Author: World News

  • New York: 13th annual meat distribution organized by the American Council of Minority Women and Islamic Relief of USA was held in New York, in which three thousand pounds of beef of sacrificial animals were distributed without religious discrimination.

    Islamic Relief of USA also participated in the thirteenth annual meat distribution.

    On this occasion, the chief of ACMW Baza Ruhi said that three thousand pounds of beef is being distributed without any religious discrimination.

    Volunteers participating in meat distribution said that the main purpose of volunteering is service to the humanity; we receive prayers by serving people and make the name of our country bright.

    Hundreds of people benefited from the meat distribution move this year as well.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Superstars of the Indian film industry, most prominently Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Boman Irani, and others will perform live in the United States (US) and Canada from 19 to 28 August.

    Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi and Boman Irani along with many other Indian film Industry stars will perform in a live concert organized by Prria Haider Productions on August 27 at in Cure Insurance Arena New Jersey.

    Silver screen stars Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi Boman Irani, Shahnaz Gul, Aisha Koppiker, Manish Paul, Amit Mishra, Neeti Mohan and Mouni Roy, who are on tour to the US and Canada, will perform at the Cure Insurance Arena in New Jersey on August 27.

    Indian stars will perform live concerts in Toronto on August 19th, San Jose on August 20th, Dallas on August 21st, Atlanta on August 26th, New Jersey on August 27th, and Washington on August 28th.

    Those interested in these live concerts may book tickets with immediate effect.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) New York chapter President Amjad Nawaz organized a grand function to celebrate PTI’s recent by-election victory in Pakistan’s Punjab province.

    The event was held in senior party leader Ikram Awan’s residence in New York. The ceremony started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by special prayers for the unity and brotherhood of the Muslim Ummah.

    Party leaders, workers, and other members of the community also participated in great numbers.

     

     

     

     

    The famous patriotic song “tera Pakistan hai yeh mera Pakistan hai,” was sung, and the National Anthem was also presented on this occasion.

    PTI New York President Amjad Nawaz expressed his views and said: “We used to pray to Allah almighty to give us a great leader. And Allah has blessed us with the best leader in the form of Imran Khan.”

    Tehreek-e-Insaf New York General Secretary Khurshid Bhalli and PTI New Jersey President Naveed Waraich said that PTI’s recent victory has changed the political map of Pakistan.

    Samina Haider of PTI women’s wing and senior PTI leader Zaman Afridi in their address to the participants said that the victory of PTI has made Pakistanis proud all over the world.

    The attendees were served sweets and hot jalebis.

     

    Other Insafians participating in the celebration expressed their heart felt felicitations, and reiterated their commitment that they will be with Imran Khan every step of the way.

    PTI New York President Amjad Nawaz recited a poem written by him and got a lot of applause from the audience.

    “Now the chains will be broken. Now we will have freedom together. No more thieves, no more tall claims. No more hypocritical noises. Now is the turn of the truth.”

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey: Good news for the cricket lovers in USA, as the 2nd season of the American Premier League is being held this year in Florida as APL hosted a grand team launch event at Northlands, Flemington, New Jersey.

    Also, the event organizers announced the construction of a state-of-the-art cricket stadium in the US.

    Four new teams – Team Samp Army, Team Strikers, Team Pak Punjab and Team Summerset Caualiers are the new teams in APL season 2 who were welcomed in the launch event.

    People from other walks of life including the management of APL and the owners of the new teams participated in this event.

    Traditional dances added to the glitz of the event. The ceremony started with the National Anthem of the United States of America.

    Organized by Mo Khan, the audience was shown an introductory promo at the beginning

    Team Paks’ owner Muhammad Ali said in the beginning of his speech that Team Paks is a representative team of Pakistani community, and it is a matter of pride.

     

    Iraj Abidi of Team America said the addition of four new teams in this season is proof that the journey of APL continues with more success. He also appreciated the efforts of the management of the event.

    Team England’s owner Victoria Morgan was very enthusiastic about the event, saying that the APL caravan is about sharing the love.

    Danny Khan, chief of the Umpires’ panel, said that last season was the first drop of rain, this time there is more enthusiasm, while the number of teams has also increased.

    The team owners were also invited on stage at the launch event. Team Samp Army Kirtesh Patel said, it is a matter of pride that Samp Army is going to be a part of APL.

    Team strikers officials said that our franchise is new but eager to perform better in the event

    Umar Malik represented Pak Punjab, he expressed his views and said that it is a matter of pride to be a part of APL.

    There is no doubt that the first season of the American Premier League was a huge success and even today it is clear as day. The participants also discussed it.

     

    Event sponsor Sohail Anjum of Northlands thanked the attendees and said that this place looks beautiful only because of you people.

    APL has given countless names to the world of cricket, among which Raunaq Sharma is the foremost name.

    Who does not know J. Mir, who has given immense services in American cricket, whenever the historian writes the history of American cricket, he will always remember J. Mir.

    APL founder and CEO Jay Mir told the audience that when APL was conceived, it was not expected that APL would create history. “Self-confidence has always blessed me with success, and I am proud to be APL’s Mire-e-Caravan,” said Jay Mir.

    He also spoke about promoting the message of love between the people of India and Pakistan through cricket.

     

    A traditional Arabic dance was also performed at the concluding session of the event. This was the moment when the artists received a standing ovation.

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey: As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) secured a comfortable victory in the by-elections of Punjab with clinching at least 15 seats out of the total 20 vacant provincial slots, Pakistanis die-hard supporters of PTI in USA celebrated this historic success in the New Jersey state, with great joy and enthusiasm.

