Skeptic Life

Natural Gas Shortage Leading to Bleak Future???

2011-11-19T14:36:00.002+05:00

Gas is the driving force behind the economic growth in Pakistan. Supply shortage and bleak availability outlook is forcing

Pakistan

towards stagnation.

Pakistan currently produces nearly 4 bcfd ‘billion cubic feet per day’ natural gas. Bulk is consumed for power generation “29%”, followed by industrial sector “26%” and (17%) by fertilizer sector.

As per ISGS Analysis, based on SSGCL & SNGPL data, demand is approx 6 bcfd and it outstrips supply resulting in shortfall of 2 bcfd. Industrial sector faces the grunt of gas supply curtailment in winter and currently industrial sector on SNGPL line facing 3 days gas supply cut and expected to further exacerbate.

Based on current gas supply source, it is projected that supply by 2020 will be approx 2.1 bcfd whereas demand will touch 8.5 bcfd, resulting in shortage of 6.4 bcfd.

To address growing gas supply shortage “gas is approx 50% of the energy mix of Pakistan” govt is implementing strategy and it includes;

Increasing domestic oil & gas exploration and production,
Fast tracking utilization of hydro power potential
Expediting the development of vast local coal reserves
Setting-up new nuclear power plants
Importing piped natural gas from neighboring countries
Importing LNG
Importing electricity from neighboring countries
Exploiting affordable alternate energy resources. The Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline and Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline projects are important components of this strategy

It is anticipated that by 2020 new supply avenues will add 5.6 bcfd (New discoveries 1 bcfd by 2020, 1^st LNG ‘Liquefied Natural Gas’ project 0.58 bcfd by 2013, IPI ‘Iran Pakistan India’ gas pipeline first phase 1.06 bcfd by 2015, 2nd LNG ‘Liquefied Natural Gas’ project 0.58 bcfd by 2015, TAPI “Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India” 1.34 bcfd by 2015 and another 1.06 bcfd through 2^nd phase of IPI by 2017)

The question comes in mind; will Pakistan be able to go ahead with new discoveries in the wake of trouble in Balochistan? Will American influence allow Pakistan to go ahead with IPI? Will peace in Afghanistan be achieved in near future to make TAPI a reality?

Time will tell but it seems tough and time is running out for us.

Water Woes: Pakistan’s Survival At Stake !!

2011-11-05T22:42:00.003+05:00

We are a country battling with growing population, depleting water resources and acute energy shortage. Lately I came across an interesting book “Pakistan: A Hard Country” by Anatol Lieven and he identifies water issue, one of the most serious for the survival of

Pakistan

Pakistani population is growing and available water resources are not enough unless we radically improve efficiency of water use.

Lately Karachi bloggers had an interesting discussion with US Under Secretary Maria Otero and she rightly mentioned that Pakistan wastes water resources, instead of using efficient drip irrigation it relies on flood irrigation.

If one looks at old Indian economy it was a gamble on the Indus, civilizations thrived across rivers and destroyed because rivers changed their course or washed them away by floods.

Indus is the main source of water thriving Pakistan’s agriculture sector however it only cultivates 24 percent of area. Furthermore, chronic water over use is resulting in drying up of natural springs; water table is dropping so rapidly that the tube wells will also eventually dry.

There are studies that by 2035, glaciers feeding the Indus will disappear and they are fast melting and water conservation is the need of the hour for Pakistan to ensure enough water is available for future generation. Pakistan needs to focus on agriculture, improve water storage and distribution infrastructure.

As per Anatol Lieven “Pakistan is overly dependent on Indus, climate change, water shortage, possible long term combination of climate change, acute water shortages, poor water infrastructure and steep population growth has the potential to wreck Pakistan as an organized state and society”.

US is one of the leading partners of Pakistan, it is need of the hour that long term international aid projects in Pakistan should be devoted above all to reducing this mortal threat, by promoting reforestation, repairing irrigation system and even more importantly improving the efficiency of water use.

There is an interesting view and no one denies, human beings may survive for centuries without democracy and without much security but they can not live for more than three days without water.

I would like to share an interesting but worrying report on Pakistan water situation published by World Bank. It says “The facts are stark. Pakistan is already one of the most water stressed countries in the world, a situation that is going to degrade into outright water scarcity due to high population growth. There is no feasible intervention which would enable Pakistan to mobilize appreciably more water than it now uses .There are no additional water resources to be exploited and agricultural water use must decline to enable adequate flows into the degrading Indus River Delta. Pakistan’s dependence on a single river system makes its water economy highly risky” .

Another interesting study published by the Woodrow Wilson Center, as per study “by 2025 population growth is likely to mean that Pakistan’s annual water demand rises to 338 billion cubic metres (bcm) – while, unless radical action is taken, Pakistan’s water availability will be around the same as at present, at 236 bcm. The resulting shortfall of 100 bcm would be two-thirds of the entire present flow of the Indus.

It seems frightening but still we have time to fix before it’s too late. I have no doubt on the capabilities of our nation and am sure this region will survive and successfully face the nature’s wrath.

Muhammad Iqbal, Confused Pakistan & Two Nation Theory!!!

2011-08-28T14:40:00.006+05:00

To me Pakistan as a person is struggling to dig its identity. Is it an Arab? An Indigenous Indus man? Or somebody else?

Many books have been written to explore Pakistan’s reason d'etat, Barrister Etizaz Ehsan’s book THE INDUS SAGA IN THE MAKING OF PAKISTAN comes in my mind.

Both liberal and right wing historians try to present their own perspective but as an ordinary Pakistani, I always end up with confusion. If Pakistan was created on the basis of Two Nation Theory then who will guarantee the rights to religious minorities in Pakistan. Why “Muslim/Bengali” women were raped and thousands killed in East Pakistan? Whenever I come across Mr. Jinnah’s 11^th August speech it creates doubts in my mind regarding the concept of Two Nation Theory & our reason d’etat!!

As Baloch, when we demand for equal rights for our language, people frown and question our patriotism. In school, as kids we are forced to learn basics in URDU ‘an Indo Aryan Indian Language’, verses and characters of alien India or Arabia are forced upon us. Characters such as Mohammad Bin Qasim or Tipu Sultan, all are alien to Baloch kids. At home Baloch kids grow up hearing names & characters such as Chakar & Balach but find them nowhere in history text books in school. Historically colonial powers used to impose history of conquerors and ignore indigenous characters & heroes.

Lately I came across an interesting debate on T.V, vocal Marvi facing right wing Zaid Hamid, she eloquently presented the irrelevance of Two Nation Theory. She also highlighted an interesting fact that Iqbal had role in the making of Pakistan. Iqbal wrote following letter to the editor “The Times, 12^th Oct 1931” it clearly shows Iqbal never wanted division of India;

http://pakistanmediawatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Iqbal-letter.jpg

Marvi’s discussion reminds me of an interesting book THE MURDER OF HISTORY written by KK Aziz, it also makes me wonder, can we build nationhood based on the foundation of false history?

Pakistan is in Mess- It’s India, America & Israel

2011-06-12T22:25:00.004+05:00

Our society is plagued with ailment caused by Jewish, American and Indian agents!!! Its general attitude at individual level to TV talks shows. As a nation we are programmed to accept everything under the sun and blame it on others and never make efforts to fix our problems.

Firstly, Pakistani society is struggling to find common uniting factors, however country was created in the name of religion. If religion is uniting factor then question comes, why we witnessed massacre in East Pakistan? Weren’t Bengali’s Muslims? Why over 100,000 Bengalis killed and over 200,000 women raped? No one can explain the terror outfit Al Badar & Al Shams' horrific actions in East Pakistan!!!

Even if we believe, Islam plays an effective role in creating a bond in our society then questions comes in mind, which sect or sub sect represents true Islam?

Secondly, when we look at the question of nationalities, if a Sindhi, Baloch, Punjabi or Pashtun promotes his/her culture and language under the umbrella of Pakistan, it is considered an act leading to the destabilization of federation of Pakistan. Same is the case if provinces ask for autonomy under the umbrella of federation is despised as an act that may result in weak federation. However, 1940s resolution’s essence is about autonomy for federating units.

Thirdly, India is considered enemy number one, everything under the sun happens in Pakistan is blamed on India. Rs 700 billion defense budget out of overall revenue collection of Rs 1,900 billion is planned in the name of Indian threat. Proxy religious monster Jihadis are supported in the name of Indian threat. Quest for strategic depth and interference in Afghanistan is in the name of Indian threat.

Fourthly, Pakistani middle class believes that democracy is not for illiterate Pakistan; they can’t understand and protect our needs and military rule is only answer. However, every time we had military rule, it shook very foundation of federation.

Lastly, we spend Rs 39 billion on education and Rs 27 billion on healthcare and expect to have sane and healthy society.

It is imperative for us to address the question of nationalities, create an identity beyond religion and it has to be based on broader concept that may amalgamate all ethnic groups and religious minorities. Paranoid with Indian threat not going to get us out of the mess.

We need to take charge, debate and find way out and solve unanswered questions before it’s too late.

Blaming is like ostrich syndrome and failed societies do that & they fail, die and disappear.

Facebook; Thanks for Egyptian Revolution, Who’s Next?

2011-02-12T12:32:00.002+05:00

Facebook is synonymous with social interactions; never knew its potential of toppling despots. Last month Tunisia was falling out of blue, we thought it’s just a random event and may not have spill over effect. We never knew that Arab world was burning deep inside like volcano until we saw thousands of people on Egyptian streets.

One may wonder, tyrants like Mubarak controlled socio-political dynamics in the country for thirty years, how come leaderless crowd gathered on streets and eventually toppled a dictator! Answer is, the youth power & electronic social interaction platforms such as facebook and twitter. Today Egyptian society feels proud about its tech leaders such as Google Executive Mr Wael Ghonim and twitter guys such as @sandsmonkey etc.

The best part about Egyptian revolution, it was bloodless, not very violent as Mubarak & his policemen tried to make it after killing about 300 people. For 18 days ‘revolution in making’ was televised from Tahrir Square, we were glued to TV as if something was happening on the streets of Karachi, Lahore or Islamabad. Whenever someone thinks about Egyptian Revolution, one may not forget ugly scenes such as camel and horse brigades’ attack on peaceful protestors, worst of all, the stone throwing and firing around Tahrir Square!!!

To me Egyptian Revolution seems like a beginning that may eventually challenge despots across Arabian World be it Morocco, Jordan, Yemen, Saudi etc

It is the best moment in the history of any country when people chant “Now We Feel Proud to be Egyptian”, a country’s stature & image changed by youth power & facebook.

I wonder how Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg would be feeling after Egyptian Revolution.

Tomorrow is great Pakistani poet Faiz’s 100th birthday and Egyptian revolution reminds me of his poetry;

- Hum Dekhain Gay -We shall see
- Lazim Hai ke hum Bhi Dekhain Gay -It is necessary that we shall also see
- Woh Din ke Jis ka Wadah Hai -That day which has been promised
- Jo Loh-e-Azl pe Likha hai -Which is written with God's ink
- Hum Dekhain Gay - We shall see

– CONGRATULATIONS EGYPT

Finally Pharaoh let his people to go…thank you Moses!!! Many more Pharaoh’s are around, many more Moses needed!!!!

Karachi; From Jamshid Nusserwanjee Mehta to Gangster Politics!!!!

2010-10-24T12:44:00.000+05:00

Jamshid; an elected Mayor of Karachi for 12 consecutive years is known as the “Maker of Modern Karachi”. In comparison, today anyone attached with Karachi municipality is geared up to loot and destroy more than build. Political organizations leading the municipality affairs spend a fraction of budget to show off development and they get away with rest of the money, use gangsters, drug dealers, and land grabbers to further their loot and plunder.

Today, an ordinary citizen feels hostage in Jamshid’s city, their voice is silenced in the roar of guns. A city known for religious and ethnic harmony has plunged into ethno religious divide. Beautiful streets of Karachi tell tales of bloody combat, bullets, pain and cry.

Jamshid was the most wanted man, the most sought after person and everyone wanted him as guest at any function in Karachi. People believe that whenever they came in contact with him they instantly felt the strength of his character and he was not an ordinary soul.

A men known for serving Karachi, his selfishness played an important role in public life. He was one of the noblest sons of Sind and alas today we miss him more than over 60 years ago.

Famous writers believe that “The broad roads, beautiful parks, schools, hospitals, maternity homes, good sanitation, homes for the poor and other civic amenities which the citizens of Karachi enjoyed in those days were the result of the untiring efforts and dedicated Service of this great man. When the municipal history of Karachi is written, one of its most outstanding features will be the remarkable efficiency with which Jamshid faced every situation. It was he more than any other person who gave Karachi its character as the cleanest and best administered city in the Indo-Pakistan Sub-continent”.

In politics, Jamshid used to go to person to person and beg for votes. Today many candidates give all sorts of promises and use fair or foul to get elected but Jamshed did not give any promise or undertaking. On contrary he used to extract a promise from his helpers that they would remain absolutely fair under all circumstances.

His politics was all about social service, charity and self sacrifice and many writers mention that he was a millionaire but lived like modest and humble man. Today most of the political or not political charities are propagated through a well orchestrated media campaign but Jamshid’s charities were silent and private. Astonishingly after his death world came to know through his private secretary that he gave away USD 1.6 million at that time and no one knew about it.

In short a famous man said, "Jamshid was one of the finest men I have ever met. A terrific worker, a wonderful organizer, a great giver and a most humble man. He was conscientious and deeply religious, and as straight as a die. If only we had more men of his character today, Sind would be a different place".

Jamshid, Karachi misses you and I am sure you won’t be able to stop your tears when you see your beloved Karachi torn apart by political vultures, gangsters, drug peddlers, land grabbers.

Appalling & Cheap Stunt at Commonwealth Games!!!

2010-10-06T21:50:00.002+05:00

Name Pakistan has become synonymous with terrorism & barbarism, today word such as cheapness struck my mind. One may wonder why!!! It was none other but appalling and cheap stunt of Dr Muhammad Ali Shah “MQM MPA & Sind Sports Minister” at Commonwealth Games in India.

I wonder when we get rid of immaturity, be it an educated doctor or former dictator, all entertain us with their share of cheapness on daily basis.

I was shocked to read news in Daily Dawn, it says “For all those who missed the glittering opening ceremony of the Games yesterday, here is what happened: The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) had decided over a month ago that Shujauddin Malik, the country’s gold medal winning weightlifter at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, would lead the Pakistan contingent during the ceremony. It was an honour well deserved for a man who not only won gold but also scripted his name in the record books for his 2006 effort. But as the ceremony started yesterday and teams strode into the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium one by one, the Pakistani contingent despite receiving the most rousing reception out of all the participating nations, experienced a moment of great embarrassment. It wasn’t Malik who was seen carrying the flag and leading out the contingent but instead, it was Dr Shah – despite TV screens around the world displaying the name ‘Shujauddin Malik’. Fine, one thought. ‘maybe Malik wasn’t feeling up to it.’ But only moments later when people saw Dr Shah pushing aside Malik as cameras rolled, it was clear what the actual deal was”.

It was shocking for us when weightlifting team manager Rashid Mehmood came on air and revealed that Shah had told Malik that it was the chef-de-mission’s right to lead the contingent as he was the ‘senior’ most out of all the personnel. Malik also came on air moments later and made another shocking revelation. He claimed, Shah after a tussle over the flag minutes before the opening ceremony, had threatened to send the weightlifter home if he did not respect Shah’s decision.

Our literate lot has made our country a joke all around the world, a laughing stock, be it educated military or educated corrupt bureaucracy.

I wonder how many incidents haunt us before sanity prevails in the land of pure !!!!

Revolution Calling!! Civilian Govt Fails & Army Wins!!!!

2010-09-13T15:14:00.004+05:00

Don’t you see the way military is taking care of flood victims & carrying out rescue operation? Where is civilian government? They have failed, we are doomed without army. Please call army, we need revolution, these civilians are corrupt and their voters are illiterate.

These voices are echoed mainly by Urdu media and so called educated middle class living in Karachi & Lahore.

First & foremost these so called educated people forget that military is nothing more than a department that reports to Ministry of Defense, that falls under civilian government!!!

Secondly, as tax payers we allocate 20% of our tax collection to army, taking care of over half million armed personnel. It is their job to be available to civilian government any time, be it peace or war, they have to follow orders. I agree they are carrying out their responsibilities professionally.

During recent flood in China or anywhere else, whenever military is called to rescue as per the instructions of the government, no one eulogizes them because its military’s job. As professional I am required to carry out my job, if i do it, I am paid for that, nothing to glorify.

Another interesting debate is going on in the media regarding revolution calling & demanding military rule against feudal. An interesting article published by Dr Aisha Siddiqa “the author of MILITARY INC” titled Green Revolution, she argues that feudal “The concept, as defined by Karl Marx, refers to a particular mode of production in which capital and labour are concentrated in a single hand. Over the past 63 years, concentration of land in the hands of the few has reduced substantially. Akbar Zaidi’s research, which shows substantial reduction of large land holdings and the largest province, in any case, does not have huge tracts of land”.

She further explains that feudalism is an attitude that is prevalent in both rural as well as in urban society “Many people not only acquire land but also the behavior and mindset representative of feudalism. Marx never explained the politico-cultural dimension of feudalism which signifies contempt for ordinary people and the tendency to impose one will on the rest by use of force. This mindset is found among the urban elite and the middle class as well. Private jails in Karachi, target killing of opponents and psychological coercion of the educated into submission to a central leadership is a behavior not confined to just one part of Pakistan”.

She rightly points out that educated middle class killed many people than notorious feudal “After all, it was an educated segment of Pakistan that killed thousands of Bengalis in 1970, the Baloch in 1973 and later and the Sindhis during the 1980s”.

She concludes “This is not a defence of feudalism or the landowning elite but an attempt to say that in their arrogance to impose their choices on ordinary folk and a bulk of this country, representatives of middle class could destroy more than they might build. It will help develop respect for people before we advocate change”.

We have already experienced Military action in East Pakistan & burning Balochistan is an example of immature handling . We have no choice but to respect people and their mandate, let the process continue. Instead of middle class adventure, we need to wait and vote people out.

Cheatistan; Pakistan Cricketing Cheat Busted!!!!

2010-08-29T16:23:00.010+05:00

In a sensational story broke by British Tabloid shocked the cricketing fans across the world. Pakistani cricketers caused further dent to falling image of Pakistan. We are sad, as Pakistani how should i react if someone calls my beloved Pakistan "CHEATISTAN". Historically, cricket was known as Gentlemen sports, not anymore, thanks to our fellow Pakistanis.

As per the tabloid"In the most sensational sporting scandal ever, bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif delivered THREE blatant no-balls to order.Their London-based fixer Mazhar Majeed, who let us in on the betting scam for £150,000, crowed "this is no coincidence" before the bent duo made duff deliveries at PRECISELY the moments promised to our reporter".

Armed with damning dossier of video evidence, Scotland Yard launched their own probe into the scandal.

If the allegation turns out to be true, stern action such as punishment and confiscation of bank accounts in Pakistan and abroad would be the need of the hour.

At times i wonder what is wrong with our nation, when i read books such as Military Inc, A Case of Exploding Mangoes, i come across horror stories, the way our military plays havoc with public funds and abuse of power for their personal and corporate interests. On the other hand stories pertaining to bureaucracy and politicians are not pleasant either.

World does not trust us, heard people calling us CHEATISTAN. It seems, its a collective failure of a nation, too myopic and interested in personal gains.

It takes years to build an image but few seconds to destroy.

At times we feel ashamed to be part of such a society and country plagued with corruption, self interests and medieval thoughts.

I wonder why world is shying away when we are hit by disastrous flood !!!!!

Don't raise your eyebrows if someone comes up with weird theory and blame black water for this conspiracy !!!!

Caught Red handed YouTube Video Link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRUMqVhOGlk

Disaster Knocked Pakistan!!!

2010-08-14T15:30:00.011+05:00

Pakistan is facing both man made and unprecedented natural disaster. A country teetering at the brink of disaster facing unparalleled back to back challenges from terrorism to flood and rain havoc.

