Revolutionary equipment, adequate qualification, proper one-on-one consultation as well as slight knowledge about fashion and trends– these are a few basic qualities to look for in an optician!
Since selecting an optician is more or less like settling for a professional doctor for regular checkups, it is understandable if you are being skeptical about your final decision.
Do you feel you are viewing the world in a low resolution? Are you in dire need of eye-glasses or lenses?
Take a look below to find the best trusted opticians in Pakistan who will help you find exactly what you deserve.
Karachi
Eye Master (Clifton Road)
All eyes are unique and hence require high quality pair of glasses to look through.
No one understands this better than opticians at Eye Master. A renowned optics store in the heart of Karachi will exactly be the solution to your eye problems.
These opticians provide all customers with a detailed consultation, only to offer them the most accurate spectacles accordingly.
Ainak (Zamzama)
Another trusted best-seller’s name in the optic world is Ainak.
When it comes to choosing reading glasses as well as sunglasses for the sunny days, Ainak should be your pick.
Not only do they display a wide array of stylish and trendy designs of eye wear, but their service has always received impeccable 5 stars!
Do check their outlet out.
Lahore
Optic World (Main Market)
If you are a Lahori, you probably already know that Optic World is the only name which pops in the mind as soon as your next eye test is up!
You will find the friendliest, most respectful and helpful staff at Optic World.
While you will without a doubt find the most expensive and cool eye wear in their store, you will, on the other hand will find the most affordable ones too!
This feature truly sets them apart from the rest.
Nain Care (DHA)
Finding parking space for your car is a daunting task outside Nain Care’s outlet because everyone chooses to go there!
While they specialize in powered glasses, eyewear frames and trendy sunglasses; they are also a trusted vendor for contact lenses and lenses solutions.
You might find their prices to be touching the roof, but hey! Don’t you want to gift your eyes the best?
Islamabad
D. Watson (F-6, F-10)
Offering Islamabad the best groceries, perfumes, makeup items as well as medicines under one roof; D.Watson is not short of introduction in the optic world either!
Selling high quality frames, powered glasses as well as powered contact lenses; D. Watson has been leading the market since decades.
Receive the best one-on-one consultation and go home with utter satisfaction. D. Watson is hands down, the best Islamabad has to offer.
Gulzari Optics (G9)
Not the best locale in Islamabad, G9 nonetheless is a decent area to visit when you want to get your chores done- Shopping for inexpensive items being the main feature.
However, when it comes to listing the names of trusted opticians, Gulzari Optics lands as the 2nd best.
Not only do they offer affordable services but also provide their customers with faultless follow-ups later.
One of the highest remunerated actresses in Pakistan, an international super model and Lux Style award winner Iman Ali is no doubt, a diva!
Debuting in the critically acclaimed Pakistani feature film Khuda Ke liye in 2011, she has been rather absent from the scene since appearing in Mah-e-mir in 2016.
Being the talk of the town in February 2019, Iman Ali’s wedding celebrations have been plastered across the entire social media and her fans are loving it!
Not the biggest wedding celebration you will talk about, nonetheless since she was bursting with tears of joy, dancing and singing merrily; she truly shattered the stereotypical shy brides of Pakistan.
The celebration kicked off with a Dholki, Nikkah-Shendi followed by a grand Mayoun, and finally a ValimaReception.
Checkout how Iman Ali and Babar Bhatti happily tied their knot.
Nikkah
Her Nikkah was a high spirited event where all the industry bigwigs gathered and participated with full energy. Ali Zafar, Farhan Saeed, Urwa Hocane, Sarwat Gillani, HSY and Umair Jaswal are a few renowned names to begin with!
The highlight of the event was the outrageous Haq Mehr (alimony) set at rs25 million!
Click here to watch the Nikkah Ceremony here:
Mehndi
Right after the couple uttered ‘Qubool hai’ 3 times, the star studded affair turned into a glamorous party where all their friends and family members danced the night away!
Going for a simple look, Iman Ali was clad in a traditional yellow ghaagra choli with a matching yellow duppata.
The ensemble looked even better with the flawlessly complimenting jewelry, especially the glass bangles.
The groom however chose a plain off-white sherwani with a maroon inner shirt paired with traditional khussay, perfect for the nikkah-mehndi festivities.
To watch the mehndi dances, click below:
Mayoun
Her Mayoun was no small feat either!
Attended by close friends and family members, the whole event was glitzy and super fun. The best part was Iman Ali not shying away from singing and dancing!
Farhan Saeed and Urwa Hocane attended all the functions!
Valima Reception
All the wedding festivities came to a halt with the concluding event of Valima which was attended by crème de la crème of Pakistan. Ali Xeeshan, Ali Zafar, Umair Jaswal, HSY, Yasmin Hashmi and Zara Shahjahan are a few celebrities who were invited amongst others.
Iman Ali looked like a porcelain doll draped in a champagne colored traditional outfit. Her off-white embellished gharara paired a plain kameez and a totally regal dupatta with gold edging looked spectacular.
Also, pairing the entire ensemble with a maroon side-dupatta got her full marks in style!
For those of you who are not aware, Iman Ali’s beau Babar Bhatti is the late grandson of Major Aziz Bhatti (shaheed) who received Nishan-e-Haider for attaining martyrdom in the 1965 Indo-Pak war.
For her big day, Iman Ali chose none other than Shahzad Raza (Ather Shahzad) as her makeup-artist who did a fine job in dolling her up.
While she kept her makeup minimal and in totally earthy shades, we are sure she didn’t need an extra hand for that radiance and glow she had put on all week long!
Irfan Ahson and his team also did a splendid job in capturing the right amount of memories through their cameras. Check the highlights here:
Iman and Babar Reception“We love films because they makes us feel something. They speak to our desires, which are never small. They allow us to escape and to dream and to gaze into the eyes that are impossibly beautiful and huge. They fill us with longing. But also. They tell us to remember; they remind us of life."
Pakistan is a domicile to an assortment of delectable dishes, and we Pakistanis enjoy our food fiery and spicy!
Chicken Karahi being one of countless, authentic Pakistani cuisines is a must try if you desire to experience the true Pakistani culture.
Why this name, you ask? Well, since Chicken Karahi is cooked and usually also served in a large, open-mouthed wok like vessel known locally as a ‘karahi’, what other name could describe this sizzling meal!
While chicken karahi’s recipes vary from each province to each household; the underlining recipe remains unchanged- chicken cooked in loads of tomatoes to form scrumptious gravy!
Best served with freshly baked Naan or Tandoori Roti (plain, kalonji or garlic), the saltiness of the naan compliments the piquancy of the karahi on all levels! Although in some states, people prefer eating this dish with plain rice.
If you wish to create the amazing street Pakistani hawker style karahi, the recipe is jotted down below. However, if you want to add a twist to the Desi-ness, you can always go for newfangled versions like BBQ chicken karahi, chicken boneless karahi, chicken and cheese karahi and more!
Here’s your step by step guide:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 5-7 people
Meal Course: Lunch/Dinner
Calories: 295 kcal
Ingredients
· Whole Chicken (cut into small pieces) 1kg
· Cooking oil (2 tablespoons)
· Ghee (1 tablespoon)
· Water 1 cup
Spices:
· Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
· Red button chilies (3)
· Salt (1.5 teaspoon)
· Cumin seeds (roasted) (1.5 teaspoon)
· Turmeric Powder (1.5 teaspoon)
· Black pepper (1.5 teaspoon)
· Coriander powder (1 teaspoon)
· Shan or National chicken karahi powder (1 tablespoon) (optional)
Vegetables:
· Ginger & garlic paste (1 tablespoon)
· Chopped Tomatoes (8)
· Onion (1 large) shredded
· Green fresh coriander chopped (1 tablespoon)
· Ginger juliennes (handful)
· Lemon juice (1 teaspoon)
If you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cookin’!
Instructions – Method of Cooking
· Heat oil and ghee in your karahi (wok) for a few seconds on a medium flame.
· Add the shredded onion juliennes and cook for 7 minutes until they turn white. Add roasted cumin and ginger garlic paste. Cook for 5 minutes.
· Add the small chicken pieces one at a time. Keep tossing and mixing them till they are slightly fried.
· As soon as they change their color, add chopped tomatoes, green chilies, ginger juliennes and handful of freshly chopped coriander leaves.
· Stir a couple of times and add all powdered spices. Mix well.
· Add ½ cup plain water. Mix well.
