Qabristan, The final Destination!

What is the current use of graveyards? Are we caring the place meant to be our last resting place??

Can we start working for our last resorts???

Current poor condition of Graveyards and chances of Betterment…

The other day I just asked my fellow Pakistani colleague about the bad condition of Graveyards in Pakistan; expressing my sorrow for filthy condition and odd use of many graveyards in our country. “We all know, this is our last resting place. When I wonder how many rich, able, beautiful and important people are buried in the graveyard (having a miserable outlook); I really fell sorry and think about what would happen to me. Will I be resting in the same filthy Qabristan after spending whole of my life willing to be clean and live clean?” I raised the point to him. “In a country where living people do not have any importance; who the Hell will care about the dead” He replied in a pungent manner…

"Every soul shall have taste of death; In the end to us shall ye be brought back
.”(Surah Al-'Ankabut ; Paara 21 Ayah No. 57)

The above ayah starts revolving whenever I visit the graveyard. When we go to bury some near and dear one. When some puppet leader or Government Official behaves in an undaunted manner against Islamic way of life. When people use their power and authority to their own interests, not caring about their responsibilities towards a common man. Have they forgotten death? Do they not know about the final accountability in the Darbaar of Allah on the dooms day??? I often wonder this, I often wonder this…Khair baat dur tak nikal gayee!

It all started during my latest visit this EID-UL-ADHA to Pakistan and witnessing poor conditions of one of Graveyards of Karachi called “Rehri Goth ka Qabristan” which is one of biggest in the city. Uncontrolled growth, dirty area, wild bushes, miserable condition of graves; it seem like it has just gone through some catastrophe. If you are visiting any old grave, then the pathway will just make you wonder you are one character of some adventurous movie. You have to make your way in between the graves in a puzzled manner and avoiding wild bushes with severe nails and remain careful regarding any wild lizards.

Looking back, we are occasional visitors of this Qabristan on an average 2-3 times in a year usually at the EIDs and Shab-e-Baraat. Shab-e-Baraats are used to be vibrant and see somewhat better arrangements with lighting and somewhat settled condition of this place. We have seen the rapid growth in the graveyard during our life spans. Elders and known acquaintances passed away and became residents of this graveyard. The whole place filled up and people even built graves at the verge of walkways. Increasingly bad law and order situation in the vicinity of this area with time and busy people not thinking much about their last resting place. But one thing which is common at large, yesterday and today; it’s bad condition. The condition was bad yesterday and today it’s not getting any better.

So, we went to this graveyard to visit graves of our forefathers. After fateha, we found a Gorkan and hired him for cleaning and repairing graves. This guy was old in his early fifties and was talking unstoppably counting things that he can do and things he will do. “Beta aj tum apne buzurgoo’n ki Qabroon ko nahee dekho ge tu kal koi tumhari Qabroo’n ko bhee nahee dekhay ga” he said and rightly so. We have to arrange this privately because the government priorities have not reached this point to clean last resting place of their citizens.

While we were trying to arrange cleaning and repairing of these graves; my uncle suddenly noticed talking voice coming out of nowhere. We looked the vicinity around and found out two men talking to each other right up on the trees. They were GUP-SHUPPING in such an easy way that they have no ghum in their lives. Later, I was told some people relating to the Interior have such a habit of discussion forums on the branches of trees. Woow man, new thing for me!

We then discussed the spreading and growth of this graveyard and how the trends of visiting graves are now changed. To be noted, there is a distinctive pathway bisecting this graveyard. “Beta people who used to visit this side (where old graves lies) are now resting on the other side (the relatively newer graves); so here you can witness a whole change of generation”: Uncle said. “We will soon be here sooner or later; will anybody take care of our graves? Will we have a peaceful end? Are we doing anything to secure good places in aakhirat?” I was all surrounded with such questions…

When I went back the other day to checkout the progress of maintenance works; this Gorkan came and showed me things he had carried out including cleaning of whole lot (our family graves) and repairing grave of my grandfather. I reminded him of what still needed to be done. His counterpart/helper spoke out in the middle “Bhai jaan mai apko theak batata hoon, yeh Qabristan ka purana hissa hai aur yahan iswaqt khara hona theak nahee hai; lutairay kisi bhee waqt ajate hai aur paise mobile wagaira cheen lete hai; so better we should talk outside this area”. So we quickly went away to discuss the remaining work in a much safer area. And rightly so I am often told by my family “We are not going to Graveyard these days because of vibrant criminal activity there”. It’s really painful to see such condition that these places are now been governed by criminals and who can loot you while you are there to visit graves of your dear and near ones. People who were a must for this world once, who kept themselves neat and clean, pious women; all of them now resting in graveyards catering all sorts of odd activities. Aaaah!

Apart from above; we have witnessed businesses of jaali pirs and their activities surrounding these graveyards. TV shows have often exposed such elements and their illogical and heinous activities by which they capture/destroy innocent people. People use the graveyards to do Taaveez dhaagay and Jadoo Tona which is clearly a sign of bad belief and diversion from the Islamic teachings. We also see rounders and addicted people using graveyards as places of peaceful activities. This is clearly an alarming situation and people should start thinking upon a social turnaround; we can at least get lesson from civilized nations who are keeping their graveyards up to the mark.

Government surely will not think about this; they have other important things to do like preparing their next generations to rule us in future... I am just wondering if social welfare organizations may take an initiative to keep up graveyards. If famous companies can adopt roundabouts/signals for their publicity; why can not they provide some funds for graveyards as their social responsibility? Can media take some time out to address these issues and spread social awareness? If not, we can make small individual family groups for take care of small bits of our family graves. This will encourage other people to realize their responsibilities. Remember death can reach us anytime, anywhere and at any age. Will you like to be surrounded by all above mess? It’s a NO from my side; what do you say???

