Lahore, 31st October 2024 — Vera (previously MGT), Pakistan’s luxury couture brand has officially launched in partnership with Uzma Ventures, an innovative venture studio dedicated to advancing the local consumer market on a global stage. This partnership marks a pivotal moment for both brands as they unite to redefine the landscape of South-Asian luxury fashion, setting a new standard for couture that blends timeless craftsmanship with modern sophistication.

Vera, designed for the empowered woman of today, introduces an array of breathtaking bridal wear and exclusive ensembles for life’s most memorable occasions. With Creative Director Maheen Ghani and Managing Director Faryal Shuja at the helm, Vera draws from decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of luxury fashion. Maheen, a seasoned designer known for her label MGT (Maheen Ghani Trends), and Faryal, who continues her mother’s legacy in couture, bring a distinct vision and passion for high-end craftsmanship that will be the hallmark of Vera’s brand identity.

“We envision Vera as more than just a couture brand—it’s a celebration of the modern woman,” says Maheen Ghani. “Our pieces are designed to empower and captivate, merging heritage with contemporary elegance to create something truly unique.”

Managing Director Faryal Shuja shares her enthusiasm for the brand’s mission, adding, “Vera is about honouring tradition while speaking to the bold, individual style of today’s woman. I am deeply inspired by the stories our pieces will tell and the confidence they will bring to each client. This launch marks the beginning of a journey to bring unparalleled beauty and quality to every bride and every woman we dress.”

Empowering Local Brands for a Global Audience

Uzma Ventures is a Pakistan-based venture studio dedicated to supporting consumer-focused startups through strategic funding, operational expertise, and a people-centric approach. Founded by Raja Ahmed Shuja, Uzma Ventures specialises in building direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands that connect meaningfully with consumers and positioning them for global success. An Uber and Amazon alum, Raja has successfully built multiple ventures and is an active investor and advisor across the consumer sector, including fashion, e-commerce, healthcare & technology. 

“At Uzma Ventures, we’re committed to supporting visionary brands like Vera that emulate authenticity, creativity, and purpose,” shares Raja Ahmed Shuja. “This venture exemplifies our mission to bridge local talent with international markets, empowering Pakistani businesses to thrive globally.”

Vera’s designs will be available through an immersive online platform, providing consumers with a seamless experience that reflects the sophistication and elegance of the brand.

Contact details:

info@vera-world.com

raja@uzmaventures.com

The Master Group of Industries has proudly announced the launch of The Master Circle, an exclusive initiative designed to bring together Pakistan’s top architects and interior designers in a refined community of shared vision and partnership. Recognized for its dedication to quality craftsmanship and innovation in home and office furniture, Master Group is deepening its commitment to Pakistan’s interior design landscape through this remarkable program.

The Master Circle aims to unite the industry’s leading voices in architecture and design, inviting them into a circle of collaboration that goes far beyond business transactions. This new community provides members with exclusive benefits like special discounts, early previews of upcoming collections, and express delivery options—resources carefully crafted to enhance their influence and support their creative endeavors.

Reflecting on this momentous step, Shahzad Malik, Managing Director of the Master Group of Industries, recently hosted an exclusive dinner event at his Lahore residence for The Master Circle’s inaugural members. Addressing the esteemed architects and designers gathered, Mr. Malik shared his vision for the future:

“Today, I open my doors to each of you—not only as guests but as family. You are now part of the Master Circle family.”

This heartfelt statement captured the essence of The Master Circle—a community that thrives on mutual respect, partnership, and the shared ambition of elevating design in Pakistan.

A unique, cross-brand advantage sets the Master Circle apart is its expansive reach across a portfolio of renowned Master Group brands, offering members exclusive access to benefits that span far beyond a single brand. From Master MoltyFoam, Master Celeste  Celeste Home Fashion, Marina Home, Master Offisys, MoltyHome, Master Motors, Changhan, Deepal, Master Textile, Master Nonwoven, Master Thermoshield, Master Wind, to Procon Engineering, Master Circle members enjoy privileges across a diverse range of products and services offered by the Master Group of Industries.

Through this initiative, Master Group reaffirms its dedication to the creative minds who shape the spaces we live and work in every day. The launch of The Master Circle signifies a meaningful evolution for the company and the entire design industry, laying the foundation for a new era of collaboration and innovation.

The evening was made even more memorable by insights shared by the members themselves. Mr. Kalim Siddique, a renowned architect and long-standing partner of Master Group, expressed his appreciation:

“It was a pleasure attending the dinner. The evening was both delightful and enlightening, showcasing the impressive range of projects under the Master brand. We look forward to exploring more opportunities for mutually beneficial projects.”

