From Mardan to Millions - How one TikTok video turned Pehlwan Kachalu into a street food star

  

Every evening in Mardan’s Bijligarh area, the same scene plays out. A crowd gathers near a small cart tucked beside a quiet alley. On the cart, a stack of boiled potatoes, jars of homemade chutneys, and one man working quickly with a practiced hand and a wide grin. His name is Umer Nawab—but online, he’s known as Pehlwan Kachalu.

What started as a humble street food stall has turned into a viral success story. Umer didn’t change his recipe or move to a fancier location. He simply picked up his phone and began recording the everyday moments of his work, mixing spices, chatting with customers, and layering kachalu “with love,” as he says. TikTok did the rest.

“Before TikTok, only people in the area knew about me. Now, people from Lahore, Karachi, even from abroad, comment that they want to come try my food,” he says. What changed? A smartphone, a few homemade videos, and a generous helping of personality.

Instead of simply selling a traditional snack, Umer turned his Kachalu stall into content gold. “I started showing how I prepare the Kachalu plate layer by layer. And the final touch of love,” he shares. That behind-the-scenes simplicity, combined with catchy one-liners and his unmistakable charisma, resonated deeply with viewers.

One of his earliest videos unexpectedly blew up. “Overnight, messages and orders flooded in, and people showed up saying, ‘TikTok brought us here,’” he recalls. That single moment reshaped the trajectory of his business, transforming it from a local favorite to a viral street food brand.

“TikTok completely transformed my business,” Umer says. “It turned my small setup into a brand.” With over 500,000 followers and millions of views across his videos, his stall now buzzes with energy from dawn to dusk. Customers don’t just come for the snack, they come to meet the man behind the viral videos. “People trust what they see. When they watch how I make the food with my own hands, they feel connected,” he explains.

His content does more than just showcase food. It tells a story, about pride in one’s roots, hard work, and the beauty of everyday life. “It’s not just about selling a snack. It’s about showing where I come from and the culture behind Kachalu,” he says. For many viewers, Pehlwan Kachalu is not just a vendor, but a symbol of local flavor meeting modern fame.

Even now, Umer stays close to his audience. He replies to comments, makes videos based on suggestions, and warmly welcomes fans who travel just to meet the “TikTok Kachalu Wala.” The connection is real, and it’s this sincerity that has fueled his growth.

His advice to others? “Start sharing. Be real. TikTok gave me a platform and that platform gave me success.”

With plans to expand his stall and introduce his own line of sauces, Umer isn’t slowing down. He’s building something bigger, not just for himself, but for anyone who dares to dream from behind a street cart.

CBD PUNJAB ANNOUNCES GRAND OPEN AUCTION OF NSIT RESIDENCIA.

                                                       

The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as the Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), is all set to hold the auction of premium residential plots in NSIT Residencia this June. Building on the momentum of four previously successful auctions, this latest venture marks another bold step forward in the authority’s mission to redefine urban living and development in Punjab.

NSIT City is envisioned as a dynamic urban center comprising three districts  IT, Education and Film districts. Located adjacent to DHA Phase 6 and 7.

NSIT Residencia sits at the heart of this transformative zone, making it a strategic and future-ready investment opportunity offering unmatched accessibility to key locations within Lahore. Positioned as the next sought-after address in the provincial capital, NSIT Residencia combines luxury living with smart city infrastructure, providing investors with an exceptional opportunity.

CBD Punjab is offering four premium plots of up to four kanals each in this prime location. The reserve price has been set at PKR 95 million per kanal, with earnest money fixed at PKR 20 million. To ensure greater ease and accessibility for potential buyers, a flexible three-year payment plan has been introduced, making this an attractive prospect for both local and overseas investors. Applications for the auction must be submitted by June 16, 2025.

Commenting about the upcoming auction, CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, said: “NSIT Residencia is a key part of our vision for a future-ready Punjab. By integrating IT, education and film districts within a single urban ecosystem, we are creating a city of opportunity. This auction is not just a real estate event it’s an invitation to invest in the next chapter of Punjab’s growth story.”