     

    Participants with party flags, banners and portraits of their leader cricketer-turned politician Imran Khan in their hands attended the event in large numbers.

    A rally was organized by the captain’s players to celebrate the success of PTI in Addison Peyani Park in New Jersey.

    PTI-USA General Secretary Sam Khan said that the success in the Punjab by-elections is the success of Pakistan’s integrity, truth and right.

    PTI New Jersey President Navid Waraich said that PTI fought alone with all the political parties.

    “We stand with Imran Khan stronger and more powerful than before,” he said. Congratulating the success of the rally, PTI leaders said that they have gathered here today to celebrate the victory of PTI.  This is a historic victory which Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf will get in the upcoming local bodies and general elections as well. In the celebration, the people were not only served with sweets but the participants also danced on background party songs, amid fireworks.

     

     

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    Are you worried about the spread of Monkeypox, and protecting yourself from this pandemic?  Do you really want to know who is at risk for contracting monkeypox? What are the symptoms and how does monkeypox spread?                Here is a detailed guideline that has been taken from the official website of the New York State Department of Health, in the larger public health interest. 

    As of July 15 2022, a total of 490 confirmed orthopoxvirus/monkeypox cases – a designation established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – have been identified with 461 in New York City, 16 in Westchester County, 4 in Suffolk County, 3 in Nassau County, 1 in Sullivan County, 1 in Chemung County, 1 in Rockland County, 1 in Erie County, 1 in St. Lawrence County, and 1 case in Monroe County.

    Monkeypox is a rare, viral infection that does not usually cause serious illness. However, it can result in hospitalization or death. That’s why health officials in New York, the U.S., and around the world are monitoring cases of monkeypox in areas that do not usually report monkeypox infections, including in New York State.

    While New Yorkers should not be alarmed, everyone should stay informed about the monkeypox. This means understanding the symptoms, how it spreads, and what to do if you are exposed.

    Who is at risk of contracting monkeypox?

    Monkeypox spreads through close, physical contact between people. This means anyone can get monkeypox. However, based on the current outbreak, certain populations are being affected by monkeypox more than others, including men who have sex with men (MSM).

    Based on previous outbreaks of monkeypox around the world, some groups may also be at heightened risk for severe outcomes if they contract monkeypox. This includes people with weakened immune systems, elderly New Yorkers, young children under 8 years of age, and pregnant people.

     

    What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

    Rashes, bumps, or blisters on or around the genitals or in other areas like your hands, feet, chest, or face. Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all.

    How does monkeypox spread?

    Monkeypox is spread through close, physical contact between individuals. This includes:

    Direct contact with monkeypox sores or rashes on an individual who has monkeypox.

    Respiratory droplets or oral fluids from someone with monkeypox, particularly for those who have close contact with someone or are around them for a long period of time.

    It can also be spread through contact with objects or fabrics (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels) that have been used by someone with monkeypox.

    How can I protect myself?

    New Yorkers can protect themselves by taking simple steps, which are especially important for those who may be at higher risk for severe disease, including people with weakened immune systems:

    Ask your sexual partners whether they have a rash or other symptoms consistent with monkeypox.

    Avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a rash or other monkeypox-related symptoms.

    If you are exposed or experience symptoms, make sure to reach out to a health care provider.

    Follow reputable sources of health information, including NYSDOH, CDC, and your local county health department.

  • New York: Authorities seem struggling to ensure monkeypox vaccines in New York City – which is believed to be the epicenter of the disease outbreak, as the demand for doses continues to outpace supply.

    The true scope of the US outbreak is unknown as diagnostic testing is slow.

    U.S. health officials said that more than 100,000 monkeypox vaccine doses are being sent to states in the next few days, and several million more are on order in the months ahead, They also acknowledged the vaccine supply hasn’t kept up with the demand seen in New York, California and other places.

    The government is making appointments to cope with the disease amid increasing cases, as reports suggest that as many as 9,200 appointments were filled in just seven minutes when new doses became available Friday evening.

    Governor Kathy Hochul says there are tens of thousands of additional doses on the way.US health officials say they do not have enough monkeypox vaccines to cope with increasing demand.

    The point of concern is, that most confirmed cases have been among men who have sex with men, although anyone can be infected with the virus.

    The federal government has distributed about 156,000 doses nationwide and expects to start shipping another 130,000 doses from Monday, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.

    Earlier this week, New York city’s vaccinations website crashed as thousands of people tried to book vaccine appointments at once.

    During a call on Tuesday with Biden administration officials, New York Mayor Eric Adams asked for the city to be allocated more doses.

    According to the USA Today, Health care and LGBTQ leaders are warning monkeypox will continue to spread among gay men and other Americans if more isn’t done to address vaccine shortages and help health professionals combat the virus. They are demanding more testing kits, vaccines and additional health workers to limit the outbreak.

    Health care and LGBTQ leaders are warning monkeypox will continue to spread among gay men and other Americans if more isn’t done to address vaccine shortages and help health professionals combat the virus. They are demanding more testing kits, vaccines and additional health workers to limit the outbreak.

    The number of reported infections in 42 states, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, has climbed to 1,469 infected people, with California and Illinois counting more than 100 cases and New York leading with 414 cases.

    A month ago the US had just 45 cases.

    According to Eyewitness News, demand continues to outpace supply when it comes to the monkeypox vaccine in New York City, after 9,200 appointments were filled in just seven minutes when new doses became available Friday evening.