His words echo the spirit of collaboration and shared growth that The Master Circle seeks to foster within Pakistan’s interior design community.

As one of Pakistan’s leading furniture manufacturers, The Master Group is setting a transformative example, inviting architects and designers into an exclusive network that champions both their professional and creative growth. The Master Circle is more than just a program—it’s a journey toward shared success, driven by a commitment to excellence and an appreciation for visionaries who inspire and elevate design across the nation.

The Master Group invites you to follow The Master Circle as it opens doors to a future where collaboration meets creativity and design, and that is celebrated through the synergy of Pakistan’s finest talents.

Nayabs Pakistani Khanay, famed for its signature hi-tea and authentic desi cuisine at the Johar Town branch, has now opened a new branch in Bahria Town, opposite the Eiffel Tower.

The new branch boasts elegant interiors that offer a scenic view of the Eiffel Tower, creating a perfect ambiance for diners. Guests at the launch enjoyed a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with friends and family.

While the hi-tea menu continues to be a crowd-pleaser, don’t miss out on their standout dishes like Chicken Chilman Biryani, Mutton Karahi, and the Royal Platter, featuring a mouthwatering assortment of Chicken Kebabs, Boti, Beef Kebabs, Chops, and Fish. Make your way to Nayabs Bahria Town for an unforgettable dining experience!

Dunya Pur has already made a massive impact with its grand premiere, signaling the start of what promises to be a revolutionary chapter in Pakistani television. Touted as one of the most expensive productions in the country’s TV history, the show has set new standards for visual storytelling. But behind the on-screen brilliance is the creative engine driving it all—Green TV’s content department, a team built by none other than Fasih ur Rehman.

As the founder and owner of Green Entertainment TV, Fasih is not just an ordinary CEO. He has invested heavily in the channel, both financially and creatively. His family, a conglomerate in the construction industry, has provided the backbone of this investment, ensuring that Green TV stands on solid financial ground. Despite persistent rumors that the channel is now owned by ISPR, it remains entirely in the hands of Fasih and his family. This independence has allowed Green TV to thrive without the influence of external entities, giving Fasih the freedom to shape the channel according to his own vision.

Fasih’s journey into media may seem unconventional given his background in construction engineering, but his passion for storytelling has been the driving force behind his success. His decision to launch Green TV was rooted in a desire to produce high-quality content that breaks away from the formulaic, often predictable storytelling that dominates Pakistani television. He has not only set out to disrupt the industry but also to raise the bar for what Pakistani dramas can achieve. Dunya Pur is the embodiment of that vision—a show that balances commercial appeal with narrative depth.

A crucial aspect of Fasih’s leadership is his ability to build a talented team around him. One of the key figures he has brought on board is Saji Gul, the Head of Content, whose prior successes include shows like O Rangreza. Known for his ability to craft emotionally resonant and complex stories, Saji has been instrumental in bringing Fasih’s vision to life. This is why Dunya Pur has evolved into more than just a drama; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of human relationships, societal norms, and cultural dynamics and Intense rivalry between two clans competing for power.

At the same time, Fasih’s commitment to excellence doesn’t stop with content creation. He has placed a strong emphasis on fostering an inclusive, creative environment where innovation can thrive. This philosophy extends to his collaboration with Tehreem Chaudhary, the Executive Director of Green TV. With her extensive background in digital and global media, Tehreem has overseen the channel’s marketing efforts, ensuring that Green TV’s content reaches the right audience. Her work has been crucial in establishing Green TV as not just another entertainment channel, but a brand synonymous with quality and innovation​.

Fasih’s hands-on approach in shaping Green TV’s trajectory is evident in every aspect of the channel’s operations, from the strategic decisions to the everyday production processes. His vision of producing meaningful, socially relevant content has led to the creation of shows like Dunya Pur, which push boundaries and challenge the norms of traditional Pakistani dramas. By investing not just money but also his personal commitment and belief in the power of storytelling, He has created a platform that is as much a cultural movement as it is a television channel.

At the heart of it all, the CEO remains dedicated to redefining the future of Pakistani television. His leadership has turned Green TV into a creative powerhouse, where each production reflects his mission to inspire, challenge, and engage viewers. Dunya Pur stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose, and it marks just the beginning of Green TV’s journey toward becoming a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

Le Cordon Bleu-trained pastry chef Maha has embarked on a new chapter by relocating to Lahore, Pakistan. With her exceptional culinary creations and passion for pastries, she aims to enhance the city’s vibrant food scene. After honing her skills at Le Cordon Bleu Istanbul and successfully running a restaurant in Dubai, Chef Maha is eager to share her international experience.