As per World Bank estimates USD 1bill worth crop destroyed, over 10 million people affected besides infrastructure damage and live stock loss. Experts believe that magnitude of loss is colossal and beyond government’s capacity to address, it is the need of the hour for nation, region and world at large to help Pakistan.

It is well known saying ‘poverty breeds extremism’, flood, hunger and disaster provides an opportunity to religious extremist groups to recruit and strengthen their roots. Sooner we address the issue better it would be for Pakistan, region and entire world.

These pictures speak volumes;

Sufi Music, Peace, Love, Islam & New York!!!

2010-07-22T20:24:00.010+05:00

Islam is all about peace; history of subcontinent is witness to it through Sufism. Unfortunately, tolerant, colorful and green land of subcontinent is being merged with desert land of Arabia through adopting Wahabi brand of Islam i.e., based on intolerant and puritan religious beliefs.

It is a known fact that there are few bad apples trying to use reign of terror to hijack peace loving society to promote their limited agenda.

The issue is, only bad acts of bad guys get global coverage, however peace loving majority is nowhere in the news. Lately Coke studio did a wonderful job through presenting Sufi fusion music, an effort to show true picture of peace loving society to the world.

Lately an interesting event “The Pakistani Peace Builders (PPB) Sufi Music Festival” organized at Union Square in New York. An independent cultural diplomacy campaign sharing the love and peace of Islam in sub continent through the universal language of music that reaffirms shared values of tolerance and peace.

Festival showed solidarity with the victims of Mohamand and Data Darbar shrine bombing and failed attend to bomb Times Square.

We need more voices from peace loving majority.

Click here for video Bibi Sanam Janam Zeb Hania

Pakistan or Pornistan!!!

2010-07-14T21:53:00.004+05:00

One may wonder what the connection between Porn & Pak is, it is an interesting correlation. Pakistan ‘The Land of Pure’, “ranked No 1 by Google in the world in searches for pornographic terms, outranking every other country in the world in searches per person for certain sex related contents”. Statistics published by Google and comments published on Fox news web.

Article mentions that the country which has banned content on at least 17 websites to block offensive and blasphemous material is the world’s leader in online porn search.

Guys come on, don’t term this ‘a Jewish, Indian or Western conspiracy’, let’s accept the fact and smile over our national hypocrisy.

Report published interesting statistics and Pakistan tops in various searches per person such as;

“ ‘horse sex’ since 2004, "donkey sex" since 2007, "rape pictures" between 2004 and 2009, "rape sex" since 2004, "child sex" between 2004 and 2007 and since 2009, "animal sex" since 2004 and "dog sex" since 2005, according to Google Trends and Google Insights, features of Google that generate data based on popular search terms” . Who says Pakistanis don't love animals !!!!

"The country also is on top -- or has been No. 1 -- in searches for "sex," "camel sex," "rape video," "child sex video" and some other searches that can't be printed here".

Reporters contacted The Embassy of Islamic Republic of Pakistan but they did not reply to a request for an interview.

At times I wonder why Pakistan is officially monitoring Google, Yahoo, Bing, Youtube, Amazon, MSN and Hotmail!!!!

Generally speaking people in our society say ‘sex is bad, taboo, lets not talk about it’ but on the other hand sexual frustration and Google results say one thing about our society “Hypocrite”.

Fifa World Cup Craze in Karachi !!!

2010-06-16T22:20:00.005+05:00

You may be wondering, these flag may be installed somewhere near soccer city in Africa !!!! These days it is common scene in old localities in Karachi, mainly in Baloch areas such as Lyari, Malir and Gadap Town. Soccer craze is at its peak, kids wearing t shirts, flags all across the town, painted flags on the wall and large screens . Every discussion starts with football and ends with football.

Truly football loving communities, passionate and real aficionado !!!!

South Africa You Rock!!!!

2010-06-16T22:04:00.004+05:00

It has been less than 20 years post apartheid, South Africa hosted world class Rugby and Cricket events and impressed everyone.

Few months back everyone was talking about the construction delays; security issues however the opening ceremony and amazing venues stunned all.

They spent 8.4 Rand in construction and up gradation of existing venue; it has not only improved the infrastructure but also overall image of South Africa.

Soccer world cup will have deep rooted positive effects on South Africa both commercially and socially.

I can not stop saying “South Africa You Rock”!!!!

Diego Maradona & Two Watches!!!

2010-06-16T21:50:00.002+05:00

You may wonder how strange it may sound if one gets to know about a person wearing two watches. It is none other than but soccer legend Maradona!!!

Let me share the reason why he does so!! It is believed that Maradona wears two watches whenever he travels, one set to local time and one set to the time back in Argentina ‘lol’.

Another interesting thing I came to know about football legend, he has a special toilet seat installed in his hotel toilet. He doesn’t only spend on two watches, but he also uses beads to offer pray for fair match.

His scruffy beards changed his looks, always impatient even outside the ground; let us see what comes in next game!!!

Flotilla Massacre, Israel, Pakistan & Balochistan!!!!

2010-06-13T12:54:00.004+05:00

Flotilla massacre is one of the sad and ugly displays of Israeli military power. Role of Pakistani civil society & media has been lauded and one of the media personnel “Mr Talat Hussein” happened to be on Flotilla was eulogized.

Whenever I see media and civil society’s hue and cry for far away events, i get into deep thoughts, i wonder what makes these people sleep in the case of Balochistan or killings of religious minorities in Pakistan!!!!

Lately I came across an interesting article published by Dr Pervez Hoodbhoy titled “Reflections on the Flotilla Massacre”.

Dr Pervez writes;

– Let’s face the truth: Israeli crimes are extremely serious but they pale in front of those committed almost daily by religious extremists in Pakistan.
– Israel murdered nine peace activists of the Mavi Marmara, but just hours earlier jihadists had killed over ninety Ahmadis peacefully praying in a mosque in Lahore.
– Israel starves Gaza, but the Taliban have imposed an even more brutal blockade of Shias in Parachinar and Kurram. Israel does not amputate the limbs of its enemies or decapitate them, but the Taliban do.
– Israel has destroyed schools for Palestinians in Gaza, but the Taliban have blown up nearly a thousand schools.
– Of course, it is not just the religious extremists but also our state - the Pakistani state and army - that is guilty of atrocities.
– Israeli forces have never been accused of mass rape, but the Bengalis have never forgiven the Pakistani army for what it did in 1971.
– Israel is responsible for abductions and disappearances, but does anyone have an estimate for the number of “disappeared persons” in Baluchistan? One could go on. So instead of riding the high horse of moral purity, it is time for us Pakistanis to reflect upon the crimes of those from within us.

Karachi; 5th Worst City to Live in the World !!!!

2010-06-06T14:17:00.007+05:00

Few years back, I was driving my way to office I came across huge congratulation hoardings on the Shahrah E Faisal " Congratulations to City Nazim “Mayor” Karachi for taking second slot in the best global mayor list". The moment I read, fragile infrastructure of city came in my mind, only 50 millimeter rain could create havoc, electrocution related deaths in rainy season, pollution, violence, street crimes, traffic and ugly unsafe billboards. I ignored congratulation message because of doubts in my mind.

Today, I came across Economist Intelligence Unit 2010 livability rating, it assesses the livability of 140 cities world wide. Karachi ranked 135 out of 140; the 5th worst city to live in the world.“The Economist Intelligence Unit’s livability rating quantifies the challenges that might be presented to an individual's lifestyle in 140 cities worldwide. Each city is assigned a score for over 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five broad categories: Stability, Healthcare, Culture and environment, Education and Infrastructure".

At times I wonder, billions of rupees are spent on infrastructure development of Karachi, still status is no more than a global slum. It is easy to get answers, everyone can see level of short sightedness, poor quality of leadership, tunnel vision, ethnic tension, street crimes, sleepy civil society, lack of planning, and land grabbing. It seems it is a city run by robber barons and no one owns it!!!!!!

One may wonder why 5th place !!! the way things are going it is not far when Karachi would be ranked the top worst city.

Is there anything we can be proud of??? Except running intolerant jihad factories and nuclear weapons!!!!

Women Are Superior to Men!!!!

2010-05-29T22:15:00.002+05:00

Tim Sebastian, famous BBC correspondents’ this week Doha Debate series was hilarious & thought provoking, it was not about politics rather topic was “women are superior to men”.

You must be wondering what is Doha Debate “The Doha Debates are a unique venture in the Arab world, providing a battleground for conflicting opinions and arguments about the major political topics of the region .They engage in time-honored rivalry – where the only weapons are words. They practice the art of peaceful disagreement: understanding and respecting different views”.

This time Doha Debate was bit hilarious, it talked about merits of men and women from beards to shopping to mother in law and everyone walked away with big laugh. Two competing teams were part of debate and topic was “women are superior to men”.

It was interesting that debate revolved around intriguing questions such as many women asked “why it was that behind every successful man was a surprised woman and why, when the doctors’ waiting rooms were full of women, the mortuaries were full of men”

Can you guess what debate conculsion was? Majority participants voted in favor of women’s’ superiority i.e., 67% vs 33%.

One of the participants was Maysoon Zayid, a Palestinian American actress she made a point that "Men," she reminded members of the evenly-divided male-female auditorium, "you wouldn't even be here if it weren't for us. We brought you into this world and we can kill you".

It is so true and she also explained that "men in the West have to beg women to marry them, men in the East have to pay them because no (woman) would do that voluntarily."

Another participant Usman made an awesome point that women are "kinder, nicer, gentler and smarter" than men. "They are more attractive and beautiful while men are...disgusting."

You know what made me laugh, when Usman kept mentioning that people believe that Muslim men are terrorists and oppressing women, he reminded such people to visit Muslim household!!!! They may find exact opposite “the woman is the terrorist and oppresses the man”!!!!

It was a pleasant surprise for me to see an open and candid debate in closed Middle Eastern society. It was awe inspiring and hilarious; Doha Debates have changed my perception of Qatar.

Reign of Terror in Lahore!!!!!

2010-05-28T21:42:00.005+05:00

It was Friday evening I was at work, as usual I was in weekend mood, before leaving I scanned through news on web, stunned to hear killing of more than 80 innocent people in Pakistani mosque. As per reports attackers fired guns, threw grenades and three militants blew themselves up with suicide vests.The victims belong to Ahmadi sect it is “a minority Islamic sect founded in 1889, Ahmadis believe their own founder, Mirza Ghulam Ahmed, who died in 1908, was a prophet”, they were declared the sect non Muslim in 1974 by the government of Pakistan. Historically they have been subject to sectarian attacks and persecution in Pakistan.

Numbers of religious minorities’ persecution in Pakistan is alarming, a country created in the name of religion. Islam talks of peace but one could easily see intolerance and religious extremism both created for political motives during cold war and irresponsible role of right wing political parties. There are various groups spread hatred, preach violence but they are left alone and in some cases it is blamed that security agencies use them for their political gains. In the end innocent Pakistanis suffer and social fabric gets destroyed.

It is unfortunate, instead of curing the malaise of intolerance, right wing political leaders and media promotes the idea of conspiracy theory ‘apologetic’, some group blame India other blame non state actors supported by US. It is sad; no one talks about the roles and responsibility of state and its lax behaviour towards hate mongers.

It is also unfortunate we as nation always blame West for not allowing scarf, minarets and denying religious freedom. I am witness to grand mosque in southern biblical belt in US, also read that grand mosque is approved near destroyed twin towers in New York.

Minorities are persecuted in Pakistan. Let us put our house in order, get out of barbaric intolerance then compare ourselves with others!!!!!! Wake up Pakistan!!!!!

The Facebook shame !!!

2010-05-21T18:10:00.012+05:00

Facebook ban fury lead me to write a blogpost to record my protest. In my blog i shared views of group of people who are against facebook ban, blog heading is SAY NO TO FACEBOOK BAN, unfortunately if one reads comments, instead of intellectual discourse all 6 replies are insane, emotional, irrational and naive. However, my upbringing and values do not allow me to reply them with similar insulting tone.

I am glad to read one of the interesting and rational response published in todays THE NEWS newspaper by my University "LUMS" Professor Ahmed Rafay . I am sharing it here and expect rational intellectual discourse, instead of emotional and ill mannerd outcry.

"There's a new joke doing the rounds: what's the difference between Facebook and the Lashkar-e-Taiba? Answer: Facebook is banned in Pakistan.

The Lahore High Court's un-technical appreciation of social networking sites, the mechanics of the Internet and its order to enforce a ban on Facebook are matched only by ludicrousness of the petition seeking the ban and the offensive prank that started this entire episode.

Here's another joke doing the rounds: Facebook has nothing to worry about. It can always re-appear under another name (Jamaat-ul-Facebook, anyone?).

In Muhammad Mahboob vs The State (PLD 2002 Lahore 587), Mr Justice Ali Nawaz Chohan, dismissed evidence that had convicted a man of blasphemy as "unbelievable". While doing so, the court quoted an article, "What is Blasphemy", by Ayaz Amir on February 27, 2002 (when Ayaz Sahib wrote for another paper): "The greatest blasphemy of all is a child going hungry, a child condemned to the slow death of starvation. The miscarriage of justice is blasphemy. Misgovernment is blasphemy. An unconscionable gap between rich and poor is blasphemy. Denial of treatment to the sick, denial of education to the child, are alike examples of blasphemy.

"My friend Adil Najam posted the following on Pakistaniat.com ("Facebook Fiasco: What would Muhammad (PBUH) do?": "The one thing I am absolutely positive of, is that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would not have done what we are doing now: making an international public spectacle of ourselves. Most likely he would have just walked away and ignored (as he did those who threw garbage on him), he might have negotiated with Facebook on the basis of their own stated rules (the Hudabia model), he might have reasoned with the detractors. Nearly certainly Muhammad (PBUH) would have handled it with grace and with composure. Most importantly, the Prophet (PBUH) would have kept focusing on his own actions and proving his point with his own deeds rather than with slogans and banners.

"One thing about this entire banning Facebook ado is the level of organisation displayed across the country. I may not agree with what they have managed to do, but I do appreciate that they could use Facebook (as many did) to organise their protests. Today I learn that the women's wing of the Jamat-e-Islami is organising a protest against Facebook. Never mind that it has just been reported that a teenager was raped for four months in Lahore, the ladies of the JI (women's wing) have something to protest on this sunny May day.

We are a country entirely devoid of a sense of irony. Just before the PTA got around to enforcing the ban, someone I know updated her Facebook profile to inform people how pleased she was that Facebook had been banned.

I have used Facebook over the last year and a half to promote a cycling initiative aimed at raising awareness about sustainable urban planning, public transport and the importance of public space. Each week, friends and I would post onto our Facebook page, Critical Mass Lahore, inviting others to come join us for our trips through and around the city. In Islamabad and Karachi, too, urban activists used Facebook to promote similar cycling events in their cities. At the beginning of this year, the Shehr section of this paper's News on Sunday pages, voted Critical Mass Lahore and Zimmedar Shehri as two of the best things to have happened to Lahore in 2009. Zimmedar Shehri also used Facebook to launch and manage its incredibly popular campaign to get your hands dirty, literally, and clean up the country. Rise Pakistan, another social activism organisation with over 10,000 Facebook members, is also rendered paralysed. Someone I know runs their business on Facebook. Well, her business has been halted by the High Court order.There is simply no justification – legal, ethical, moral, religious – for the High Court to have ordered a ban on the social network page. Our law is crystal clear: A person's rights cannot be impinged upon without notice. There are well over 40 million Facebook users in Pakistan. The alleged blasphemy is supposed to be taking place in the United States. Under what legal framework is it permissible for the rights of the overwhelming majority of lawful users of Facebook to be affected in this way? As a lawyer, I fail to understand both the petition and the High Court's order.

This morning, via a text message sent to me by my mobile phone provider, I was informed that, on account of the High Court decision, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority had also ordered the shutting down of Blackberry's messenger service. What common sense is being applied here? I have a contract with my mobile phone provider which, to my knowledge, neither my provider nor I have violated. I am at a loss to understand what legal justification exists to deprive me of my contractual rights. And it's not just about me: what legal sense is there in taking an action that has an immediately detrimental effect to the work of thousands of Pakistanis.

There is now news that the free open-source encyclopaedia Wikipedia, has been shut down. There are also rumours to the effect that Youtube, which is a website which I use to watch television programmes and download the intellectually stimulating Ted Talks, have been blocked by the PTA as well.

Our response to the derogatory and blasphemous acts of others has been to harm only ourselves. The Lahore High Court is party to this shoot-yourself-in-the-foot approach. As someone said, banning Facebook is just like taking to Mall Road with Molotov cocktails. Except, in this case, the protagonists came from the gates of justice.

Manuel Castells once said that technology can be determined by political ideology. He referred to the ENIAC as an example: if Soviet Russia had the same technology as the scientists at MIT, they would not have used that technology to come up with an iPad. They would have used the technology, for sure, but their political ideology would not have directed in the direction of personal communication devices.

Taking Castells' example, I often remind people that, in Pakistan, we still do not manufacture televisions (we do assemble them, but bear with me). This is despite the fact that we have the technology to do so. The reason we don't is because we are still stuck in a political philosophy that believes that television is a medium by which "alien culture" is allowed to infiltrate our own. We will never be able to achieve technical capacity unless our political ideology allows us to. Now, with the High Court joining the chorus of misunderstanding on the issue of Facebook, I wonder how we will ever progress".

To conclude, let me share following facts, simply alarming;

"Facebook has 400 million users. Only 2 million are from Pakistan. That is 0.5% of the total Facebook audience.The offending Facebook page that the Pakistan government banned had about 30,000 members 3 days before May 20.Following the complete ban of Facebook in Pakistan, the offending page has 80,000 members and growing as of Thursday evening".

Say No to Facebook Ban

2010-05-20T09:23:00.003+05:00

On behalf of the "Defenders of Internet Freedom Protest Against Nationwide Government Ban of Facebook" we say no to facebook ban.

"On Wednesday 19th May 2010, the Lahore High Court ordered the banning of Facebook across Pakistan. Facebook is the world's most popular social media network and is used by over 400 million globally. In Pakistan, over 2 million people use Facebook to stay in touch with their friends and family, conduct business, manage events, and share photos, news, and other content. A few days ago, a page called "Everybody Draw Muhammad Day" was created on Facebook asking users to submit drawings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on 20th May 2010. This page, interpreted as blasphemous, has triggered a nationwide ban on the entire Facebook domain.
　
While we recognize that sites on the Internet are used to spew hatred and incite violence, we steadfastly believe that governments have no right to control access to information. We believe that every citizen has an inalienable right to freely access information and by censoring Facebook, the Government of Pakistan has taken away that right. This action will have a very negative impact on Pakistan, especially considering that countless small businesses, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, art galleries, magazines, and media outlets use Facebook to conduct day-to-day business and share information with their stakeholders.
　
In 2006, the Supreme Court of Pakistan banned the entire http://www.blogspot.com/ domain for over 18 months over a similar incident where only one blog carried blasphemous cartoons. Thousands of Pakistani bloggers were deprived of the freedom to express themselves and interact with others. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority now has the ability to block specific pages on the Internet and could have banned just the single blasphemous page. As members of civil society and professionals who depend on social media networks for our daily communications, we demand the immediate restoration of Facebook and an end to Internet censorship by the Government of Pakistan.

Civil Military Relationship in Pakistan!!!

2010-05-19T20:58:00.011+05:00

Civil military relationship in

Pakistan

has never been cordial, democracy & dictatorships’ musical chair always dominated the helm of affairs. Civil military relationship discussion is intriguing topic and dominates most of our drawing room gossips.

Today I was invited at media round-table with an American intellectual/expert on Civil Military Relationship. Dr. Daniel N. Nelson is a Senior Fellow at the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation and he is also President/CEO of Global Concepts & Communications, Inc. based in Alexandria, Virginia. He is an author of many books, famous one is “After Authoritarianism: Democracy or Disorder? “

It was an interesting and interactive session on much talked yet sensitive subject. At times we use the term “Civil & Military” specifically in the context of the government and men in uniform but Dr Nelson explained both terms well, term civil refers to “President, Prime Minister or Parliament and civil society” & military refers to “men in uniform, intelligence agencies, private military companies and military industrial complex”.