  • Turkey: Web Desk
    TikTok star Hareem Shah has been arrested in Turkey along with her husband Bilal Shah.Turkey’s police at Airport discover large amount of gold and lots of money from both of them. So lets have a look more into this.

    According to media reports Hareem Shah was going to Muscat from Turkey but police found a large amount of gold and money from them, Now the couple is being investigated by Turkish authorities.

    Earlier Hareem Shah made many controversies to get attention of fans but this time she seems to be in trouble. She made a snack video as well as tiktok video with heavy amount of money.

    After that she is in big trouble and FIA also investigated against Hareem Shah and her husband. Also they freezes multiple account of Hareem Shah. Hareem Shah in all this responses with a video that they can do nothing against her.

  • New York: Months after Imran Khan’s ouster as Prime Minister through a parliamentary no confidence motion, his political players began to realize their mistake and started parting ways with PTI, as Syed Faisal Shah Hamdani is one of them. Faisal Shah Hamdani who had left PML-N and joined PTI in 2013, but now rejoined PMLN in New York.

    PML-N New York President Ahmed Jan hosted a reception dinner in honor of Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal at a local restaurant in Yonkers area.

    PML-N officials warmly welcomed Ahsan Iqbal. The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an. Later, Naat Rasool-e-Maqbool was also presented.

    On the occasion, the chief guest Ahsan Iqbal said that Imran Khan promoted hatred and anarchy in the country’s politics, and destroyed the country’s economy which was moving towards development before 2018.

    Imran Khan has to give an account to the nation. On this occasion, Ahmed Jan, President of PML-N New York, the host of PML-N President Rohail Dar welcomed all the guests on arrival.

    He said that our leadership had the most difficult time and time proved that PML-N can lead Pakistan on the path of development.

    Before the ceremony, Former PTI leader Syed Faisal Shah Hamdani said that , He joined Imran Khan’s caravan nine years ago to accomplish the new Pakistan but the country got nothing except only disaster. “Now I have realized the mistake and I am back in PML-N,” he announced.

    Other members of the community who attended the event also asked Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal about politics, the economy and the problems of overseas Pakistanis and offered their suggestions.

  • New York: Renowned Pakistani American social activist Raja Hassan Ahmad has become the first-ever Pakistani Origin Muslim who has taken the oath of Brentwood School District Board Member.

    The oath-taking ceremony was held in the conference room of Brentwood School building at New York’s Suffolk County Long Island. He took the oath by taking the Holy Quran over his head.

    Raja Hassan has become the board member of the school after a cut-throat competition with his opponents.

    Raja Hassan has defeated a contestant who had been serving as an elected president of the school for the consecutive 9 years.

    The time period for elected representatives of board members is three years. Hassan distributed traditional Pakistani sweets (Jalebi) at Masjid-e-Darul Quran in New York on his historic victory

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal hoped that Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will soon reach an agreement to resume its loan program.

    He blamed the previous government led by cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) for creating ‘trust-deficit’ and ‘weakened’ relations with IMF.

    He said this while addressing a dinner reception given by Chaudhry Tanveer, a business and social figure of the Pakistani community in his honor at the residence of Chaudhry Tanveer in New York.

    “Our government has taken tough decisions. Hopefully, now there will be an agreement with the IMF.” Ahsan said.

    Ahsan Iqbal, who is also Federal Minister for Planning and Development, said that Imran Khan’s government made an agreement with the IMF and then violated it, which led to strained a relation that is why the attitude of the IMF has hardened and difficulties may increase for our government.

    The dinner was attended by political, social, and business personalities of the community, including PML-N US officials. Participants asked Ahsan Iqbal about the government’s policy and measures to improve Pakistan’s economy.

    Replying to a question, Ahsan Iqbal said that Imran Khan had emptied the treasury, so for the first time in 75 years of the country’s history, the finance ministry withheld the last quarter of the development budget.

    When members of the community asked about the right of Overseas Pakistanis to vote in the new election, Ahsan Iqbal said that Overseas Pakistanis have the right to vote but the experience of internet voting has not been seen all over the world and it is unsafe. ۔

    Ahsan Iqbal said that we are paying the atonement of Imran Khan’s government; Imran Khan should apologize to the nation.

    Ahsan Iqbal further said that the census will be held in February next year on the basis of which new constituencies will be formed and elections will be held in October 2023.

    Our government is trying its best to improve the country’s economy and participate in the general elections.

    At the end of the dinner, PML-N officials and other members of the community thanked Ahsan Iqbal for his arrival and took pictures.

    Condolence to Chaudhry Tanveer on demise of his younger brother

    Ahsan Iqbal offered condolences on the demise of the yonger brother of business and social figure Chaudhry Tanveer in New York.

    On arrival in the US, PML-N General Secretary Ahsan Iqbal paid visit to New York to pay his condolences to business and social figure Chaudhry Tanveer on the death of his younger brother Chaudhry Qadeer.

    Ahsan Iqbal expressed his heartfelt sorrow and grief over the sudden death of his brother to Chaudhry Tanveer, and prayed for the reward, forgiveness and elevation of the late Chaudhry Qadeer.

    Ahsan Iqbal said that undoubtedly death is an inescapable fact, every soul has to taste death, in this difficult hour our pains are with the family.

    It should be noted that Chaudhry Tanveer’s younger brother Chaudhry Qadeer had recently passed away in Islamabad due to a short illness. He was born and passed away on the day of Hajj. Qadeer left behind his wife and two children to mourn his death.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Pakistani community members in New York city offered their heartfelt condolences to the business and social figure Chaudhry Tanveer on the demise of his brother and also expressed their grief and sorrow on the sad demise.