The development of NSIT Residencia is expected to generate a positive ripple effect on the regional economy. From job creation and increased real estate value to improved infrastructure and sustainable urban planning, the auction will contribute significantly to Punjab’s socio-economic advancement.

CBD Punjab continues to lead with forward-thinking initiatives that align with the government’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive Punjab. The upcoming auction of NSIT Residencia reflects the authority’s unwavering commitment to building smart, connected, and future-ready urban communities.

ICAP Hosts CFO Conference 2025 at Lahore

                

The Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) organized CFO Conference 2025 on theme " Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge," at a local hotel.

 

A major highlight of the conference was the keynote address titled “Leadership Metamorphosis: Recalibrating CFOs in Motion” by Mr. Syed Hyder Ali, Chief Executive and Managing Director of Packages Group. He examined the multidimensional evolution of the CFO role, shifting from traditional financial stewardship to becoming strategic business leaders. Mr. Hyder Ali emphasized the CFO's potential to drive innovation, performance, and resilience amid today’s volatile economic climate.

 

Mr. Saif Ullah, President of ICAP, in his keynote address, eloquently underscored the critical importance and timeliness of this year’s theme. He reflected upon the unprecedented velocity of transformation reshaping the global financial and business landscape, emphasizing that today’s finance leaders must cultivate agility, embrace disruptive technologies, and position themselves as strategic enablers. He further asserted that in an era defined by complexity and volatility, the ability to anticipate change and proactively drive value creation is no longer optional but imperative for sustained organizational success.

 

Mr. Samiullah Siddiqui, Vice President of ICAP, conveyed his profound gratitude to the distinguished guests, organizing committee, ICAP Council Members, sponsors, and participants for their invaluable contributions to the success of the conference. He highlighted the evolving and pivotal role of CFOs as catalysts of organizational transformation—not merely as stewards of financial integrity, but as visionary leaders driving digital integration, fostering a culture of ethical governance, and steering their institutions toward long-term, sustainable growth in an increasingly complex business environment.

 

The conference proceeded with a thought-provoking panel discussion titled 'Empowered Growth: Leveraging the Digital Ecosystem', expertly moderated by Ms. Sana Mela, Vice President Strategy at Swyft Logistics. The panel featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Mr. Atyab Tahir, CEO of Hugo Bank; Mr. Salman Hafeez, Executive Director at Nishat; and Mr. Faisal Khan, CEO of IGI General Insurance. The session offered deep insights into how businesses can unlock scalable growth through digital transformation, real-time data analytics, and enhanced financial agility.

 

This was followed by an insightful presentation titled “Ethics in AI: Safeguarding Trust & Transparency in Finance” by global technology thought leader Mr. Asmar Atif, Chief Intrapreneur and Head of Octopus Digital at Avanceon. He explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics in finance, stressing the urgent need for robust governance structures to uphold transparency, trust, and accountability in algorithm-based financial decision-making.

 

A second keynote address was delivered by Mr. Lee White, CEO, IFAC, titled “Finance in the Age of Acceleration: Navigating Complexity with Agility.” Mr. White urged finance professionals to proactively embrace artificial intelligence, align with sustainability imperatives, and adopt inclusive leadership models to ensure continued relevance and competitiveness in an increasingly complex global economy.

 

Further enriching the program, Mr. Ashfaq Yusuf Tola, President of the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA), delivered a presentation titled “Redefining Finance: Quantum Thinking for Agile Times.” His address highlighted the significance of forward-thinking, adaptive finance strategies in uncertain and fast-changing environments.

 

Adding a fresh perspective, Mr. Faizan Hanif, a young ICAP member, engaged in a dynamic conversation with Mr. Zunair Zafar, CfO, The International Grammar School, Lahore. Titled “Unleash Your Superpower,” the discussion inspired emerging professionals to harness their strengths and lead with purpose in the finance domain.