Collateral Damage

Witnessing the Terror coming very close to a very special brother…

In this Machinery world where pure friendship and sincerity are seldom found; this planet still carries some individuals who are pure and lure. I am very lucky in a sense that I have found such people made of gold in almost every sphere of life be it family, teachers, colleagues or mentors. I always missed absence of an elder brother to which I could share my things, problems and sometimes do Ladiyaan with him. Zeeshan Hasan Yousuf  being of such kind individual with whom an office colleague relationship started and soon he became a very sweet elder brother. And to date we have some great memories of past eight years. He was always there in times of need and helped each one of us with an extra step and made a respectable place in our hearts which will last forever. This elder brother of mine got a severe tragedy last month while the SP Farooq Aawaan escaped an attacked last week in Karachi.

I never wondered this could happen to him until the next morning (on Friday 26^th September, 2014) after attack I saw his facebook status which said:

“As i picked up my father and took my sister to a safer area in our house that lay destroyed by a devastating bomb blast ... doors, windows & glass lying on the floor, i could hear a family screaming in agony in front of our gate; And what i saw will sadly stay with me forever. A lady cradled a body in her arms, screaming at the top of her lungs, "no no kill me kill me kill me. I do not know who was that unfortunate man. Was it her husband, son perhaps? Will that lady find peace in her life again ? Or will she go through the rest of her life, avoiding life ? And why do they say no one died, that there were minimum casualties. Why do they lie? 
l am just GRATEFUL that lives of my dear sister Ayesha A.h. Yusuf and that of my father were spared. Shaper Mirza you left just two days ago, don't know what i would have done if anything had happened to you. Someone spared our lives  
And i know this now ... That many people are victims of terrorist & other heinous attacks all too often in this city. This evil, this carnage had been happening in this country for a long time. It just came home today 
I think ignorance is (not always) bliss.

THANK YOU Atif Naeem Baig sb and Rafat Phupa for making it to our house on foot to provide food and assurance. No words to thank you all. God bless.”

— at Defence Phase V…

It was shocking news for me and I called him straight away just to make sure if he and rest were alright. At first he could not recognize my voice and when I told him my name; he said “Sultan please I am stuck now; and I shall call you back in a few minutes”. Oh my Allah, his voice was shaky and disrupted. His focus was scattered and I felt if he was instructing some people about something. I was sitting stunned on the chair and then started telling a few close people regarding this incident.

Later on, when I had a chance to talk with him in detail. He told me “This blast happened in front of my house. Things are worst here, there is destruction spread all over the house. All the things made of glass including LCD are broken. Main gate is dislodged and I have just placed two security guards to safeguard my home”...”What next? Are you going to shift now?” I asked…”At least I am going to shift Abbu and Aysha to one of my relatives; as I can not leave them in such an open/unsafe condition and somehow I will manage myself here”…And I was thinking, when will be my turn???...”Bas yaar dua karo, ke ye mushkil waqt kat jaye kisi tarah” he requested me for prayers.

In the coming days, I just kept on thinking where will this all end. Things are such out of control in our country that almost all of us are affected in one way or the other. Nonetheless, every other day we keep on hearing Major incidents happening with our close acquaintances. Is there any end to all this???

To date, this beloved brother is trying to gather himself and recollect his house again. The destruction is heavy and he is trying to get help/compensation from government; running from post to pillar. But not yet getting any proper response from the government which is a very sad thing indeed. I would like to request media/resourceful people to take up his case (and many other such affected) to share the burden and add their bit to heal the stressed people.  I would specially like to request ARY news for taking up this case in helping a very dear brother who was helping and running for other people yesterday and nobody is listening to him today.

14 August, 2014 and Shahbaz

Independence Day memories within all of us in today’s spotlight

Mujhay shikayat hai janab-e-wala

Meri khushyaan, mujhay lota do

14^th August (The Pakistan Independence Day) always remained a shining, brightening and thrilling day in Shahbaz’s life. He was told right from his initial days that this day was the climax of struggle and sacrifices from millions of Muslims of Indo-Pak region that lived during the Pakistan movement. Pakistan became lifeline for Shahbaz right from his early childhood. He used to spark, giggle and jump crazily overflowing with Pakistani passion whenever August started in his life. BUT…BUT…Until 2014 only…

Before telling you the reasons behind this big BUT, let’s tell you brief Glimpses of how 14^th August day passion evolved in Shahbaz’s life.

Before 2014

As soon as he was able to realize the on goings and started making sensible sentences, Shahbaz realized that this Pakistani Independence day is very special one indeed. He adopted this passion from his surroundings where everybody was celebrating in one way or the other. Someone was wearing multiple badges including Pakistani flags and pictures of notable heroes such as Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam etc while others preparing Jhandiaa’n to decorate streets.

His father told him about the famous slogan of Pakistan movement; “Pakistan ka matlab kiya, La Ilaha IllAllah”. Shabaz was so catched up by this ; he took his head out of his home’s door and started shouting “Pakistan ka matlab kiya, La Ilaha IllAllah… Pakistan ka matlab kiya, La Ilaha IllAllah”…People passing by the door saw this small kid and passed gentle smiles on his passion.