Referring to various case studies, he shared five interesting points that are used in other countries to strengthen democracy; if one looks at these, there is a lot one can learn.

Firstly, “LAW” law or constitution should be in place that defines the chain of command & civilian authority over military. Secondly “CHANGE IN CULTURE”, culture refers to norms, values and beliefs & it is necessary for society to have belief in rule of civilians in the context of military and society. Thirdly, “STRUCTURE & PROCESSES” clear cut structure and processes to be laid down to ensure chain of command. Fourthly “OPENNESS & TRANSPARENCY” freedom of information is vital so that everything is open to public and civilian leadership. Lastly “BUDGET”, all budgetary controls be under civilian authority.

Above points may sound interesting but during discussion it was evident that it may be difficult for a weak civilian authority to assert, influence change in culture, ensure processes are followed and ensure transparency in budgeting.

To move forward, an interesting point came up, the role of civil society is important to influence and define future of civil military relationship!!!

There was a lot of discussion on the role of historical US support to dictatorships in Pakistan, it was shared that it was not desired to partner with dictators during cold war or after 9/11, however it was out of compulsion.

Unfortunately most of the discussion was focused on historical wrong doings, for a while it was felt, rather it was a reality check that as a nation we are too much focused on past or history.

Dr Nelson sounds hopeful that civilian democracy will continue and military is too much engaged and focused on their professional responsibilities.

No doubt Pakistan’s case is unique, civilian government lack will and capability to lead the country; however, it is believed that democracy is at evolutionary stage, will take time to evolve.

To move forward and strengthen the democracy one could learn a lot from Dr Nelson’s five points.

It is difficult task for Pakistan to focus on country’s security, handle non state actors, militancy and economic slow down. Tough but one could learn from others experiences.

Acid Attack on Three Sisters in Balochistan!!!!

2010-05-15T15:57:00.006+05:00

It was Saturday morning, I was getting my car fixed at Toyota motors, got an opportunity to talk to one of my close friends who lives in Quetta. As victim, we “Baloch” do not talk about parties, cricket match or fun and frolic but always end up talking about disappearances, killings and atrocities.

My friend shared one the most gruesome incident of three sisters aged between 14 and 20 years old, two unidentified men on a bike threw acid at them and sisters suffered serious facial burns. As per reports political activists lodged protests and every one in Balochistan condemned this gruesome act.

Few weeks ago an unknown group The Baloch Ghairatmand Group (The Honorable Baloch Group) claimed the responsibility.

We fail to understand whose honor is this to throw acid on innocent girls; such acts in Balochistan had never been witnessed in the past.

Another interesting story I came across, majority of people in Balochistan believe that anti Baloch groups are behind such action, goal is to malign the Baloch struggle for economic & political rights “for some its freedom struggle”

As per BBC report, “same group warned Baloch women to wear hijab “head scarf” and not to visit markets unaccompanied by men from their families”.

Historically, Baloch society had been tolerant, religion had always been part of culture, most of them honor BALOCH HONOR CODE. Politically Baloch have always been secular and leaning towards left during cold war. It is lament to see acid attack and women are forced/warned to wear hijab.

Lately, I came across a report published in THE NEWS/Daily Tawar/Blogs, it says that “as per plan religious groups are deeply penetrating in Baloch societies to malign present political struggle and leave ugly footprints” ( also read Malik Siraj's article on same subject titled How Panjgur is losing the battle? )

I am not sure how true it is but people in Balochistan fail to buy the claims of so called The Baloch Ghairatmand Group (The Honorable Baloch Group).

Whoever is behind such attacks, it is states’ responsibility to provide security to daughters of Pakistan. Is anyone listening??? Knock knock !!!!!

Times Square Terror Plot; Toxic Schooling & Irresponsible Media!!!!

2010-05-09T18:12:00.003+05:00

The guy who tried to set off a car full of explosives in Times Square New York, Faisal Shazad is a Pakistani. The image of country has already been tarnished by jihad mongers, suicide bombers, anti American rhetoric in the media and to an extent apologetic middle class supporting Taliban list includes Zahid Hamid, Ali Zafar, Ali Azmat, Maria B etc

As student of International Relations, it is generally observed that majority of Pakistanis' are made to believe that whatever ills of Pakistan are because of west, only way to address is to live in isolation and destroy west or USA. To kill or hate rhetoric is fueled in the minds through education system, right wing political groups and an irresponsible media.

Be it 7/11 in UK, 9/11 in US, Mumbai attack, Pakistan is always in the news, initial denials but later everything gets connected to groups or individuals operating in Pakistan.

Experts such as Dr Pervaiz Hoodbhoy believes that it is hate based education system developed during Zia era; toxic schooling and media tutoring are the reasons behind act of Faisal Shahzad and like.

The result of hatred campaign resulted in extreme hatred all across, a private survey carried out by European Embassy based in Islamabad found that only 4% of Pakistanis polled speak well of American and 96% against. In the midst of hate campaign, someone speaks well of US, he or she is labeled an agent.

Dr Hoodbhoy believes that people believe that New York incident is response to drone attacks, drones have killed some innocents but they have devastated militant operations in Waziristan while causing far less collateral damage. It is noticed that we blame everything on US; we never talk about our responsibilities towards democracy, good governance, rights of women and ‘religious & ethnic’ minorities, rule of law, justice and accountability.

How long we ignore basic issues and blame everything on West. Can we afford to live in isolation? Will we benefit if our country becomes Yemen or Afghanistan, producing more Faisal Shahzad!!!!

Karachiwala; a Subcontinent within a City!!

2010-04-30T22:18:00.007+05:00

It was busy day at work; T2F is the place that provides food for thoughts . Last evening one of the stand up comedians Sami Shah performed there. I reached half an hour earlier and decided to explore books and then grab sandwich along with coffee.

I was looking at books I came across an interesting cover page, a book written by Rumana Husain, graphically appealing and thought provoking title “Karachiwala a Subcontinent within a City”!! When I flipped few pages I came across an African descendent Baloch woman’s picture, each page had description such as name and ethnic group of the person in the picture. I came across a funny ethnic group name, it described African descendent Baloch woman as MAKRANI.

To me it is funny that people end up writing books without knowing the basics of an ethnic group. However being a Baloch, my forefathers migrated from Makran to Karachi, born and brought up in Karachi, i am a truly Karachiite but deeply connected to my roots.

When one looks at various definitions of ethnic group, it is described as “a group of people whose members identify with each other, through a common heritage that is real or assumed, sharing cultural characteristics. This shared heritage may be based upon putative common ancestry, history, kinship, religion, language, shared territory, nationality or physical appearance".

Markran is a place and people living in that area are called Makrani and ethnically they are Baloch. Similarly I can not call Karachiite an ethnic group, no one describes the ethnic identity of people living in Karachi as Karachiite.

The African convert Baloch were once ethnically from various African origin tribes bought (during slave trade) by rulers of Muscat and various princely states of Balochistan. There was severe drought in Balochistan and African slaves “convert into Baloch; adopted Balochi culture and language” were freed. During 1850s modern port construction work started and most of the slaves got laborious jobs and settled near Liyari.

Unfortunately, we as Pakistani do not interact with each other, don’t understand each others' background, psyche, history, norms, values and to large extent culture and we never try to explore the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan.

At times I feel that in Pakistan we are alien for each other.

Pakistanis; Get More Sex for Healthy Living !!!!

2010-04-28T20:26:00.003+05:00

It was boring evening, I was browsing daily times, came across an interesting news it says “Brazilians told to get more sex for healthy living”

The Health Minister advised people “ One of the best ways Brazilians could stave off chronic illness is to engage regularly in physical exercise, especially sex” he further said “ adult need to do exercise, walk, dance and have safe sex”

It is believed that sex helps in keeping blood pressure down and it is alarming that many in Brazil are suffering from chronic illness, high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.

I wonder if similar request is made by Pakistani Health Minister in the context of grave health concerns in Pakistan.

I guess sex starved Pakistanis need to listen to Brazil, please for the sake of health ;-)

Civil Servant: Then & Now

2010-04-19T23:01:00.004+05:00

Today's dawn, letter to the editor by Haroon Siddiqi made me think that Pakistan was an opportunity lost in the dust of history.

Here is letter;

“Corruption and abence of accountability are the two weaknesses of the present-day Pakistan. The bureaucracy opting for Pakistan at the time of partition was free of financial corruption and vested interests of other kinds.

Except for some civil servants-turned-politicians, like Malik Ghulam Muhammad, Chaudhry Muhammad Ali and Iskandar Mirza, who undermined democracy in Pakistan as did the military dictators subsequently, the rest of the bureaucrats were role models of professional excellence and integrity.

Even the few aberrant exceptions named before had lust for power but did not indulge in financial wrongdoings and nepotism.

My father, the late Shujaat Ali Siddiqiui, was also a high-ranking civil servant at the time of partition in 1947. He opted for Pakistan and was made the Military Accountant-General to function under the ministry of finance, government of Pakistan.

Let me quote an incident from his legacy which speaks volumes about the code of conduct and accountability that existed for government officials when we acquired our nationhood.

Somebody made a complaint to the ministry of finance that the Military Accountant-General made a personal visit to Lyalpur (now Faisalabad) and claimed the reimbursement of railway fare subsequently.

It was also alleged that the office newspaper was delivered at his residence. The ministry of finance sought comments from my father. The reply he gave is reproduced ad verbatim for making a comparison between then and now.

"It is true that the daily newspaper is delivered at my bungalow. This is because the office opens at 9.30am while the hawker delivers the newspaper in the morning by Fajr prayer time. Consequently, I get to read the newspaper at home during my private time for taking notes where necessary.

“I, nevertheless, bring the newspaper to office every morning and have it placed in the library. The newspapers are sold as per standing instructions at the end of each month as ‘raddi’ and sale proceeds are deposited in the chest kept with the cashier, making suitable entries in the cash book which can be produced for inspection on demand.

“As regards my visit to Lyalpur, I may state that being head of the department I am also expected to look after the welfare of my staff. As such, for rehablitation of my staff and their families who had migrated on large scale from East Punjab, Delhi, etc., I went to Lyalpur to see my personal friend who happens to be the deputy comissioner of the district.

“He took personal interest in the matter and, as a result, I was able to secure rehablitation for over three dozen families during my two days stay there. I feel this visit of mine was justified.

“Still, if you choose to term it as unjustified, please say so. I shall not hesitate to refund the amount paid to me in reimbursement of the price of railway tickets purchased from my own pocket. I did not claim any daily allowance because I lodged with my aforesaid friend as his persoanl guest.”

LUMS Dramaline; Fun, Frolic & No Substance!!!!

2010-04-18T11:31:00.004+05:00

It was warm evening, exam pressure and day long study but late evening fun filled dramas/skits were respite. It was wonderful to see students using various platforms to express themselves. Dramas are one of the creative means used across the world and various themes talk volumes about issues or events happening across the society.

First day, four dramas were presented, performances were wonderful, creative vigor and talent was worth noticing. They made everyone laugh and walk away with fun.

However, as LUMS student, drama themes disturbed me a lot and made me think.

All three dramas were fun packed but them talked about drinks. One drama was about a gay, it was neither ridiculing nor demonizing gay or supporting but performance was more of physical nature. Gay character was getting closer or sitting on the top of other guy, wearing female nightwear etc.

Second drama was about junior student ragging, a student from Karachi facing seniors. It was shocking to me once senior asked naïve junior about his academic profile, reply was “Mein Nay Inter Ka Course Kia Hay”. It was way below the belt; I could never expect this from LUMS student.

Lastly, a drama on Sawat Taliban was presented; they depicted the other side of the story. A guy visits Sawat with his wife, forcefully abused & wife gets killed.

One thing always comes in mind that everyone knows about Sufi Mohammad (Taliban Leader in Sawat Valley) and it is obvious the way our security establishment propped Taliban to get foothold in strategic tug of war in regional geo-political milieu.

Drama depicted Taliban as heroes; the extreme actions against women were the result of US drones. Furthermore, it was never realized that Sawat had always been a tourist resort, a tolerant society but messed by Taliban.

Talibanization is neither Islamic nor Pashtun culture it’s the result of geo-political tug of war hurting men, women and innocent children.

Performances were no doubt fun watching but lack of substance shows dismal state of our society. To me it’s the by product of our academic system, we teach distorted history, de-intellectualization is eminent, biased media and dominance of right wing forces in security establishment of Pakistan is deeply hurting our progress.

Diamonds are Forever!!!

2010-04-11T21:35:00.004+05:00

Diamonds are forever, an advertisement tag line of DeBeers, a famous Diamond mining and marketing firm.

No doubt, diamonds are precious, show uniqueness, relationship, love and bonding. A diamond as present always brings happiness.

However, Chinese women segment surprised me, today I came across an interesting advertisement, to Chinese women it is an insult or considered rude if a guy gives them diamond as present and to them its vulgar display of money and power. Chinese women think that they are capable of buying expensive and precious things themselves, no matter how rich or poor a girl is!!!

They want to be successful, independent and treated equally with respect.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXnDAPOxIKw&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNzdATDjpoA&feature=related

Good Bye Kissing !!!!!

2010-04-10T13:45:00.004+05:00

Kissing is officially banned by ethics committee at one of the leading business schools in Pakistan. This picture speaks volumes about the Public Display of Affection & societal response. Seems like our society is at crossroad.

Cultural Revival in Karachi; Musical Base Rock Café, Artistic Koel & Intellectual T2F

2010-04-08T22:26:00.004+05:00

During 70’s Karachi was the cultural capital of Pakistan. Road side Coffee Houses used to provide a place for intellectual tête-à-tête .Over the period my city has evolved and at the same time global political issues & dynamics have also changed. After passing through transition, today Karachi has engulfed with range of cafes.

Surge of cafés is not all about coffee and sandwiches but a new form of culture and entertainment is evolving. There are three cafes playing a pivotal role, THE BASE ROCK CAFÉ, CAFÉ KOEL & T2F. When I think about these three cafes, music, art and intellectual quest comes in my mind.

I remember my Tokyo journey, while walking through upscale Ginza; I saw young girls and guys desperately waiting for local stars, right in front of a theater, similarly my New York trip to Broadway theaters and cafes talked volumes about the taste and artistic flair of the people. I could see intellectual artistic persona effect both in Tokyo & New York. When it comes to Karachi, I used to feel that my city is culturally dead, tasteless, heartless and completely de-intellectualized.

After the influx of cafés in Karachi I am optimist & have strong belief that these cafés would eventually lead to the revival of 70s coffee houses with contemporary taste of music, art and intellectual freedom.

Base Rock Café (BRC) is a café cum musical oasis for culturally starved Karachi, BRC is not about coffee and music but it offers a launching pad for under ground music talent in Karachi. With best music system, it brings Karaoke, tribute to music icons along with live bands and music competition for music freaks.

Café Koel adds an artistic flair to café scene in Karachi, a café evolved from Noor Jehan’s artistic quest for traditional crafts. It lead to the revival of hand block printed fabric mainly Ajrak prints of Hala Sind. Café offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, one can enjoy meal under a tree or air-conditioned artistic indoor. There is an art gallery along with a boutique of exotic hand block printed fabrics.

The Second Floor T2F is a café that provides food for thought besides coffee & sandwiches, an open place for intellectual tête-à-tête. It is run by Peace Niche, an NGO, and brain child of Sabeen Mahmud. It frequently arranges discussions, invites brilliant guest speakers, provides space for book launches and also house range of books available for reading and sale.

I would love to see my Karachi, transforming from violence ridden chaotic city image to a fun filled, intellectual & artistic persona.

Minority Report!!

2010-03-28T13:02:00.009+05:00

Muslims are minorities in US & EU, when it comes to minorities in our own countries we are mostly silent; be it blasphemy law or equal treatment of religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan.

Yesterday, I was part of an interesting interactive session with Safiya; it was broadly on Muslims in West & minority rights.

Safiya has most recently served as the South Asia policy analyst at the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) where she monitored violations of religious freedom in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and made policy recommendations to the Obama administration, the Secretary of State, and to the Congress with respect to matters involving the treatment of religious minorities.

Interesting discussion initiated with the word minority, when it comes to us being minority in US, we talk a lot about our rights, at the same time Christians & other religio-ethnic minority groups are brutalized and violently suppressed with the sword of vague blasphemy law in Pakistan with tough punishments .

Everyone understands the way minority groups are mistreated but interesting outcome of the discussion was, 'a learning from US experience' , the way Muslim minority groups are using various mediums to voice their concerns to alleviate post 9/11 fury. In 60s non white immigrants were subject to discrimination in US and after 40 years a black minority immigrants son is a president.

As civil society in Pakistan, it is our responsibility to mobilize, create awareness at grass root level for minority groups rights; either through writings or using various mediums “media” to push political parties to repeal vague blasphemy law.

At times I feel that as educated class, we do not question the authority and at times critical loyalty is looked down upon in Pakistan & people question one’s level of patriotism. Critical loyalty is the need of the hour to change social anomalies in Pakistan.

Just like any other forum or any talk relates to extreme religious behavior in Pakistan often leads to blame game and we end up doing nothing. During the discussion, participants believed that its US's role during cold war resulted in Talibanization “extremism” in Pakistan; others believed that Pakistan army was equally responsible.

Question comes, how to deal with the monster, on the one hand religion is so sacred & religious parties are supported by establishment; how could one dare to challenge blasphemy law!!! Discussion outcome was simple, one may use religious logic to counter extremists using religion but it may be a rough ride.

In the wake of all, at least educated middle class or so called civil society must gather around center left parties or so called pro democracy or anti establishment elements, to influence pro minority legislation or at least voice their concerns through whatever available medium.

We can make a difference.

Must check out the following link about the state of minority groups in Pakistan;

http://www.speroforum.com/a/29393/Pakistani-Christians-raped-and-burned-for-refusing-conversion-to-Islam

Happy Earth Day

2010-03-28T12:22:00.000+05:00

Be gentle with EARTH.

A Case of Exploding Breasts in Pakistan!!!

2010-03-25T18:35:00.011+05:00

The Telegraph published an astonishing report which says “Breast implants packed with explosives could be used to blow up an airliner”

Report alleges that “Radical plastic surgeons could be carrying out the implant operations in the “lawless areas” of Pakistan, security sources are said to have warned”.

Report also mentions, Joseph Farah, a terrorism export, as per him “Women suicide bombers recruited by al Qaeda are known to have had the explosives inserted in their breasts under techniques similar to breast-enhancing surgery.”

Report further mentions that “Plastic surgeons may also have inserted the chemical into the buttocks of would-be suicide bombers”. It is believed that scanning machine at airports may not be able to detect breast explosive.

This will make travel cumbersome for female travelers from Pakistan, apart from naked scanning they may go through breast & buttock scrutiny!!!!!

Here is Telegraph link for further reading;

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/terrorism-in-the-uk/7510350/Terrorists-could-use-exploding-breast-implants-to-blow-up-jet.html

23rd March; Let’s Celebrate, shall we??

2010-03-23T11:53:00.001+05:00

23rd March (Pakistan Day) always reminds me of something, to me, it is a day of false promises (Day of Betrayal), and those were made in 1940s and thrown in dustbin.

Today’s Dawn article written by Dr Pervez Hoodbhoy raises interesting questions; he writes “PAKISTAN is not a nation although it has been a state since 1947. Missing is a strong common identity, mental makeup, shared sense of history and common goals. The failure to effectively integrate flows from inequalities of wealth and opportunity, absence of effective democracy and a dysfunctional legal system”.

He simply does not criticize but offers interesting solution. To him for Pakistan to succeed “it must want to become a normal nation held together by mutual interests rather than abstract ideologies. This is the only way to deal with the multiple civil wars that have started around us”.

Lastly he raises an interesting question, it makes me wonder whenever I see politically and socially illiterate people labeled as educated, I fail to find out the reasons. I never knew that such apolitical and naive educated class suits State and to sustain abstract Pakistani ideology. Pervez explains well, to him “Schools teach children to mindlessly obey authority, to look to the past for solutions to today’s problems, and to be intolerant of the religion, culture and language of others. Instead, we need to teach them to be enquiring, open-minded, creative, logical, socially responsible and appreciative of diversity”.