· Cover the lid and let it simmer on low flame for 30 minutes, or till the chicken is fully tender/cooked.
· After the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the tomatoes have converted into gravy, add lemon juice and give the dish a generous stir.
· Taste-check for salt and spices. If you feel the salt is less, add more.
Tip:In case the dish is too spicy, simply add canned tomato puree or make a fresh tomato puree and add it.
Voila! Your traditional Pakistani chicken karahi is ready.
Simply garnish it with fresh coriander leaves and ginger juliennes.
Serve it hot!
Trust us, your guests will love indulging in this delicacy and you will definitely leave them wanting more!
It’s no surprise that all Pakistanis are true foodies from the core! Whether we resort to extreme weight loss measures like ‘dieting’ or spend a quiet weekend at home; ordering food is forever on the itinerary!
The statistics reveal how Foodpanda approximately generated an astounding one billion rupees from delivering food across Pakistan just in 2016.
With that said, it would be an understatement if I wrote that Foodpanda is trending since the year 2012, after being founded only a year ago!
Want to learn more about where Foodpanda originated from? How it grew? Who loves it the most? Why it has become an important part in everyone’s life?
Keep readin’ and find out!
Foodpanda: When and how it was founded
Nauman Sikandar Mirza created Foodpanda with a ground-breaking idea while sitting in his father’s living room in 2011.
Dated 7th July, 2011, he began the journey with a mere online food review platform called Food Connection Pakistan.
By laying out only 4 tables initially, Nauman feared it wouldn’t work out, resulting in the project going down the drain.
Secret Fact: He didn’t have enough finances to pay for the first month’s operations!
Surprisingly, within the year, the project had listed approximately 3000 vendors while reaching out to almost 200,000 visitors!
“I wanted to build something in Pakistan,
for Pakistan.”CEO Foodpanda
While Foodpanda commenced delivering on-demand food items across Pakistan in 2012, the fact of the matter is that the growth in 2018 has been rather incomparable to the previous years combined.
The company outstandingly registered over 5000 restaurants and cafes under their name.
Initial fast-food brands to come onboard with Foodpanda?
While KFC and Subway joined Foodpanda relatively instantly, McDonalds joined in 2015 while Pizza Hut waited until 2017.
What do Pakistanis order the most?
Factually, Pakistani’s cannot fulfill their food cravings until they indulge in a hearty meal, which can only be satisfied by ‘Roti’ or ‘Chawal’.
However, on the contrary, according to Foodpanda, the most preferred are ‘Fast-food cuisines’ at an astonishing 54%, followed by Chinese cuisines at 24%.
Pakistani’s also order BBQ and Pakistani dishes.
Pakistani Students top the list of Customers!
Apart from academics, food is the biggest thing on every student’s mind, and believe us, we can back this statement with statistics!
Based on Universities in Karachi alone, 54% online orders are placed for fast-food items, namely pizzas and burgers. KFC and McDonalds top the list!
What are the best selling days for Foodpanda?
This one isn’t hard to guess! Weekends, duh!
While citizens of Manila, mostly students order out on Mondays and students from Kuala Lampur enjoy not-so-home-cooked meals on Fridays; us Pakistani’s are all about weekends ‘Saturday and Sunday’!
Whereas some Pakistanis prefer dining out on weekends with family, apparently bachelors, especially students prefer ordering in through Foodpanda.
Pakistanis eat food at odd hours!
In other countries, hunger pangs usually approach at lunch hours ‘12-1pm’ and dinnertime ‘6-8pm’. Conversely, we Pakistanis eat food throughout the day at rather odd hours!
Pakistani’s order their lunch from 2-3pm while they love ordering midnight snacks from 11pm to 2am.
24348717 - professional makeup set: eyeshadow palette, lipstick, mascara, blush, powder, make-up brushes and perfume, many cosmetics closeup.
New Year, new you! While you have your hands full from clearing out your wardrobe, cleaning your diet and everything else as per your resolutions; why not clean your Instagram feed too, to witness upcoming makeup artists of the year?
Since social media displays an array of unique beauty trends and styles every month, why don’t we try a thing or two?
If you desire to get out of the beauty rut like me, here are the 4 most talked about upcoming makeup artists you can stalk on social media for new ideas!
Kashif Aslam AKA Kashee
Running his own game by the name of Kashee’s beauty salon, Kashif Aslam is truly gifted when it comes to dolling up brides and models for photo shoots.
Have not yet experienced his art personally but from what we have heard, he has made a name in a short span of time in the industry because of his unique makeup tricks.
If you want to look flawless and trendy for your wedding this year, go nowhere else and allow Kashee to handle it for you!
Hair and makeup done by Kashee for a professional photo shoot.
Checkout the nude makeup look; perfect for a Mehndi event!
Wajid Khan
Wondering why you should follow him on social media? Well, because he is our favorite celeb’s personal makeup artist, that’s why!
Wajid Khan, a well known name in the media industry due to his dewy and glowing approach for skin and his total penchant for glitters and sparkle for the eyes!
If you like how your favorite Pakistani actress wears her eyeliner with an equally complimenting lip-stain, give a shout out to Wajid!
We all know pinks are hard to play with unless it is just lipstick!
Nonetheless, can we all agree that Wajid did a wonderful job here with the perfect amount of pink?
Zoya Qais
A total magician in her own right, Zoya Qais is a fairly up-to-the-minute name in the makeup industry. However, being an amateur in front of the reigning makeup artists hasn’t kept her from experimenting new makeup swindles.
Glitter is surely her middle name because she dabs just the right amount of sparkle on the eyes, treating each client’s face as a pristine canvas for her exceptional art.
She recently launched her salon under the name of ZQ in DHA Lahore. Also, follow her on Instagram and witness the genius firsthand!
Doesn’t she look like a porcelain doll?
We love the intricate details around the eyes…especially the flawless blending and choice of eyeshades!
We can all agree that smooth silky skin paired with bright pops of color around the eyes is Zoya’s signature!
Madiha Qaiser
The girl behind the versatile looks of models and actors is none other than Madiha Qaier and we believe she is here to stay!
From commercial photo shoots to renowned Pakistani movies such as Shah, the Motorcycle girl and more, Maddy can immaculately create zero makeup looks as well as gothic appearances!
Cartes by Pasho:This nude makeup look is to die for!
Caged ft Gitti Ara: Madiha’s makeup artistry is truly fabulous!
What’s so fascinating about staying at luxurious 5 star hotels that provide you with a baby-like slumber? Can you owe it to the crisp, freshly pressed bed sheets or the soft pillows and pillow cases? Better yet, can you owe it to the amazingly absorbent towels you used post shower?
Whatever it was, the truth is that you can recreate the same vibes at home by selecting the idyllic ‘bed and bath’ brands in Pakistan!
Our team has rounded up the top 4 brands you can blindly trust for your comfort when it comes to decorating your room with the perfect bedding sets as well as when you need to add the extra oomph to your bathrooms with the softest towels.
ChenOne
Some customers prefer comfort while others go for prints and colors in bed sets.
Whatever’s your pick, ChenOne is a one stop shop for both luxury and unique designs in bedding.
From amazing luxury bed sets to loose bed sheets; king size, queen size and singles, ChenOne is one name all Pakistani’s trust!
Oh! And when it comes to towels, theirs are the fluffiest, most absorbent and totally long lasting.
Do check them out on your next shopping spree.
Checkout the perfectly subtle color combo!
You can find towel sets in various colors; perfect for every theme in each bathroom.
Khaadi Home
As most of you are already aware, Khaadi produces bespoke clothing for men, women and kids.
However, a new addition in their brand is none other than home décor items which translates to unique designs, color vibrancy as well as affordability.
From personal experience, Khaadi’s bedding sets are absolutely awesome.
I owe it to the modern prints, soft fabric and to the choice of ‘long staple cotton threads’.
Anyone with a good eye and a little knowledge about fabric will agree how ‘long staple cotton’ refers to the best quality!
You wouldn’t want to give up on the chance to visit Khaddi Home. Trust us!
Isn’t this bed set right out of a story book?
Is it only me, or are these cushion covers giving you home décor inspirational ideas!
Bed and Bath
The name speaks for itself!
The superior absorbency properties in Bed and Bath towels are extraordinary, stated by the customers who gave them nothing less than 5 star reviews.
So is true for bathroom mat sets. They are non-slippery and the plush fabric is exactly what you need to step on after a long, hot bubble bath!