Then, he started learning how to make Jhandiaa’n to decorate his street and home. He reached his uncle and asked him to teach him this art. He learned making Layee from Aaata and how to make multiple Jhandiaa’n sticky in no time. He was so pumped up that he started making in the sun cracked afternoon with long threads of Pakistan flag mounted Jhandiaa’n including Green, Red and blue color. Uncle also told him how to bundle up these long threads into a bunch and also instructed him to take them back in the same way after 14^th August to avoid wastage. “Beta is jhande ki be-hurmati kabhee na hone dena”, he listed and noted all this with care. A huge satisfaction always embraced Shahbaz after he looked upon his hard work; the decorated piece of home and street.

He used to run from one street of Muhalla to the other with his close friends where the competitions of decoration were going on. At times, some older guys used him for Mukhbari, “Beta jao zara dekh kar aao, saamne gali waloon ne kaisa decorate kiya hai aur kiya kiya lagaya hai” and poor him used to convey such useful information from one place to the other in greed of being closer to the preparations. Flurry of national songs while decorating the street at night were a special beauty of all these happenings and all Pakistanis fuelled with genuine national thrill and passion.

On 14^th August, he used to attend Independence Day ceremony in his school which was filled with colors, excitement and passion. After days of rehearsals, children used to make this a memorable event. The event was filled with songs, tablos, passionate debates and an insightful address by the school’s principal. Shahbaz once participated in this event with a national song “Mai bhee Pakistan hoon, tu bhee Pakistan hai”; a song which implies love between various cultures residing in Pakistan, their integrity; their pride and love for Pakistan. After many bloopers during rehearsal; Shahbaz was able to deliver it perfectly on the given day with two of his best school friends. All children used to get a piece of Mithai at the end which was an important carrot of the day.

After the school, Shahbaz used to visit a nearby ground having a Tape-ball cricket Azadi tournament and enjoyed every hit with the exciting background commentary with his friends. While returning from school, the activities keep on happening one after the other. Be it watching PTV with ceremonies showing national harmony and integrity or be it participating in events organized in Muhalla. The whole day was such a treat.

Shahbaz’s father used to tell him impressing things about Pakistan; its heroes and little Shahbaz used to listen with amaze and open mouth. “You notice beta, 14^th August’s weather is touch different from any ordinary day, be it less 14^th August always carries drizzle to make it a classy day” and so was the reality. “Beta you also notice the magic between 14^th August(Independence Day), 25^th December(Quaid-e-Azam’s birthday) and 11^th September (Quaid’s death anniversary); they all always fall on the same day of week be it Monday, Tuesday or any other day” and this also remains a fact.

So, Shahbaz was brought up with such childhood events with a sole belief in Pakistan’s existence and as he grew; he used to see much more of Independence Day celebrations. He always went out especially on the 13^th August night be it on the Sea view (Karachi) or at the Minar-e-Pakistan (Lahore). He witnessed great behavior of celebration among his nation on Independence Day; a relaxing charisma that made everybody happy at 14^th August.

Many passionate overseas Pakistanis used to celebrate their independence day outside the country with pride and glare. They used to arrange ceremonies and listen to national songs to ignite and keep the passion keep alive in their hearts. Few crazy people used to visit Pakistan to feel the celebration of Independence within their own people.

August, 2014

Then time passed, and the situation of Pakistan became worse every passing day on almost all fronts and we reached 2014. The day (14^th August) was chosen by Tahir-ul-Qadri and Imran Khan for their Dharnas against corrupt system, brutality and Election rigging. The air was filled with propaganda with TV channels showing different views and stances on these protests. Some became pro government and some took flags of these two revolutionary leaders. Pakistani nation was standing divided right at the verge of August, 2014. Polarization is term used for all this; means there is no other way. Whether you are with us or otherwise you are against us. Insightful debates on Jamhooriyat filled the TV screens. People called it Jamhooriyat ka Husn in which people are waking up for their rights. Overseas Pakistanis were irritated and bogged up to extreme limits and faced mental disturbance of events shown on the TV channels.

Closer to 14^th August, the most striking scene that Shahbaz saw on his TV screen happened near the Lahore residence of Imran Khan where there was a canal in between the supporters of Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif. All of them were carrying Pakistan flags and throwing stones at each other outrageously. Something broke inside Shahbaz, Ahhhh…He was crying deep inside his heart and his mind was revolving as if he was drunk. Two visible scenes emerged in his mind’s screen. One was showing little innocent Shahbaz shouting “Pakistan ka matlab kiya, La Ilaha IllAllah…Pakistan ka matlab kiya, La Ilaha IllAllah” and the other scene showing supporters of two different parties throwing stones at each other carrying Pakistani flags…above all somebody was continuously mumbling “Beta is jhande ki be-hurmati kabhee na hone dena”…Shahbaz somehow controlled his tears in front of people but he still carries invisible deep wounds of a missed Independence day.

On 14^th August, 2014; Shahbaz searched for laughter, passion and peace. He found tears, anger and disruption.

Shahbaz want to ask Prime Minister, why he did not addressed this situation seriously well before to save August becoming dirty? Why can not he get rid of his reputation to Award relatives, lavish lifestyle, Pro-India attitude (in response to all their cracking acts against Pakistan) and a selfish businessman?

Shahbaz want to ask Tahir-ul-Qadri and Imran khan why they chose 14^th August for their Dharnas and protests. Why you divided the nation on this day? Why you stole my Independence Day happiness? Why you did not foresee the clash on this precious day; why did not you apologize afterwards? You could have chosen any other day if your cause was right!