The Young, Urban, Middle-class Pakistani’s Manifesto

2010-03-21T11:29:00.004+05:00

Lately i had been reading, witnessing and encountering anti democractic, anti american, pro army and pro taliban attitude of Pakstani middle class.

Nadeem Paracha in his recent blog, explains it well for me and many others.

This blog was co-authored by Nadeem F. Paracha and Abbas Baloch;

The young, urban, middle-class Pakistani’s manifesto:
1. Asif Ali Zardari is the devil incarnate.
2. The Pakistan Army is the saviour.
3. The Taliban are resisting American imperialism.
4. We hate American foreign policy unless it suits us. We are against American imperialism if it means we have to ditch the Taliban as that would be against the aspirations of our founding father, Mohammed Bin Qasim. We will no longer shop at Marks and Spencer because they are somehow connected to Israel. However, that does not mean we will switch off our computers and cell phones whose chip technology has been made possible due to major contributions from Israeli scientists.
5. We don’t want to sell our honour for American money unless it is for our private hospitals, textile exports, NGOs, or for completing degrees at American universities.
6. It’s not just Zardari who is the culprit. It’s also Benazir Bhutto and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Fatima Bhutto is fine, though; she is dating George Clooney.
7. It was all milk and honey till Bhutto came along. Damn him for nationalising my father’s 15 mills, seven textile units, and 11 banks! I still remember the good old days when Nani ji, Dada ji and their friends brought hundreds of textile licenses from Gohar Ayub for US $ 200,000 a pop. There was no corruption and no labour unions until this Sindhi feudal and closet Hindu agent named Z.A. Bhutto came along and enforced his Zionist agenda and made all our urban serfs so uppity.
8. We are against feudalism unless the feudals in question do not support the PPP and allow us to rape the ecology of Sindh and the Punjab on our weekend hunting trips. Some crates of mangoes from their farms also help.
9. Some of us feel we know what’s best for the PPP, i.e. to banish Zardari and his kids and ditch the legacies of ZAB and BB. We have never voted for or supported the PPP (actually we never vote all!) but we still feel that we are in a better position to understand the party’s dynamics.
Also, as educated, refined and objective leaders and captains of industry, we are against dynastic politics. However, we are fine with Fatima Bhutto, Hamza Sharif, Solaiman/Essa Khan, Monis Chaudhary as well as the privileged alumni of Karachi Grammar School, Aitchison and Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, ruling us. Just as long as they are not descended from the Zionist agent Benazir and her corrupt husband, Zardari.
10. Democracy is a deeply flawed system that has destroyed the world. Totalitarian monarchies with entrenched security and bureaucracies are much better and in line with our Arab origins. Please do not compare us to India. We have nothing in common with them except our DNA, culture, cuisine, language, music, and geography.
11. Our ideal form of government is the modern day Caliphate, or, as we like to call it, the rule of technocrats. In this form of government, our posh uncles will pass stern orders in their clipped Oxbridge accents and Italian suits that will be supported by a medieval council of jurists whom we like to call the independent judiciary.
12. Lately, we have been reading some Chomsky, Klein and Zinn (all five articles) and appreciate how these believing Muslims provide us with the intellectual ammo on exposing how the perfidious Jews conspire to rule the world.

13. We are essentially a good people who are suffering because the world wants to take over our nukes and is conspiring to destroy our country. They are using the Taliban, who themselves are essentially good people who are bravely fighting American imperialism.The Taliban just suffer from bad press, and we know who controls the press abroad. Here, the press is controlled by democratically elected anchors and media analysts who are fighting for justice and against corruption.
14. The Taliban who are killed in the drone attacks are simply pious Muslims who are doing charity work, such as digging canals in arid, mountainous zones – it’s called the Mars project.
Also, the burning of Christian villages by Taliban affiliated and state-sponsored sectarian militias is a figment of the imagination of the liberal fascists. They are doing their best to curb crusaders of truth and justice such as Geo TV. The real problem is Blackwater/Xe, fools.
15. The Taliban are an expression of Pushtoon nationalism as they have done their best to cleanse the United Emirates of Peshawar and FARTA from pagan Pukhtoon influence. The Taliban are a legitimate resistance movement against the occupation of the United Emirates of Peshawar and FARTA by ANP, Shia parachinaris, Sikhs and, of course, female students. The only genuine Pathans are Imran Khan, Hamid Gul, and Zaid Hamid.
16. Sipah Sahaba, Jaish, Lashkar Taiba, Lashkar Jhangvi, Jamaat Islami … who the are they? Figments of the imagination of liberal fascists. We should be more concerned about the Ahmed Rashids, Kamran Shafis, Amir Mirs, Arif Jamals, Najam Sethis, Tarek Fatahs, Irfan Hussains, Pervaiz Hoodbhoys, Fasi Zakas, Ayesha Siddiquas, and Nadeem Parachas.… They are CIA agents.
17. India is stealing our water and is destroying the country via its Sindhi/Balochi/Pushtoon/Gilgiti/Hazara/Hingora/Makrani/Seraiki proxies. Damn this fifth column riff-raff. We brought them the glorious Islamic civilization from the latest Nasim Hejazi novel and look at how uppity they have gotten since. We gave them commerce (Gujrati), language (Urdu), and agriculture (Punjabi) and they still want to maintain their identities and celebrate their vernacular religious practices which our pure Arab background forbids. Feed them to the Taliban.
18. We, the members of civil society, are essentially a liberal lot who are imbued with socialist values. Our ability to engage in massive socialising (through Facebook) makes us socialist in the true sense of the word. Lately, we have also dabbled in Marxism at cafes where we blow off half a month’s average national salary on lattes and cappuccinos whilst we construct our neo- Marxism around the tacit acceptance of the Taliban’s superior Arab cultural identity. We salute Abul Ala Marx, Lenin Bin Laden, and Mulla Mao!

19. These are difficult times for civil society. While the tyrant Zardari is destroying the country with a ‘progressive agenda’ (another Zionist conspiracy) that involves legislation about women’s rights and the enfranchisement and autonomy of minority provinces, our brave and independent judiciary is fighting a Herculean battle to free the champions of our true Arab identity like Hafiz Saeed, Maulana Aziz, and Masood Azhar. These tireless crusaders are fighting our battle against Hindu hegemony in Pakistan. We need to applaud the efforts of the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court in exposing the Hindus.
20. As Zardari loots and pillages Pakistan via the nefarious use of his handle bar moustache and cheery demeanour, we have to appreciate how our Taliban investment is saving our economy by killing thousands of our citizens and costing billions of dollars in damages and lost investment and trade opportunities. We are a financially and arithmetically gifted segment of society that can expand US $66 million to $1,500 million if it means that we can lynch Zardari (and free Aafia).
21. While our existential adversary India is investing billions of dollars in Afghanistan’s infrastructure and municipal training, we are using our billions to create the ultimate strategic depth in Afghanistan: macho Islamist brutes who will eventually recreate the Islamic State that made Afghanistan the model of peace and prosperity from 1996 till 2001.In conclusion we would like to part with a speech from one of our greatest representatives, Zen Farman Wamid, which he made at the historic Dillee Kebab House. The topic of this grand speech was, “Today Dillee

Kebab House, tomorrow Delhi Fort”:

“Assalamualaikum, my dear and superior Muslim Pakistanis. By the grace of God, I am proud to announce from this wonderful kebab house that we are now ready to invade India. This invasion has taken a lot of planning and effort by my young upwardly mobile comrades and for this we would also like to thank our friends in the electronic media and inspirations such as Yahya Khan and Ziaul Haq. Dear muscular Muslim boys and petite Muslim girls, I had been planning this invasion for a very long time, even before my blessed birth when I was just a spirit floating over Pakistan – even before Pakistan was made. My spirit swooped down when it saw the great Muhammad Bin Qasim invading Sindh and defeating Hindu scoundrels as well as Mohajir, Sindhi, Balochi and Pakhtun nationalists.
We will vanquish them in the Islamic Emirate Caliphate of Punjab … I mean, Pakistan. Damn those who say that Pakistan was made in 1947. That’s a lie, I tell you. It was made in the seventh century, when Kalashnikov Bin Qasim, Allama F-16 Iqbal, and Inzimamul Haq defeated a million-strong army of that secular tyrant and usurper Raja Bhutto and his side-kick Mohindar Singh Dhoni and announced the creation of the Islamic Caliphate of Punj … I mean Pakistan. So wake up, Pakistan, and let’s invade, loot and plunder like those great Muslim leaders, Mahmud Ghazni and Mr. T.

My next address to you all will be from Delhi Fort and anyone who disagrees is a traitor, a Hindu agent, or a student of the Peshawar University. Allah Hafiz! Punj … I mean, Pakistan, marhabba marhabba.

Faiz Ahmed Faiz in Indian Jungle!!!

2010-03-20T22:33:00.006+05:00

Maoist rebels in India listen to Faiz Ahmed Faiz poetry on their iPod!!!

Rebel wants to establish a communist society in various states in India. Bloody struggle resulted in thousands of deaths.

Armed struggle is the route they follow, they are called revolutionary Marxists, and some call them anarchist and social bandits.

Dawn newspaper shares an interesting story “ Comrade Sukhdev asks if he can download the music from my Ipod into his computer. We listen to a recording of Iqbal Bano singing Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s ‘Hum Dekhenge’ (We will Witness the Day) at the famous concert in Lahore at the height of the repression during the Ziaul Haq years. Fifty thousand people in the audience in that Pakistan begin a defiant chant: Inqilab Zindabad! Inqilab Zindabad! All these years later, that chant reverberates around this forest. Strange, the alliances that get made”.

Here is Faiz's famous poetry Hum Dekhein Gay;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_EmyqTTHIY

India, Pakistan; You Don’t Deserve Heroes???

2010-03-20T22:10:00.002+05:00

Why South Asian heroes are thrown out by own society? Be it Abdul Salam or famous Indian artist MF Hussain.

At times one question haunts me, does South Asian society deserve heroes?

Lately I came across news that MF Husain is contemplating Qatari nationality, he is no longer an Indian citizen.

It is sad to see India’s the most celebrated artist hounded out and everyone looked silently and it was all in the name of religion.

If one remembers, 13 years ago Hindu hardliners attacked his painting of nude goddesses; well India is a secular country but fails to protect the most famous artists.

Case of Sachin Tendulkar is also well known, the way extremist right wing Shive Sena threatened him.

Abdus Salam, one and only Pakistani Nobel laureate, bullied and made an outcast on the basis of religious belief.

Will South Asian society ever emerge as progressive global society without defeating the right wing narrow minded religious extremists in India and Pakistan????

Middle Class Needs Dictatorship in Pakistan!!!!!

2010-03-18T21:09:00.003+05:00

It was warm evening, after tiring day I felt like having coffee but I settled for facebook. I came across an interesting video link, Kamran Khan, Geo TV anchor playing the role of an economist.

He compares inflation, atta, ghee, fuel prices along with dollar, sales tax rate and suicide bombing during Musharraf & Zardari era; through his hypothesis he tries to prove that dictatorship is the only solution.

I was shocked to see our educated middle class on facebook, jumping with slogans such as Jeyee Musharraf, Zindabad (Long Live Musharraf) . It was the height of naivety; the way hollow economic rationale attracts our people

It was funny, under the sun no one bothers to find out the exogenous variables causing the change in prices, no one asks about the reasons behind the inflation.

If that is the case I can take the example of Saddam vs Noori Al Maliki and still prove that a dictator was the best answer. I can also prove that Mullah Omar (Taliba Leader) was the best answer than Karzai using random numbers or indicators!!!!!!! Even I can make Augusto José Ramón Pinochet look Hero through Knit Picking random economic performance indicators.

It is sad to see no one questions that during Musharraf era, thousands of people disappeared, inter provincial rift increased??? Compare Balochistan & NWFP before Musharraf and during his tenure!!!!

Energy prices have contributed a lot to inflation, prices gone four fold, what was Musharraf's energy investment?? No one questions that his lack of planning affected Pakistan!!!

Everyone has forgotten what he did with judiciary and the way Steel Mill plundering was planned? Geo TV cites stock market, ugh, stock market….that was a bubble, I fail to understand, why these anchors play around with areas they do not know anything about i.e., Economics.

I won’t be shocked to see Kamran Khan doing an analysis on genetic decoding & social influence!!!! or may be on Kinetic Engineering !!!!!! I wonder how come these anchors manage to talk about the cockroach skin problems to politics and genetic sciences.

Has anyone compared the powers of military vs democracy (glorified municipality) to influence the course of events in Pakistan? Read famous books, Military Inc and also Military & Mosque.

I would still say, let people vote him out instead of finding quick middle class solutions; else we need to declare that let men in Boots decide the fate of 180 million people.

No wonder our middle class follows Zaid Hamid (an extremists in modern attires, with hollow slogans, to turn Pakistan into a caliphate)!!!!!

(My friend Jawaid wrote an interesting blog on same topic, worth reading)

http://paradoxesjawaidbaloch.blogspot.com/2010/03/road-yet-to-be-travelled.html

Killing; seems like a sport!!! Is it India, Jews or America!!!

2010-03-15T21:40:00.001+05:00

Cricket, Hockey & Squash, all sports are on decline; there was a time we were known for these games. Over the years, killing game has become so popular that we have neglected other sports.

Let me share a story, It was an exciting day, cool breeze and pleasant Karachi evening; I received a call from one of my intellectual friends to join him over walk .I left office around six to join him at Nisar Shaheed Park “it’s in Defense Housing locality in Karachi, Pakistan”. He was walking anti clock wise, to catch him I walked clock wise, i was about to meet him, all of sudden security personnel locked all the doors and directed us to get out of the park. I heard that some spooky person “may be a suicide bomber” entered inside the park. Men, women and kids all started running towards gate, completely terrifying scene.

I came out and saw contingent of police surrounded the park.

The next day we heard over 50 people killed in Lahore, series of small intensity bomb blasted in residential Iqbal Town Lahore. Everyday, series of suicide bombing or target killing takes place, mainly killing the innocent civilians.

Today, I was driving for lunch along with a friend, she mentioned to me ‘ Imran its so easy for anyone, an armed personnel can kill as many people as possible and walk away’, it shows the level of aggravating security situation in Pakistan.

Our media and leaders just say one sentence (All is Well), Down with America, its bloody Jewish Lobby, no….. its India……well it’s so easy to be apologetic and leave the responsibility on others.

Isn’t it states responsibility to ensure the safety of people?

Everyday we get to hear that one of our friends is migrating (safe) from Pakistan, even without knowing the career path and one may face abroad but right now everyone is running away safely.

Even an optimist, person like Abdul Sattar Edhi “well know philanthropist” sees a gloomy future, as per him Pakistan is at the stage of make or break .

The way remedial measures are progressing, I am afraid it may be too late.

We may end up reading horror stories about Pakistani women and families in novels, the way Afghan stories are selling in US & Europe.

Wake up......... before its too late !!!!!

Happy Women’s Day

2010-03-08T12:21:00.000+05:00

Hey women….you face hardship, harassment, discrimination, disrespect, violence and abuse….. Yet you face all with courage, nothing stops you....you are unique and blessed with great capacity of love and capacity to feel the pain…….. Happy Women’s Day...

Marriage of Convenience, Contract & MOU!!!!

2010-03-05T21:43:00.008+05:00

It was relaxing last day of the working week, one of my friends raised her eyebrows when I mentioned that marriage is a contract and engagement is Memorandum of Understanding. She felt my words were bit too crude.............Well it made me think. I still remember, back at business school, one of the Harvard School of Law graduate teachers used to mention that “In law, a contract is a binding legal agreement that is enforceable in a court of law or by binding arbitration. That is to say, a contract is an exchange of promises with a specific remedy for breach”.

Legal literature suggests that “all spoken contract should be called an oral contract, which might be considered a subset of verbal contracts. Any contract that uses words, spoken or written, is a

verbal contract”.

If one falls in love, shares feelings, verbally commits to a relationship, to me it’s just like any other contract, paper maybe missing "if comapred with marriage" but essence is same. On the other hand there are many who enters into "marriage" relationship, signs on legal documents yet get into infidelity.

A contract paper may have its value but to me relationship is beyond piece of paper, it’s all about honesty and commitment.

Many ‘including me’ believe that “marriage is a sacred contract, its like sharing your life with someone or giving yourself in a special way that we typically don’t do”. It’s like giving something to a partner that is only reserved for her or him.

India – Pakistan; Image Matters!!!!

2010-02-27T15:18:00.004+05:00

It was cold winter in Lahore; at my business school heated discussion on branding the country dominated the class. Discussion was about the global product positioning and the image of a country. Consumer’s product preference is dominated by many factors but the image of exporting country is also important.

Discussion followed by various video clips developed by tourism authorities such as Malaysia Truly Asia and Incredible India. For a while class discussed, what if we develop a video showing Amazing Pakistan to the world. Class was all in the favor of branding country but I was the only skeptic. My question was simple, when ground reality in Pakistan is different, terror attacks, suicide bombing, extremists and jingoistic media creating hatred all around, how we can fool people through creating a false image of peaceful and amazing Pakistan.

First we need to fix the basics then talk of inviting people. Being Karachiite, I hardly feel secure on the busy streets, what to talk of inviting foreigners!!!!

During my last exchange program trip to over 5 states in US, I heard unstopped praise of India, its culture, food, movies and history, so was the case during my interactions in Tokyo.

We may blame others for our plight and sit around do nothing but people face the bitter reality.

Today its Holi and whole world is glued to India, I came across this heading in a UK newspaper “From the lavish scenes of Bollywood to the rich spectrum of their cuisine, no other country in the world celebrates colors like India”.

We are a confused nation, trying to Islamize whole world, becoming more Arab than Arabs; most of us do not know the historical facts, nationhood is teetering at the brink of disaster. Be it NWFP or Balochistan, Urban Karachi or Lahore, insecurity is all around.

Can we think of positioning Pakistan????

Partying TV Anchors & Morality Brigade!!!

2010-02-21T10:55:00.006+05:00

Partying pictures of female TV anchors have lately become the talk of the town, I also received forward email message etc. Asma Shirazi, Meher Bukhari, Saima Mohsin are some of the names attended the party hosted at Diplomatic Enclave. Well, I have never come across any male TV anchor’s drink & dancing pictures. I just forgot that only women are object of sin, they have to confer to the lifestyle suggested by morality brigade with detailed & prescribed limits.

This morality brigade is hypocrite, well religious morality & boundaries of ethics go beyond women. Let me ask simple questions, what about lying, what about back biting, what about tax evasion, what about electricity theft, what about exploiting labor, what about supporting extremists 'who are out there to kill innocents, morality brigade never condemns them', what about supporting dictatorial regimes what about using religious verses for personal gains, what about sexual abuse of students in Madressa.

Apart from dancing anchors, Pakistan’s image is not at all positive and we need to fix various other fundamentals. Just step out of Pakistan, you will realize how others perceive us. To a great extent that perception is true “one may disagree” !!

Who has given morality brigade the authority to decide what is moral and what is immoral!! Well, if these TV anchors are comfortable with certain lifestyle “it’s their fundamental right”, even if they choose not to follow religion & religious morality, It is none of our business, who are we to decide and do social policing???

Well, one may disagree with one country’s policy; criticizes it on TV, yet interact and socialize with diplomatic staff. We are not living in the age when people used to kill on the basis of disagreements. Civilized societies have moved on and with such medieval mindset we may turn back to Stone Age " to an extent we have, wearing modern attire but with stone age mindset" !!!!

For my readers I am sharing these pictures & I want to let them decide & have their own conclusions.

Pakistani Diplomat; Your Name is VULGAR!!!

2010-02-18T22:13:00.001+05:00

Pakistani diplomat in Saudi Arabia was refused over vulgar name translation. As per news report published in various papers, a Pakistani diplomat Akbar Zeb will not become next Pakistani Ambassador in Saudi Arabia. Report says Zeb’s credentials seem in order; he is the former ambassador to the United States, India and South Africa. He also held the position of High Commissioner designate to Canada.