    They attended the Quran recitation, and Fateha Khwani which was organized at Noor Masjid on Long Island in New York to reward the late Captain (retd.) Chaudhry Qadeer who passed away at the age of 49 in Islamabad, Pakistan recently.

    A large number of Pakistani community gathered for Quran recitation and Fatiha.

    Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, Chairman, American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) was blessed with the recitation of the Holy Quran.

    After the recitation, the gift of Naat was also presented.

    On this occasion, Chaudhry Tanveer while talking to the participants said that brothers are everyone’s companions and loved ones.

    It is very difficult to bear the grief of their separation, he added. He also thanked everyone in the community who supported us during this difficult time. Leading religious scholar Maulana Taswarul Hassan Gilani prayed for the reward of Chaudhry Qadeer.

    In the end, the members of the community offered their heartfelt condolences to Chaudhry Tanveer on the demise of his brother and also expressed their grief and sorrow.

  • New York: The Muslim Officers’ Society of the New York Police and their families made the 3rd and final day of this year’s Eid-ul-Adha memorable with organizing an amazing get-together at an Adventure Park located in Brookline’s neighborhood.

    The New York Police’s Muslim Officers’ Society celebrated the Eid at Adventure Park to double of joy of Eid-ul- Adha, the biggest religious event in Islamic calendar.

    The participants of event, enjoyed varieties of food and ice creams free of cost, with free entry in the park. The president of the New York Police Labor Union and other officers also attended the Eid festivities.

    Today is a day to get-together and celebrate, they said.

    Participants enjoyed Eid day in Adventure Park and made their day memorable.

    On the occasion, Adeel Rana, President and Deputy Inspector of Muslim Officers Society, said that the Muslim community from different countries residing in New York has increased the splendor of Eid-ul-Adha.

    The Muslim Officers Society says it will continue to provide entertainment opportunities to the community at other festivals.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: The food loving people should get ready as the fourth annual Eid Food Festival is being held at the Dar-ul-Quran Mosque New York on July 16.

    Admission to the festival is free. As like previous years, New Yorkers are celebrating Eid al-Adha with a huge Eid food festival this year as well.

    The festival is being held at the Dar-ul-Quran Mosque on 3rd Avenue where, in addition to stalls decorated with a variety of food, oriental costumes will also be available for sale. In addition, gifts will be distributed among the participants.

    According to the festival management, last year about 6500 people participated and this year 10,000 people are expected to attend the festival and admission is free.

    The festival management has appealed to the community to respect the sanctity of the mosque in choosing the costumes and cloths as the festival is being held in the mosque

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: New York Police Department on Monday claimed to have shot dead an accused who had allegedly threatened to kill high profile figures including the New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in the Cambria Heights neighborhood of Queens area.

    “The 60-year-old man Raul Hardy reportedly said he was going to “change the government” by assassinating both Gov. Hochul and NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell. Hardy also is reported to have said he was going to “blow up” the world,” Fox News reported.

    According to sources, a suspect made phone call on 119 and threatened police that he would kill New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, several elected officials and police officers.

    According to the police, after tracing the call, the police reached the desired place and saw the suspect coming out a house and started screaming, and refused to obey orders of the police. After a brief verbal exchange, the man allegedly pulled out a gun and opened fire. An exchange of fire took place between the suspect and six policemen.

    According to NYPD officials, more than 100 bullets were exchanged between the man and the officers.
    As a result, the attacker was killed. The attacker was identified as Raul Hardy.
    No officers were hurt during the altercation, according to New York Post.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: At least five people including a teenager and two women were shot injured by unknown assailants near a popular amusement area in the in New York City’s Coney Island on Sunday. One of them is stated to be in a critical condition.

    Investigations were underway to arrest the culprit involved in this brutal shooting incident. However, no arrests were made till publishing of this report.

    Following the incident law enforcement agencies rushed to the site, cordoned off the area and began collecting evidences. While the rescuers rushed the victims to hospitals medical aid.

    ‘Daily News’ reported while quoting police and an NYPD spokesman: “The attacker opened fire on a crowd standing near W. 20th St. on the Riegelmann Boardwalk about 2 a.m. Police recovered 28 shell casings on the scene.”

    Police say there was a large group that gathered at the location when someone opened fire.

    A 37-year-old was shot in the back, a 19-year-old man was also shot in the back, two women, a 27-year-old and 26-year-old, were both shot in the leg while a 36-year-old man was shot in the chin and is in stable condition.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey: Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Senator and Chairman Overseas Pakistanis Commission (OPC) Captain (retd) Shaheen Khalid Butt has asked the Pakistani community to enhance their revenue sources, saying the ongoing inflation is a global phenomenon, which may continue to rise further in days to come.

    He was addressing a reception given in his honor by the prominent business and social figures of the New Jersey community Mr. Babar Hashmi and Mr. Ijaz Butt.

    Addressing the participants, Shaheen Butt said that my political affiliation is with the PML-N but every Pakistani living abroad is equal to me. His political affiliation does not matter.

    The PMLN leaders embraced the guest on his arrival and gave him a warm welcome. The ceremony began with the recitation of the divine verses of the Holy Quran, followed by the Naat-e-Rasool Maqvool (peace be upon him).

    The function was attended by the community’s social and business personalities as well as other senior party leaders such as Danish Malik, Raja Razzaq, Rana Saeed and others.

    The participants of the event spoke openly about the current political and economic situation in Pakistan.

    On the occasion, senior PMLN leader Raja Razzaq questioned that the commission is dysfunctional in taking the issues of overseas Pakistanis to court.