Shahbaz want to ask media why you ran in the flurry of breaking news. Why you created such Hype which divided the whole nation? You could have shown the good things happening in the country. You could have given more airtime to the celebrations and things which could relax all of us? Why you became party to all this while beloved Pakistan was waiting alone for somebody to celebrate its birthday!

Above all, Shahbaz want to ask the whole nation which was holding different poles and flags. Why you accepted all this? Why you did not focused on things of same interest? Why you allowed people to hijack you? Why can not you lead yourself? Why can not you throw Hypocrisy away from your character? If you really love Pakistan, then how can you hate your own brother just because he is holding flag of a different party? Why???

Shahbaz want to ask all above parties; why you made me sick instead of happy? Your acts took away long-lasting happiness of Independence Day away from me. What memories will I recall from this 14^th August, 2014? You inserted an unwanted Gap in my life, a deep invisible wound that will never heal. I will never forgive you all…

Author’s Ending Note:

Out of severe packed up schedule, I could not write all this in August but this remained like a huge debt which is fulfilled today, Alhamdulillah.

Thought of the day is that the people who are involved in such big/shameless scandals of financial and moral corruption, how can they take us to our destiny? However, “Momin is never hopeless despite any circumstances”. We can still keep trying at our levels to reach unfulfilled dream of Pakistan’s creation. As Iqbal rightly said:

Nahi Hai Mayus Iqbal apni Kisht-e-weeran se

Zara Nam ho to yeh matti bari zarkhaiz hai Saqi 

“The Wolf and Billy Kid”

Once upon a time there was one Wolf and One Billy Kid (‘Maimna/Bakri ka baccha’). Once they were drinking water on the same stream. Suddenly Wolf came to Billy Kid and harshly asked him why he contaminated water for him? Billy kid was frightened seeing that wolf and felt speechless. Nanny goat (mother of Billy kid) was observing this situation; came forward and she argued that the flow of stream was such that it was flowing from Wolf’s end to the Billy Kid’s end, so there is no point of Kid contaminating water. But the Wolf said that I do not know anything, this is irrelevant that who was standing where. Billy Kid has contaminated the water and now as a punishment, he will take him and eat him. So he took the Billy kid away and poor mother could not do anything for her kid. She just said “HAMESHA TAQATWAR KE SHAR SE DARO, WHO CHAHE TOU PAANI KA RUKH ULAT DE”.

I first immensely thought of this old childhood story after US claimed the killing of Osama bin Laden in Abbotabad. Questions for Osama’s dead body video footage and that how could he reside in such a secured Pakistani city? Why was his dead body dumped in a hurry? All these questions were irrelevant to US and they then claimed the right to Operate whenever and wherever in Pakistan. Their top diplomats and executives hurried visits at the time and their rude tone; I remembered this very old story of childhood. Worthy to mention, there seem to be an invisible agreement between Pakistani officials and US and the US president made full points at the cost of Pakistani humiliation and disgrace in the whole world.

Now the latest events in Gaza in which this one sided war has claimed lives of thousands of Palestinians (including many women and children) and many injured. The UN Security Council session was also useless and all big powers seem to support and back Israel at any cost be it directly or indirectly. The Power Politics is evident more than ever before and the world’s society continue to witness the worthless War Laws, Accords, Commitments and /international bodies. World seem to follow Jungle Ka Qanoon these days with the powerful flattening the innocent and weak. The sole superpower US doesn’t know anything be it the imbalance of power between the two parties or any moral standing of this war; they just support and defend Israel’s case unanimously often making their veto power to leave UN speechless.

The hurting point is that there seems be nobody on the key positions within Islamic world who could sternly react to this rigid, harsh and illogical behavior of Israel and try to show some dignity and reflect aspirations of Muslims. The OIC (Organization of Islamic Conference) has practically finished and there is no proper Muslims co-ordination to come out of such crisis. The Millions of Muslim troops and countless weapons seem to be useless in prevailing circumstances because they are unable to defend a weak brother Muslim state. Sadly speaking, we are living in an era in which there is no Hajjaj Bin Yousuf to send any Muhammad Bin Qasim to save the brothers and sisters from the brutal oppressors. There is no Tipu Sultan who prefer one day of dignified life over 100 years of life of jackal.

Statements of condemnation seldom aired from the Muslim rulers but this simply doesn’t make any difference to Israel, who attacks whenever and wherever to leave the world in a state where the Muslim countries seem to be literally subordinates of the ruling world forces. There is no serious effort to defend Palestine. The pain which every Muslim feels for Gaza is evident in our thinking and conversations; often participating in alms and protests which still can not make any considerable difference to the misery of Gaza.

The lean Muslim voices against Israel largely resemble with that Nanny’s objection to wolf for her Kid; they can only give hollow statements. None of them have any impact; the Powerful will continue to sham reverse flow of water…

EVOLUTION OF EID TRENDS

Recalling innocent EID Memories from Childhood and trends of past!

Trends and behaviors have changed largely with Passage of time…Lets refresh ourselves and look back in EID trends back in 80’s and 90’s…

Sabar karo Sbar karo, Sabar bari cheez hai

Aaj chaand raat hai kal subha EID hai

Well this innocent shair must be acquainted to all of my fellows who lived in pre-social media and pre smart phone era. With the advent of Ramadan, there were all sorts of activities related to EID observed by us as children and things used to pace up with every passing Roza.