Lately he was nominated to be ambassador in Saudi, when his name was translated into Arabic, Akbar Zeb means “Biggest Dick”. News report emphasizes that Saudis stress a lot on modesty, particularly in public, they could not stand such a name.

Media further reports that “in hopes of minimizing the use of the word in public, Saudi Arabia has refused to accredit Mr. Zeb for the position”.

For me it is hard to imagine that name could be such a big problem on this level.

If this is the case then I wonder how come they allowed DICK Cheney, what about various Pakistanis with surname BUTT.

There could be many other words may have different meaning in other languages. I simply fail to understand, what is in a name????

Love Sucks!!! Guys are Asses!!!!

2010-02-16T20:13:00.010+05:00

It has been a while I haven’t written anything on relationship & most of the guys even at times my female readers do not like my men bashing !!! Lately I came across an interesting article written by a LUMS student Mahreen Rehman, guys you may disagree or get offended but she has raised an interesting issue.

Missed your ex on valentines day? The deliciously red roses, scrumptious chocolates ‘with love in every bite’? screw you! the truth is, guys are asses! No, literally! You take away the short stubby legs, the poo slobbered tail and add some human limbs and what do you get? VOILA! A guy! Don’t believe me? Let’s do an analysis. Donkeys have fur, guy’s have fur (some girls do too but that’s irrelevant here.). donkeys stink, guys stink. Donkeys are dumb, guys are DUMBER! “oh, sorry was I supposed to call you?”, “am I 3 hours late? was with my boys.” And the list goes on n on.

I guess what I’m trying to establish here is that we, the superior female species, should know better than to fall for dirty,stinky,hairy animals who think its allright to fart anywhere and everywhere they go. Now, you may disagree with me here and argue that your boyfriend or the guys you know are completely different. DO NOT BE FOOLED, naïve one. It’s all an act. They may outwardly seem gentlemanly but it is innately embedded in their hard drives to be obnoxious, perverted scum. They look at females like they’re pieces of meat, the more scantily dressed, the tastier and the more team testosterone kicks in. these cave men live by a certain code. They will never, EVER sacrifice their way of life for you so do not believe for one second when a guy looks into your eye and tells you he loves you. he’s probably checking out another girl’s reflection in ur glasses or pupils or whatever. The point is, guys are incapable of having deep emotions for a member of the opposite sex. Rule number one of the “stupid code of idiot guy life” is

Bros before hoes. Isn’t it weird how guys do not talk to each other on the phone for more than 10 minutes but once they meet up, their brains become reprogrammed and develop alzheimer’ic tendencies that cause them to forget that they have a girlfriend who is waiting up for them to get done with whatever it is that guys do when they get together. If, by any miracle a guy DOES remember that he is partially committed (in his view) to a girl and mentions this to his ‘bro’s’, they will either (a) discuss the geometry of her curves, (b) plan something in order to meet her friends and thus have access to more ‘meat’ or (c) make fun of how his girlfriend has him bound under ball and chain (even if the poor girl does not,) to such an extent that they will brainwash him into believing that he is being controlled by his (poor) girlfriend and when he does go back to her, he will most probably fight with and tell her that he has to put his foot down and that he needs more guy time with his friends and that he does not care about whatever she feels or has to say about it.

Secondly, WHAT is with this stupid football craze? You want to play the sport, fine by me. Go with your boys, play, have fun , COME BACK in a couple of hours. DON’T TAKE ALL BLOODY DAY! But what is with this stupid obsession of WATCHING football? Somebody please explain to me the thrill of having your eyes glued to the little ball on screen, following its every motion till you have a twisted neck for 2 hours and then the score is 0-0 ? this football match is then followed by pizza and ofcourse, a competition about who can eat the most pieces without puking FOLLOWED by another competition about who can burp the loudest followed by a public flatulence competition. They think it’s fun and funny and even congratulate each other for it . I mean…seriously? This is the species we want to marry? I’m not suggesting that we all become homosexuals. I am merely pointing out the fact that guys and relationships are over rated and Red Goodbye says it perfectly: “now that I’ve loved and now that I’ve lost, what I feel inside says Shakespeare lied”.

Okay so I might have gone a little over board in criticizing the male species. That wasn’t my intention when I started writing this article but I’m guessing the bitterness took over. The point I initially intended to make was that love is over rated. You get nothing out of it but heart ache and maybe a few stupid gifts and some memories that haunt you forever and ever and eat at your insides like maggots feasting on a dead corpse. Don’t fall for a guy who promises you the moon and the stars and the heavens and the earth and everything in between. You will only end up weeping you r eyes out and look horrible the next day. No amount of concealor and hashmi kajol will have you looking normal. Here’s how it starts, he says he adores you and asks you out. Flattered, you accept. You and your girls spend hours giggling over it on the phone and plan your outfit and everything else down to the minutest detail. He shows up before time and you have the most awesome date ever…roses, expensive restaurant and a guy who’s lost in your eyes…legen..DARY! (courtesy Barney Stinson). He drops you back, nothing can sweep the smile off your face for the next couple of days. He calls you all the time and texts you like crazy. He convinces you that he totally loves you till one day..SNAP! he starts calling you less frequently, doesn’t remember any of the stories you tell him, starts spending more and more time with “thE boys”, and when you confront him, you get the famous “it’s not you, it’s me routine”, in other words, “I’m bored baby, I need a newer version with more features*’ AHEM. So he goes off with his friends to ‘heal’ which lasts till ..hmm…let’s see, 2 mins, and your entire life is snatched away from you, leaving you drowning in your own tears. In the wise words of bart simpson, “ I never thought it was humanly possible, but this both sucks and blows”.

To conclude, Mahreen has raised an interesting question but I want to share guys response;

“What about the woman's tendencies of being overly clingy, whiny, etc? Can you blame men for craving some space? Why does women's life REVOLVE around that expected phone call? And why does everything come crashing down when he suddenly forgets? People need space, and trust me; true love is not a slave to punctual phone calls. Or incessant text messages.

Men DO fall in love, passionately and selflessly, just as women claim to. And they DO go out of their way to please women they truly love. It happens, not just in chick-flicks, but in real life too. As much as you believe that it doesn’t.

And author just seem to have attracted with the wrong sort, friend! She should loosen up a little; she should know that every man is not a moron. Just like every girl is not a whore !!

Elite Business School Gone Anti American!!!!

2010-02-15T21:48:00.004+05:00

It was cold night at my Business School dorm in Lahore, thunder, lightening and rain struck the campus but my thoughts were focused on one question “the wave of anti American sentiments across the campus”.

On campus divide between teaching fraternities was evident on the basis of religious & liberal ideals. It is general belief that elite business schools in Pakistan are anti Taliban & they have better understanding of US , West & contemporary political dynamics. Lately I was surprised to see a protest organized by right wing religious party in downtown Lahore for the release of Dr Afia “ lately convicted by an American court”, scores of student of elite business schools participated , chanting anti American slogans along with Jamaat E Islami “ right wing political party” workers.

I am not questioning or taking sides as far as Dr Afia issue is concerned, to me it is worrisome to see elite business school students shoulder to shoulder with the workers of right wing organization. One may agree that it is easier to influence illiterate poor madresaah “religious seminary” students but lament to see educated middle class esp. elite business school students are being influenced by religious right & Imran Khan “an anti west leader of Pakistan Tehreik E Insaf, however married to a rich British girl & lived most of his life in London”.

Today, number of educated youth inspired by an extremist Islamic caliphate revivalist TV anchor Mr Zahid Hamid.

I believed that in Pakistan, middle class is change agent but they are falling pray to Islamic apologetic rhetoric and being inspired by Military & religious right.

I literally am into deep thoughts & fail to find answers to questions, does right wing politics provide answers or solutions to these elite youth or provide a vision or direction about future. Similarly most of the young pop singers have gone apologetic, pro Taliban & ironically they have influence over our youth.

During my recent US IVLP trip & interactions in US I got the feeling that US State Department wants to reach out to Muslims through dialogue & cultural interaction. Obamas Cairo speech and recent Farah Pandith visit, "USs newly appointed Special Representative for Muslim Communities” convinced us that US is interested in reaching out to Muslim world & serious in addressing the issue of extremism.

It is high time for US to reach out to middle class youth in Pakistan; to me they are unconsciously falling pray to extremists. Middle class may not wage war but moral support & anti American feelings may strengthen the case of religious right.

A Brand New World!!!

2010-02-08T21:31:00.004+05:00

Brands are becoming a new lingua franca for consumers all over the globe. One may like or dislike, brands are reality and no one can scape. Well, there are people around us including me prefer brands because it is all about quality. To an extent it is true, if more people buy brands better the quality becomes. Price equates quality and brand competition means continuous improvement.

We are becoming so global, in spite of our likes or dislikes, it is a reality, falling trade barriers to regional trade integration, movement of people to telecom and internet boom. World is becoming truly a village, more we get connected more we become global citizen sharing common culture. Many people at Harvard University believe that "consumers look to global brands as symbols of cultural ideals. They use brands to create an imagined global identity that they share with like minded people. Global brands make us feel like citizens of the world and they somehow give us an identity".

There are brand skeptics believing that brands are all about western culture but if we look at hundred of brands in terms of their value, Coke is number one "An American Brand" but Nokia, a Finish brand on no 5, Toyota a Japanese brand on no 8, Mercedes a German brand on no 12, Honda a Japanese brand on no 18, Samsung, H&M, Nescafe, SAP, IKEA, Sony, Canon, Nintendo, Reuters, Philips, L’Oreal, Siemens, Zara, VW, Nestle, Adidas, Blackberry, Rolex, UBS, Panasonic, Cartier, Allianz, BP, Nivea, Prada, Giorgio Armani, Lexus, Puma and Burberry all are non American brands.

Click here for best global brands list.

We have to live in a global village and brands are reality, major question comes, it is fine brands are all about quality, they also create a global culture but the need of the hour is how much socially responsible organizations are??

To make world a better place, NGOs, consumers and human rights organizations' role has become more critical along with media. We have to collectively act as watchdog and consumers can use their buying power to punish socially irresponsible brands through product boycott.

Let me share an interesting story about anti globalization and anti brand crowd, the other day I watched a video, most of the protesting guys were wearing branded shirts, Levis Trousers, Swiss Backpack, Apple iPods, Caterpillar Shoes, Police Glasses, Puma Shoes etc. Similarly anti west clerics in Pakistani helped KFCs Ramadan Iftar deal.

It is need of the hour, we have to be more realistic and practical, on the one hand not ignoring our social responsibility and on the other hand saying no to mindless emotional outcry against brands.

Karachi City Wakes Up Horny!!

2010-01-24T16:22:00.004+05:00

It was an early morning drive from Sea View Clifton to my office, I saw a woman “maid”, waiting for bus, all of sudden one car stopped then a bike, asking her to sit, she refused but stranger guy was adamant. I passed by but disturbing thoughts occupied my mind because it was not the first time, every now and then any girl/woman is standing for bus, guys on bike, descent men in the car stop to try their luck for free sexual ride in the so called Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

One may not deny that generally prostitutes hunt customers all across the city streets but it does not mean every other girl/woman is a slut & looking for customers.

Frequent slut hunting adventure made me believe that Karachi ‘city of light’ wakes up horny.

Such harassment forces girls/woman to stay back home instead of contributing to economy because city is invaded by sexual animals available in all forms, on bikes, cars, wearing jeans and t shirt, scary kameez shalwar to tie and suit.

For Pakistani men, interesting pass time in social gathering is to talk about women, their body and share their sexual encounters to fantasies, I still remember my friend LIZ’s 'oppressed societies suffer from malaise of social abnormality'.

Sex is natural but waking up horny to everyday social discussions, everything revolves around women & sex, to me it is sick, disgusting and abnormal behavior.

Every other woman in Karachi has untold stories, be it child abuse to harassment at work. My female friends shared many horrific stories, such as teachers pushing for sexual favors for better grades, treatment as sex object at work rather than a thinking employee, from staring to pinching body parts in buses to markets.

Now the questions comes in my mind, will sex education ever help medieval sexist societies to change or more freedom is the answer such as, one may see the case of changing liberal cities in Morocco, marching from social oppression to more freedom and normal behavior.

Another disturbing thought always comes in my mind, why morality only revolves around women. Let me share powerful words of Ensler’s she says “womens’s empowerment is deeply connected to their sexuality”, she further says “I'm obsessed with women being violated and raped, and with incest and all of these things are deeply connected to our vaginas."

Woman is treated like an object, is it because we live in sexist male dominated society? Or religious interpretation empowers men to dominate or mistreat women???

I am clueless, can anyone helps me understand the reasons ??

Three Idiots, Caution; Jerks & Idiots Next 340403 Square Miles

2010-01-23T18:47:00.003+05:00

An idiot produces bunch of idiots, contributing to the idiot population in villages, towns, cities, and successfully creating Idiotistan. Sounds familiar, isn’t it?

At times I look at various academic institutions; only one thing comes in my mind “idiots manufacturing factories”. There may be exceptions but majority is producing parrots, good at remembering.

I had been reading since childhood that our mind is a thinking device not a store room and I still believe it.

Lately I came across an interesting movie “Three Idiots”, Aamir Khan is the lead cast, displayed diverse and humorous performance. Plot is borrowed from Five Point Someone-What not to do at IIT, written by Chetan Bhagat, one of the highest selling English novels published in India.

Movie brilliantly depicts the family pressure, when it comes to a child’s career, forcing a kid to study Engineering vis a vis perusing his heart’s desire, be it photography, sports, music. It is so true, if one listens to heart, there won’t be any regret and career would be like hobby.

In our society, even at brilliant universities, students are pressurized to memorize and live under the pressure of so called GPA. Even most of the teachers believe that they know everything, if someone challenges any thought or idea; it generally hurts teacher’s ego and end up taking revenge.

I still remember, at university I had always been one of the top students, asking questions and challenging was part of my academic pursuance, rarely cared for GPA, one of the teachers got offended with my challenging thoughts and he ended up failing me, first time ever in my life. I challenged it and got away with it.

So called educated lot lacks basic social consciousness, esp. business graduates in my circle are like corporate zombies, hardly knows about Pakistani society, not much about indigenious people, history and geography . They prefer cramming books to graduate and earn a living, no need to have social consciousness, prefer having dinner with friends than buying a book. I seriously get disillusioned to see educated lot when they act uncivilized all around.

Be it teachers, society or even parents, no one likes questions, challenging thoughts is considered rude behavior. You end up hearing sentences such as “How dare you challenge your parents’ ideas? “Tumhein abhi dunya ka pata hee kia hay??” How much have you seen the world? How many books have you read?

At times I look back at colonial societies, I find, academic system in Colonial India was designed to produce low level clerks. Slaves or subjects had no right to challenge or question masters? Similarly such behaviors became part of family value system.

Another interesting thing I came across was that in colonial societies, language was one of the tools always used for exploitation. Persian was the language of Kings & Queens & Darbar’s but common men used to speak native languages so was the case with English. Even today, language is used to exploit or keep majority under privileged, one may not deny the importance of English but it is used as entry barriers.

Societies prosper and grow with the power of ideas and quality of thought, it is the mind that makes the difference and thoughts lead to prosperity.

There is a famous saying “An idiot is a genius to another idiot”

Privacy is No Longer a 'Social Norm’ !!!

2010-01-12T21:37:00.003+05:00

You must be wondering what the limits of privacy are, well, lately, Google COO Sheryl Sandberg publicly said that privacy is no longer a social norm. As student of social sciences I always come across the sentence that social norms change overtime. However it is also believed that core values hardly change over the period. On the one hand, when gadgets like IPod create social isolation, people end up saying ‘hey IPod stop causing social isolation’. On the other hand social networking mediums like Facebook and Twitter connect us, people end up saying “hey Facebook stop privacy invasion”.

There are people who are convinced that too much isolation and too little privacy are the biggest social problems of our time. Google COO believes that “People have really gotten comfortable not only sharing more information and different kinds, but more openly and with more people.”
We have witnessed that our networking journey in cyber age, all the way started with basic chat site to video talk, personal information sharing on web to new phenomenon of blogging and social networking like Facebook & Twitter. These days people are asking questions "Is too much information available to public not an invasion of public privacy, enabling people to stalk and access all the information"? Well, on the one hand people believe that we have choice through privacy setting, what to put on the Facebook and what not? Who should be able to view and who should not!!! On the other hand people believe that Facebook makes people to make more personal information publicly available without realizing it.

There may be many views on privacy debate but one thing one should realize that as per Newyork Times, Google and Microsoft Bing has signed an agreement with Facebook, to allow people’s status updates to be indexed by both search engines in order to enable the search giants to provide real time results. Is human society redefining the social norms pertaining to privacy or we are going to face the maliase of no privacy, spread by social networking medium. Let us see, time will tell.

The Ghost of Mohd Bin Qasim in Pakistan!!

2010-01-07T20:59:00.004+05:00

These days Whitechapel Gallery in London is exhibiting photographs from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. As per Guardian newspaper The Ghost of Mohd Bin Qasim “part of India, Pak and Bangladesh photo exhibit” photographs are getting visitor’s attention.

When I heard the word Ghost, I got excited and read complete story. One may wonder what is the connection of Pakistan with Mohd Bin Qasim, well as per our history books he was the one who laid the foundation of Pakistan, later completed by Jinnah.

Well he was an Umayyad Dynasty’s general who conquered Sindh and Punjab region along the Indus River at the age of 17. Historians believe that “Umayyad interest in the region stemmed from their desire to control the trade route down the Indus River valley to seaport of Sindh, an important link in the ancient Silk Road”.

Apart from Mohd Bin Qasim, exhibition shows the most shameful period of Pakistani history “our history books are quiet” when we lost Eastern wing now known as Bangladesh. One of the famous Pakistani novelists, who visited the exhibition, described her feelings when she saw the atrocities of Pakistan Army, she writes” I turn to the Bangladeshi photographers in order to fix my gaze on that blood-soaked epoch. I don't even realise I'm doing this, at first. I think I'm looking at a man's head, cast in marble; the sculpture is cheek-down amid a cluster of stones, almost camouflaged by them. Then I read the caption: "Dismembered head of an intellectual killed 14 December 1971 by local collaborators of Pakistani army. Bangladesh." It is extraordinarily eerie, and sad”.

Guardian writes that “The Ghost of Mohammad Bin Qasim” shows the nation's attempt to create an official history, which focuses on Muslims in the subcontinent (rather than Pakistan's geographical boundaries), the Arab general Bin Qasim (712 AD) was lauded for being the first Muslim to successfully lead a military campaign in India – even though he did little to consolidate his position. In Abidi's photographs, a man in Arab dress is shot at different locations in Karachi, including the mausoleum of the nation's secular founder, Mohammad Ali Jinnah. The man is clearly Photoshopped in, deliberately so: he represents the attempt to graft a false history on to Pakistan, linking it to the Wahhabism of Saudi Arabia.

It is ironic; nations fail when they try to manufacture a country’s foundation on the basis of false history.

As Baloch and Pakistani, I lament to mention that as kid I never came across my Baloch childhood heroes ‘my elders used to share the stories about’ such as Balach and Chakar . But we were forced to read about Muslim invaders from desert land of Arabia and Afghanistan.

When I was in US, came across various books on history, I realized that anyone who defends the motherland is a Hero. For a while I went back to my childhood and started questioning myself about Mohd Bind Qasim, Mehmood Gaznavi and Ghauri. Also the stature of Raja Dahir and Bhagat Singh rose high in my mind

I also got my long awaited answer, now I know why Pakistani nation is confused!! I truly get to see Ghosts of Mohammad Bin Qasim, Tipu Sultan and Lord Mountbatten on the streets of Pakistan.

Crazy New Year Celebrations in Pakistan!!!

2010-01-03T11:25:00.005+05:00

New Year’s Eve is all about celebration, parties and social gatherings. Whole world welcomes it with breathtaking fire work. Pakistani’s celebrate it with indiscriminate and random aerial firing, creating harassment, fear and resulting in injuring over 50 to 100 people. Youngsters march towards beach, display careless biking skills, harasses families esp. when they see women creature.