    Replying to the question, Shaheen Khalid Butt said that special courts were being set up in Lahore and two other districts to hear the cases of overseas persons.

    In response to another questions from the participants, Shaheen Butt also made it clear that inflation would continue to rise. He said the government was trying to reduce inflation but the people should increase their income sources.

    Members of the community participating in the event expressed their concerns over the decision to withdraw the right to e-voting given to overseas Pakistanis, to which Shaheen Khalid Butt said that overseas Pakistanis should have the right to vote. The chances of irregularities and fraud in the process are very high.

    At the end of the ceremony, Shaheen Khalid Butt thanked the host and other PML-N leaders.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Saudi Arabia: Eid-ul-Adha – the mega annual Islamic event is being commemorated in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region on Saturday (today) as approx. one million foreign pilgrims have gathered at the holy city of Mecca from parts of the world including the United States (US) and Pakistan to commemorate the great sacrifice by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) of his son Hazrat Ismail (AS).

    Also, Muslims in Afghanistan, Libya, Egypt, Kenya and Yemen are celebrating Eid ul-Adha on Saturday, with religious zest and fervor.

    Amid strict covid-19 restrictions, following the Eid prayers, the Hajj pilgrims clad in while sacrificed animals in the path of Allah almighty and to fulfill Sunnat-e-Ibrahimi.

    Improved  security arrangements were also made by the Saudi authorities, and Hujjaj performed the mandatory rituals in smooth manner.

    Saudi Gazette reported that King Salman prayed for Allah’s peace, mercy, and blessings on all of them. He also prayed for the pilgrims who are performing this year’s Hajj and all those who are serving them.

    The pilgrims threw seven pebbles each at the Jamarat Al-Aqaba wall in a ritual symbolizing the devil’s stoning.

    Hajj pilgrims began to move to the Grand Mosque in Makkah for Tawaf Al-Ifadha. Prior to that, they had stoned the Jamarat Al-Aqaba, sacrificed animals, and had their heads shaved for the 10th day of Dul Hijjah.

    “Security services are also on hand to ensure that congestion is kept to a minimum and to manage the flow of the approximately 899,353 pilgrims who are at the holy sites to perform this year’s Hajj,” according to the General Authority for Statistics.

    All the pilgrims had spent the previous night resting in their tents in Mina on the first day of the stoning.

    On Friday, the spokesman for Hajj and Umrah, Hisham Saeed, at a press conference highlighted the plan and arrangements for the Hajj with all relevant authorities, and schedules with specific times to ensure the smooth movement of crowds in the various stages, beginning from the day of Tarwiyah in Mina, then on to Arafat and Muzdalifah before transporting them back to Mina for the stoning process at the Jamarat Bridge and other Hajj services.

    Yesterday (Firday), Chanting Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Hujjaj gathered in in Maidan-e-Arafat to perform the Rukn-e-Azam of Hajj Waqoof-e-Arafat since Friday sunrise.

    After Azan-e-Maghrib, the pilgrims left for Muzdalifah where they offered Maghrib and Isha prayers together and spent the night under open sky.

    They collected pebbles from Muzdalifah to throw at Satin this morning.  After offering Fajr Prayer at Muzdalifah, they left for Mina for remaining Hajj rituals.

    Reports suggest that as many as 850,000 foreign pilgrims are performing Hajj for the first time after a hiatus of two years following the travel restrictions imposed by Saudi authorities due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

    The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most important traditions in Islam, and involves carrying out a journey to the Kaaba, a sacred building in Mecca that all prayers are directed towards by Muslims around the world.

     

    Arab News reported that the Transport General Authority has offered electric scooters as a new transportation service for pilgrims during this year’s Hajj season.

    This new service aims at improving pilgrims’ experience, facilitating their movements while performing their rituals, and reducing the duration of their trips from Mount Arafat to Muzdalifah.

     

     

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey: ShowFest is dedicating a colorful evening to the Indian legendary poet, author, and film director Gulzar in which he will enlighten the audience on his lifelong tale of ups and downs.

    ShowFest is organizing an event to honor Gulzar at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on July 16.
    Organized by Ateeque Sheikh and ShowFest, this beautiful evening will be administrated by Rakhshanda Khan, a great professor of Urdu literature from Delhi, who has come all the way to the United States.

    In this unique show, Gulzar will tell the audience the story of his migration from Pakistan to India and also shed light on his life experiences.

    On this occasion, the singers will enchant the audience with the magic of their voice on the songs written by Gulzar for Indian films.

    Gulzar herself will recite his poems in the program, and will also share experiences as to how did the journey from Pakistan to India happen? What was the experience of working with Jagjit and Bipi Lahri, How did the relations remain successful with Anand Bakhshi.

    Those who want to know the background and story of the legend must attend this beautiful event which will be held on July 16, 2022 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Saudi Arabia: Dr. Al Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al Issa on Friday called upon the Muslims across the world to respect and value humanity, and bow down before Allah Almighty, alone.

    While delivering the wide-ranging Hajj sermon from Masjid-e-Nimra, he said that Islam is a religion of peace and there is only one Allah and Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa (PBUH) is the last prophet.

    “Allah is the only one who deserves to be worshipped by the inhabitants of the heavens and the inhabitants of the Earth. He has complete knowledge of everything you conceal and everything you reveal.”

    “The combination of the testimony that only Allah is to be worshipped, along with the testimony that Muhammad (PBUH ) is Allah’s messenger.”

    He said that Muslims should exhibit best of the manners as only those who will have good manners will be close to the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) on the day of judgment.