We used to exchange EID cards alongside small gifts inside the envelope.  I firmly remember Khan bhai roaming around in streets carrying a big stack of wood displaying all sorts of EID post cards each amount Rs.1. We used to spend hours and hours in selection of EID card for our social circle. The most famous and in demand card was Bandar wala Card displaying picture of naughty Black Gorilla. This was Marjory given to a naughty friend as an acceptance of his Khidmaat as being most notorious and funny of the whole lot of friends. Post cards carrying pictures in different poses of various filmstars were also in fashion mainly for the Shauqeen type people. There were post cards of our national heroes with likes of Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Saeed Anwar etc. I used to purchase these poses of cricketers and keep it with me as a token of my attachment to these Guys. Then there were cards showing religious places like as Khana-e-Kaaba and Masjid-e-Nabawi (S.A.W.) which was shared with descent and elderly friends and relatives. Some fellows who were good in drawing used to prepare colorful EID cards manually. One of my school-mate who was good in making characters of Ninja Turtles used to prepare such cards and sell in Rs.1 to the class fellows; an innocent thing remembered with smiles today.

People used to send hard copy paper EID cards to their relatives living in other cities/countries. The purchasing of these cards from book shops was a wonderful experience in itself. Descent and innovative cards were purchased for sending the relatives. This was the supreme class of EID cards for sending via Pakistan post. The purchased card type and amount spent largely depended upon the degree of relationship with particular person. Often mothers used to write letters to her parents who were distant and send it inside the envelope. Isay kehte hai AIKK TEER SE DO SHIKAAR!

As soon as the moon was sighted, little children used to roam in streets; singing various trendy lines with respect to EID. Last minute Chaand raat shopping was a big attraction ; getting cone Mehndi for our sisters. They used to spend hours and hours of decorating each others hands with Mehndi in a gathering filled with urgency, smiles and giggles. Bangles were purchased by women for themselves and for gifting others on EID day. Gift packages with EID cards and associated gifts were prepared on chand raat. This not only included for the close relatives but also for some good acquaintances in Gali/Muhalla.

On the EID day, Khan bhai used to come in the streets with gadgets of entertainment for the children. This included game Challa/rings to get prizes of luck with 5 attempts costing Rs.5. The prizes included toys, biscuits chocolates etc. I never played this game as my father defied my from this juwwa game. Another big attraction with Khan bhai was the Bulls eye game of hitting two balloons at a time with prize of Rs.5 and two attempts were given for Rs.1. We used to play this game but I was neither able to hit two balloons at a time nor the plastic statue soldiers laid in queue.  I felt disappointed and down after each attempt but later somebody told me “ke bhayya us Bandooq ki naal heee seedhi nahee hoti theee” Ahem Aheem, no further comments samajh jao bas…

With the passage on time and rise of internet, we saw online trend of sending e-cards to friends and relatives around back in year 2000. This was a major shift in choices. We then used to go to online websites mainly 123greetings.com and EIDmubarak.com and then select most attractive and meaningful cards. This was in itself a time consuming activity while we select cards, background appearance and music for booking on tentative EID day. Then wait for the person to see the card and hit back with appreciative comments and thank you e-card.

With the clutch of social media and mobile technology, we are used to of greeting each other online and via sms. General state of peace of mind is also missing today in Pakistan. Old trends have slowly been discarded. Old ways are still used but mainly replaced by latest trends of online connections and wishes. But it is a pleasant surprise still today if somebody use old trends like hard copy paper EID cards for wishing each other. This not only refreshes memories of past but also induce a sense of care within each other. This time I am spending my EID abroad, but I definitely plan to revive some old trends for the next time celebrating EID in Pakistan. If you are there, it’s not bad to give it a try; definitely you will get only cheers and cheers in return!

Ramadan Transmissions

An overview of ongoing Ramadan Transmissions in Pakistan

Are we doing justice with Ramadan???

And yes this is the latest ongoing trend in Pakistan after we have witnessed competitions between Drama Serial soaps and Morning Shows in past. You can spend the whole day easily while watching various Ramadan cum game shows right from Sehri upto Iftar time. But the million dollar question is that are these transmissions really serving the sole purpose and theme attached with this holy month?

Every lame person knows that this is a month of piety and self purification in which we spend most of our time doing Ibadat and acts of goodness. We abstain ourselves from distractions and try to be closer to Allah. Zakat and Khairat is done overwhelmingly to fulfill our religious obligations and helping those who deserve our attention.

The biggest disappointment is Amir Liaquat’s show in Pakistan Ramadan by Express News which leaves many of us with an unwanted feeling. Amir bhai showing All in All like attitude playing with emotions people. Attendees looking at him like the sole Messiah to get prizes, begging for tabs, mobiles and bikes...begging and persuading Amir bhai while closing their eyes to the Rehmat-e-bari spread in Ramadan...Amir bhai asking for Refreshing comedy shairi while people responding with ishqiya shari. Showing way biased behavior by blessing his sisters and humiliating his brothers; pardon me but the this difference in attitude is so evident in his show that one sometimes feel whether way he is conducting the show our trying to impress the female audience…Often wives are telling Amir Liaquat about their family problems and constraints in this live show (often begging for Bike) and their Husband is sitting besides her keeping his mouth shut and head down; why do not they educate people to only spread their hand in front of Allah and try to win Sawab and Prizes in Ramadan rather bowing in front of hosts of such shows…A very sarcastic video lately went viral on social media in which he is wadding a mango forcefully into the mouth of one of the participant...The biggest irony the background music for all this stupidity RAMAZAN RAMZAN HUM SAB KA PAKISTAN...mere waste of time with no spirituality, just using Ramadan as yet another tool for getting ratings and commercials...What a pity!