 

In a session focused on investment and economic opportunities, Mr. Azfar Ahsan, Chairman of Nutshell Group, delivered an engaging speech titled “Investment Opportunities in Pakistan: Evolving Business Climate.” He highlighted the current trends, sectoral opportunities, and economic reforms shaping Pakistan’s investment landscape.

 

The human capital dimension took center stage during the panel discussion titled 'The Human Balance Sheet: Future-Proofing Talent & Leadership.' Moderated by Mr. Khalil Ahmed Hashmi, CFO of SPEL Ltd., the session featured an impressive lineup of speakers: Mr. Muhammad Faisal, Chief Executive Officer of Lucky Motors; Mr. Javed Akhtar, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Style Textile; and Ms. Toima Asghar, CHRO at Systems Pvt. Ltd. The panel emphasized the urgent need to cultivate diverse talent pipelines, instill future-ready competencies, and foster leadership rooted in empathy, adaptability, and innovation.

 

Sustainability and governance took center stage in a fireside chat titled “Beyond Compliance: ESG for Sustainable Success.” The discussion was led by Ms. Nazifa Butt, Director at WWF Pakistan; Mr. Fawad Ul Hassan, Operational Controller at Nestlé; and Ms. Nadia Rehman, Member for Climate Change and Food Security at the Planning Commission of Pakistan. Moderated by Mr. Aleem Zubair, Partner at A.F. Ferguson & Co., the session explored how ESG frameworks can be harnessed as strategic drivers of long-term business success.

 

A powerful motivational talk titled “Commanding the Leap” was delivered by Mr. Qaiser Abbas, renowned leadership coach and author. His session energized the audience, encouraging finance professionals to lead with vision, confidence, and courage amid change and disruption.

 

The conference concluded with a high-level panel discussion titled “Riding the Economic Wave,” moderated by Mr. Farid Alam, CEO of AKD Securities. The session featured eminent economic and financial thought leaders including Mr. Khurram Schehzad, Advisor to the Finance Minister of Pakistan, and Dr. Shahid Kardar, a respected economist and former governor of the State Bank of Pakistan. The panel provided an in-depth analysis of Pakistan’s macroeconomic landscape, key fiscal policy directions, and the broader business environment.

 

In the closing address, Mr. Muhammad Awais, Vice President ICAP, expressed his sincere thanks to all participants, speakers, and organizing teams. He reaffirmed ICAP’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s finance profession by fostering leadership, innovation, and ethical excellence.

itel Energy Showcases Innovative Solar Solutions at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025

             

itel Energy, a pioneering solar energy solutions provider, is proud to announce its participation as a Gold Sponsor at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025, taking place at the Expo Center Lahore from February 21st to 23rd. Setting new industry standards in customer service and reliability, itel Energy offers a comprehensive sales and service policy, including a 3-year replacement & 5-year replacement warranty, a 48-hour replacement guarantee, and access to 48 service shops across Pakistan. These key commitments ensure unparalleled support and convenience, making itel Energy a trusted choice for Pakistani homes and businesses.

As a brand dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, itel Energy is set to showcase its latest advancements in renewable energy solutions, aimed at empowering Pakistani homes and businesses with clean, affordable, and reliable power. At the itel Energy booth (Hall 2, Booth M-2-03 to M-2-10), visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of cutting-edge solar energy solutions, including the IP54 4kW Pro LV Battery 2.56 kWh (Wall Mount), IP54 6kW Pro LV Battery 5.12 kWh, Hybrid IP54 8KW-SP, LV Battery 5.12 kWh Rack, IP66 12kW Pro, IP66 6kW Pro, On-Grid IP66 12KW-3P, On-Grid IP66 17kW, and Smart All-in-One ESS.

