Skip to content 
Search

Latest Stories

Bilal Ashraf rocks out in Rangreza

ONE of the big Pakistani breakthrough stars of last year was Bilal Ashraf. The dashing actor received universal praise for his performance in hit 2016 film Janaan and looks set for a long haul in Lollywood. He will next be seen in musical drama Rangreza. Eastern Eye caught up with Bilal to talk about the movie...

What first connected you to acting?


I guess it all happened by chance. I did a few TV commercials working behind the camera as a visual effects director until I got pulled in front of the camera, and here I am.

What led you towards Rangreza?

The script, my co-actors and team led me towards the movie, especially the director, producer and cinematographer.

Tell us about the character you play?

I play the character of a rock/pop star named Ali Zain, who goes on a magical journey of music, love and drama.

What was the biggest challenge of playing the role?

Learning all about music and musical instruments, and depicting this character as a true and authentic rock star.

What is your favourite moment in Rangreza?

There are lots of favourite moments in the film, but I really enjoyed my performance of the Rangreza title track.

Who are you hoping connects to this movie?

Rangreza is for everyone. This movie is an all-out complete family entertainer.

Are you nervous in the lead-up to its release? I am and it’s natural. But I am also lucky to have a great family and amazing friends who all support me.

You must be happy with the progress Pakistani cinema is making...

I am! It’s growing rapidly and headed in the right direction. My producer Munir Hussain, along with Sunil Shah of B4U Motion Pictures, have played a vital role in the recent international success of Pakistan cinema.

What would be your dream role?

I would love to play a James Bond villain.

What is your favourite Pakistani movie?

Janaan. It was my first film and helped change the perception of Pakistan cinema positively, especially internationally.

Have you made a new year’s resolution?

Not yet. I am just super-focused on Rangreza promotions.

What are your passions away from work?

I love playing sports and travelling.

What inspires you?

My dad is my true source of inspiration.

Why should we watch Rangreza?

It has great content and music. It also highlights a very important social issue.

Why do you love cinema?

Escapism. You see and experience life away from your own. It’s magical!

More For You

Barbie with type 1 diabetes

This is also part of Mattel’s mission to extend the boundaries of imaginative play

Mattel

Mattel introduces first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes to promote inclusion

Highlights

  • Mattel launches new Barbie with type 1 diabetes
  • The doll features a glucose monitor, insulin pump and CGM app
  • Created in collaboration with type 1 diabetes charity Breakthrough T1D
  • Part of Mattel’s broader push for inclusivity and representation in toys

Barbie with type 1 diabetes joins inclusive fashionistas range

Mattel has launched its first diabetes Barbie doll, designed to represent children with type 1 diabetes and promote greater inclusivity in children’s toys.

The new addition to the Barbie Fashionistas line comes with realistic medical features including a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, secured with heart-shaped medical tape, and an insulin pump to help manage her blood sugar levels. She also carries a smartphone with a CGM app to monitor glucose throughout the day, and a bag large enough to store snacks and other essentials.

Keep ReadingShow less
Schiaparelli exhibition UK

Italian-born French fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli

Getty Images

V&A announces UK’s first Schiaparelli exhibition as Natasha Poonawalla’s Met Gala looks make a comeback

“In difficult times fashion is always outrageous.” – Elsa Schiaparelli.

The Victoria & Albert Museum has announced its first ever UK exhibition dedicated to Elsa Schiaparelli, the visionary designer who blurred the boundaries between fashion, art and performance. Titled Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art, it runs from 21 March to 1 November 2026 in the Sainsbury Gallery and will draw on the V&A’s status as home to Britain’s National Collection of Dress and its foremost collection of Schiaparelli garments.

Keep ReadingShow less
Martin Lewis warns shoppers

Lewis clarifies legal rights for online and in-store purchases

iStock

Martin Lewis warns shoppers about misleading return policies at 30 UK retailers

Highlights

  • Martin Lewis flags incorrect return rights information on 30 retail websites
  • Retailers include New Look, The Range, and Selfridges
  • Lewis clarifies legal rights for online and in-store purchases
  • Trading Standards to be alerted following MoneySavingExpert.com investigation

Martin Lewis highlights return rights confusion

Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has issued a warning to UK consumers after uncovering misleading returns information on the websites of 30 major retailers, including New Look, The Range, and Selfridges.

Speaking on ITV1's Good Morning Britain, Lewis explained that several retailers are presenting incorrect information about return rights for online shoppers — in some cases, underplaying the legal protections customers are entitled to.

Keep ReadingShow less
Gemma Collins Instagram ban

Collins accepted the findings of the ASA’s investigation

Getty Images

Gemma Collins’ Instagram post banned over weight-loss drug promotion

Highlights

  • Instagram post by Gemma Collins promoting Yazen weight-loss service banned
  • ASA rules it breached regulations on promoting prescription-only medication
  • Eight other weight-loss ads also banned in regulatory crackdown

ASA bans Collins' Instagram advert

An Instagram post by TV personality Gemma Collins promoting a weight-loss drug and digital service has been banned by the UK’s advertising watchdog for breaching regulations around prescription-only medicines.

Collins had shared a promotional video on 6 January 2025, stating: “I’m starting this year two sizes down, thanks to Yazen’s weight loss app and medication.” The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled that the post unlawfully promoted prescription-only medication to the public.

Keep ReadingShow less
5 secret beaches

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

iStock

5 secret beaches in the UK that feel like the tropics

Key points

  • Discover hidden UK beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands
  • Ideal for summer staycations without the cost of long-haul travel
  • Includes lesser-known spots in Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, and more
  • Perfect for quiet escapes, coastal walks, and Instagram-worthy views

Escape to paradise – no passport required

Think you need to fly halfway across the world for clear blue water and white sand? Think again. The UK is home to a surprising number of secluded beaches that look straight out of the Caribbean – without the crowds or jet lag. From hidden coves in Cornwall to windswept bays in the Scottish Highlands, here are some of the most tropical-looking beaches on British soil.

1. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Often dubbed the UK’s answer to the Caribbean, this National Trust-owned gem boasts golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Accessed by a half-mile walk from Stackpole Quay, it remains blissfully untouched by development.

Keep ReadingShow less