In contrast to Amir Liaquat’s messy circus, it’s really worthy to mention, Q and A sessions by Allama Kaukab Noorani sahib on Express news a really treat to watch and learn on different Islamic aspects. His cool and calm way with pretty smooth flow of address is really unmatched and is indeed serving great deal in this holy period of Ramadan.

ARY’s transmission is going much better as compared to above mentioned circus with Junaid Jamshed and Waseem Badami showing better character and motive. But the game show Jeeto Pakistan is somewhat of a disappointment. This game show started with two (2) days a week and went full fledge daily in Ramadan. I personally feel that if this was expanded due to Ramadan then the elements should have been revised by the program organizers as per status and taste of Ramadan. They could have added Islamic Quiz shows to distribute prizes. They could have arranged the competition of Qirat and Naat Khuwani. They could have initiated prizes on the good deeds of people relating to Islamic and Pakistani causes. But this touch is still missing while the game show is building each and every day. Even though the host has displayed a much better attitude and way of conduction as compared to other such game shows; I do not see any usefulness with respect to holy month of Ramadan. After spending good two hours with this game show what usefulness are we getting with respect to Ramadan?

PTV really stands tall among this ongoing mess and I personally liked the content and way of presentation with a descent host. Few days back I have a chance to watch a program in which “Akhuwwat” foundation’s Chief Mr. Amjad Saqib was invited and the host co-coordinated with in a very balanced manner throughout the course of program. He told us about his book and journey/working of his foundation which was very inspirational indeed. In the background, the Calligraphy competition was going on and prizes were being given based mainly on Islamic questions; attendees were showing much patient attitude. The prizes were less and show was less glamorous/rocky but the element of sooth and peace was there; I thought it was a very good effort indeed. May other channels could learn from grace and character often displayed by PTV…

Ramadan transmissions are also helping some genuine needy people through the generous Pakistanis around the world. People grab every opportunity to help the deprived through these shows which should be appreciated wholeheartedly. Knowledgeable Islamic questions are also helpful for the audience with sections of Naat and Qirat. Treating people with Sahri and Iftar is also a noble deed fulfilled during the transmissions.

The purpose of mentioning the above weakness is mainly to ponder if we are going in clash with Islamic teachings and soul of Ramadan. Are we doing justice with this holy month? Especially the way few programs are conduced in a haughty way should be curtailed. I wonder why people do not react to such behavior of hosts like Amir Liaquat?

Content is a key for fulfilling the sole purpose of Ramadan. Transmission time can be consumed in educating people with respect to our behaviors and societal obligations. Sessions of Tafseer-e-Quran can be initiated with programs on Seerat-e-Nabwi (S.A.W.). Scholars can guide people on how to get prizes from Allah (S.W.T.). Programs on Islamic trainings of house women can be started which would be a  revolutionary step. I have a very firm believe that if the TV owners realize the heavy responsibility on their shoulders and switch their attention from getting Ratings to a policy of Honesty/Justice; they will soon get the desired appreciation in all forms and that eternal satisfaction which is priceless…

Karachi Airport Attacks…What does ‘Responsibility’ mean???

Having a look at Karachi airport attacks, it was another disappointing day of reporting by the media. News emerge that one of the aircraft is burnt and could well take the other two besides it. Also reports of probable entrance of terrorists in one of the boarded air crafts. Media told us that they have now managed to reach the runway and the airport was totally under control of these terrorists. I was shocked and shaken by this news. "What worst may happen with Pakistan after this attack? Will foreign airlines be landing in Pakistan anymore after this event? Is this the beginning of THE END for Pakistan? All these questions were surrounding the mind. Suddenly one of the reporters from a local news Channel shouted “Aur yeh aik aur dhamaka” commenting as this was as simple as “Aik aur Goal”…What a shame on such reporters. Another seemingly wise reporter said “Today we will see that if all the money spent on these security agencies is really worth it or not” and he said this  while the attack was on it’s peak and 3 ASF people had already embraced Shahadat. One adventurous Guy reached that Sunsaan place at the airport which nobody else could reach and reportedly he showed us the clipping of one of attackers. This media person seemed to be an Invisible Man and his channel was showing this exclusive clipping of one of terrorists on the roof top without any confirmation. Ironic of all was the fact that our media was sort of helping the attackers by breaking the every move of our security agencies and Pak army. All in all it was another day of disappointing reporting by Pakistani media.

Social media was all flooded with this news and we started sharing our sorrow and pain with fellow Pakistanis. One on my friend said “We are lost”. Our moods changed and we were thinking what will happen next? When can we live a free and proud life? When will our country bee freed from all this ongoing mess? People were making all sort of brave statements which one expects from a country’s officials. People were expressing their anger over the government over talks with Taliban at one place and cursing Nawaz Sharif at the other for not showing any dignity while dealing with India; and Pakistan creeps every passing day.

Anyhow, after the situation settled and many of the initial hypes created by our media proved out to be wrong; I was wondering that our media did played the same role as played by international media in 1965 Indo-Pak ware when they declared Lahore fall which was totally fake news. In both cases, Pakistanis around the world faced a painful period of disruption. Why do they air such reports without proper confirmation? Can they ever play a supporting role in such crisis?

Following day, world witnessed another total disarray while 7 people were fighting for life in Airport cold storage area. Airport was cleared in the morning while nobody noticed missing 7 persons. Shahzeb Kahnzada from Express news was the most prominent person to raise his voice for saving these people. The response of government was again too late and each party was blaming the other as responsible for this incident. Even though the CM and governor Sindh reached the spot, the rescue operation started so late that these 7 people could not be saved. It seemed that media was leading this operation whose responsibility is mainly reporting; it was yet another scattered effort in which the real LEAD was missing. Nobody could forget those stressful moments.