Additionally, the eco-friendly, long-fiber cotton and satin bed sheets give off an incredibly soft and smooth feel.
What sets Bed and Bath apart is the fact that they offer luxurious bridal bedding sets too. We agree that they are not so wallet-friendly, but hey! Marriage calls for special gifts!
Are you also admiring the intricacy and detail in these towels?
Yes! This bridal set is the perfect addition to the bride and groom’s newly decorated room!
And who can avoid noticing these neutral bathroom mats?
The Linen Company by Nishat
Microfibers may not be on your priority list but the bed spreads, bed sheets as well as the blankets are best sellers online. What we love the most are the smooth sateen colorful bedspreads.
And did we forget to mention how adorable and up-to-the-minute the new arrival cushion covers are. You need to see them yourselves!
How about valentines present for your better half?
This is literally the exact picture that pops into our heads when we think of fruit! Pakistan is truly a blessed country, rich in natural resources and fertile land.
Fruits and vegetables grow in abundance alongside crops. Not only are they plentiful in quality, they also have exquisite taste and of course are overflowing with nutrients. Owing to the quality as well as quantity of fruits, there is a huge potential for profitable exports as well as long as systems are developed for quality control and packaging etc.
Like all crops, specific fruits grow in specific climates. Therefore, different provinces all have certain specialties with respect to the fruits that grow there.
Citrus Fruit
Let’s begin with Citrus Fruit – better known to the common man as Kino! Did you know that citrus fruit ranks at the very top in both production and trade in Pakistan? No, right? Neither did I!
Out of the many varieties, Pakistan grows sweet oranges, mandarin, grapefruit, lemon and lime commercially. According to a report in 2017, Pakistan is the 12th largest producer of citrus in the world!
Areas where citrus grows are:
Punjab: Districts of Sargodha, Jhang, Sahiwal, Lahore, Multan, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Mianwali.
Sindh: Districts of Sukkur, Nawabshah and Khairpur.
Khyber Pakhtun Khwa: Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, Hazzara, Nowshehra and Sibi.
Balochistan: Sibbi, Makran and Kech.
There is a huge demand for the fruit owing to its many uses. Kino is also exported to South Asian countries and is applauded for its impeccable taste. Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C which boosts the immune system – don’t forget to consume citrus fruits during the cold and flu season! They are also an excellent source of fiber, promote heart health and are wonderful staples for weight loss, too.
Mango – The King of Fruits
Mango is produced in large quantities in Pakistan – in fact, Pakistan ranks amongst some of the highest producers of mango in the world!
It is grown in the following areas:
Punjab: Multan, Bahawalpur, Muzaffargarh and Rahim Yar Khan.
Sindh: Mir Pur Khas, Hyderabad and Thatta.
Khyber Pakhtun Khwa: D.I.Khan, Peshawar and Mardan.
Mangoes have more or less 1600 known varieties. Out of these 250 are grown in Pakistan while only 15 to 20 are grown on a commercial scale. These include Dasehri, Anwar Ratul, Langra, Chaunsa, Sindhri, Maldha and Fajri! Funny names aren’t they? Mangoes are also incredibly useful as they offer many health benefits. They improve digestion, promote a healthy gut, help boost immunity as well as aid in weight loss!
Cherry
These little nutrient rich babies are truly loved in our country! In Pakistan, cherries grow in the following regions:
Northern areas,
Gilgit-Baltistan
Balochistan.
The climate of these regions is ideally suited for cherry trees with good winter rains and dry cool summers. It is also quite suitable for the said areas as cherry trees need comparatively less water, have a short production duration and extremely high value in the markets.
Cherries are wildly popular for their countless qualities. Consumption has been proven helpful in alleviating signs and symptoms of neurosis, insomnia and headaches.
The melatonin found in abundance in cherries helps in soothing the nerves and calming the nerves. They also curb irritability and improve the sleep cycle.
Apple
Apples are known as the “sweet gold” of Pakistan due to the lip smacking types that are grown here. They are usually grown at higher elevations in cooler climates.
Balochistan is the key contributor of apples with Khyber Pakhtun Khwa coming in at a close second.
Varieties available locally include:
Golden delicious
Red delicious
Kala Kulu
Kaja
Gacha
Amri
Mushhadi
Kashmiri.
We’ve all heard the old saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” As it turns out, there’s actually a lot of truth to the statement as consumption of apples provides antioxidants that help in improving neurological health. They also help prevent dementia, reduce risks of strokes and lower levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
Therefore, it is important to maintain a balanced intake of fruits. They are refreshing, light, full of nutrients and antioxidants too! So make sure to incorporate fruits into your diets and enjoy their natural goodness!
The brand new year 2019 has kicked off with an astounding start and while the 12 months of 2018 wrapped up nicely, it is time we take a sneak peek at our top well dressed Pakistani celebrities and their plethora of flamboyant outfits!
Our local stars have been bringing their fashionable A game all year round and if you need some style insights and inspirations; you have come to the right place.
Take a look below at the top 5 celebrities who not only wore the best outfits in 2018 but made a whirlwind cut and made to our best dressed list!
It’s time to pay them the credit and attention they so rightly deserve.
Mahira Khan
Draped fashionably in the perfect noir outfit by Alberta Ferretti, Mahira Khan walked the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival 2018 making the whole world go crazy over her style choice.
Not only did the dress hug her at the right places revealing her ‘hard-work-at-the-gym’ curves, but the diamond sparkles around her neckline was exactly what made her entire look complete – totally in a vintage English movie way!
Mahira Khan tops our best dressed list not only because she dresses up impeccably at all formal events, but also because she cleans up well casually too. Way to go Mahira!
She looks beautiful in Desi outfits too…right?
We look forward to witnessing what you bring on this year.
Syra Shahroz
Whether she needs to dress up for a girl’s night out or a red carpet event; Syra Shahroz has never let her fans down!
The bubbly and happy go lucky diva has stolen the hearts of all Pakistani teenage girls and rightly so!
After all, being super chic even after having a child definitely gives you an A+ on the styling-resume!
She usually goes for out of the box outfits and pairs them with minimal makeup and simple hairstyles. Inspired yet?
Fawad Khan
With The Pakistan Super League (PSL) new anthem “Khel Deewano Ka” on everyone’s lips, it is no surprise that Fawad Khan is the only person all fans want to stare at whenever it plays on the televisions!
The 37 year old hunk has his charm staying strong till date, whether he is seen dressed up casually or formally.
From denim pants paired with simple Ts, to dark slouchy bomber jackets and even formal 3 piece suits; Fawad Khan rocks his tall sleek built in all forms of tailoring like no one else can!
He polishes up nicely in his Desi Attires!
He totally owns and bosses the look even when in formal suiting!
Iqra Aziz
Always a show stopper, Iqra Aziz is known in the media industry as the daring one when it comes to flaunting stunning outfits.
From her unique haircuts, hairstyles, choice of nail paints to her beautiful clothes; everything is totally out of the box!
Balancing charm, style and class; Iqra has been hitting all social events with custom made dresses perfect for her petite frame, and hence, can easily be called a fashion icon!
She was seen flaunting an exquisite black gown for Hum Awards 2017. She chose a fusion silk drape for Eid-ul-fitr 2018 and we loved it.
Checkout the modern princess vibes Iqra gave during the Lux Style awards 2018!
Ayesha Omar
Known best as ‘Khubsoorat’ in her drama series ‘Bulbulay’, Ayesha Omar has long been a fashionista in the Pakistani industry, however, 2018 saw how she owned a wardrobe chock-full of totally rocking attires!
This cheerful diva is all about poise, fashion and funk. Unwavering in her modern yet classic dressing style approach, Ayesha never lets a moment go by when she can match her gorgeous attires with branded shoes and gleaming jewelry.
She can tastefully carry our Pakistani national dress…
…As much as she can add the wow factor in western clothing!
Well! This calls to the end of our round-up of 2018’s best dressed Pakistani Celebs. Let us know in the comments about your favorite one! Let’s see who inspires you to take a leap and opt for different style of clothing this year.
Everyone knows that makeup is every girl’s best friend and with that said, it is easy to state that the gloomy days are long gone when you couldn’t find authentic makeup brands in Pakistan.
Every makeup fanatic will agree to the fact that ordering a long list of makeup products from abroad whenever a relative (KHALA) came to visit for a few days was mandatory! But not necessarily anymore!