The other day I saw it on TV, Sydney Municipal Corporation hosts over 2 million people for firework display that lasted from 15 to 25 minutes followed by music shows on several stages throughout the beach. Imagine over 2 million people, how much revenue and positive image Sydney gets.

Forget about first world countries, lets look at Brazil, Rio beach hosts performance of popular bands and samba school. Over 2 million people thronged to the beach, over 28,000 hotel rooms occupied. One could imagine the amount of revenue this event generates for the city; it is an ideal time to position RIO on world map before Olympic Game in Brazil.

Oh I forgot, Pakistan and our Muslim population has problem with Christian holidays our Mujahid on the roads have issues if people celebrate it.

Well fine, if we look at Muslim holidays, the way we celebrate UGH let me read a news report it says Town Admn imposed complete ban on fire crackers to be used for fire works on Shab e Baraat, in order to safeguard public life and property and to maintain general peace.

The way we celebrate without realizing how much our celebration may cause inconvenience for others.

At times I think only socially illiterate societies are engulfed with Cheapness!!!!

Burning Karachi !! Points to Ponder !!!

2010-01-03T10:56:00.001+05:00

Ardeshir Cowasjee writes “To be noted! Bomb blast at 4:30 pm at Lighthouse intersection. Shops set on fire at 4:22 pm with chemicals by gangsters for a length of 2 km till Bolton Market. City Government Fire Brigade reached after 4 hours. All shops closed but by 4 am in morning thousands of banners hanging in the city.... Pattern of selective targets is evident. Who gains by removal of old buildings & markets?”

Think about it !!!

Please Don’t Let Democracy Down !!!!

2010-01-01T20:57:00.002+05:00

Bomb blasts, blame game, irresponsible media, insecurity, uncertainty, chaos, hopelessness, pessimism, confusion and emotions define current state of Pakistani affairs.

Every now and then media tells us that PPP government is going to fell down in three months, six months, eight months, one year, blaming that PPP is the culprit, anti Pakistan, responsible for putting clauses against Army in Kerry Lugar Bill. NRO is going to topple Zardari government; he is the worst guy and Pakistan must get rid off of him.

Pakistan’s ailment linked with Zardari and PPP, remove him and peace would knock on the doors.

Our middle class leaning towards right wing, chanting anti American slogans, ironically no one condemns Taliban. They consider whatever attacks are being carried out in the name of Taliban; they are either Indian or Jewish agent. It is believed that middle class is change agent but in Pakistan they are conservative apologetic.

Security establishment along with their supporters in the form of right wing religious parties are busy enough to dent the democracy, so is enlightened media with their biases and hollow analysis.

Do you think removing PPP government is going to solve Pakistan’s problems?

Let us assume if PPP government is removed, is there any other force that enjoys public support from Karachi to Khyber?

Does alternate force present any strategic plan to address economy, deal with US, and peace talks with India, to deal with US pressure esp. war on terror ‘be it Quetta Shura or North Waziristan’? Does anyone have plans to address Balochistan issue better than PPP government?

We have already seen decades of Zia, Musharraf military rule but everyone knows what they delivered!! To conclude, eminent columnist Nadeem Paracha’s words speak volumes “Remember East Pakistan? No uniformed strong man or a mard-i-momin can save a country as diverse as ours. Stop getting lost in the middle-class fantasies of powerful men and glorious conquests. Vote, and then wait to vote out whom you do not like. Stop falling prey to fascist escapades dressed as patriotism, uprightness and worst of all, akhlaq. I would again urge…. Please Don’t Let Democracy Down!!!!

Cultural Heritage Lost in Chaotic Pakistan

2009-12-30T11:18:00.002+05:00

Tragic 28th December incident in Karachi, death of over 40 people during Muharram procession and aftermath carnage reminds me of Taliban. These days I am forced to think about Bamiyan Statue of Buddha, known as wonders of ancient world, I remember the way Taliban destroyed it, forcing my heart to bleed out of anger, pain and helplessness.

Great Indus Valley Civilization is lost in the dust of religious fundamentalism. Indus men smiles on modern day Pakistan, everyone is sad to see the way security establishment drags the green Indus land to get attached with extremist desertland of Arabia.

The road where carnage took place in Karachi has some of the finest historical buildings built during British rule, most of them burnt and destroyed. These buildings are just one and half kilometer away from historic KMC building and Merewether Tower. There are around 60 historical buildings, majority of them protected under the Sindh Cultural Heritage Protection Act.

It seems there is no place for art, culture, history and heritage when it comes to modern day extremist Pakistan.

Moen Jo Daro and Harrapa question us but we have no answer!! is anyone listening ???

Hmmmm, Golf is Real Sexy Game!!!

2009-12-25T17:52:00.004+05:00

Golf always reminds me of one sentence “men and rats always find new holes”. When it comes to golf, it is all about holes, poles, wet, grass/bush, sticks and balls.

Lately my cute friends dragged me into golf, for a moment I felt as if to me golf was an arranged marriage, when I got into it, LOVE HAPPENED!!

Tiger woods reminds us of the best golf one could ever imagine, he was lately caught his pants down. So far, around 13 women revealed that they slept with Mr. Woods; no wonder 13 reminds us of 18 holes in golf. I am sure Mr. Wood must have been passionate about the game; poor guy, his brain is programmed to think about holes. At times I get scared because too much focus on different holes is not good for healthy relationship.

For men, holes make golf sexy but for women it gets sexier because of the sticks and balls. Many women hate men esp. those men who are categorized as PIGS, while hitting balls women get pleasure to take out their anger.

Few of my friends have gone to a level where they believe that golf is far better than sex because it is perfectly respectable to golf with a total stranger. If you are having trouble with golf, it is perfectly acceptable to pay a professional to show you how to improve your technique. Your golf partner won't keep asking questions about other partners you've golfed with. If your regular golf partner isn't available, he/she won't object if you golf with someone else. Nobody will ever tell you that you will go blind if you golf by yourself. There is no such thing as a "golf transmitted disease." Nobody expects you to give up golfing if your partner loses interest in the game. Your golf partner will never say, "What ? We just golfed last week ! Is that all you ever think about ?". When you see a really good golfer, you don't have to feel guilty about imagining the two of you golfing together

Another interesting aspect of golf is even if the course is wet and bushy one can still play :p

Lately I got to know that in golf, foursome is encouraged and another interesting aspect is you don’t have to cuddle with your partner when you are finished. Even if your equipment gets old and rusty, you can replace it.

Isn’t it real sexy game??? :p

Bangladesh Victory Day Celebrations, Corrupt PPP & NRO!!!

2009-12-19T11:44:00.005+05:00

I was sitting in the smoking room, National Reconciliation Ordinance discussion followed me, watching TV, listening to FM radio and at coffee house with friends, and again NRO followed me like my shadow.

I tried to look beyond, was happy to see corrupt are made to face the judicial proceedings and people expect justice will prevail.

On the one hand it made me happy but on the other hand made me think, why one party again and again faces all sort of corruption charges. Well, one may argue they may be the most corrupt so that’s why they face the music, but I fail to understand every time we have elections PPP comes out as victorious. Maybe our poor, illiterate masses with their stinky sweaty clothes do not have conscious mind as our so called educated middle class civil society living in Karachi or Lahore.

NRO debate reminded me of history, unlike my middleclass educated urban friends I was not jubilant but storm of thoughts engulfed my mind.

Firstly it reminded me, ugly episode of early 90s, recent revelation of Brig Imtiaz, the ugly story of Operation Midnight Jackal, indiscriminate use of billions of tax payers’ money to topple an elected civilian government of PPP by security establishment.

It made me think, there is no justice and civil society is also dead, billions were used, misused and abused against the elected civilian government, is our justice only against PPP?????

On 16th Dec it was 38th victory day celebration at Bangladesh Embassy Washington DC, a photo exhibit was held. Exhibit displayed the photos of killing field of East Pakistan, as per independent account over 100,000 people were killed and over 200,000 women were raped by MUSLIM ARMY of Pakistan along with Al Badar and Al Shams killing squad.

It made me think, there was Hamood ur Rehman Commission, but NRO type all across pardon was issued, there was no war crime proceeding.

It also made me think, is Supreme Court going to cancel the 1970s NRO and re open the criminal proceedings against those who killed innocents, raped poor women in East Pakistan????

Following poetry makes me feel ashamed .....

Bangladesh

Bangladesh, in the long nine months

Were you with child,

Like a pregnant woman

You felt nauseated at times.

You couldn't eat well

You could not toil hard as before,

You carefully covered your distended belly

Lest someone discover your condition.

Your co-wife -- the West Pakistan

Often laughed at you and was sarcastic and acrimonious,

You were disgraced, insulted and persecuted.

You'd cry out in pregnancy-related pain

And wish you were dead,

But the expectation of seeing your upcoming child

You would endure all with a smile.

Your child is born today

You've forgotten

All the past suffering, disgrace and shame.

As you had carried your child for nine months

So have you so much care, affection and attachment for him!

Nurture, tend and protect

Your adorable son 'Independence.'

Today you are separated,

Your co-wife will no longer be able to disgrace you.

Go forward with your head held high,

Your child will

Place you on a pedestal

Among the nations of the world.

Condoms for Climate Change!!

2009-12-12T21:44:00.002+05:00

Copenhagen environment summit is the future of planet earth, rich countries raising their pledge on tackling climate change, reducing greenhouse emission by 25-45%.

On the one side people are calling it a landmark summit on the other hand environmental activist are out there demanding more action from rich countries.

This time an interesting idea discussed, it is not all about CO2 emission rather its about condoms for climate change!!

Interesting reports says "As the growth of population, economies and consumption outpaces the Earth's capacity to adjust, climate change could become much more extreme and conceivably catastrophic”.The world's population will likely rise from the current 6.7 billion to 9.2 billion in 2050, with most of the growth in less developed regions, according to a 2006 report by the United Nations.The U.N. Population Fund acknowledged it had no proof of the effect that population control would have on climate change. "The linkages between population and climate change are in most cases complex and indirect," the report said.

Ironically poor countries are on the forefront when it comes to producing babies, I guess strong message is for Pakistani’s to use condom and help environment.

Come on help save environment !!

The Divine Love legend - Sheh Murid and Hani “Romeo & Juliet of Balochistan”

2009-12-05T10:42:00.001+05:00

By Shagufta & Bijjar Baloch

Story of Sheh Murid & Hani is a symbol of pure and tragic love, it revolves around love, romance, miracle, mystery and human passion.

Story depicts the life of baloch, their emotions and philosophical idea ‘Good, Evil’

The story dates back to the 15th century, which is considered to be the heroic age of Balochistan and the classical period of Baloch literature. Sheh Murid was the son of Sheh Mubarak, the chief of the Kahiri tribe. At that time when a man was known for his arts, Murid was famous as having mastered the art of swordsmanship, horsemanship, and archery. For his skills and braveness he was ranked the highest in the army of Mir Chakar Khan Rind, the chief of the Baloch army.

Murid’s bow made of steel was so heavy & he was known as the “Lord of the Iron Bow”, because none but he alone could draw and shoot arrows from it.

Hani was the daughter of the Rind noble Mir Mandaw; some say she was Murid’s cousin.

She was a paragon of loyalty and devotion and everyone knew her for her good character and chastity. Hani was engaged to Sheh Murid and had been a childhood friend of Murid.

Legend says that one day when Mir Chakar and Sheh Murid were returning from hunting, they stopped at the town where their fiancées lived. Since a Baloch woman never appears before her betrothed before the wedding. Mir Chakar and Sheh Murid decided to visit each others’ fiancées.

Sheh Murid went to Mir Chakar’s fiancée, who brought him clean water in a silver bowl. Murid, dying of thirst, drank the entire bowl in a single gulp and became sick. However, when Mir Chakar went to Hani, Sheh Murid’s fiancée, she brought him clean water in a silver bowl in which she has placed dwarf palm leaf, properly washed. The chief was surprised by the pieces of straw, but he drank the water with care in order to avoid swallowing the straw. When he departed he found Murid vomiting and sick. Murid told him that the water had made him ill because he drank a lot of water on an empty stomach. Now Mir Chakar realized that Hani had acted wisely by putting pieces of straw into water.

May be that palm leaf ironically touched Mir Chaka'rs heart.

Some time later, Mir Chakar organized a gathering of poets where Baloch heroic poems were recited and chief from each tribe was invited.

Mir Chakar wanted to test Balochi values in invitees, asked each to take a vow “make a solemn Balochi promise” and stick it rest of the life, one may end up sacrificing a lot.

This was like, “the Balouch Honor” and for this they stand - their pride which eclipses the brightness of the Sun. A vow ‘solemn promise’ for which he will have to make the precious Sacrifice.

One of the Chief ‘Mir Jado’ swore that he would chop off the head of anyone who touched his beard at the assembly of nobles. Mir Chakar tested Mir Jado’s word by asking his young son to touch his father's beard during an assembly of nobles. The young boy innocently did as he was told; Mir Jado turned his face and moved the boy hoping no one noticed. However Mir Chakar encouraged the boy to repeat the action the boy grabbed his father's beard once more. The entire assembly became silent and looked towards Mir Jado. Will he be true to his word? Full of wrath, Jado unsheathes his sword and smites the head of his innocent son in the presence of all the Rind nobles.

Now it was time to test Sheh Murid and he hosted a festive gathering on his wedding and invited renowned poets to entertain the audience. And at the close of the festivities, Sheh Murid, was ready to depart with his possessions.

Mir Chakar asked for Hani. Sheh Murid was shocked; he thought that he would have asked for his bow which was a unique bow and he was a brilliant marksman with a strong bow. He was known as The Lord of the Iron Bow. With a heavy heart and much sadness he told Mir Chakar to take Hani.

The unexpected demand distressed him greatly, and Murid realized that he had lost Hani.

If he did not keep his vow he would be mocked and future generations would have contempt for his name. Soon after the annulment of Murid’s engagement with Hani, she was soon married to Mir Chakar.

Murid was so shaken by this turn of events that he abandoned his former life and passed the days and nights in worship of Allah. He also composed poems eulogizing Hani’s beauty and openly expressing his passionate love for her.

Later the scandalous news of Murid’s love for Mir Chakar’s wife became the talk of Balochistan. His father Sheh Mubarak tried to advise him, he composed a poem in Baluchi in response to his father’s advice;

My Shai mubark says, Oh Mureed leave your aloofness,Aloofness without purpose direction(purpose), For Chakar’s beautiful wife, In the assemblies you are not amongst your friends, You are like a walking corpse, Hani's love has blinded you, How will you carry on in this way, I replied, I advised my elderly father, I advised my respected father, Oh most honored father, Oh most esteemed, If you were in my place likewise, You would have left all your friends, And stopped going to assemblies and noble gatherings, You would have lost your mind, And not be aware of how you dressed,You would have clapped your hands, On your lap and be, In your own world, At least i am sometimes with it And sometimes not with it. Then Sheh Murid decided to leave the country and run away to unknown lands across the seas. Sheh Murid remained in Arabia for 30 along time during that time he truly became a beggar and lived the life of an ascetic.

After spending years away, he returned to Sibi in shabby clothes with his hair hanging down to his waist. In the company of a band of beggars he passed himself off as an anonymous mendicant begging for alms at the palace of Mir Chakar Khan Rind.

The maidservant gave bowls filled with grain to each mendicant, but when she presented this food to Murid, she saw that Murid’s eyes were fixed upon Hani. Hani recognized him at once but held herself back to avoid any suspicions, but Chakar saw a sparkle in her eyes.

How Hani felt I wonder the vows of a wife she has taken in one side and on the other side the part of her soul Murid. No body could recognize but Hani did, because they had played together as children. Hani recognized the mark on the upper left thigh, which her bracelet had made, and another one behind the eyebrow.

When the Rinds checked the marks, they at last recognized Sheh Murid.

Although Mir Chakar married Hani, however he was unable to consummate the marriage, whenever he approached Hani, he would freeze as if paralyzed. For years it was carried on this way and realized that Hani can never truly be his.

When he found out that Sheh Murid had returned, he told Hani that Sheh Murid was a great man and deserved her, so he divorced her and told her she was free to go to Sheh Murid.

Hani, who had not forgotten her first and only love, decided to go to him, she told him that Mir Chakar had realized his mistake and has now freed her so that they (i.e. Sheh Murid & Hani) could be together.

But Sheh Murid told her that he had now reached a different level and cannot step down from that to be with her. To Sheh, Hani was a mean by which he had reached closer to Allah.

He took left her and later he visited his father’s camel herd, chose a white camel, mounted her, and disappeared from mortal eyes.

He has become the immortal saint of the Baloch, and the common belief among the Baloch is that: ta jahan ast, Sheh Murid ast (Until the living world, Sheh Murid remains immortal and their eternal love remains.)

Love is such a blessing and it is Divine. Beyond any explanation or definition.

Disclaimer “Original post is edited by Imran Baloch for concise reading”

Sindh is in Bolivia!!! Not in Pakistan!!!!

2009-12-02T21:22:00.002+05:00

I just got to know that pseudo intellectuals on Pakistani junk Urdu channels believe that Sindh is not part of Pakistan but it is somewhere located in Bolivia, Nigeria or in Papua New Guinea.

BBC Urdu bloggers are thought provoking; lately I came across an interesting blogpost written by Wusatullah Khan, he writes “President Zardari during his recent visit to President Karzai’s oath taking ceremony in Kabul, wore Sindhi cap, it is so sad that one local TV showed two pseudo intellectuals alleging Zardari for using Sindh card. They further discussed that representing country in regional dress is not at all acceptable”.

Another interesting argument I came across, whenever an Army dictator ‘we had so many, we are a Generals producing nation’ visits abroad in Army uniform no body mentions it as Fauji “Army Card”. If Prime Minister visits in tie suit, nobody dare to say it is Western Card. If any leader lands in Riyadh in Kameez Shalwar, no one mentions, its a Punjabi, Pakhtun, Sindhi, Seraiki or Baloch Card but pseudo intellectual thinks if one wears Sindhi cap, it weakens the essence of federation!!!

Same mindset, labeled Bengalis traitors, even they were on the forefront in Pakistan movement, reason was, they refused to wear Kameez Shalwar and Jinnah Cap. Around 37 years ago, when Sindh province wanted Sindhi to be provincial language, same mindset chanted slogans “ Urdu Ka Janaza Hay, Zara Dhom Say Niklay” “ Death of Urdu Language”. It resulted in bloodbath, one would never forget.

Wusatullah makes an interesting point, he mentions, “If we allow these pseudo intellectuals, they will remove Jinnah’s pictures in Lakhnavi Pajama citing that it was an Indian card, in Qurakali Cap citing it was Baloch card, in English hat citing it was an imperial card. They may burn Iqbal's picture in red Turkish cap, alleging him for playing Turkish Card.

Lastly he mentions that these pseudo intellectuals do no know that in 1947 when Sindh Assembly passed resolution for joining Pakistan, Muslim parliamentarians were wearing Sindhi Cap. These people don’t know that Sindhi cap is also worn in Punjab, NWFP, and Balochistan and in Afghanistan.

To conclude, how long we let these naïve pseudo intellectuals, who don’t know anything about history , culture and geography to come on TV and divide all of us ???

Women, Depreciation, Sperm Donor & Marriage Pressure!!

2009-11-30T00:11:00.004+05:00

Ageing women, depreciation, asset utilization and marriage pressure revolves around time. Asset is utilized in time, better kept; everyone knows depreciation ends up with salvage value and ultimate disposal.

I am lucky enough that I have awesome thinking female friends, today we were sitting on comfy chairs facing grass on one side and sea on the other , discussion started with marriage age, family pressure and concept of depreciation.

It is general belief that older one gets, chances of getting better proposal diminishes. Sooner one gets a life partner better it is. Ageing women’s life is like a depreciating asset, older the asset lower the value. Well, without arguing, discussion continued.

