Drama Series
Pakistani trending show ‘Kabli Pulao’ first time on Indian television
Mumbai: Zindagi, known for its commitment to fostering cultural exchange is set to unveil the latest trending Pakistani show Kabli Pulao for the first time ever on Indian television. This marks a significant milestone for Zindagi, as it embraces the Honorable Bombay High Court ruling that has lifted the ban on Pakistani artists in India. This launch is a testament to Zindagi’s ongoing efforts to celebrate artistic freedom, diversity, and the rich tapestry of stories from both sides of the border.
Kabli Pulao is an unconventional and emotionally charged series that has garnered effusive praise for its remarkable writing, direction, and profound acting. The celebrated Pakistani writer Zafar Mairaj has artfully spun a narrative that delves into the intricacies of human emotions under the thoughtful direction of Kashif Nisar. Taking the audiences on a heartfelt journey, experience the 18-part series starting 11th November 2023 at 10pm, Monday to Sunday only on Zindagi DTH Services Dish TV, D2h, Tata Sky, and Airtel. Moreover, two nations (India & Pakistan) will join forces and together witness the grand simulcast of Kabli Pulao’s finale only on Zindagi.
Kabli Pulao is a masterpiece and relishes its depth through extraordinary performances from lead actors – Mohammed Ehteshamuddin and Sabeena Farooq, who have breathed life into their roles. The show also enjoys a mesmerizing original soundtrack – Ankhain, sung by the music maestro – Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan which has struck a chord with audiences and beautifully complimenting the show.
Kabli Pulao follows the story of Haji Mushtaq aka Mohammed Ehteshamuddin an upright man from Lahore, and Barbeena, played by Sabeena Farooq, an Afghan girl in need. The story revolves around how Haji (a simple bachelor who is in his 50s) crosses paths with a young girl Barbeena (In her 20s) in need seeking medical help for her ill mother. As the protagonist spends more time with the girl, he starts seeing the world from a different perspective and finds himself falling in love for the first time in his life.
With its focus on refugees and empowering female characters, Kabli Pulao a show that crossed 100 million+ views and counting on Youtube, stands as a beacon of progressive storytelling, inviting viewers to connect with the characters’ experience and form a bond that transcends the screen.
Commenting on Zindagi’s latest announcement of telecasting ‘Kabli Pulao’ in India, maverick director behind films like Superstar & Dum Mastam and TV show Sadqay Tumhare Mohammed Ehteshamuddin, who plays the lead role of Haji Sahab said, “This show brings forth the essence of love in the most unexpected and heartwarming way and showcases the power of love, the pursuit of happiness, and the blending of cultures in an inspiring narrative. It’s a beautifully written story that dives deep into the human heart. Kabli Pulao will hold a special place in my heart as this was perhaps the one of the few times where I got the chance to be in front of the camera, playing Haji Mushtaq, after being behind it for many years. It is extremely overwhelming to see the love and appreciation that the show is receiving & It brings me immense joy to see Zindagi air this show in India along with its airing in Pakistan and truly connect audiences for this heartfelt cross-border journey. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this and patiently await all the love and views from the Indian audiences.”
Lead actress Sabeena Farooq, unlike her recent stint in the hit show Tere Bin where she played a diabolical role, will be seen in a completely different and lovable character as Barbeena in Kabli Pulao. Talking about the show’s India release, she added, “Acting in ‘Kabli Pulao’ has been an emotional rollercoaster. The depth of the characters and the realism of the story is unlike anything I’ve worked on before. It’s a privilege to be part of a project that showcases love’s ability to transform lives. The distinctive storyline is beautifully reflected throughout the show and I’m certain that it’ll leave a mark on everyone who watches it. I can’t wait for the Indian viewers to embark on this emotional journey with us as Kabli Pulao immerses the audience in an authentic world that feels close to home.”
Director Kashif Nisar said, “Kabli Pulao’ is a departure from the ordinary, an exploration of love and life. Creating complex stories that resonate with the audience has always been my passion. ‘Kabli Pulao’ allowed me to craft a narrative that combines the richness of human emotions with the allure of culinary traditions. My mission was to create a show that remains faithful to the essence of storytelling. Kudos to Sabeena and Mohammed for meticulously portraying the raw and intricate emotions that love entails, their performances resonated with viewers on an emotional level, leaving an indelible mark with each scene. I am exceptionally proud to present Kabli Pulao to both the Indian and Pakistani audiences together as Zindagi conducts the grand finale simulcast for the first time ever on television. To conclude, our team also extends deepest gratitude to Zindagi for bridging the gap by providing cross-border content and opening new horizons for artists.”