Not only do we have the ideal makeup brands available in Pakistan today but guess what? The best thing is that they are manufactured locally…meaning that they are not only totally affordable, but also gel in with our skin tone and climatic conditions perfectly.
If you are still hooked to international makeup brands such as Maybelline and Loreal, and are tired of replacing them every month because they are downright expensive, why don’t you try one of our desi makeup brands and see the difference?
As with any makeup item, just because it is costly doesn’t automatically mean the quality is superior too.
Believe it or not, our local brands are pocket friendly, ideal for our wheatish skin tones and are perfect for our harsh weather variations. What’s more? They play a faultless role as dupes to international makeup brands.
Did you know that Brow tints by Luscious cosmetics are the perfect dupes for Anastasia Beverly Hills brow tints in espresso and brunette?
With that stated, lets leap and take a look at the top 6 Pakistani Makeup brands which are hands down mesmerizing, economical as well as long lasting!
Medora
Medora has been ramping the Pakistani market since 1961 and is profoundly selling a complete range of makeup products at unbelievably affordable rates!
Be it matte lipsticks or glossy, colorful nail polish shades or compact powders; Medora offers a cosmic range of makeup products you will totally fall in love with!
With all lip shades priced between rs150-500, can you believe that MEDORA Russet 287 is the sure shot dupe of MAC Chilli?
Why pay rs1800 when you can enjoy the same effect is rs160!!! Same goes for Medora Viva Glam and MAC Viva Glam.
Let me add another imperative factor. Since I myself am a Medora junky when it comes to lipsticks, if you ask why it is so, I’ll tell you that Medora lipsticks have the ideal long-lasting effect. They won’t come off even when you eat or drink! What could be cooler than this?
Luscious Cosmetics
If you are an animal lover, you surely prefer cruelty free makeup too!
If this is the case, you should definitely try Luscious cosmetics.
Staying abreast with makeup trends, Luscious has won the hearts of many Pakistani women because Luscious highlighters, shimmers and loose pigmented eye-shadows are to die for!
Luscious has also recently launched its ‘bag friendly’ contour kits and while they are priced approximately at Rs. 2000, they are a double thumbs-up for you if you are a working woman who applies makeup every day because the contouring gel sticks onto the face for hours, even in the humid days.
Nabila’s
Nabila is a famous name not only in Pakistan but abroad as well.
With the launch of her gorgeous ‘no makeup palette’ containing a section for concealer, blender, blush, lip stain and setting powder; the diva has aided in the transformation of many from ordinary to extraordinary!
Believe it when I say that this portable kit is way better than going for expensive foundations, blushes and lipsticks because you get everything packed in one; helping you save thousands!
And hey! Who wants to carry 5 makeup items when you can carry just one!
Massarat Misbah
A makeup brand launched by a makeup artist herself, what else could we be talking about?
A well researched project carried out by Massarat Misbah herself, she has created a glamorous range of cosmetics which suit our Pakistani skin tones, skin textures as well as the varying weather conditions.
MM makeup is Halal, meaning that the ingredients used in all makeup products are perfect for muslims as well as non-muslims. If you ask today’s Pakistani women, they will vouch for MM silk foundation and silk pressed powder for sure.
J. Makeup
Junaid Jamshed needs no introduction because not only was he an iconic Pakiatani singer but after the launch of his amazing clothing line for men and women both, he was and still is the talk of the town!
The makeup products stemmed quite recently and gained recognition because of their high quality and long-lastingness.
They offer concealers, illuminators, contouring kits and much more but what set them apart are their mineral lipsticks!
These lipsticks help hydrate the lips, are not clumpy and have a sweet scent too.
Clazona
This brand is truly striking and noteworthy.
If you are looking for non-transferable lip colors which also last throughout the day, Clazona is the brand you need!
Clazona’s highlighting factor is definitely the lip glosses; nonetheless, the variety includes silicone kajal pencils, eyelashes, blush-on kits, makeup brushes and much more.
You will certainly forget brands like Colorpop and Wet n Wild when you try this!
This brings us to the end of the makeup craziness!
If you will excuse me, I’d like to go out and stock up on some more until next time! Enjoy.
There is no doubt that Pakistan is one of those countries which are endowed with surplus natural beauty.
From amazing landscapes to housing five of the highest peaks in the world and the awe-inspiring lakes and valleys; Pakistan is a photographer’s heaven!
The serene and tranquil lakes in Pakistan are one of a kind and if you want to add a feather in your travelling cap, then you must visit them.
Lake Saif-ul-Muluk
Lake SaifulMuluk tops the list of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. Located near the town of Naran, this lake is the highest lake in Pakistan and is at an altitude of 3224 meters.
The bowl-shaped lake is rich in multiple unique flora and fauna, particularly the blue-green algae species which give it a beautiful greenish-blue hue. Besides its picturesque setting, the lake has an interesting folklore attached to it which adds to its mystical beauty.
Camping and boating facilities are easily available and if you are an avid stargazer, then overnight camping is a must for you. So get your cameras and your gear ready to visit this beautiful lake!
Shangrila Lake
Shangrila Lake is also known as Lower Kachura lake and is at a drive of about 20 minutes from Skardu. Shangrila Lake is a beautiful and popular tourist destination and one of its unique features is its restaurant which has been built on a crashed aircraft fuselage.
The lake itself is extremely beautiful and crystal clear. It was named after a book titled ‘Lost horizon’ by James Hilton in which he described a fictional, idyllic place called Shangri-La which was quite similar to Shangrila lake, hence the name!
Attabad Lake
Attabad lake is one of the most popular lakes for tourism and with good reason too! The turquoise water of the lake and the massive mountainous backdrop are enough to be awe-inspiring.
The pristine water of the lake gives a feeling of peace and calm and the mountains give a feeling of complete and utter incredulity. The history of this lake is very tragic as it was created as a result of a massive landslide that destroyed an entire village, the Gojal lake.
It is for this reason that Attabad lake is also known as the Gojal lake. Boat rides are available and the colorful boats give a contrasting beauty to the uniform turquoise of the lake water.
Ansoo Lake
Ansoo lake is one miraculous lake and unlike any other lakes, it is a marvel to look at!
Located at a height of 13,927 feet, it lies amidst the towering peaks of Kaghan valley. The journey to reach the river is extremely difficult but once you reach there, you’ll be stunned to see it.
Shaped accurately like a tear-drop, this river exists at a height where water bodies are not supposed to be! It is fondly known as the ‘Crown jewel’ of Kaghan valley. Keep in mind that camping is not feasible and can be very risky.
Banjosa Lake
Banjosa lake is an artificial lake located in Rawalakot, District Bagh in Azad Kashmir. It is located at 6499 feet above the sea level and is surrounded by pine forests and lush green mountains.
The pine forests give a very charming and romantic feel to the entire area and the smell of pine adds to the overall ambiance of the area. The temperatures are cool during the summers and cold during the winters, making this lake accessible throughout the year. Access to this lake is easy via a metallic road from Rawalakot.
The people of Lahore really are this level of crazy about their city! The saying “Lahore, Lahore hai” has become really famous in its own right. And for good measure too, the city with its hustling bustling roads, rowdy people and the love for food has a strange lure to it which no one can truly ignore.
Besides this, the city is also chock-full of interesting places to visit that make a visit to the city, truly memorable and enjoyable!
Straight to Gluttony: Food Street and M.M. Alam Road
Every Lahori has a limitless love for food and huge appetites to back up this passion of theirs! Some of the greatest restaurants of the city are located on M.M. Alam road which was named after a well-known figure of the Pakistan Air Force.
Recently, the widely popular P.F. Chang’s has also opened a branch on M.M. Alam road, which truly is an honor in itself! Apart from this, restaurants such as the Village Restaurant, Yum, Spice bazaar, Aylanto and many others are located in this vicinity. There truly is a restaurant catering to every taste!
On a similar note, the Lahore Food Street is another place which is a yummy treat for not only the tummy only, but overall a delight to visit with its gorgeously lit area and appetizing smells wafting up from the many vendors!
Badshahi Mosque
Badshahi Mosque is truly a sight for sore eyes. It is a beautiful mosque that was built by the Emperor Aurangzeb in the year 1673.
It is one of Lahore’s most famous tourist attractions and rightly so, with the serenity and peace that reigns the beautiful mosque, it is a wonderful place to visit!
Tourists can stopover at the red-sandstone structure and see various relics belonging to the Holy Prophet and his family members.