Rehman Malik’s responded well before Chaudhry Nisar who was perhaps sleeping during the whole episode. To date, the Federal and Provincial governments are blaming each other for the responsibility and the poor Karachi airport is standing injured; searching anybody to own it. It is Pakistan’s asset and responsibility of Pakistanis to safeguard it be it PPP or PML (N). They should remember, one day it could well be Bilawal House or Raiwind Palace; who will be responsible then???

Last but not least, the media exposed the security situation of other airports mainly Lahore airport as we came to know that there are only 4 security personnel at one critical end of this airport. Are you helping Pakistan OR it’s enemies by pointing out such loop holes in system? Is this how one should increase the RATING? Media and Politicians must ponder to above questions before its too late…

SIGNATURE

How to develop an excellent signature???

“My journey of getting an Amazing signature”

During my childhood, I was always fascinated to see the elder people acknowledging various documents by signing them. Signatures were something else for me right from the beginning. And of course, there was always some sort of debate going on around as how one should develop his/her signature with a handful of suggestions and information. People having stylish English signatures were thought awesome and the one’s using Urdu was treated as Illiterate/out of fashion. Raised in such an atmosphere, today I will share my journey of developing my signature.

The very first and visible instance to encounter was our report card. In our school, it was a must to get parent’s signature on the results card within a week of result. So, we were used to of taking our school examination result to Abbu, who used to review it carefully, bestow some words of wisdom and finally sign the report card for re-submission in school. So this was an impressive exercise. “People having signature have loads of Wisdom and balanced lives”, I often thought while taking the signatures from Abbu. While many of my colleagues were too brave to do Jaali Sign instead of their parents; I could never find that courage within myself!

Cricket was our passion right from childhood as is for every other Pakistani kid. So in flurry of this passion, we used to waste a lot of time playing cricket; morning and evening in summer vacations. In order to contain us, my uncle told me a little story about a Guy who was a cricket freak. “His name was Akbar and he was just a mad lover of cricket. He was always playing cricket with least interest in studies. Waseem Akram was his ideal and he used to copy him in his play style. Akbar’s father used to advice him again and again regarding the importance of education but he hardly gave an ear to his opinion. One day Akbar managed to get an Autograph of Waseem Akram and proudly showed his father. His father just gave a pat to him and asked him to observe the Autograph which was given in English. He told him with utmost affection; Beta before becoming a successful cricketer, Waseem Akram became a good student and that’s why he is able to sign in English; same applies to you beta first take care of your studies and then you can run after your passion. Akbar understood the message and became a good student thereafter.” So my uncle was actually asking us to get serious in studies rather wasting time in cricket. This story was so touching. “Successful people are very good in their studies and able to sign in English” I thought deeply…

Then in free periods during school, we used to try different options of signature inking so many pages. Each friend tried to get most beautiful of signatures. During such exercises, I found out that some lucky alphabets have more beautiful signatures than the rest and my name’s S was one of them. Woow, I was so content knowing that. Then it was found out that one should make such a signature which is unique and nobody else in the world could copy it. So every now and then, I used to try different options to get ready for a Perfect signature for my future life. We used to help each other with different styles of signatures. I was so impressed by odd guys in the class who were full of ideas as regards to signature and became Gurus for us.

In Metric class, I somehow managed to get through with writing my simple name Sultan Shah in signature box of examination papers/cards. “I will make a good signature in Intermediate examination forms and college”, I thought. Meanwhile I went to one of my close acquaintance to get a guidance lecture on developing a good signature. “Beta, signature is always done in a single stroke without lifting your pen’s Nib; this is rule number 1. Secondly, there should be a straight line just beneath your signature and a DOT at the end of that line. Third important thing is the size of signature. Bigger size shows a confident and commanding personality and a small size depicts a lean and weak person” He told me all this and I was trying to memorize each thing to follow later on. “It’s a very scientific thing and psychologists may well analyze your personality by seeing your signature”…”Ahh how deep this all is proving out to be”, I thought for an instance. Nevertheless, I showed him various signatures which I had specially developed for my college life but he rejected all of them.“Your signature should be last name of Pir sahib we follow, apka signature tou yehi hoga beta”. “How could I know this thing?” a flash came in my mind. In short my friends, I finalized the last name of that Pir Sahib in English with a single stroke, big size, a line below the signature and a DOT at the end of that line. My signature was finalized!

I did that signature during my Intermediate college life. But soon I got myself into some more questions. People used to ask me what was the meaning of my signature and why I am not signing my own name. I used to explain them full science and logic behind my signature and they used to get impressed by the perfectly connected links behind my signature. I used to be a bit proud on my knowledge and sound approach. But honestly speaking friends I often used to ask myself “why am I signing name of this Pir Sahib instead of using my own name? This is my signature and I am doing it as regards to someone else’s thinking, why?” SShhhh…., I used to keep this WHY within myself!

Time was passing and I was about to get 18 years old; getting ready for making my NIC card. “I will do my own Genuine and Unique signature on my ID card with my own thinking; shall get rid of my confusions” I thought. So I prepared a final version of my own crafted signature with my own name Sultan shaped with some attractive curves difficult for anyone else to copy. Despite all this, Shahbaz was whispering in my ears: “Why do we not do our signatures in Urdu which is our national language? Why do we follow English everywhere?”Ahh, I slapped this thought and got ready for making my NIC.