Get ready to embark on Kabli Pulao starting 11 November, at 10 pm on Tata Play (Channel no. 154) Dish TV and D2h (Channel no. 117), and Airtel TV (Channel no. 102).
Drama Series
Eric Dane, Grey’s Anatomy’s McSteamy, dies after ALS diagnosis
Dane’s death follows months of campaigning on motor neurone disease
MUMBAI: Shakira’s hips don’t lie and neither does the buzz, the Colombian superstar is shaking up India with a long-awaited return, headlining the Feeding India Concert 2026 across two cities for the first time ever. Announced on 20 February 2026, the third edition of the music-for-change initiative organised by not-for-profit Feeding India alongside District by Zomato brings the multiple Grammy winner to Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse on 10 April and Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on 15 April. Presented by HSBC India and exclusively ticketed via District, the shows mark Shakira’s first major India gigs in nearly two decades.
Fans have been waiting eagerly for this Latin pop powerhouse known for anthems like Hips Don’t Lie, Whenever, Wherever, and the iconic World Cup hit Waka Waka to light up the stage again. But it’s not just about the beats, Shakira’s involvement amps up the national conversation on hunger and child malnutrition. Through her Barefoot Foundation, she’s long championed education and welfare for vulnerable kids worldwide, a mission that dovetails neatly with Feeding India’s push toward the UN’s Zero Hunger goal by 2030.
Shakira said, “Performing in India has always been special to me, and I’m excited to connect with my fans across Mumbai and Delhi. The Feeding India Concert is about more than music, it’s about standing together to ensure every child has access to the nutrition they need to thrive.”
District by Zomato CEO Rahul Ganjoo added, “This is a defining moment for the Feeding India Concert. Bringing an artist of Shakira’s global stature to two cities represents our commitment to scaling impact while delivering world-class entertainment. Music has the unique power to unite people across boundaries, and we’re leveraging that to drive meaningful conversations that can transform lives.”
Feeding India tackles hunger through government-backed systemic work, direct meal support in schools (low-income, government, and NGO), and a youth volunteer network that sparks awareness and action. The concerts unite artists, philanthropists, and everyday folks in collective action proving music can move crowds and move the needle on social issues.
Ticket details are rolling out fast, HSBC credit cardholders get exclusive 48-hour early access from 12 pm on 27 February to 12 pm on 1 March, with 10 per cent off up to Rs 1,000. General sales kick off at 1 pm on 1 March. District app users can hit ‘Notify Me’ for real-time updates. Plus, snag flexible payments Buy Now, Pay Later with 50 per cent upfront and the rest by 20 March 2026.
Opening acts drop soon via feedingindia and districtupdates pages on Instagram, or straight in the District app. Whether you’re there for the spectacle, the cause, or just to finally see Shakira live, this one’s got rhythm with real purpose turning dance floors into drivers of change.
LOS ANGELES: Eric Dane, best known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died aged 53, less than a year after revealing he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of motor neurone disease.
Dane died on Thursday afternoon, after being diagnosed in April 2025. In a statement, his family said he spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his wife, the actor Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters.
Over the past decade, Dane was closely associated with two of television’s most recognisable characters. He played Dr Mark Sloan, nicknamed “McSteamy”, on Grey’s Anatomy, joining the series for a single episode before becoming a regular for six seasons. More recently, he appeared as Cal Jacobs in Euphoria, the troubled father of Jacob Elordi’s character Nate Jacobs.
Despite his illness, Dane continued working and completed filming for the upcoming third season of Euphoria, appearing in a wheelchair as his condition progressed. Speaking to People last year, he said he felt fortunate to remain active professionally while asking for privacy for his family.
ALS is a terminal degenerative disease that progressively impairs movement, speech and breathing. While there is no cure, progression varies widely among patients. In recent months, Dane emerged as a vocal advocate for awareness and research, using his diagnosis to highlight the condition’s impact.
Tributes followed swiftly from colleagues across the industry. Sam Levinson, creator of Euphoria, described Dane as both a gifted collaborator and a close friend, praising his warmth and generosity on and off set.
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane appeared in more than 140 episodes of Grey’s Anatomy between 2006 and 2021 and starred in films including X-Men: The Last Stand and Marley & Me. His death marks the loss of a familiar presence in American television, remembered as much for his resilience as for his performances.