These solutions have been designed to address Pakistan’s energy challenges by offering high performance, superior protection, and cost-effective alternatives tailored to the country’s growing energy demands. Recognizing the distinct energy needs faced by Pakistani homes and businesses, itel Energy has developed products that deliver exceptional performance, robust protection, and affordability, ensuring reliable and efficient power for a brighter future.

Mr. Eason, Vice President at itel Energy, emphasized the company’s dedication to revolutionizing Pakistan’s energy landscape, stating, “itel Energy is committed to driving sustainable energy adoption in Pakistan by offering cutting-edge, reliable, and affordable solar solutions. Our goal is to empower businesses and households with innovative technology that ensures energy independence while contributing to a greener future.”

With a strong commitment to promoting sustainable energy, itel Energy continues to focus on delivering solutions that combine efficiency, durability, and affordability. Attendees at Pakistan Sustainability Week 2025 are invited to visit itel Energy’s booth to explore the latest advancements in solar technology, engage with industry experts, and witness live demonstrations. As an added highlight, visitors will also have the chance to participate in an exciting lucky draw for a chance to win exclusive prizes. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how itel Energy is shaping the future of renewable energy in Pakistan, while enjoying an interactive and rewarding experience at the expo.

Alibaba.com Introduces Trade Assurance in Pakistan, Enabling Local SMEs to Trade with Enhanced Confidence

                                                            

Alibaba.com, a leading global business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce platform, today announced the launch of Trade Assurance in Pakistan, enabling local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to trade with enhanced confidence. With this launch, Pakistan joins the ranks of a select few markets where Alibaba.com has introduced this valued service for suppliers.

 

The launch was announced at the 2025 Alibaba.com Pakistan Supplier Export Summit, held in Sialkot, a hub of industrial excellence. At the event, Alibaba.com shared insights into the growth opportunities and emerging trends within the global apparel industry, which is projected to reach a market size of $1.79 trillion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.81% from 2024 to 2028¹.

 

“Alibaba.com’s decision to hold the Pakistan Supplier Export Summit in Sialkot underscores the city’s industrial importance and potential,” said Ikram Ul Haq, President of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “This event has brought immense value to our local businesses by connecting them with global opportunities and introducing the tools needed to succeed in international markets. Initiatives like this reflect Alibaba.com’s dedication to supporting Sialkot’s SMEs to grow and thrive on a global scale.”

 

Bringing Peace of Mind to Pakistani Suppliers

 

Global B2B trade can be fraught with challenges, including concerns over costs, product quality, shipment timelines, and more. Trade Assurance, a proprietary order protection service offered by Alibaba.com, alleviates some of these risks, providing both suppliers and buyers with confidence throughout the entire transaction process. Suppliers who opt for this service can conduct business with peace of mind, knowing that their transactions are securely safeguarded by a trusted platform. The service stipulates that the buyer makes payment at the time of purchase, with the funds held in escrow by Alibaba.com until the buyer confirms the satisfactory receipt of the order within a reasonable timeframe.

 

“Pakistan represents a high-potential supplier market for Alibaba.com, boasting robust production capabilities and a diverse range of product categories that capture substantial global buyer interest. To capitalize on this potential, we have introduced the Trade Assurance service in Pakistan. This service is designed to foster trust between suppliers and global buyers while streamlining transaction processes. Our goal is to enhance efficiency and unlock new business opportunities for Pakistan suppliers to support their growth and success,” said Roger Luo, Head of Southeast Asia at Alibaba.com.

 

Participating suppliers stand to benefit significantly from Trade Assurance, as the service not only enhances buyers’ trust in them but also allows them to build a robust online transaction history. By enhancing their online profile, suppliers can improve their ranking and visibility on Alibaba.com, ultimately leading to a wealth of future business opportunities.

 

“Trust is the foundation of success in international trade. When dealing with buyers from different parts of the world, ensuring that both sides feel secure is critical. Trade Assurance bridges this trust gap by offering payment protection and transparent processes, which are crucial for fostering long-term relationships. With this service, buyers feel confident placing large orders, and sellers like us can focus on delivering quality products without worrying about payment risks,” said Tayyub Hussnain, Founder of Norwich Streetwear, a Sialkot-based verified supplier on Alibaba.com specializing in custom apparel. In 2023, the company secured more than $1 million’s worth of orders through Alibaba.com.