Wagah Border
The guard changing ceremony at the Wagah border truly inspires patriotism in the hearts of all attendants.
The approximately hour long ceremony, is a beautiful sight to behold with proud soldiers dressed in their starched uniforms and decoratively turbaned hats.
The march, the stamping of the feet, the salutes everything timed to complete perfection, is truly awe-inspiring. This is definitely something worth attending when in Lahore!
The Bazaars of Lahore
Lahoris have an insatiable appetite not just for food, but also for shopping. That being said, the old bazaars of Lahore such as Anarkali Bazaar and the Liberty Market are a haven for shopaholics.
The specialty of these markets is the range of cultural and local products that is glaringly displayed and robustly advertised by the shop keepers. From Khussas to Kundan Kohlapuris, from Banarsisaaris to chiffon lehengas; you can find just about everything here at reasonable prices.
If you know how to haggle too- well, you’re in for the time of your lives for sure! The markets also boast beautiful and intricately designed jewelry as well as local street-food.
Walled City Of Lahore
The Walled City of Lahore is also known as the Old City, and has an exuberant charm that will definitely pull at your heart strings.
The Old City boasts many relics of the Mughal Era and has numerous iconic structures as well. These include the Wazir Khan Mosque, the Badshahi Mosque as well as the Shahi Hummam.
The main attraction of the Old City can be explained by its lure due to the fact that it was established in 1000CD and was then fortified by a mud wall during the medieval era. How fascinating is that?
Other attractions include the Royal Trail, aka the Shahi Guzargah and the beautiful Havelis.
Pakistan has had a rather turbulent political history with power struggles between the various political parties of the country, undermining the development of the country.
The very people for whom this country came into being are sadly the ones who have consistently failed to understand the country; our motherland comes first! Personal power struggles and personal vendettas have miserably hindered the progress of this great nation for a long time. However, this is not saying in any way that there haven’t been awe-inspiring developments as well.
Pakistan was one of the few nations to have a female prime minister when the whole country was thought of as “backward”.
Here are some of Pakistan’s most notable prime ministers to date.
Liaquat Ali Khan
Nawabzada Liaquat Ali Khan was the first prime minister of our beloved nation.
He was also known as Quaid-e-Millat (Leader of the Nation) and Shaheed-e-Millat (Martyr of the Nation). Liaquat Ali Khan was appointed by Muhammad Ali Jinnah and this serves as evidence of both his capability and his contribution towards the formation of our country.
As the first prime minister of Pakistan he took initiatives to develop the educational sector with the vision of bringing the country to the forefront in scientific and technological development.
Unfortunately, he was assassinated on 16 October 1951 while addressing a gathering at Company Gardens, Rawalpindi.
Muhammad Ali Bogra
Mohammad Ali Bogra was the third prime minister of Pakistan and was appointed in 1953.
A highly educated and respected individual, he sought to strengthen the foreign policy of Pakistan by favoring tie with the United States rather than the Soviet Union.
His appointment as the Prime Minister of Pakistan was also ardently admired and endorsed by the United States, leading to favorable decisions from the latter as well.
His time also witnessed the first of promising contacts with China at the Bandung Conference in Indonesia. Perhaps most important was his effort to draft the constitution which he did post-haste.
Within six months of his appointment he has presented a proposal which left to the drafting of the constitutional writ. He was without a doubt quite ahead of his time to understand the importance of the constitution in a country.
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was perhaps one of the most revolutionary prime ministers of Pakistan, we all will agree! Nevertheless, even today, the nation remains largely divided over opinions relating to him.
His life and career travelled a fast paced track which ultimately led to his death at the early age of 51. However short-lived his career might have been, he had the foresight to lay down the foundations of relations with China which continue to benefit Pakistan in numerous ways to date.
What is most remarkable about him is the fact that his views and policies gained equal favor among the peasantry, working class and the emerging middle class as well. During his time as the Prime Minister, he built a network of schools in slums and villages, created basic health facilities among other measures.
Most extraordinary, however, was his contribution to the defense paradigm of nuclear weapons. He was hanged after being convicted for murder.
Benazir Bhutto
Benazir Bhutto, the daughter of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was a pioneer for women in politics in a country where women were looked upon as mere objects and confined to households.
She had a strong educational background which in itself was an oddity at that time, and even stronger opinions which was an even bigger foible! Her ideals were centered on democratic policies. For her unbendable will, she was dubbed as the Iron Lady of Pakistan.
Benazir Bhutto contributed considerably to politics and the overall political environment of the country. Nonetheless, what she should be applauded for is the way she conducted herself in a position of power when women were barely acknowledged in the political genre.
Carrying her infants in her hand, she was a living tribute to the very strength that is called a woman!
She was assassinated on 27th December 2007, in Rawalpindi while campaigning for elections scheduled in January 2008.
Imran Khan
Imran Khan, the cricketer turned politician, is the current prime minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Imran Khan struggled for a long while passing through the political machine in Pakistan before finally gaining recognition for his nationalist and populist views.
The dapper looking gentleman has inspired hope in the hearts of all Pakistanis with his promises of a just, fair and progressive nation.
Despite hailing from a non-political background, his strength in dealing with all issues small and large so far, has been commendable. While only time can tell what he will be able to accomplish, it seems as if Pakistan has finally gotten a man at the wheels who is willing to steer the nation in the right direction!
Hollywood is filled with inspiring celebrities; from makeup tips to fashion advice, nonetheless, it is easy to state that our Pakistani Lollywood is also not lagging behind in the fashion race!
Our desi celebrities totally know how to make a lasting impression, especially when it comes to striking a pose for the press!
With that said, while the internet is downright flooded with celebrity gossip, their open secrets and totally beautiful pictures; you will be happy to read that they all weren’t so flawless, always!
Yes! Just like us ‘couch potatoes’, our favorite stars had a few layers of thick skin back in the day which they have obviously shed now for the cameras and if you seek extra motivation for your oh-so-ugh dieting and gym days, here are 6 rocking inspirations from Pakistan to get you off your butt…to hit the nearest gym!
Hareem Farooq
Hareem, a completely fun loving and sweet actor turned director tops the chart with weight loss motivation feels! Most of us know about the appalling weight shedding struggles and commitment is just one thing we all lack. Not for Hareem though!
She is an inspiration for all teenage Pakistani girls out there because believe it or not, she lost 35kgs within 365 days and we are all drooling over her new, spectacular look.
In an interview, Hareem mentioned that she doesn’t hoot for ‘size zero’ and rather believes in being a part of a healthy lifestyle. One of her weight loss secrets is that she never resorted to crash diets and are you all asking if she worked out every day? Well, the answer is unbelievingly NO!
Nevertheless, she stayed committed and patient.
Sanam Jung
As we are all aware of the fact that our favorite Hum.TV host Sanam Jung gained a few pounds during pregnancy and still carried herself with class, however was not really happy with it.
With her goal to reach her pre-pregnancy weight after giving birth to Alaya, she lost a whopping 17.5 kg with the help of a renowned trainer Shoaib Khan in 2018 and is flaunting her hourglass figure since!
Nadia Khan
Going with the name of ‘Oprah Winfrey of Pakistan’, Nadia Khan needs no introduction!
Also known for her jolly personality and celebrated work during her days as a morning show host, it is sad to say that the masses remember her chubby cheeks and extra pounds showing off here and there on her body too!
The chubby appearance did not shatter Nadia khan, rather motivated her to become someone totally fresh and transformed.
With a healthy diet, regular workout at the gym and Madiha Iftikhar by her side; Nadia Khan waved all her flabby layers goodbye and as of now, is showing off her magnificent looks on the screen effortlessly!
Natasha Khalid
When we say ‘Celebrity makeup and hair artist’, Natasha Khalid is the name which pops in everyone’s head.
Let alone, from hitting the road from flab to fab, Natasha has not only gained more fans but has truly set a benchmark for working women who desire to lose weight.
Not sure about the amount of pounds she lost, however, we can surely see a remarkable difference!
Minal and Aiman Khan
One thing the twin sisters learned after joining the media industry was to ditch appetizing snacks and settle for less tempting food groups such as veggies and fruits!
While it might sound totally boring and drastic, the fact is that this helped the duo lose all the chubbiness and become the talk of the town.
Recently hitched Aiman with Muneeb Butt made a statement in very fashionable attires, perfect for her figure, only to highlight her collar and cheek bones even more!