Her culinary journey began in Istanbul, where she earned a diploma in pastry arts. This training, combined with her innovative approach, led to the opening of her restaurant in Dubai, which quickly gained recognition for its unique desserts and fine pastries. Her establishment became a favorite among food lovers, showcasing her ability to blend traditional techniques with modern flavors.

Feeling a strong connection to her roots, Chef Maha decided to return home and share her culinary passion. “Food has the power to bring people together,” she explains. “I wanted to take everything I’ve learned abroad and contribute to Lahore’s rich food culture.”

Now in Lahore, she plans to conduct workshops and classes for aspiring bakers and pastry chefs, offering a chance to learn world-class pastry techniques. “Education is key to preserving culinary traditions while fostering innovation. I’m eager to inspire the next generation of pastry chefs here,” she adds.

We attended her Tarts Masterclass at The Cookery, Lahore, where she guided us through making tart dough (Pâte Sucrée) in both cacao and vanilla, along with a variety of delicious fillings. The experience was amazing, and we created fillings like chocolate ganache, lemon curd, strawberry compote, and caramel. We highly recommend her cooking classes!

SAZGAR Engineering Works Limited recently hosted the a test drive event for the all new ORA 07 at their prominent Islamabad dealership called Haval Experience, marking a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership with Great Wall Motors (GWM). Since forming their alliance in 2021, these two automotive powerhouses have consistently pushed the boundaries, bringing a range of innovative vehicles to Pakistan, including both hybrid and fully electric models.

SAZGAR’s journey in the New Energy Vehicles (NEV) sector has been nothing short of transformative. The company has firmly positioned itself as a leader in eco-friendly transportation, highlighted by the introduction of Pakistan’s very own first electric three-wheeler. With five standout NEV models now in their lineup, the Ora 03 (fully electric hatchback), the Ora 07 (fully electric sedan), Tank 500 HEV, H6 HEV, and the Jolion HEV. SAZGAR offers a vehicle for every kind of driver, ensuring a perfect fit for diverse consumer preferences.

The event’s biggest highlight was the unveiling of the GWM Ora 07, an all-electric sports sedan that seamlessly blends style with performance. The Ora 07 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, promising a heart racing acceleration experience. Equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, an impressive range that dispels range anxiety, and a powerful battery, this vehicle represents the future of electric mobility. It is priced at PKR 17,500,000 for the top variant and PKR 15,299,000 for the lower trim, with a booking amount of PKR 5,000,000.

Attendees had the chance to get behind the wheel or the passenger seat of the GWM Ora 07, experiencing firsthand the exceptional performance and crazy speed this car offers. The event drew a diverse crowd, with the excitement in the air as palpable as the energy of the cars on display!

Watch the video below for a glimpse of the event’s highlights, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments!

The Lost Chapter, nestled in the heart of Model Town, Lahore, is a fresh haven for book and stationery enthusiasts. Founded by Kinza, a passionate entrepreneur, the store is more than just a business—it’s a manifestation of her love for books and the tangible world they represent.

Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, Kinza has always been drawn to the idea of owning a business. But for her, The Lost Chapter is more than a commercial venture; it’s a way to keep people connected to the physical and emotional experiences that only books can offer. “As long as I can remember, my family and the people around me have always read books to be transported to another world,” Kinza shares. “This led me to realize that as AI is taking over, we should give people the opportunity to read real books and stay connected to the non-virtual parts of life.”

Kinza’s vision is clear: she wants The Lost Chapter to be a space where the smell of new books, the sight of rows upon rows of bookshelves, and the deep meanings found in literature create a sense of community and grounding. “The innate, penetrating feeling that I am somehow making the community a little brighter and perhaps a little more grounded excites me. A community that a good book can bring together is what we should all thrive for,” she adds.

The store offers a diverse range of books, including fiction, non-fiction, self-help, and children’s books. Beyond literature, The Lost Chapter also stocks a variety of stationery, bags, uniforms, and study packs, making it a go-to spot for residents in Model Town. Whether you’re in search of a good read or essential school supplies, The Lost Chapter is a welcoming place for all.

Arshad Nadeem’s journey to becoming Pakistan’s first Olympic medalist in 32 years is a tale of extraordinary resilience and determination. His record-breaking 92.96-meter throw in the javelin final not only secured him a place in history but also highlighted the power of perseverance against all odds.