 

“We are thrilled to bring Trade Assurance to Pakistan. Conducting transactions through this service will enable Pakistani SMEs to build a robust online transaction history, bolster their credit ratings, and enhance their reputation with global buyers. We believe the comprehensive order protection it offers can reduce trade barriers for SMEs, opening pathways for them to flourish in the global marketplace,” said Summer Gao, Head of Global Supply Chain Services at Alibaba.com.

 

Supporting Pakistani Apparel Suppliers

 

The 2025 Alibaba.com Pakistan Supplier Export Summit brought together more than 500 SME representatives from Sialkot to explore emerging business trends, innovative technologies and future-ready solutions poised to redefine their operations in the digital era. Recognizing Pakistan’s strong position in the apparel sector, Alibaba.com highlighted the potential for local businesses to penetrate international markets, driven by global demand for quality apparel products.

 

To bolster Pakistani clothing suppliers, Alibaba.com has recently introduced a suite of services tailored specifically for the apparel industry, offering tools and resources that enhance product visibility, streamline operations and facilitate connections with buyers worldwide. This strategic focus on the apparel sector aims to help Pakistani businesses maximize their growth potential and strengthen their presence in the competitive global market.

Beyond the Basics: How Infinix AI ♾️ is Challenging Apple's Latest AI Innovations

 

With the launch of the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series, Apple is once again asserting its dominance in the smartphone arena. The introduction of the A18 Bionic chip and upgraded Apple Intelligence has everyone buzzing about features like real-time translation, advanced computational photography, and a more intuitive Siri. However, just when you thought the competition couldn’t get fiercer, Infinix has stepped onto the scene with its ground-breaking Infinix AI ♾️ system, ready to challenge Apple’s supremacy. While Apple focuses on refining its impressive tech, Infinix is making bold moves that could potentially outshine some of Apple’s latest offerings. Let’s take a closer look at how Infinix AI ♾️ is raising the bar and why you should pay attention.

Meet Infinix AI ♾️: The AI ystem That’s Changing the Game

Apple Intelligence has Siri; Infinix AI ♾️ has Folax, and it offers much more than a typical voice assistant. Embracing multimodal input, it allows you to interact through text, voice, and even file commands. Imagine asking Infinix AI ♾️to summarize an article, fetch the latest headlines, or solve complex math problems—all through effortless voice interaction. It is set to provide a richer experience, making even the iPhone 16’s advanced features feel ordinary.

1. Photo-Based Proem Solving: Your Pocket Tutor

Infinix AI ♾️ is not just about taking photos; it’s about providing solutions. Got a tricky math problem? Snap a picture, and Infinix AI ♾️ will not only give you the answer but also guide you through the solution step-by-step. It’s like having a personal tutor in your pocket—ideal for students and lifelong learners alike. While Apple’s Live Text allows you to copy text from images, solving problems in real time is a step Apple hasn’t taken yet.

2. The Ultimate Travel Companion: More Than Just Identifying Landmarks

Apple’s Visual Look-Up can identify landmarks, but Infinix AI ♾️ goes far beyond mere recognition. Imagine pointing your camera at a monument and not just learning its name, but receiving rich historical context, fun facts, and nearby recommendations. Infinix's Visual Look Up ♾️ acts as your historian, botanist, and travel guide all in one. For travel enthusiasts, Infinix transforms adventures into immersive experiences, while Apple’s offerings still feel a bit surface-level

3. Instant Information Extraction: Summarizing Made Easy

Time is precious, and Infinix AI’s Live Texts ♾️ feature shines in this aspect. Whether you’re dealing with lengthy notes or complex reports, simply take a snap, and it will summarize the key points instantly. Forget the tedious task of reading entire PDFs or emails— it cuts straight to the essentials. While Apple’s Live Text helps extract text, summarizing it is still left to the user, giving Infinix a clear edge for those juggling tight schedules.