Juggan Kazim
Juggan Kazim is a popular name in the media industry and what’s even more admired is her struggle to keep the pounds off! She has not only cleaned up nicely after losing more than 17kgs, but getting into shape has helped her kept her youthful face for a longer duration for sure.
The 39 year old actress/tv host and model looks ravishing in her Garnier Fructis Pakistan campaign and we wish her best of luck for her future!
The trend for lavish weddings with prolonged events has become quite the trend in Pakistan today. With festive decorations and food fit for a king, weddings in Pakistan are no less than royal events around the world.
A few of these ceremonies have truly stood out and captured mass media attention owing to the vast amount of money spent arranging them. So why wait? Let’s get down to business and see which ones are the best and take the cake!
Urwa Hocane And Farhan Saeed
This beautiful couple has been in the limelight for a long time and with good reason too. I mean look at them! Couple goals all around! However, despite the obvious happiness of the bride and the groom, which SHOULD have been the central focus, the photographers were more concerned with the brilliant display of wealth by all attending.
It all began with a romantic proposal at none other than the epitome of romance, the Eiffel Tower. With Urwa in an iconic red dress, the picture was just perfect!
The events themselves were extensive with numerous dholkis, qawwali night, nikkah at the serene Badshahi Mosque and finally a grand reception in December 16’.
The wedding has received widespread media coverage. And who can blame the media? The elite of the Pakistani film industry were in attendance at the events including veterans such as Bushra Ansari, Resham, Noman Ejaz among others. Not only the people, but the swirling skirts of heavily embroidered designer wear were a feat themselves and attracted much attention!
Glittering jewels complimented the luxurious clothes. All in all, it is definitely a wedding we wish we could have attended.
Let’s have a look at some pictures from the awe-inspiring events:
It all began with dholkis! This was the first one where Urwa donned an intricately worked Elan ensemble and paired it with traditional khussas.
The happiness of the couple is evident from their faces!
She chose a subdued color palette for her nikkah at the Badshahi mosque. Paired with cultural jewelry, the whole effect was truly sublime!
The gorgeous décor and celebrities in attendance were awe inspiring! Ali Zeeshan can be seen in the picture dancing the night away!
Urwa and Farhan were supremely comfortable with their wedding festivities being broadcasted all over social media, and their attitude was truly appreciable. In the age of smartphones, it’s almost impossible to keep such events totally under wraps and why deny fans and followers the happiness of being a part of your celebrations virtually?
This is what Urwa had to say about it:
“Everyone nowadays owns either a camera or a smartphone, so obviously you can’t stop anyone from capturing everything and it also would have been really rude to not let them. Therefore, we decided to allow everyone to take pictures, make videos while we just enjoyed our moments,”
This particular wedding had the press go insane. The blatant display of wealth among the former administration of the Country had everyone questioning the authenticity of it all. She is Nawaz Sharif’s grand-daughter after all, and no expense was spared to ensure the wedding was the talk of the decade, setting new benchmarks in opulence.
The match too, is splendid! Where on one side is the swimming in money family of Nawaz Sharif, on the other side, the groom too belongs to one of the wealthiest families of Pakistan. Mehr-un-Nisa Safdar married Raheel Munir, son of much acclaimed business man, Chaudhry Munir.
The sheer number of guests meant that the wedding could in no way be held in traditional marquees. Therefore, it was held at the Ittehad Farm House, where not one, not two, but FOUR marquees were erected to house the guests. The beautiful flower-filled décor made it all seem like a fairytale.
Guests in attendance were the high and the mighty of Pakistan’s politics including the governor Rafiq Rajwana, Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, other provincial and federal ministers as well as the cream of the political parties. Wishing you were invited too?
Annush Ammar and Munib Altaf
Dubbed as the mother, (and in some cases the father) of all Pakistani weddings, Annush Ammar and Munib Altaf tied the knot after what seemed to be an endless list of functions. Remember the cliché, “big fat wedding”? well, they knocked it down and then gave it a whole new meaning altogether!
Defying all logic and sense, here is a list of functions for you to ogle at:
Oh, and get this, it was partly a destination wedding too!
The functions began at Lahore with:
•Dholki function
•Dinner
•Nikkah
•Post-Nikkah dinner
Second location: None other than the dreamy Istanbul:
•Mehendi
•Dinner
•A Disney-themed party: Disney Princess Gone Tipsy
•Dinner
•Bridal Shower
•Dinner
•Sangeet Ceremony
•Yacht Party at the Bosphorus (WOW)
•Boat Lunch
And the list just goes on and on and on. Bear in mind that we haven’t even gotten around to the baraat and valima yet!
All ensembles of the bridal party were of course, worth a fortune in themselves. With the bride and her family donning dresses from designers like Bunto Kazmi, Elan, Faraz Mannan and even internationally acclaimed designers such as Roberto Cavalli, the final event of the extravaganza with the bride donning an outfit from the truly tremendous designer Ellie Saab.
With diamonds glittering at her neckline, she topped it all off with a tiara too!
Their wedding has attracted much heat too, with people openly criticizing them for the amount of money “wasted” so to say.
Here are some more pictures from their spectacular wed-athon! (Like marathon, get it?)
She donned a hot pink ensemble at her bridal shower. The tiara and diamonds completed the look with quite a flourish.
Making quite the statement at her Disney themed party, along with her beau.
There are so many more pictures but hey! We can’t share them all…!
Who doesn’t love a good pair of shoes? Do you know when you walk in a room, your shoes do a lot of talking! They not only add polish to your outfit but also give away a part of your personality, too.
‘Shoes make an outfit; they’re like rims for a car’
– Omari Hardwick.
There is no doubt about it that women love shoes as much as they love clothes and on an average, they can spend around $25,000 on shoes in a lifetime, equating to 469 pairs of shoes approximately!
Pakistan is one country which is not short of amazing shoe brands for women and here we share the top Pakistani shoe brands that are worth every penny.
Metro Shoes
Shoe shopping is incomplete if you don’t walk into Metro shoes. Metro shoes has been in the market since the late 80’s and their popularity has only increased during this time.
From offering both casual and formal shoes, Metro shoes provide design and quality at affordable rates. What’s more? Metro shoes have expanded and offer online shopping with worldwide delivery option!
Borjan
If you are the kind of woman who loves a combination of sophistication and flair while keeping everything classy, then Borjan shoes is a must-visit shoe store for you.
From the classic pumps to mules to offering a wide-range of Uggs and long boots; Borjan has a lot to offer. Besides shoes, Borjan also offers a huge collection of handbags and jewelry, too.
How cool is that!
ECS
ECS is one of the oldest shoe brands for women in Pakistan which is known for its quality, shoe designs and durability.
Originating from the famous Anarkali bazar of Lahore, ECS has stayed true to its roots and no visit to Lahore is complete without going into ECS.
Their distinctive designs are one of a kind and the durability of their sandals and shoes exceeds expectations. Besides offering shoes for women, they also have a range for little girls to match their mommy’s.
Sapphire
Sapphire is a relative newbie when it comes to shoe arena. That said, Sapphire footwear for women has garnered a lot of attention ever since it was launched 3 years back. The footwear caters to the needs of the modern woman.
From presenting comfortable, yet stylish slides to kitten heels and pumps, Sapphire is one brand which has it all.
Mochari
Just like Sapphire, Mochari is also relatively up-to-the-minute but it has taken the market by storm. The unique and outstanding feature of Mochari footwear is that they are a perfect blend of eastern and western footwear. Fusing truck art and traditional colors in western styles, Mochari is one hub you need to visit!
From offering embroidered Peshawari chappals to traditional khussas and even intricately embroidered oxfords; Mochari footwear knows how to keep you tightly coiled to your roots while letting you experiment with western designs as well.
Keep in mind, however, that unlike other shoe brands, Mochari is a little expensive. That said, it will be worth every penny you spend on it.
Cocoon by Amna Baber
Cocoon by Amna Baber has been one of the most-talked about shoe brand of Karachi and it has spread its roots across other cities of Pakistan too.
Starting off with casual and chic range of footwear, they have expanded into formal and classy footwear as well. These are custom-made shoes and sandals and did you know, each pair can be easily molded according to your requirements.
The best thing about Cocoon is that the footwear is affordable and not heavy on the pocket. Their customer services are beyond par and you will not be disappointed when shopping at Cocoon.
