and depth.
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Fitness coach on wearable tech and wellness: ‘Know your numbers, but also know your body’
As wearable technology continues to dominate the fitness landscape in 2025, Diren Kartal, a renowned fitness coach and speaker, emphasizes the importance of balancing data-driven insights with intuitive self-awareness. Kartal, who is set to return to Dubai Active 2025, shares his journey from a football player in Turkey’s Beşiktaş youth academy to a global fitness influencer. His philosophy revolves around consistency, discipline, and the transformative power of fitness on both the body and mind. Kartal’s experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has profoundly shaped his approach, teaching him humility, patience, and resilience. He believes that while wearable devices like smartwatches and trackers can gamify fitness and enhance accountability, they should not replace the intrinsic understanding of one’s body. Kartal also highlights the challenges of balancing fitness, business growth, and fatherhood, advocating for structured routines and realistic goals. At Dubai Active, he aims to inspire attendees with energy, laughter, and practical advice, encouraging them to view fitness as empowerment rather than punishment. Kartal debunks common fitness myths, such as the necessity of extreme diets or overnight results, and stresses the importance of mental wellness in physical training. He advises beginners to start simple, build consistency, and avoid comparing themselves to others. For long-term success, Kartal’s non-negotiable principle is consistency—showing up regularly, even when motivation wanes. He also shares his excitement about emerging fitness trends like cold plunges, saunas, and functional training, while reminding everyone that the basics—strength training, nutrition, sleep, and community—remain timeless.
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Milan-Cortina 2026 unveils official posters for Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games
The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games have revealed their official posters, showcasing vibrant and symbolic designs that embody the spirit of the host cities. Created by Italian artists Olimpia Zagnoli and Carolina Altavilla, the posters were unveiled on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the lead-up to the global event. Posters have been a cherished tradition since the early 20th century, serving as both artistic expressions and historical artifacts of the Games. Zagnoli’s design, titled ‘Olympic Vision,’ features a central figure peering through glasses shaped like Olympic rings, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The artist explained that her work reflects Milan’s iconic style and Cortina’s alpine charm while celebrating the unity of athletes and spectators. Altavilla’s untitled poster for the Paralympic Games captures the dynamic energy of all six Paralympic Winter sports, rendered in a striking palette of pinks, blues, and chartreuse. The design includes Milan’s Duomo cathedral in the foreground and incorporates the ‘Agitos,’ Latin for ‘I move,’ as a symbol of Paralympic movement. Large-scale versions of the posters, alongside the official torches, will be displayed at Milan’s Triennale design museum and other venues during the Games. Smaller prints are available for purchase at 35 euros (approximately $41). This follows the organizers’ earlier release of 10 artistic posters by a diverse group of artists, which are also on exhibit at the Triennale.
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When Sachin Tendulkar rewrote a scene in SRK’s iconic Pepsi advertisement
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, renowned for his composed presence on the field, also showcased his creative flair off it, as revealed by acclaimed ad filmmaker Prahlad Kakkar. In a recent interview with ANI, Kakkar shared the behind-the-scenes story of one of Pepsi’s most iconic advertisements from 1999, featuring Tendulkar alongside Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The ad, which became a cultural phenomenon, was elevated by Tendulkar’s ingenious suggestion to alter the script’s climax. Initially, the scene depicted Tendulkar picking up a bat and heading to the field. However, Tendulkar proposed a twist: instead of taking the bat, he would return to the dressing room with a Pepsi, leaving Shah Rukh Khan’s character to face the unexpected challenge of batting. This change not only added humor but also made the ad more memorable. The commercial, which popularized the slogan ‘Yeh Dil Maange More,’ remains a celebrated example of the synergy between sports and Bollywood, marking a golden era in Indian advertising during the 1990s.
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Look: Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas’s intimate Diwali bash with daughter Malti
Global stars Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas recently celebrated Diwali in an intimate yet heartwarming style, sharing glimpses of their festivities on Instagram. The couple, known for their cross-cultural influence, marked the Festival of Lights with close friends in New York, alongside their daughter Malti Marie. Priyanka, radiant in a traditional red ensemble, and Nick, looking sharp in white, captured the essence of the occasion with a blend of simplicity and elegance. The celebration also featured Malti engaging in the traditional activity of painting diyas, symbolizing the passing of cultural traditions to the next generation. Priyanka emphasized the joy of introducing Diwali to Malti’s friends, making the festival even more special. ‘This Diwali was full of heart and love,’ she wrote, extending warm wishes for prosperity and happiness to all celebrating. On the professional front, Priyanka continues to expand her impressive portfolio, with upcoming projects including ‘The Bluff,’ the second season of ‘Citadel,’ and a collaboration with SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu. Her recent appearance in ‘Heads of State’ alongside Idris Elba and John Cena further cements her status as a versatile global icon.
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Joseph Quinn won’t return as Eddie Munson in ‘Stranger Things’ final season
Joseph Quinn, the actor who brought the beloved character Eddie Munson to life in ‘Stranger Things,’ will not be returning for the show’s fifth and final season. The Duffer brothers, creators of the hit Netflix series, have officially confirmed the news, putting an end to ongoing speculation among fans. In a recent interview with a British film magazine, Matt Duffer addressed the rumors, stating, ‘Joe is so busy anyway that everyone should know he’s not coming back. He’s shot like five movies since! When the hell does he have time to come and shoot Stranger Things? No, sadly, RIP. He’s fully under that ground.’
Eddie Munson, introduced in Season 4, quickly became a fan favorite for his heroic sacrifice. His emotional death scene, where he distracts the Demobats to aid his friends, remains one of the most memorable moments in the series. Since his departure from the show, Quinn has been immersed in a series of high-profile projects, including ‘A Quiet Place: Day One,’ ‘Gladiator II,’ and ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps.’
While Eddie’s return is off the table, fans can still anticipate the return of the show’s core cast, including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Noah Schnapp, and Winona Ryder. Additionally, the final season will introduce a new character, Dr. Kay, portrayed by Linda Hamilton. Described as a ‘hyper-intelligent and intimidating’ government agent tracking Eleven, Dr. Kay is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the series. Matt Duffer praised Hamilton’s character, saying, ‘She’s a scientist, but if she needs to, she can get into a fight and shoot a gun.’
The final season will be released in three parts, with Volume 1 premiering on November 26 (four episodes), Volume 2 on Christmas (three episodes), and The Finale on New Year’s Eve. This structured release is designed to give fans a gradual and impactful conclusion to the beloved series.