4. Elevating Your Creativity: Storytelling at Its Best

Sure, Apple’s Visual Look-Up can identify objects, but Infinix AI ♾️ adds a creative flair that Apple can’t match. Capture a photo, and watch Infinix AI ♾️ generate witty captions, imaginative storylines, or creative tags for your social media. Whether you’re a content creator or just looking to enhance your Instagram game, Infinix AI's Magic Create ♾️ turns each snapshot into a storytelling moment. While Apple leaves creativity up to you, Infinix is providing a helping hand for those wanting to instantly elevate their content.

5. Image Recognition: Learn and Explore

Infinix AI ♾️ doesn’t stop at basic identification; it dives deeper. Snap a picture of a plant, and Infinix AI ♾️ will not only tell you its species but also provide detailed information about its care, origin, and even medicinal uses. It’s like carrying an encyclopedia in your pocket, ready to teach you something new with every click. Apple’s Visual Look Up offers basic identification, but Infinix AI ♾️ enriches the learning experience with insightful knowledge that truly expands your understanding.

The Bottom Line: Is Infinix AI ♾️ Ready to Take the Crown?

While Apple’s iPhone 16 is undoubtedly a technological marvel, Infinix AI ♾️ presents a fresh, versatile, and engaging experience that extends beyond traditional functionality. From solving complex problems to enriching your travel experiences, Infinix AI ♾️ showcases features that Apple has yet to explore fully.

As the tech world gears up for the iPhone 16 launch, don’t overlook Infinix AI ♾️. With its impending debut in early October 2024, we could witness a significant shift in the AI landscape. This new contender might be the breakthrough needed to challenge Apple’s longstanding dominance. The future of AI innovation is shaping up to be an exciting battle, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.

 

 

CBD PUNJAB SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES RAFT CONCRETE POURING FOR CELESTIA IT TOWER AT PAKISTAN’S LARGEST IT CITY

                                         

Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab) has achieved a major construction milestone by completing the raft concrete pouring for the Celestia IT Tower which is under construction at Pakistan’s largest and premiere IT city CBD NSIT City. This significant progress markas an important step toward developing the much-anticipated IT city.

The development was witnessed by the CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, during his recent visit to NSIT City. He assessed the on-ground progress of the Celestia IT Tower and expressed satisfaction with the project’s pace.  Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab Riaz Hussain, Director Marketing Waseem Siddiq, Director Architecture & Planning Sameer Aftab Sial, Director Construction Asif Babar, Director Project Management Asif Babar, Project Director NESPAK Jamshaid Janjua, and key contractors were also present at the occasion.

During the visit, Executive Director Technical Riaz Hussain provided a detailed briefing on the project’s progress. He shared that the raft concrete pouring phase had been successfully completed, and work on the columns and retaining walls of the tower is currently underway. He further noted that CBD Punjab is progressing ahead of its planned schedule, a testament to the team's dedication and commitment.

CEO CBD Punjab Imran Amin also chaired a progress review meeting with key project stakeholders. During the meeting, he expressed confidence in the ongoing work and reiterated that the Celestia IT Tower will be completed within the timeframe set by Punjab's Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz. "I am satisfied with the pace of work, and I am confident that this project will be completed as per the Chief Minister’s directives. The Celestia IT Tower will revolutionize the IT sector in Punjab, offering world-class infrastructure to businesses and technology firms,” Amin stated.

In addition to the Celestia IT Tower, work on the surrounding infrastructure, including the construction of 250-feet, 150 feet,100-feet road loops, is progressing rapidly, with clearing activities already completed.

The Celestia IT Tower is poised to become a game-changer for the region's technology ecosystem, fostering innovation, and offering a cutting-edge environment for tech companies to thrive.