The trend of dining out and take-away has been rising for the past few years and now it is quite the norm so to say! While previously dinners were the oddity rather than the norm, it is now the other way around.
In the absence of other forms of amusement, food has literally become the main source of entertainment in itself for Pakistanis, where hanging out is synonymous for eating!
Before beginning on this delightful journey of identifying the best dishes in Pakistan – and there are many believe me; I’d like to point out that Pakistan is an odd mixture of states, where on one hand our agriculture sector is producing world class fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, a large portion of our population suffers from malnutrition.
According to a study by the World Food Program, nearly half of the children under 5 are stunted, that is to say they are short for their age, and about a quarter of them are suffering from stunted growth at as young as 6 months!
I will just leave this here to remind you all to stop wasting copious amounts of food on occasions such as wedding events where plates are piled high with quantities impossible to ingest and then just thrown out.
Jumping back to our lip smacking topic, take a look below at the most delicious food items you can come across, only in Pakistan!
Punjab
Punjabis are notorious for their eating habits. Food from Punjab is also usually super greasy, nevertheless, super delicious!
Perhaps the food is the reason Punjabis are stereotyped to be broad and solid physically?
Lassi
If you want to go for an all-around Punjabi dining experience, lassi can never be left out!
This smooth and creamy, yogurt based refreshment, is proudly acclaimed to be the pride and joy of Punjabi cuisine. Traditionally, it is served in either clay pots or tall steel glasses, and is known for its cooling properties.
Owing to fresh effect, lassi is consumed extensively during the hot and sweltering summer months.
Sarson ka Saag aur Makkai ki Roti
Another favorite! This particular dish has a really strong gaoun (village) vibe and rightly so – Sarson ka Saag and Makkai ki roti taste best when made following the traditional recipe.
The combination is a sensation in itself which is chock-full of simple, savory and rustic flavors. It makes you want to lie down on a charpoye and sleep in the shade of a large tree with a cool breeze flowing. Truly amazing!
Sindh
Sindhis have some truly mouth-watering dishes as part of their traditional cuisine. While much of Sindhi population is still seeped in the old feudal system, their food is flying free for sure.
Karhi Chawal
Karhi chawal is the signature dish of Sindh. Over time, people have developed variations more in keeping with their own tastes such as some households will always serve karhi with pakoras in it too!
It may sound odd, but the result is so delicious it will leave you dreaming for more.
Karhi is usually served with steamed rice, and is a local delicacy you definitely should try!
Daal Pakwan
Daal Pakwan is another favorite amongst Sindhi cuisines. It is one of the most celebrated dishes that are served for breakfast. Eat it once and you’ll never forget it – that’s for sure!
The taste of this particular dish becomes even more delightful when eaten together with lemon and mint-coriander chutney.
Balochistan
Balochistan is recognized for its rugged climate as well as its signature dishes including Sajji/Dumpukht and Namkeen Gosht.
Sajji/Dumpukht & Namkeen Gosht
These dishes have gained particular fame, enough that they are now found all over Pakistan – for the original authentic taste, however, you’ll definitely need to visit our beautiful Balochistan, our diamond in the rough!
KPK
Khyber PakhtunKhwa is predominantly occupied by the lovingly enthusiastic Pakhtuns. Their favored dishes include rice dishes and kebabs. Lamb is particularly favored – more so than in any other province of Pakistan.
Kabuli Pulao
Kabuli Pulao is one dish that everyone knows about!
It’s unique taste mixing sweet and savory is truly a treat for the tastebuds.
Kabuli Pulao is also the national dish of Afghanistan, which is a must try!
Henna is a traditional ‘paint’ so to say, which is most commonly used for decorative designs on the hands and feet during marriage ceremonies.
The word “henna” immediately brings to mind: happy, blushing brides with swirls of neatly applied henna all the way up to her elbows, laughing and enjoying some of the most significant days of their life!
Let’s Delve into the History of Henna!
Henna is largely associated with Asian culture as being used for adorning brides on their weddings. The concept of a bride without henna on her hands is literally heart-attack inducing to the haw-hayebrigade present at every wedding!
It is also widely used for other cosmetic purposes such as dying hair, painting nails or simply to stay cool during the hot months of summer.
The origins of henna being used as a form of art can be traced to Egypt, approximately 9,000 years ago – Cleopatra herself is rumored to have used henna…imagine that!
Not only that, but henna was also used in ancient Egypt for its medicinal and healing purposes as during the mummification process to paint the nails of the mummies before burying them.
With people of different cultures mingling with others, it is difficult to pinpoint where exactly henna was discovered from and began its journey of fame. What’s for sure is that it’s here to stay!
Interesting Fact: Needless to say, henna also has a number of affiliated superstitions. One particularly interesting one is that the deeper and darker the henna stain on a brides’ hands, the better her relationship will be with her husband in the future! Good luck girls!
Shocker – Henna is used for more than just adorning brides!
Henna, comes from the plant Lawsonia inermis, also dubbed as the henna tree. It has many uses, some of which are elaborated below:
Hair color – along with painting patterns on the hands and feet of brides and bridesmaids, henna is also used as a natural hair dye.
It is particularly useful as a hair dye since it’s free from harsh chemicals that harm the hair strands. It is also recognized to improve hair health by sealing the cuticle, preventing breakage and enhancing the shine and appearance of hair.
In addition, it is said to prevent dandruff.
Cooling agent – Henna is particularly useful in relieving the effects of intense heat such as during sunstroke. This can be done by soaking hands and feet into a paste of henna to retain body temperature.
Headache Reliever – Henna has anti-inflammatory properties that reduces tension and promotes healthy blood flow in capillaries. It is for this reason that it is often used when seeking a quick remedy for intense headaches and migraines.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, henna oil is also used for treating arthritic and rheumatic pains.
Blood Pressure Regulation – this wonder plant also aids in lowering blood pressure. This is because of its hypersensitivity effects that relieve stress on the cardiovascular system.
It is also said to prevent the build-up of platelets and plaque in the arteries of the heart, thus preventing heart attacks and strokes.
Detoxification –Henna is known for working wonders on spleen and liver. While every tiny part of the human body is essential and is playing a vital role in maintaining our health and vitality, the liver is no exception.
Henna helps eliminate toxins we ingest everyday through the air or through daily food consumption.
By optimizing the functions of the liver, many other fatal conditions can also be avoided.
For this purpose, the bark or leaves of the henna plant are should be soaked in the water and then the consequent liquid can be consumed.
§ Insomnia or restlessness is a pesky sleep disorder which may not sound very serious, but is very frustrating for anyone who is actually going through it.
Henna oil has been known to provide blessed relief from such a disorder. Addition of henna oil to your daily regimen will help in achieving a restful sleep, ensuring you wake up recharged to take on the world!
Henna is commonly applied to burns, wounds and scrapes. Henna is able to eliminate inflammation as well as protect the skin against infections and is thus very useful for such infliction. It also provides a quick soothing effect which can be quite relaxing.
Ask anyone and you’ll discover how utterly obsessed Pakistanis are about the state of our homes! Everything must be in perfect order, often to demonstrate the fact that we are more organized than them (typical aunty mindset!).
Jokes aside, the ambiance at home really affects the residents as it sets the entire mood; it sets the pace! Furniture, of course, is a big part of this.
Since Pakistan is brimming with talent of all sorts, when talking about the furniture market, Pakistani craftsmen can put the world to shame with their intricate designs and elaborate carvings.
Don’t believe us? Let’s take a look at some of the unsurpassed places to buy furniture from in Pakistan!
Renaissance
Renaissance is a particularly exquisite store which stands apart from any other with respect to the vast collection of items for sale.
From furniture to décor, wall hangings and even antiques; everything is available for all tastes.
Not only that, the store is also one of the only shops to stock high-end designer fabrics by the likes of Christian Lacroix and Sanderson!
Going to this particular store is a delightful experience as the store literally has something for everyone!
ChenOne
ChenOne is one of the finest brands in Pakistan which surely requires no introduction to!
It is one of the few brands to offer just about everything. And I really mean everything!
However, what’s admirable about them isn’t the range of products they offer, rather the quality of products they sell.
Clothes, décor, accessories, shoes or furniture items; all pieces are sturdy and built to last.
ChenOne often offers wonderful sales with packages for furniture of the whole room so to say, and these deals are what you should never miss!
Something I really admire about this brand is that every item is for individual sale – so for instance, if you don’t want to purchase a dresser for whatever reason, you don’t have to!