    In his Hajj sermon, Sheikh Bandar urged the Muslims to worship in such a way that Almighty Allah is seeing them.

    Chanting Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, one million Hujjaj are in Maidan-e-Arafat to perform the Rukn-e-Azam of Hajj Waqoof-e-Arafat.

    Dr. Al Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al Issa said that respecting and valuing humanity is compulsory for all Muslims.

    After offering Fajr Prayer at Muzdalifah the other day, pilgrims will leave for Mina for remaining Hajj rituals.

    The 850,000 foreign pilgrims are performing Hajj for the first time after a hiatus of two years following the travel restrictions imposed by Saudi authorities due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

    It is relevant to mention here that Dr Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa was appointed as Khatib for Hajj 1443 (2022) by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

    Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa holds the post of Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and also the President of the Organization of Muslim Scholars.

     

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Saudi Arabia: As the annual Hajj rituals reach climax in Saudi Arabia after a gap of two years as hundreds of thousands of Muslims around the globe have thronged the holy city of Mecca to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage – the mega Muslim religious event.

    Chanting Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Hujjaj gathered in in Maidan-e-Arafat to perform the Rukn-e-Azam of Hajj Waqoof-e-Arafat since Friday sunrise.

    After Azan-e-Maghrib, the pilgrims will leave for Muzdalifah where they will offer Maghrib and Isha prayers together and spend the night under open sky. They will also collect pebbles from Muzdalifah to throw at Satin the next morning.  After offering Fajr Prayer at Muzdalifah, they will leave for Mina for the remaining Hajj rituals.

    Reports suggest that as many as 850,000 foreign pilgrims are performing Hajj for the first time after a hiatus of two years following the travel restrictions imposed by Saudi authorities due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    It’s an opportunity for Muslims to fulfill a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation, but also a chance for the economy of Saudi Arabia’s holy cities to get a jump start.

    Pilgrims clad in white robes climbed the rocky Mount of Mercy, which oversees the plain of Arafat where the Prophet Mohammad held his last sermon.

    For the last couple of years this number has been substantially reduced – like many things – due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But the pilgrimage has returned in full force in 2022.

    The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most important traditions in Islam, and involves carrying out a journey to the Kaaba, a sacred building in Mecca that all prayers are directed towards by Muslims around the world.

    As one of the five pillars of Islam, all Muslims are expected to carry out the journey at least once in their lives if they are physically and financially able to do so.

    It dates back to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in the Jewish and Christian traditions), according to the Qu’ran, but is also linked to the Prophet Mohammed, who is believed to have established the rites performed at the end the pilgrimage.

    Hajj is seen as a time of self-renewal and symbolises equality, bringing people of all races and social statuses together for a series or rituals taking place over five or six days.

    These include walking seven times anti-clockwise around the Kaaba, throwing pebbles at a pillar to symbolise stoning Satan, and sacrificing an animal.

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Saudi Arabia: As the annual Hajj rituals reach climax in Saudi Arabia after a gape of two years, hundreds of thousands of Muslims around the globe have thronged to the holy city of Mecca to perform annual Hajj pilgrimage – the mega Muslim religious event.

    Chanting Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Hujjaj gathered in in Maidan-e-Arafat to perform the Rukn-e-Azam of Hajj Waqoof-e-Arafat since Friday sunrise.

    After Azan-e-Maghrib, the pilgrims will leave for Muzdalifah where they will offer Maghrib and Isha prayers together and spend the night under open sky. They will also collect pebbles from Muzdalifah to throw at Satin the next morning.  After offering Fajr Prayer at Muzdalifah, they will leave for Mina for remaining Hajj rituals.

    Reports suggest that as many as 850,000 foreign pilgrims are performing Hajj for the first time after a hiatus of two years following the travel restrictions imposed by Saudi authorities due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

    It’s an opportunity for Muslims to fulfill a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation, but also a chance for the economy of Saudi Arabia’s holy cities to get a jump start.

    For the last couple of years this number has been substantially reduced – like many things – due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But the pilgrimage has returned in full force in 2022.

    The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most important traditions in Islam, and involves carrying out a journey to the Kaaba, a sacred building in Mecca that all prayers are directed towards by Muslims around the world.

    As one of the five pillars of Islam, all Muslims are expected to carry out the journey at least once in their lives if they are physically and financially able to do so.

    It dates back to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in the Jewish and Christian traditions), according to the Qu’ran, but is also linked to the Prophet Mohammed, who is believed to have established the rites performed at the end the pilgrimage.

    Hajj is seen as a time of self-renewal and symbolises equality, bringing people of all races and social statuses together for a series or rituals taking place over five or six days.

    These include walking seven times anti-clockwise around the Kaaba, throwing pebbles at a pillar to symbolise stoning Satan, and sacrificing an animal.

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey: Famous Indian Singers including Hirdesh Sindh known professionally as Yo Yo Honey Singh are set perform live in the Fusion “Madness” concert which is being held in the PNC Bank Art Center, New Jersey on July 30.

    As the 30th July is inching nearer, Showfest is again bringing together famed musicians and singers for the music lovers from across the globe including sub-continent.

    The concert is full of songs and music where the audience will be able to watch live performances of their favorite singers and listen to the everlasting melodies from the evergreen artists especially with the sub-continent music taste.

    Indian rapper and singer Yo Yo Honey Singh will awaken the magic of his voice, besides Sophie Chaudhry, DJ Aqueel and Vidya Vox will also perform.

    Yo Yo Honey Singh is also music producer, composer, rapper, pop singer and what not.