Hailing from a small village in Pakistan, Nadeem’s path to greatness was paved with challenges. Unlike many global athletes who benefit from robust institutional support, Nadeem’s early years were marked by scarcity. His passion for javelin emerged in an environment where resources were limited, but the local community’s unwavering support played a crucial role in his development. Muhammad Ashraf, Nadeem’s father, emphasized the community’s pivotal role, stating, “People have no idea how Arshad got to this place today. His fellow villagers and relatives used to donate money so that he could travel to other cities for his training and events in his early days.” This collective effort became a lifeline that fueled Nadeem’s ambitions and enabled him to pursue his dreams.

At 27, Nadeem made history by securing Pakistan’s first gold medal in javelin, becoming the country’s third Olympic medalist, following wrestling and boxing triumphs in Rome 1960 and Seoul 1988, respectively. His victory is a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes across Pakistan, showing that determination and community support can lead to success, even when resources are scarce.

Nadeem’s journey, however, has not been without its hurdles. Earlier this year, he publicly appealed for a new javelin to aid his training. In an inspiring show of sportsmanship, Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra responded with support on social media, underscoring the camaraderie that transcends national boundaries in the world of sports. This moment highlighted the mutual respect between the two athletes and the power of sportsmanship.

In addition to financial struggles, Nadeem has faced significant physical setbacks, including elbow, knee, and back injuries that required knee surgery last year. Despite these challenges, he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, shifting some of Pakistan’s sports focus from cricket to athletics.

Arshad Nadeem’s story is a powerful reminder that talent and determination, when combined with community support, can overcome even the most daunting challenges. His success not only brings pride to Pakistan but also serves as an inspiration to future generations, encouraging them to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles they may face.

Nadeem’s gold medal is historic in many ways: it is Pakistan’s first individual Olympic gold, the country’s first track and field medal, and only the second time a South Asian athlete has reached the podium in a track and field event. The last time Pakistan secured an Olympic gold was in 1984, when the men’s hockey team triumphed in Los Angeles. Nadeem’s achievement marks a new era for Pakistani sports, one where the spotlight is no longer solely on cricket but also on the diverse talents that the country has to offer.

Pasta La Vista is well-known for its pasta and pizzas, but their new restaurant, Cocta, in Raya, DHA, Lahore, takes it a step further by blending Italian warmth with continental elegance. The beautiful ambiance, tasteful furniture, and exquisite lighting create a perfect setting.  

From classic Italian dishes to sophisticated continental cuisine, Cocta offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Here’s what we tried and loved:

Quinoa Kale Salad: Fresh kale tossed with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and candied walnuts, all dressed in a zesty mustard vinaigrette and infused with olive oil. This salad was super fresh and packed with flavor.

Pesto and Truffle Oil Pizza: A treat for pesto lovers! This pizza features a creamy pesto sauce, a blend of cheeses, smoked chicken, cherry tomatoes, granulated pistachio, basil leaves, and a drizzle of truffle oil.

Stuffed Chicken: We were pleasantly surprised by this dish. A chicken breast stuffed with spinach, artichoke, and cheese, served with mashed potatoes and butter mushrooms. It was a hearty and satisfying choice, even though we came primarily for the pizza and pasta. 

Pistachio Milk Cake: This dessert was equally delicious, offering a rich and creamy finish to our meal.

We can’t wait to go back and try more from their menu, especially the tomato soup and tiramisu, which come highly recommended. Cocta is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of Italian and continental delights.

Nestled in DHA Phase 3, Lahore, The Krae is the newest eatery by Chef Zunaira Faisal and her talented team. This newly opened eatery boasts a beautifully designed space, featuring elegant furniture by Arshi Interiors designed and executed in collaboration with Arkmett.

Chef Zunaira, the creative force behind The Krae, has meticulously curated a menu that transforms each dish into a story, celebrating vibrant, fresh ingredients and innovative cuisine. Our dining experience at The Krae allowed us to sample a variety of things from the menu and here are our top picks. 

The evening began with an array of refreshing drinks. The standout was undoubtedly the Berries Basil Lemonade. 

We started with the dumplings, which were exceptional. The dumplings were paired with a flavorful sauce that elevated the dish. Another highlight was the chicken salad, which was delicious on its own but truly shone when enjoyed with the dumpling sauce—a combination worth considering for the menu.

The onion jam burger was delicious, featuring a juicy, well-cooked patty complemented by the sweet and savory notes of the onion jam.

The desserts were the highlight of our dining experience. The churros were perfectly crisp and paired with a delectable dipping sauce. The Tres Leches cake, with its rich, moist texture and exquisite flavor, made it the best item on the menu.