Habitt
Habitt has become one of the go-to stores for every household need. They have a wonderful variety of articles catering to every imaginable genre relating to the house!
They have a beautiful range of flower decorations as well as just about everything else you would need to make your house a strikingly bright home.
Perhaps the main attraction at Habitt is that everything is reasonably priced. The chic furniture that would cost you a kidney in other stores is reasonably priced and robustly constructed. Oh and another major attraction – you can find furniture for everything!
They even have a gorgeous collection of patio furniture! Cute little items are available for your children’s rooms too, ranging from bunker beds to wardrobes and study tables. For the babies, they have cots, infant sized chairs and toys too!
Habitt also often has deals to make it easier to purchase entire sets for major renovations or for someone getting married.
Interwood Mobel
Interwood Mobel strives to create and retain customer satisfaction through outstanding quality products. Every item is crafted to perfection and made to last.
They have showrooms across the country in all major cities and also export products to UK, Africa, Norway, Spain, Middle East and India.
The brand beckons considerable respect and the fact that they have been chosen as the furniture vendors by multiple major corporations in the country such as Allied Bank, Marriott, PepsiCo among others, is evidence of the trust people place in their brand.
S. Abdullah Home
This particular brand is known more for its diverse range of top-of-the-line tiles, floors and all other fixtures for the home.
They also have a complete and comprehensive range of furniture, which is high quality and high on the comfort scale as well.
Their pieces sway more towards the contemporary and modern rather than traditional.
Going to S Abdullah and purchasing furniture from them is also delightful due to the after sales service you will receive.
I mean who doesn’t like neatly dressed workers with polite tones coming to your house and delivering your items? It just makes the entire experience more pleasant!
Chiniot Furniture Stores Furniture stores in Chiniot are hailed and praised for their exquisite craftsmanship all over the country. These stores are present on the main G.T. Road.
The huge showrooms proudly display intricately carved pieces which are quite regal. What’s more? If you know how to haggle, you can get the best deal!
We have all dreaded the flying joota from our parents, haven’t we? That being said, while we do fear it, we are also extremely proud of our rich cultural heritage.
So in beginning of this article about Pakistani fashion brands for men’s shoes, the first and foremost thing I will mention here is the traditional cultural shoes all Pakistani men love to flaunt!
The Traditional Khussa/Kohlapuri/Peshawari Chappal
These shoes are worn by men all over Pakistan. They are largely popularly worn with the traditional shalwar kameez and often on occasions such as Eid, Nikkahs and marriage ceremonies.
The khussa in fact is always worn with Sherwani by the groom on the Baraat day.
The ethnicity of these shoes has deep cultural roots. So much so, that you would be hard pressed to find any Pakistani whether at home or abroad who would not possess a few pairs of each! They can be found at local stores such as Khussa Mahal and Khussa Collection in all cities across Pakistan.
Furthermore, there has been a famous case of a high-end designer copying the styles of our shoes!
1st Step
1st Step has quickly made a mark as one of the leading designer shoe houses in the country. They have a range of shoes for the modern day man, with contemporary designs for all semi-formal and formal occasions.
The company has a great online presence and has quickly catapulted itself into a relevant brand with it’s eye catching designs.
Some of the recommended designs? You can go wrong with the black leather Oxford – which is a must for the classy gentleman who wants the classic English design without the redundant add-ons that we so oh-so-often in contemporary Pakistani designs.
Bata Shoes
This is literally a name we have grown up hearing. Bata shoes are one of the most common and famous brands of Pakistan in shoe wear. It caters to men, women and children as well.
Bata Pakistan traces its origin back to 1942 and was incorporated in Pakistan in 1951. The company has managed to maintain its reputation by providing high quality footwear at an affordable price.
Another factor that has helped Bata maintain its popularity is its widespread network of branches which ensures that you can find a store when you need it!
Servis Shoes
For many of us, Bata and Servis shoes are two names that are largely interchangeable and often spoken together. However, they are two distinct entities, and it would be hard to distinguish which of these is more popular.
Servis shoes began its journey with a group of friends more than 50 years ago! It began with a shoe manufacturing plant in the industrial area in Gulberg Lahore and has flourished to establish branches all over the country.
The brand caters to shoes of a vast variety from jogging shoes to formal work shoes and just about everything in between.
Borjan Shoes
Another extremely common or rather a household name is Borjan Shoes.
Borjan is largely known for its shoes being super comfortable which of course is a huge consideration when it comes to shoes.
They’ve recently upgraded their entire design line for men too! They have an extremely up-to-date inventory of shoes for men including sneakers, loafers as well as formal shoe collection.
Borjan too has been around for a long time with aspirations to branch out beyond the borders of our country.
Mochari Shoes
This particular brand is relatively quite new to the shoe-scene in Pakistan. Thus, it is less known but definitely worth mentioning.
The brand started off in 2014 which makes it practically new born in front of long standing giants such as Bata and Servis. However, with tremendous speed, Mochari is making a place for itself in the market by making Pakistan’s cultural heritage a central concern in all its designs.
All shoes are handmade with top notch leather, which is reflective of the effort by the company to promote local craftsmanship and provide opportunities to our highly skilled but underutilized workers.
Every pair of shoes crafted by Mochari boasts an authenticity which you would be hard pressed to find in even the best brands across the world. This is perhaps the reason why the company is taking over the international market bit by bit, with branches in Australia, Dubai, UK, US and even India!
Dry fruits are the best nutritious snacks to munch on, especially during the winters! Even cities such as Karachi where it’s never really cold, the population flocks to dry fruit vendors in search of good quality peanuts, walnuts, almonds and the like.
Don’t know why dry fruits are amazing? Take a look below!
Health Benefits
While dry fruits are generally not consumed in an abundant quantity all year around due to perceptions of them being bad for you, the reality is that dry fruits are extremely beneficial for health.
Barring any medical conditions, it is generally recommended to eat a handful of assorted nuts in a day as they are a powerhouse of essential nutrients.
Some highlighting benefits are as follows:
Consumption of almonds helps in maintaining blood cholesterol levels at an optimum level, along with providing a considerable amount of fiber and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Walnuts are notoriously known as “brain food” due to the presence of compounds such as vitamin E, Omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants that work to enhance cognitive function. They also have cancer fighting abilities.
Dates are another form of dried fruit that are chock full of iron and deliver a boost of energy. Dates are also incredibly helpful in aiding digestion and helping to relieve constipation.
Consumption of nuts reduces risk of osteoporosis, a debilitating disorder. Prunes in particular are helpful in both preventing and reversing bone loss.
Now that you know the goodness of dry fruits, learn about how Pakistan has the best ones!
Dry Fruits in Pakistan
Pakistan is an unbelievably blessed country with an adverse range of capabilities in literally every genre. You name it, we have it! This is particularly true for dry fruits, which Pakistan has an abundance of.
In fact, not only does Pakistan produce plenty of assorted dry fruits, but also has the capacity to export many of them. The economy of the areas of Gilgit and Balltistan largely depends on dry fruits.
The area is famous for producing high quality almonds, apricots, cherries and other dry fruits. Did you know that an astonishing 120,650 tons of almonds are produced here every year?
Walnuts
Walnuts are a popular dry fruit in Pakistan. They are produced in northern region of KPK province in districts of Swat, Dir, Bunir, Chitral, Shangla and Malakand Agency.
Many selections of walnuts grow in these areas, however, properly trained manpower, breeding of high quality yields and education of farmers is necessary in order to increase yield and production area.
Groundnut
Groundnut is an important cash crop. It is being cultivated on huge areas throughout Pakistan.
Both yield as well as the area under production is increasing every year. However, the overall market for groundnuts is limited.
Chilghoza (Pinus gerardiana)
Did you know the extremely-difficult-to-eat Chilghoza has an equally difficult to pronounce name? Yeah, me neither.
The Suleiman Range has the world’s largest pure stand of Chilghoza forests! It is quite sad, however, that due to a lack of awareness, people are cutting down these trees in order to sell the timber for livelihood.
This is largely due to the fact that the local population is unaware of the untapped potential. Given access to the right tools and information, such as proper collection procedures, roasting, sorting and packing practices, the income for the local population could grow at least 4-fold.
Figs
Figs are among the oldest fruits to be cultivated on Earth. They’re called “Injeer” in the local language and hold a unique importance for Muslims as it is said to be a fruit of the Heaven, and has been mentioned in the Holy Quran as well.