    Tickets are available on the ShowFest website. For more information, the music lovers’ intending to attend this fun-filled show may contact Atique Sheikh and Naina Goel.

    It may be relevant to mention here that Famous Indian singers Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik, and Kumar Sanu are coming to awaken the magic of their voices, bringing everlasting music and unforgettable songs to the audience at the rewind concert which is being held in Cold Center New York on July 30.

     

     

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York:

    Progressive American Community Empowerment celebrated America’s Independence Day with great enthusiasm. A cake-cutting ceremony was held and the jubilant children and college students danced to the patriotic songs amid background music.

    On the 246th anniversary of American Independence Day, the Progressive American Community Empowerment hosted the colorful event in New York, which was graced by State Senator John E. Brooks with his presence, other American officials, and a large number of social and business figures from the Pakistani community also attended the event.

    The host of the event and President of PACE, Saeed Hassan, introduced his organization and the guests and said that the US provides equal opportunities, that’s the beauty of this country.

    In celebration of Independence Day, the children had their faces painted and henna embroidered on their hands. The special guest of the occasion, State Senator John E. Brooks, while addressing the participants, said that he always pursued politics of public interest and never compromised on principles. The doors of America are open to anyone who wants to make progress through hard work.

    Children dressed in the American flag and waved the US flag together. Meanwhile, the Queen’s College students performed a great dance performance by the group which was well received by the audience.

    Many members of the Pakistani and American communities attended the event with their families so that the children could also be made aware of the importance of Independence Day.

    On this occasion, local American officials from New York congratulated the participants on Independence Day. They later said in their speeches that the United States is a country of immigrants, there is no better field for public service than politics.

    Adnan Bukhari appealed to the Pakistani community to vote for Senator John E. Brooks, while social worker Iram Hanif said his organization was working to improve the lives of people of all ages.

    At the end of the Independence Day celebrations, all the guests gathered in one place and all together cut the cake for the 246th anniversary of the United States and also congratulated each other.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) America chapter marked the 246th Independence Day of United States (US) with national zest and fervor.

    The day was marked with cake cutting ceremony, followed by colorful fireworks, as hundreds of PTI workers and supporters attended the July 4 function.

     

    PTI USA President Munir Khattana, New Jersey President Naveed Warraich, Maryland President Waqar Khan, and other leaders hoisted the American flag and held the cake-cutting ceremony.

    On this occasion, the PTI leaders said that as Pakistani Americans, this is also our country where we have been living and contributing our services to the development and progress of the US.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: The American Nation is celebrating its 246th birthday and anniversary of independence from British rule, with national zest and reverence.

    On the day, an official holiday in the US, the citizens are celebrating America’s birthday with festivals, parades, fireworks, barbecues, sparklers, programs, events, and other fun-filled activities across the country including the capital – Washington DC.

    Colorful displays big and small will light up the night sky in cities from New York to Seattle to Chicago to Dallas to mark the day, while thousands thronged beaches, parks, and clubs, to enjoy fun-filled activities.

    President Joe Biden paid a rich tribute to those who rendered countless sacrifices for the defense of the nation and democracy.

    In his message on the occasion, Biden said: “The Fourth of July is a sacred day in our country — it’s a time to celebrate the goodness of our nation, the only nation on Earth founded based on an idea: that all people are created equal,” Biden said in a tweet. “Make no mistake, our best days still lie ahead.”

    In a Twitter message, Biden said: “While we celebrate the Fourth of July, I am thinking of the countless service members who have pledged their lives to defend our nation and democracy around the world. We are forever in debt to those who sacrifice so much to keep us safe.”

    U.S Vice President Kamala Harris said in her message: “This Fourth of July, as we celebrate the liberty our brave service members fought and died for, let us fight to ensure every American can enjoy the freedoms promised in the Declaration of Independence and the rights secured by the generations who came before us.”

    To commemorate the Fourth of July holiday, Joe and Jill Biden are hosting an event at the White House. Scheduled to start at 5pm EST, the event’s purpose is to recognize the families of individuals who have served in the military. Before they get to honoring military personnel and their loved ones, POTUS will be taking the podium to deliver remarks about a number of issues that are prevalent in the current political climate. Ahead of POTUS’ Independence Day speech at 5pm EST, spokesperson Chris Meagher gave details to the Associated Press about what to expect, and ‘The U.S Sun’ has quoted Chris Meagher as saying.

    This day is incredibly significant in American history, as it marks the day the United States officially became its own nation. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4th, 1776—and thus, America was born.

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: A week after the U.S Supreme Court made it easier for the people to carry handguns in public, the New York State Legislature passed a number of gun restrictions Friday, banning firearms in many public places.

    New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a new gun control bill Friday. The new firearm law will take effect on September 1, as per reports.

    The law bars people from carrying concealed firearms in sensitive places including Times Square and public transit.

    Prohibition of concealed firearms will also apply in educational institutions including schools, universities, besides government buildings, public protest venues, healthcare facilities, places of worship, libraries, playgrounds, parks, bars, theatres, stadiums, museums, polling places and casinos, as per reports.

    The measure is expected to face legal challenges from gun rights advocates.

    People applying for a license to carry a handgun will also have to go through a very clear set of eligibility criteria and they will have to provide four character references, take 16 hours of firearms safety training plus two hours of practice at a range, undergo periodic background checks and turn over contact information for their spouse, domestic partner or any other adults living in their household.

    Applicants will have to turn over a list of social media accounts they have had in the past three years.

    “Sometimes, they’re telegraphing their intent to cause harm to others,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said at a news conference.