We know that in the past average marriage age was 20 for woman, now there are many more financially independent working women, looking for happiness in relationship instead of getting married for the sake of it or accepting the family and peer pressure.

During the discussion I came across another phenomenon, peer pressure, married woman influencing career oriented independent minded single woman. Few of my friends believe that marriage is not all about getting a ring and sperm donor; rather it is finding a partner for happy living.

Fear of loneliness is another factor for independent minded single working women, they fear that what if their friends move on with their lives and ageing single women may end up living lonely life, to them marriage goal is companionship rather than finding a sperm donor.

There is no harm in getting into an institution of marriage or pursuing an independent single life until one finds the right partner. Family and peer pressure is and will always be there if someone defies norms.

I would rather say do not settle until you find true love or companion, happiness should be the ultimate goal beyond social pressure.

Modern Men Redefining Style!!!

2009-11-28T18:48:00.003+05:00

You think being trendy and stylish is women’s domain, forget it, modern men are out there to redefine style.

Lately I was at L’Oreal launch in Karachi, I saw men in casual to formal and trendy dresses, but what really amused me was “Men’s Jewelry”.

Amin Guljee is one of the biggest names when it comes to jewelry design both for women and men, I still remember our interactions at SPA and his creative men’s jewelry designs always made me envy.

Lately I was in Malaysia, I got to see, designers are devoting more time, attention and store space when it comes to Men’s Jewelry.

I came across Men’s trend magazine, It says “men are showing desire to want to show their identity and they are at ease and confident enough to complement a watch with a bracelet, necklace or ring.

I always loved sporty stuff, Columbia sportswear watch has always been my favorite, thin lined leather necklace with rustic jewelry is too boyish, I never go for it. I find Japanese businessmen wearing stainless steel, black diamonds or titanium rings. I would rather say these rings are common among younger men with an urban taste.

Athletes have always been trendsetter in men’s jewelry but trendy stuff is getting into urban men.

Let us see, what come ahead for modern men!!!

I Hate You !!!!

2009-11-28T11:03:00.005+05:00

Whenever I discuss social issues with friends and look around chaotic societies, such as ours, I come across a lot of burning desire inside people and society, one may call it hate.Frankly speaking I may dislike people or things but hate is not my cup of tea. At times I wonder what really hate is and why do we hate???

Today I was scanning the online newspapers and came across New York Times, freakonomics section article “Why Do We Hate” ??It writes “What makes hate tick? How can we stop it?” These are the questions that Jim Mohr, director of Gonzaga University’s Institute for Action Against Hate, asks himself every day as he develops a new field of study around hate.Mohr explains that hates may be by-product of fear, greed and the desire to belong.

I never imagined, our universities would be conducting detailed studies on Hate Science !!!Everyone knows anti-Semitism, Aryans, Bosnia to all across Africa, hatred based on religion or nationalism is caused havoc to human civilization.

I tried to find out the real meaning of hatred, as per Aristotle “hate is the incurable desire to annihilate an object”, whereas Sigmund Freud defined it as an “Ego state that wishes to destroy the source of its unhappiness”Both definitions are deep enough to enable one to understand the emotional make up that is called HATE.

We know hate is part of all of us, but as civilized human being we have to learn to control it.People believe hate thrives in areas not illuminated by education, it is also believed that people dehumanize people and justify violence against others.

Let us wait for the hate study findings, hope we move forward as civilized and mature human society.

Women Suicide Bombers, Kill & Go to Heaven !!!

2009-11-27T19:02:00.003+05:00

Women suicide bombers, a new phenomenon introduced during Iraq war. Every women bomber has different reason to go on killing spree, loved one’s death to religious reason.

Lately I came across an interesting article published in prestigious Guardian; its title is “Inside the mind of a female suicide bomber”.

It’s an interesting story of a woman, Baida, a suicide bomber jailed after her failed attempt to blow herself. She lost her father and brother; ironically she opted to blow herself. Her story is intriguing, living in an isolated community dominated by extremists, women in such areas are powerless, most of them have no control to make decisions such as whom to marry, how many children to have etc.

It is yet another interesting fact, women choose to become suicide bombers for the sake of special destiny i.e., heaven, most of them put on make up and dress up before blowing.

The surprising part I got to know was Baida’s explanation, she is clear “when it is halal ‘permitted’ to kill a person and when it is forbidden!!!! She justifies the killing of innocent American construction workers and she is willing to explode if anyone is Jewish.

Another astonishing aspect I came to know, when interviewer was about to leave, Baida mentioned, had she not known the interviewer, she would have killed her.

I just fail to understand, in certain societies, killing in the name of religion is so rampant, just to kill if one disagrees with others. There may be reasons but indiscriminate killing because of different faith or nationality is astonishing.

How long this killing spree would continue in the name of religion, ethnicity, heaven and hell ?????

Lisa Ray; Simple & Captivating!!!

2009-11-27T17:30:00.007+05:00

Lisa is one of the most beautiful girls reminds all of us that beauty is not all about putting alot of make up and wearing heavy jewelry. Her aura is all about simplicity, late thirties but looks gorgeous with captivating looks.

I still remember her cool performance in Bollywood/Hollywood, she has her own individuality.

Her blue eyes make her different but the way she carries herself is superb.

She is beautiful, charismatic, when I see her, only one thing comes in my mind she can never go wrong when it comes to style.

Enough of hardcore politics and intellectual stuff, thought of exploring Masala stuff over weekend to lighten my mood.

Heard she is going to appear in a Masala Movie, fingers crossed.

Mumbai Nightmare!!!

2009-11-27T10:32:00.003+05:00

It was 26th Nov 08, one of the scariest morning people of Mumbai could ever imagined.10 gunmen carried a deadly rampage, targeting the India’s economic capital, Taj Hotel, Train Stations, killing 166 and injuring 300 people.

It is one of the brutal acts of minority, killing innocent civilians, people of Pakistan condemn such acts and hope sanity prevails and hope the forces of violence would face defeat.

We always hope for a peaceful and prosperous South Asia.

Balochistan Package; Too Little Too Late!!!!!

2009-11-24T22:14:00.006+05:00

Enough is enough, I am going to go to mountains, apologize, hug them and say Big Sorry to our Baloch brothers “President Zardari”

I am all for development, I have developed Balochistan, look around mega projects, there are only three sardars against the development “President Musharraf”

The Balochistan is one of the regions with long history of struggle, pain, cry and blood. Finally we see yet another rhetoric 'time will tell' known as Aghaz e Huqooq e Balochistan “New Beginning for the Rights of Balochistan” has finally been presented in Parliament.

As per the package, Army would be sent back to barracks, people believe that army treated everyone in colonial fashion, the way Israeli army treats Palestinian in West Bank and Gaza.

Under contraction Army Garrisons would be handed over to Frontier Constabulary, people believe that everyone knows the role of FC; lately bullets were sprayed on innocent men, women and children in Buleda. FC is one of the most hated forces in Balochistan is going to be stationed in Sui.

Government promised to conduct an inquiry on the killing of Nawab Bugti, well people reminds everyone that there is a long list starts with brutal and forceful invasion of the State of Kalat on 28th March 1948. It began with the humiliation of Khan Karim then killing of aged Nawab Noroze Khan to killing of over 5,000 innocent men, women and children during 70s, killing of Bugti and displacement of over 80,000 people.

Ordinary people are skeptic and they believe, how would just one inquiry ‘we are not sure anyone acts on the findings’ heal over 60 years of pain and cry!!!

As per package FC would report to Chief Minister, Baloch reminds us that everyone knows that Chief of Army Staff reports to Prime Minister but poor Bloody Civilian could easily be toppled by twenty to fifty men in Uniform.

Package consists of constitutional, political and administrative clauses. It also talks about Political Autonomy but if one talks to people they do not want to hear the word Pakistan and their struggle is for the right of self rule.

It also talks about transferring gas development surcharge from 1954 to 1990; people on the other hand want to have control over their resources instead of waiting for Islamabad’s transfer of few billions. To them its charity and they want the ownership.

All political prisoners would be freed, people believe that State frorces have kidnapped hundreds and State denies that none is in the custody. Package says only people without serious charges will be freed, but people believe that every other person in custody has serious charges.

People are skeptic, its need of the hour to trace back kidnapped/missing persons, if they were illegally detained, strong measures to be taken against the brutal forces.

Scholarship for students announced but people want institutions not scholarships. 5,000 jobs announced, people don’t want jobs they ant to own the resources.

There is extreme mistrust between State and Baloch, people think they are at war; whole issue is about the rights of resource ownership and it revolves around national and democratic question of Balochistan.

People do not trust, they want UN intervention, a third credible party to ensure the rights of people.

Lastly, I lament that no nationalist politician in Balochistan or in exile was consulted .

Issue requires deeper understanding, to conclude, I would still say it is a good beginning to use it as confidence building measures but it is a long way to go!!!

America We Hate –Love You!!!!!

2009-11-21T21:16:00.004+05:00

It was early November last year; I was on my way to Islamabad’s diplomatic enclave for my US Visa interview. I came across a long queue, full of religious men and women, long beards and Hijab to rock stars and aspiring youth. Women reciting Holy Quranic verses and I could hear ‘good luck in Urdu, i.e., Inshallah Hojaega”.

But ironically, I read range of papers writing that majority of Pakistanis hate America!!! For me it is difficult to see, who hates and why, all my friends who hate America, they love to be in America. When I see McDonalds, American lifestyle, jeans, music, movies, Pakistani are deeply hooked. Deeply religious people along with their families are usually found at McDonalds; even KFCs Iftar meal was deeply supported by religious consumers.

Anyways, coming back from Islamabad, I got my visa, selected to represent Pakistan in US- Department of State International Visitors Leadership Program ‘IVLP’, I am glad I was one of the few lucky ones to be offered. This was a complete exposure trip and I got to see East Coast to Southern Biblical belt to Mormon Land in Utah to all the way to Seattle North West of US.

Trip enlightened me to experience US first hand; there are so many positives beside American foreign policy. I found Americans friendly, hard working, diverse yet united, amazingly autonomous at grass root level, a place where non governmental organizations and charity play an important role. On the one side, one may finds wealth but on the other side capitalistic foul plays and systematic oppression is also evident.

I came across an interesting interview on New York Times web, Pakistani rock star Ali Azmat to Noori showing hatred for America, but singing in American style. Blaming everything on US, fueled with conservative apologetics rhetoric and they deny condemning Taliban.

Even one of the largest religious party’s leader's grand daughter lives in US and grandpa is running Anti American campaign.

Only one word comes in my mind “Hypocrite”.

Most of the rich families, running hate America campaign, but their kids are at US universities, most of them speak English and their vacation destination is again US.

I came across an interesting article in Washington Post and Daily Dawn, it argues that elites are mainly running the Anti American campaign in Pakistan, their survival is in Pakistan, most of them mint money through corruption, tax evasion etc. Poor struggles for piece of bread and only the middle class struggles hard and looks for safer avenues to continue life.Everyone urges US to woo middle class for serious change in the country, largely affecting the reigon.

Within Pakistan, unless we have common goals benefiting all, the country will always teeter at the brink of disaster.

FIFA 2010- Fun is About to Begin.

2009-11-19T21:42:00.007+05:00

Soccer is one of the most famous sports across the globe. FIFA world cup is the most awaited events, this time its big AFRICAN PARTY in South Africa . I have always been in love with Argentine, finally they made it, France and Portugal other two teams, had to struggle. Arab world is not there, Algeria finally made it. Qualifying process witnessed alot of heat, esp Egypt vs Algeria and now France is under fire, esp the Henery's hand ball and curcual goal.

Here is the list of qualifying teams ' double click following pictures to see the full page listing'

Impressive Adhuna Akhtar , Hot Kareena & Fiery Shive Sena !!!!

2009-11-15T11:37:00.006+05:00

My weekend Bollywood scan revolved around Adhuna Akhtar and Kareena Kapoor. Adhuna's individualistic aura impressed me alot, her hair style to dressing sense kept her apart from the crowd. I am always impressed with girls, building their own identity, confidence and self belief. Adhuna lately appeared in a Bollywood grand party, she had the coolest and the most different hairstyle, wearing jeans, loose shirt and also appeared on stage with a guitar. She also runs a saloon, guess she is bit older than Farhan but has her own presence, diverse and different.

On the other hand i was surprised to see angry Shive Sena, i thought only Pakistan has crazy bunch of fundos but India is no more less. Bebo 'Kareena' and Saif's latest movie Kurban poster has been talk of the town. Kareena's bare back annoyed the puritans "Shive Sena", they removed the posters and warned if movie contains sensual scenes they will forcefully stop the movie.I just fail to understand, why select few love doing social policing, we never let people to decide what to watch and what no !! Morality and limits to the acceptance of sensuality are different from person to person. It is sad, a piece of nude sculpture may look vulgar to one but other may find it a piece of art. So, anyways, all eyes glued to Kareena with zero figure in Kurban movie.

Confused Pakistanis Need Mullah Omar; Down With America !!!! Talibans aren't Monsters !!!!

2009-11-14T17:51:00.006+05:00

Pakistani musicians believe, Taliban are not bad, they are non issue, it is infidel West and America 'Neo Cons' want to de-islamize the Pakistani society. I was shocked to hear, musicians represent the youth of Pakistan, influence them, coming up with the most cliched rhetorical crap along with lyrics based on conspiracy theory .To me, if someone says Gosh, Pakistanis do not deserve Taliban, i would rather say, no we deserve them.

They destroy schools, kill civilians but our confused nation lines up with range of conspiracy theories all the way starting from CIA to Mosad and Raaw. Well, if India can find Pakistani hands behind Mumbai attack, they simply take it to international court and convince international forces with evidence. Our Commandos 'Sipah e Salar' in media make so much hue and cry but no evidence of xyz involvement has ever been shared .

On the same issue, i came across an interesting New york Times article, it writes, "While Pakistani journalists, playwrights and even moderate Islamic clerics have boldly condemned the Taliban, the nation’s pop music stars have yet to sing out against the group, which continues to claim responsibility for daily bombings. The violence has no shortage of victims in addition to the dead: more than three million people have become refugees, and more than 200 schools for girls have been destroyed. And the musicians I spoke to have suffered as well, which makes it all the more surprising that they are reluctant to criticize the militants".

Balochistan is the example of gross human rights violation, as per Human Rights reports, hundreds have been kept in jails without trial, disappearance of innocent is the order of the day. Political struggle is all about poor people living on the richest land asking for their due economic share as per constitution.

Well, National Security State and its media simply sweeps it under rug through blaming India.

Media, educated middle class, pop singers and corporate zombies have merely become patriotic conservative Islamic apologist just blaming everything on America !!!!

I guess, our nation deserves Mullah Omar!!!!!

"Watch Ali Azmat and Noori with their Patriotic Crap"
http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/11/an-american-accent-to-pakistani-rock/

Meera & English Speaking Pakistani Class!!!

2009-11-07T23:59:00.002+05:00

Meera has lately been talk of the media, recent video on facebook made me laugh on our English speaking proud Pakistanis.

Once the video was made public, it was loaded by every other person on the facebook. Meera was on a show with ‘I guess’ Tappu Javeri, she was struggling with English sentence and constantly pronounced it wrong. Uff Meera’s struggle with English made every other person on the internet to have laughing strokes but most of them survived.

Anyways, I am sure most of our so called partially educated English speaking class thanked God that they speak English and some of speakers with accent must had felt proud.

In no other country language skills considered superior than the substance or the thoughts of an educated person. Unfortunately, so called educated English speaking class lack social consciousness and substance, focus more on linguistics skills than the actual knowledge base. No one denies the importance of English in today’s world but it is not the only criteria to judge a persons skill or depth.

All of them who shared the video, must had been to colleges or universities and their comments made me laugh and depicted the depth of their academic profile.

I am sad to see this in Pakistan, in entire globe, for instance during my last trip to Japan, I saw people giving a lot of importance to education not English or the language. In Pakistan, most of the elite make it to English medium schools to learn the language, when it comes to substance; unfortunately hollow generation is being developed.

If English is the criteria than lets laugh out loud on majority of Pakistanis, I am sure they can not speak English.

Pakistan Fashion Week Goes Bolder!! We are Not Extremists!!

2009-11-07T09:49:00.008+05:00

Whenever I talk to any of my friends in US, they think Pakistan is a place dominated by Taliban & their supporters. General perception is that women are forced to stay back home and streets are full of extremists with long beards and weapons.

No way, it is not our Pakistan, there may be small tribal areas one may find such pictures but when it comes to Karachi, Lahore or Islamabad, we are moderate as well as modern in our outlook towards life.

Lately Pakistan Fashion Week kick starts in my city Karachi, it was postponed, venue was changed, amidst threats from minority extremists but the show goes on. Karachi defies extremism and says no to barbaric minority " unfortunately its known fact that some elements in Pak security institutions do back such elements to maximize so called strategic gains, but Pakistani majority does not support all."

Karachi shows the true image of the people of Pakistan. Hope western media depicts the other side of the coin where majority belong i.e., moderate and modern Pakistani society.

Pakistan Pakistan Pakistan !!

2009-11-05T20:54:00.003+05:00

I came across an interesting poetry, just wanted to share;

سوچ رہا ہے پاکستان
نہ کوئی دھندا نہ کوئی کام

بم دھماکے، ٹریفک جام

جیتا مرتا ہے گمنام

ہو سکے نہ دونوں رام

طالبان، القاعدہ ادغام

مدرسے بند، تعلیم ابہام

این آر او صیاد کا دام

ساری تدبیریں ناکام

دنیا بھر میں پھر بدنام

ہوگا اس کا کیا انجام؟
سوچ رہا ہے پاکستان

My Love For Omar Khayyam !!

2009-11-01T21:03:00.002+05:00

I came across Persian Poet Omar Khayyams Rubaiyat, preaching about living each day instead of worrying for future. His writings remind me the words STOP WORRYING AND START LIVING. His message is very powerful message and is still valid.

Omar Khayyam, Iranian poet, philosopher, mathematicians, astronomer born in 1048 AD. His work translated by Fitz Gerald in English, making his work available for rest of the world.

Here is his powerful Rubai, living life in Today instead of worrying for tomorrows reward.

Alike for those who for TO-DAY prepare,
And those that after a TO-MORROW stare,
A Muezzin from the Tower of Darkness cries
"Fools! your Reward is neither Here nor There."

Ah, fill the Cup:—what boots it to repeat
How Time is slipping underneath our Feet:
Unborn TO-MORROW and dead YESTERDAY,
Why fret about them if TO-DAY be sweet!

One Moment in Annihilation's Waste,
One moment, of the Well of Life to taste—
The Stars are setting, and the Caravan
Starts for the dawn of Nothing—Oh, make haste!

How long, how long, in infinite Pursuit
Of This and That endeavour and dispute?
Better be merry with the fruitful Grape
Than sadden after none, or bitter, Fruit.

To celebrate his writing there are various active Omar Khayyam Fan Clubs, they meet and share his writings.

Hillary’s Hijab & Nilofar’s Parachute Jump!!

2009-11-01T16:52:00.001+05:00

Hillary Clinton wore Hijab in her recent Pakistan visit, showing deep respect and understanding for Pakistani culture. Americans involved in foreign affairs do go through rigorous process of learning about their area of interests’ culture, language and values etc.

On the one hand when I saw Hillary in Hijab, a question came in my mind, will any in US start calling Hillary a lady influenced by Islam, Pro Taliban or Pro Islam etc. On the other hand another question came in mind, if any Pakistani woman visits US, shakes hands, wear western dresses, will all of us ignore it, and accept it as if one was showing respect to US culture or brand her pro west and make hue and cry.

I still remember the hue and cry, once Nilofar Bakhtiar, former Pakistani Minister for Tourism, opted for charity parachute jump in France. I remember the clerics stated that it was "an illegitimate and forbidden act, and that without any doubt, she has committed a great sin, and that Muslim women must stay at home and must not venture out uncovered”.

We are so biased in our approach when it comes to women, we love regulating social behavior, and impose code of dressing etc, why don’t we let women to decide what to wear and what not !!!!!

Pakistan's Drift into Extremism, Allah, the Army, and America's War on Terror !!