    According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, New Yorkers’ constitutional freedoms were just trampled on by Kathy Hochul and her pawns in the legislature,” said Nick Langworthy, chair of the GOP State Committee. “Only under the insanity of New York Democrats can you get out of jail free for possessing an illegal firearm, but be targeted by the government for being a law-abiding citizen exercising your constitutional rights.”

    Fox News reported that Friday’s bill altered a recently passed law that banned the sale of certain bulletproof vests, although that legislation had failed to cover the type of protection worn by the 18-year-old gunman who fatally shot 10 people at a supermarket in Buffalo in May,

    New Yorkers came up with a mixed reaction over the fresh legislations. Some supported the move while others expressed their anger.

    A social media account holder – tb319 posted comment over the news that appeared on Fox News which said: “I think the bigger point is that it makes it much more burdensome for the legal gun purchase. Most crimes are committed using guns purchased illegally. This law will do nothing to reduce crimes committed where guns are involved.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  •  

    New York Web Desk: Phani Kumar from the Indian state of Hyderabad has come up with a unique yet emotional wedding gift to his sister which made her, and other family members so emotional on her special day.

    The gift is none other than a precious lifelike statue of their late father, Avula Subrahmanyam who as per media reports passed away due to Covid-19 complications.

    The bridal was disparately missing her late father on the special occasion of her life. However, her brother made her feel that their father is not only alive but also present in the wedding celebrations of his beloved daughter. As the statue of their late father was brought into the wedding hall, she burst into tears and began kissing it. Family members and guests took pictures with the wax statue.

    The video of the event goes viral both on social and mainstream media in India and beyond.

    As per media reports, Phani explained that the wax figure was life-size and was made in Karnataka, taking more than a year to make.

    Patal Aarti a social media user commented on the emotional video which has been posted on “Thrinetra wedding films’ saying” Fabulous memories created by her brother Every sister will be lucky to have a brother like his brother To have a father in life is a dream for many And on such a day to create a theme like this is just awesome thought Look at the smile and emotions of every person”

    Soyaip Moosa another social media user writes in the comment section: “What a lovely human this brother is How did he came up with something so special Tears can’t stop after watching this lovely family reunion”

    Their father, Avula Subrahmanyam contracted Covid-19 and his oxygen levels dropped to a point that he passed away due to Covid-19 complications.

    Both the bride and her mother cry upon seeing the unique tribute to Mr Subrahmanyam.

    The bride later composes herself and she smiles as her father gets to be part of her wedding, planting a kiss on the statue’s cheek, media reports suggest.

    India Today also reported the event; It said a man named Phani Kumar from Hyderabad gifted his sister a wax statue of their late father Subramanyam at her wedding. While the bride made an entry with her mother, husband and the rest of the family, she spotted the almost lifelike figure in front of her. She immediately broke down and even her mother couldn’t hold back her tears. The bride gave a sweet kiss to her father’s figure and went through all the rituals in his presence. In the over 3-minute clip, almost everyone can be seen with moist eyes.

     

     

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New Jersey:

    A Well-known political figure of Pakistani American Agha Afzal Khan passed away in New Jersey, He left two wives and one daughter

    He contested two times election of US Congress and one time state Senator for Republicans Party and got highest score ever Pakistani American in the History of United States of America.

    Agha Afzal was admitted in Jersey City Medical Hospital yesterday for Cardiac problem but he could not recovered and left us.

    He belonged to Sahiwal and got his education from Government College Sahiwal later he served as District Population Officer Sahiwal in early Days.

    After getting dead body of Agha Afzal Khan from Jersey Medical Hospital his funeral prayer will be in Masjid-e-Tauheed according to last wish of deceased.

    Agha Afzal Khan Helped out Sam Khan and many others from Pakistani Community to come in American politics.

    Pakistani American community deeply condoles on death of Agha Afzal Khan.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Postmortem examination of the body of Mary T. Mara,61, a veteran television actress who was found dead in the St. Lawrence River Sunday, revealed that she passed away by ‘asphyxiation’ due to drowning, usmagazine.com reported while quoting NYSP Troop D Public Information Officer Jack Keller on Wednesday.

    “The Jefferson County Medical Examiner’s Office performed a post-mortem examination on the decedent and determined that the decedent’s manner of death was an accident, due to asphyxiation, due to warm water drowning,” it said.

    Mara was found by first responders in Cape Vincent, New York, around 8 a.m. on Sunday, June 26. Per a press release from the New York State police, emergency personnel responded to a call about a possible drowning in the St. Lawrence River, which borders Canada. The actress was in town visiting her sister Martha Mara.

    “The victim’s body showed no signs of foul play and was transported to the Jefferson County Medical Examiner’s Office,” law enforcement officials said in their statement.

    The following day, the Ray Donovan alum’s rep, Craig Dorfman, confirmed her untimely passing in a statement to Us Weekly.

    In a statement, her manager, Craig Dorfman, described her as “electric, funny, and a true individual” who was well-loved, as well as a tremendous actress.

    Her earliest acting credit goes back to the 1989 movie “The Preppie Murder.” The New York native worked regularly ever since, in a combination of repeat characters in some shows and appearances in others.

    The actress worked off-Broadway early on in her 32-year career. She made her feature film debut in 1992, starring in Love Potion No. 9 alongside Sandra Bullock and Tate Donovan. Mara played Billy Crystal’s daughter in the film Mr. Saturday Night that same year. Crystal, who’s starring in the Broadway adaptation, said he will be dedicating Tuesday night’s performance to his former co-star.