2009-10-31T12:40:00.003+06:00

War on Terror is getting bloodier, resulting into bleeding Pakistan, dying civilians, bomb blasts, insecurity and killing of innocent civilians.

Pakistanis generally believe that war on terror is imposed by Bush on Pakistan; invasion of Afghanistan is a scheme of US, India and Israel to destabilize Pakistan resulting in the break up and ultimate capture of nuclear weapons.

It is well known that Islamists have always been used to extend Pakistani influence in Afghanistan, it has always been considered Pakistani backyard that provides strategic depth.

It is also believed that in an environment of distrust and insecurity, it is imperative for Pakistani security agencies to find proxies to minimize insecurity posed by regional powers.

To buy security various groups were recruited as proxies “Sept 09 Newsline Magazine writes”, Madrassas nurturing armies of young Islamic militants ready to embrace martyrdom have been on the rise for years in the Punjab. In fact, South Punjab has become the hub of jihadism. Yet, some how, there are still many people in Pakistan who refuse to acknowledge this threat.

Four major militant outfits, the Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan (SSP), Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT), are all comfortably ensconced in South Punjab (see article “Brothers in Arms” in Newsline). Sources claim that there are about 5,000 to 9,000 youth from South Punjab fighting in Afghanistan and Waziristan. A renowned Pakistani researcher, Hassan Abbas cites a figure of 2,000 youth engaged in Waziristan”.

To me, it is logical that actions should be the by products of strategy, it is well known that strategically the extremist outfits have never been considered a threat by Pakistani security thinkers.

US so far failed to address the security mindset, failed to remove their insecurities. Instead of addressing the issue at strategic level, US focus is too narrow, pushing reluctant Pakistan to act, forced to cooperate at tactical level. In short US failed to buy security for Pakistan and it seems two allies are pursuing different goals, relationship lacks goal alignment.

Recent Hillary Clinton visit to Pakistan demonstrate that instead of focusing on changing the mindset , Ms Clinton again pushes reluctant Pakistan, New York Times writes, “ Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, on a visit meant to improve relations with Pakistan, strongly suggested Thursday that some Pakistani officials bore responsibility for allowing terrorists from Al Qaeda to operate from safe havens along this country’s frontier.

“I find it hard to believe that nobody in your government knows where they are, and couldn’t get to them if they really wanted to,” she said to a group of Pakistani journalists on her second day here. “Maybe that’s the case; maybe they’re not gettable. I don’t know.”

US actions requires two pronged approach, alter the mindset that finds security for Pakistan in nurturing the extremists.

US should work on convincing Pakistan that it is not in their benefit to use extremists, -help in buying them security esp. Indo-Pak ties and Afghanistan.

On the other hand, problem is so deep; Can Pakistan affords to detach itself from religious ideology, security mindset visualizes the world through religious glasses, it means choosing friends and foes on the basis of religion?? Can it survive as democratic secular, non interfering welfare state, having peaceful relations with neighboring countries or national security state is the answer???

It is complex, only a win-win approach is going to be fruitful, US strategy must buy Pakistan security, otherwise any action imposed, may have random results.

Extremist monster will haunt Pakistani society, region and result in an insecure world. It is time to act before it is too late.

More I Think More I Hate!!!

2009-10-26T21:33:00.004+06:00

More I Think More I Hate!!!

People lost conscious
People have no civic sense
They defy human sanctity
They say no to civilization

People love Lying
It is a national character
Backbiting is entertaining
It is a national sport
We love talking in the back
Joy, fun, frolic is kick ass
We love our religion
Moral policing is second nature

Ohh Women
Stay away from women
An object of sin
So keep her away
Save pious men

She is to be beaten
She is born slave
Man is superior
Women is naïve
Keep her as sex slave
Produce babies
And keep her in the cave

Kill her in the name of honor
Kill her in the name of morality
Make her parade naked
Bury her alive, she brings shame

More I think more I hate
More I think more I hate
It is an ugly society
I can not relate
I feel alien
I feel odd
More I think more I hate
More I think more I hate

You screw around
You are a macho
You are a Man
She enjoys freedom
She is fast
She is slut
She is whore
She is to be beaten
She is born slave

More I think more I hate
More I think more I hate
It is not the place i relate
It is not the place i relate

The Kite Runner; Stealing is the only Sin????

2009-10-26T17:21:00.001+06:00

I came across an interesting movie/novel, following words made me think about the whole concept of morality.

Conversation between child and father conveys a universal message;

"Now, no matter what the mullah teaches, there is only one sin, only one. And that is theft. Every other sin is a variation of theft. Do you understand that?

"When you kill a man, you steal a life," Baba said. "You steal his wife’s right to a husband, rob his children of a father. When you tell a lie, you steal someone’s right to the truth. When you cheat, you steal the right to fairness. Do you see?"

Think about it.

Saudi Female Sentenced to 60 LASHES!!!! Poor Muslim Woman !!!

2009-10-25T21:25:00.004+06:00

I am stunned to hear the news that a Saudi female journalist has been sentenced to 60 lashes over TV show. It was a show in which a Saudi man talked about his extra marital sex life.

Well, in general Muslim men are the worst when it comes to Booze and Sex esp. whenever they are traveling abroad. It is not hidden truth that they are repressed, just like hungry cow, when they see green pasture, they run like crazy.

We as society do not question anything goes behind the scene but when it comes to talking we become the most pious and self proclaimed moral police.

Well that report says “A female journalist in Saudi Arabia has been sentenced to 60 lashes over a TV show in which a Saudi man described his extra-marital sex life. The programme, made by Lebanese satellite network LBC, caused a huge scandal in conservative Saudi Arabia when it was shown several months ago.

The journalist is one of two female LBC employees who have been arrested. The station's offices in Saudi Arabia were closed down and two of its producers - both female - put on trial.

Ironically, however, LBC is part-owned by the Saudi media mogul and billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal.

Roasters; Stop Throwing Bread Bowls…Consumers Wake Up!!!!!!

2009-10-25T19:22:00.001+06:00

Roasters Gourmet Coffee House is one of my favorite dine out places. Lately, I was shocked to hear that left over food is thrown, instead of sharing it with hungry homeless people.

Last week, I was working late; had an interesting discussion with two of my colleagues on various aspects of cruel capitalism and pseudo green branding of brutal blood sucking Multinational Organizations.

I shared a story, how Coke Branded schools in US and disallowed them to discuss anti Coke topics such as their investments in dictatorial African countries!! Discussion moved on with citations on Shells alleged killing of environmental activists in Africa.

One of the colleagues lately tried soup in bread bowl at Roasters Restaurant Zamzama Karachi, no one questions the delicious foods, deserts and aromatic coffee, what bothered my colleague was their throwing of full bread bawl. He was assuming that left bread is shared with homeless on the streets, in the midst of sky rocketing flour prices in the country. When he asked one of the waiters, it was informed that left over breads bowls are not shared with homeless people rather dumped in garbage bin. It shocked him and I was also stunned to hear that.

I still remember that in developed societies consumers have strong power; they go all the way to buy green products or support organizations having strong corporate social responsibility track record. During my Feb 09 US visit to Wall Street, I was surprised to get to know about Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

These restaurants exist because of the consumers, if we question, influence restaurants, small step may force them to share the left over food with homeless and it would make a difference.

It may a beginning but as consumers, we can force organizations to act in responsible manner.

Just think about it, we can make a difference!!!

Women; An Object of Sin !!!! Oh Mullah

2009-10-25T15:18:00.006+06:00

One of the LUMS students Malia wrote a poem in protest against “Moral Policing Mentality” in Pakistan.

ملا نے سکھایا اک سیانی کو سبق
کسی زن کے قریب آے نہ کوئی نر
ہے اک یہ ہی رب کا امر
اسی پر تو بس کرنا فکر
اسی پر دین ہے قائم
اسی سے ہے روسّں قبر
اسی سے بنیں قومیں امر
کسی زن کے قریب آے نہ کوئی نر
ہے فرنگی کا مکر Freewill
دخل ذاتیات ہے رب کا امر
بازارمیں بہن کو جوتے لگا کر سوچتا پسر
سوات کا واقعہ ہے قوموں کا فخر
لگائیں زنا بالجبر پراندھی بچی کو کوڑے اگر
تو پھر بھی نہ کرے کوئی فکر
کہ عقل کا استعمال ہے گناہ کبر
یہ قیمتی ہے صرف تو اسے نہ کر
بس ھاتھ میں تو اپنے اب پکڑ
اک موٹا سا ڈنڈا ذر
ااور جا بجا گھنٹی ہر اک کہ گھر
کھل کہ تانک جھانک تو کیا کر
کہ کسی زن کے قریب آے نہ کوئی نر
ہے یہ ہی اک میرے رب کا امر
جو تیرا ہمسایہ گیا بھوک سی مر
کیوں تجھے ھوتی ہے فکر
گر گیا راہ پر جو کسی کا پدر
تو کیوں کر کرے کوئی فکر
بیاہ دے قرآن سے بیٹی اگر
نہ تو پھر بھی کوئی کرے ذکر
چھین لیا کسی نے کسی کا در
بس پھر بھی نہ تو ہو مضطر
یہ سب معاملات کہ تو ہو غافل ذر
اکہ آ سکے زن کہ قریب یہ مردود نر
جھوٹ چوری رشوت سب پر تو کرنا صبر
بس کسی ناری کہ قریب ایے نہ نر
کہ اسی سے بنی قومیں امر
سائنس کی کبھی نہ تو کرنا فکر
معاشیات پر بھی نہ کرنا نظر
اور فنون لطیفہ ہے کیا مکر
کس نے کہا ہے کہ یہ ہے کوئی ہنر
اورانسانیت میں ہے نہیں کوئی ثمر
جب آ گیا ناری کہ قریب کوئی نر

Please Don't Kiss in Public, LUMS Bans Kissing???

2009-10-16T23:55:00.006+06:00

As LUMS student, I am sad to hear that premier institute has taken away the personal rights of students, when they announced ban on KISSING on campus. I had been following the email threads and discussions on pros and cons on Public Display of Affection, but I tend no to agree with argument that anything against the social norms should be banned.

Issue was raised when a student peck her boyfriend on the cheek during Ramadan. It was not a French Kiss rather a simple PECK.

Public display of affection is a debatable issue; everyone has his or her limits regarding how much is too much!! Socially if I look at, on the one hand there are many of my friends who do not shake hands on the other hand there are female friends who shake hands as well as kiss on the cheek. To me it is one’s personal choice and matter of comfort, no one should have right to dictate someone what is right or wrong.

Behind the doors as hypocrite society everything is acceptable but in public, majority wears a social mask and looks pious and expects others to behave as per THEIR defined framework. Was Peck on the cheek alarming or during Ramadan, well its personal choice if someone doesn’t follow religion, it is his or her choice. It doesn’t mean that if someone doesn’t follow the defined code of behavior, he or she is being disrespectful to religion or society. Come on, peck on the cheeks is simply a sweet natural human behavior, what is harm in it.

I have seen LUMS in harmony, students working under the umbrella of LUMS religious society, whatever they do they have liberty, similarly music society , Arts and Drama society, girls and guys attending prayers in the central mosque or students dancing in campus concerts, girls in Hejab and girls in Capri’s or Jeans with low neck are not frowned upon. To me, as long as if anything doesn’t affect others people should not have any issue.

I have seen female students sitting on the lap of fellow male students, why one should raise eyebrows, it is such a simple and natural human behavior.

Universities are places, students do not follow conventional wisdom and norms, Hippie culture was the by product of campuses, students defied the prevailing culture. LUMS is a place I came across students questioning the existence of God and relevance of religion, it is positive thing that one must question everything under the sun but at the same time one should not have any right to disrespect or hurt anyone’s feelings.

I guess to regulate student behavior is not going to help; if someone wants to get intimate I hardly think anything would stop him or her.

Its better to discuss the pros and cons of socially acceptable behavior and let students decide out of choice to practice socially acceptable norms or go their own away.

I expect LUMS would relook this; else Student bodies should challenge the behavior regulation.

This blog excerpts published in prestigious Indian media;

Zee News

(http://www.zeenews.com/news571784.html)

Deccan Herald

(http://www.deccanherald.com/content/31284/to-kiss-not-kiss-keeps.html)

Times of India

(http://iplextra.indiatimes.com/quote/0gqK9Zcdv27Ei?q=Pink)

The Statesman

(http://www.thestatesman.net/page.news.php

PIA’s in-flight Etiquettes and Manners Lecture!!!

2009-10-14T22:13:00.003+06:00

It was six thirty I was inside PIAs flight heading from Lahore to Karachi. After tiring trip I thought of a good read and then go for nap. As usual airhostess continues with announcement, its routine and no one pays attention.

Well, after a while, again a series of announcement continued, this time it simply made me attentive, it was an in flight etiquettes and manner lecture in the sky.

I have been through one of the most boring flights of JAL from Tokyo to Osaka and one of the most interesting Delta flight North Carolina to Utah.

PIA flight was weird, announcement sort of surprised me, it goes on;

We request all passengers to use toilet properly, make sure It doesn’t choke, please avoid throwing spoons, knives, glass, plates, tissue paper, sanitary napkin. Please make sure you open the camode lid and remove tissue, when you are done, make sure you clean it. Do not throw water and offer ablution “Wadu for prayer”, this would flood the toilet. Flight is non smoking; please do not smoke in toilet. Do not throw tissue or water while seated.

After the detailed lecture, for a while I thought as if I am taking flight from a jungle somewhere in Africa, Amazon or remote aborigines village in Australia, one may wonder, only a tribal or the most backward society living in medieval age may require above code of basic manners. Later I realized, well, we as a nation may have modern attire, money to fly but still lack very basic manners. When one sees a well dressed guy with expensive vehicle, it is not surprising if that person lacks the basic road behaviors.

On the one hand I got backwardness and civilizational reality check, on the other hand I started thinking about etiquettes and manners police in Japan. Japanese nation is already polite, yet wants to make sure it is enforced so that they would be able to sustain unique socio-cultural value of courteousness.

I am afraid, nations learn and move on but we on the other hand are in the regressive mode, when it comes to basic etiquettes. I guess 60 years are enough to have basic civic etiquettes and manners !!!!

The Love Life of LUMS Students !!

2009-10-05T14:37:00.007+06:00

Lately i came across an interesting blogpost on Daily Dawn blog, it is about Love Life of LUMS Students. As LUMS student i recall our discussions on thriving liberal and conservative value system at LUMS. Blog raises various questions which may be relevant to our society at large, here is blog;

The campus of the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) is famous for being a bubble environment where risqué fashion trends are explored and high-school soap operas come to life in the midst of hijab-clad women and the bearded folk from LUMS Religious Society. To an outsider visiting LUMS, or possibly visiting Pakistan for the first time, this campus might seem at first encounter like the ideal multicultural environment akin to an ancient city-state where all live in harmony with tolerance.

However, as anyone with a deeper relationship with the campus or its student body can tell you, things aren’t so rosy at LUMS. In fact, the campus often seems divided between conservative, retro-revisionists and ultra-modern, party-hopping, next-generation liberals. Recently, what was previously a silent divide, became verbose on the LUMS campus mail system following a mass message sent out by a conservative student fed up with all the on-campus indecency she’s had to deal with.....................................(click following link for complete read)

http://blog.dawn.com:91/dblog/2009/10/02/the-love-life-of-lums-students/

Top Pakistan university to ban kissing ( Christian Science Monitor)

http://www.csmonitor.com/2009/1014/p06s05-wosc.html

Kerry Lugar Bill “If You don’t Like us & Want us”- Solution is Simple, don’t Take the aid!

2009-10-04T23:10:00.005+06:00

Recently, Kerry Lugar bill has been introduced, it plans to grant Pakistan, USD 1.5 billion in five years time, it is termed an Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act.

Bill promises the grant to extremism stricken Pakistan, poised with economic problems.

Lately I came across interesting media debate in Pakistan; most of the sensational TV stations are condemning the strings attached to the bill. I am sure most of the participants in talk shows have not read the bill, yet opposing it.

Instead of Pakistan’s worrying about grant, US should be worried whether billions would buy them peace or not, what if funding falls through or if Pakistan fails against the benchmark or conditions.

Kerry Lugar bill discussion always reminds me of recent BBC blog written by Wusatullah Khan, he simply asks “Why would Pakistan not approach Saudi to grant Oil for three months, Why would Pakistan not ask China for just USD 100 million grant” at least US is buying peace for the region, extending a grant of over USD 1.5 billion, shouldn’t they have right to put conditions. Recent Musharraf revelation on the misuse of USD Billions grant in last 8 years i.e., buying weapons to position Pakistan vis a vis India is not yet forgotten.

As usual Jihadi supporters, parties like “Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan” have decided to intensify its campaign against the alleged US interference in the country’s internal matters and the Kerry-Lugar bill. To me, they are the immediate losers, because empowering people would close the Jihadi factory.

To understand the bill passed by US Senate, I had a look at the details I came across that there are limitations on assistance mainly related to security such as limitation on Arms Transfer. Pakistan is seriously committed to war on terror; it should not worry about those limitations.

Pakistan is committed to Non Proliferation, grant asks for cooperation for dismantling the supplier networks related to nuclear weapons related materials. It should not worry to any peace loving citizen of Pakistan.

Pakistan believes in the stability of Afghanistan, bill requires Pakistan to not to support any of the group, again there is no need for Pakistani citizens to worry about.

Bill calls for dismantling any alleged terrorist bases, if there are any; I guess it is good for the stability of Pakistan and the region.

Bill says, money could be used for the construction related activities. Bill also calls for increasing Pakistan’s counter insurgency capability; again, this would help our army to meet the internal threats effectively.

Bill has strong monitoring mechanism so that purposeful use of the grant could be assured.

To me I do not see any clause that enslaves Pakistan rather it would help us to have peaceful Pakistan, Afghanistan and world at large.

If anyone is against the grant, they also know that Pakistan is in dire need of financial support, could they ask China for just USD 100 million or Saudi for free Oil for a quarter.

It seems Pakistani media is suffering from Tunnel Vision; pseudo intellectualism is the order of the day.

Hope sanity prevails.

Let me share an article and discussion took place in New York Times and Daily Dawn

"Salman Masood article showed two trendy young men sitting with the plastic replica of Rodney McDonald outside a McDonald’s joint in Islamabad. According to Masood, both men vehemently opposed the bill, saying that it ‘undermines Pakistan’s sovereignty".

Where are the schools, hospitals, a welfare system, political stability, a robust democracy, a healthy economy, and a life free of sectarian and religious strife, bigotry, bloodshed and hatred? We are all prisoners of certain delusions... Read More—about ourselves and about the many countries that we believe are constantly scheming against us. We refuse to free ourselves from these paranoid, self-serving apparitions and yet we demand sovereignty from the nefarious designs of our many (largely imagined) enemies. The enemy is us.

FELLOW PAKISTANIS MUST READ PERCEPTION OF OTHERS PUBLISHED in NYTIMES

Did anyone else notice the common threads between the different Pakistani voices represented in this article (and much of elsewhere too)?

a) they are virulently anti-American while professing admiration, support, etc....

b) they want more and more and more…money. In the form of aid. Don’t ask the billions given them, just in the last few years (and a lot more earlier). No accounting for that. But…they want more money. For what? so they can play the double games they have always played: train terrorists who wage their terrorism in neighboring countries and further away.

c) Blame India, Indians, and such. Not acknowledging that that country, since they broke with Pakistan, has gone on to graduate highly competent doctors, engineers, scientists, professionals. Scratch every terrorist in the world today and you’d find they graduated from …Pakistan. Tells a story of how two countries differed in the last few decades.Are we Americans to trust these sorts with nuclear weapons? Are we to trust them as partners in bringing peace in Afghanistan? If you continue to believe that lemme know for I have a bridge to sell you…

Solution is simple.

Don’t take the aid !

1.5 billion over 5 years

300 million per year

304,059,724 US Population...

$0.9867 per year per person. It’ll eventually add up.

They don’t like us and they don’t want us.

THEN WE SHOULDN”T GIVE THEM OUR MONEY