So the given day, I went to Awami Markaz, Karachi for applying the National ID card for the first time. And when the time came for signing and the official asked me to sign. I do not know what happened to me at that time. I wrote a simple single stroke Sultan in Urdu and kept a line beneath it with a DOT at the end. When I came out and gathered my senses, I realized what blunder was committed. I was cursing myself to what I had done, how simple and easy anybody could copy this signature. And the biggest thing I did in Urdu. What a shame…But it was too late!

So thereafter, I somehow used to mange with that simple signature in Urdu for all communications. People still used to get surprised by the Urdu language and simplicity of my signature. But friends, let me tell you an amazing thing, I started observing a sense of applaud in the eyes of people who used to see my signature; many of them appreciated me of doing signature in Urdu, our national language. Some eyes said some unsaid words “Kaash hum ne bhee apna sign Urdu mein kiya hota, which is our identity and heritage”. One bank manager in UAE saw my signature and asked me, “woow this is your signature so simple”. “Yeah I know that it’s very very simple”, I replied. He said “No, I did not meant to mock you, actually I want to tell you one of our very rich client have his signature even easier than you”. Phhheewww I gained some confidence by this word. “Your signature is typically yours because nobody has such wavy shaky bad hand writing as yours” told one of my close friend laughingly. Hmmm, I never considered my bad hand writing which was indeed unique and difficult for anyone to just simply copy this signature of mine. Felt somewhat safe and relieved!

So in a nut shell, I gained confidence with this simple signature in Urdu and today I do it everywhere with pride. It keeps me connected to my national language, gives a sense of originality which could never be attained if I had signed in English. Everything is somehow linked and I can say proudly: “I may not change our hypocritical political and government system, but I can initiate CHANGE within my own domains; this is my very own signature in my own beloved Urdu language and the satisfaction is far beyond words”…

Overseas Pakistanis!

‘Having a look at lives of overseas Pakistanis in light of my first hand experience’

It is often said that overseas Pakistanis are of biggest assets for our country and often acknowledged by high level Officials.  Foreign exchange obtained from overseas Pakistanis is increasing every passing year. However, majority of people inside Pakistan might not envisage the emotional, social and living conditions that these expatriates undergo every day. I would today like to express my feelings and observations after spending good 5 years abroad.

Reasons of Increasing number of Expatriates

Mainly due to lack of merit in our society and less job opportunities. Obviously, that directly links with the economic conditions of country and direction of interests of leadership. Number of people interested in going abroad has increased with the passage of time with the decline of our national progress ratio. Low salaries are also a big reason for people to leave and people are interested in getting advantage of powerful currencies abroad to increase their living standard. Law and Order also play’s an important role in this brain drain; I have personally witnessed some terrified individuals moving abroad despite of enjoying a good status in Pakistan.

Ironically, despite of loving Pakistan so much; people are forced to leave due to the factors mentioned above.

Ghareeb-ul-Watan: Easy to Leave, Difficult to return

You leave in excitement but it’s difficult to return back; having many reasons for the same. While you see a better environment especially with NO LOAD SHEDDING, then you start comparing the loop holes of your country with the developed countries abroad. When you are used to of comfort and easiness; it’s not that easy to come back.

People often start with few targets to achieve but as the time passes away, the TO-DO list goes on increasing and you find yourself trapped between reality and ambitions/expectations.

Condition of People

Many of the people live here with their families back home. Worst condition is when people are living bachelor’s life with their wife and kids distant.

There are few people living for 7 to 9 years abroad and still trying it hard to go back home. While traveling in KSA during my Umrah, I met with an individual residing illegally outside Pakistan for good 8 years or so just dragging his life somehow; not sure of his future. His face was disrupted and his thoughts were scattered. He was hanging between life and death. Just can not forget his misery.

While you see stories of students who went for studies and in the end failed to complete their degrees due to tough conditions. In face of uncertainty, such Guys pass through a mental trauma each and every day. Many students somehow manage in difficult living conditions for their better future.  We can not conceive their condition sitting in our cozy couches.

People also face various strict laws and harsh treatment in other countries. In many cases, salaries are delayed leaving them in tatters. Some companies keep their passports and they find it difficult to depart of their own will. Often International Human rights watch institutions raise their voices against such laws. ‘Door ke Dhol Suhane’ , quite right mates!

Living as a secondary citizen abroad and obviously expatriates can not enjoy the independence of a pure resident/citizen. They have to give utmost and unilateral regard to the locals and occasionally humiliated in the process. Most of the people back home does not realize this. We see the new generation of Pakistani origin people often face Racism in the countries like UK and Australia. One of such person was telling me that he had to face this behavior by the local fellows (who were somehow living at comparatively low status as compared to the educated expatriates) and had to silently listen for sentences like “My grandfather fought the war, it’s my country: I deserve more opportunities and rights than you”. People still carry on to live outside as they do not want to come back to face Pakistani mess again.

Mostly people are cut-off from the Pakistani society specially the ones living distant in Europe, Australia and America. They are separated from their own people and miss the unmatchable society bond and care in their lives. Work is the sole priority while abroad. The gathering and enticement which you can make with your own people is very difficult almost impossible to create with people from other backgrounds.

Emotional Setbacks

We see many young bachelors leaving for job to other countries. They often find it difficult to find matches for their marriage. This also applies for people well settled abroad with dual nationalities. This is widely witnessed mainly because many people (in Pakistan) are scared to believe the credentials and character of a given expatriate candidate of marriage. Physical presence in Pakistan is also not possible very frequently; ultimately it takes many years to make couples for the interested expatriates. This is a big cost which manyPardesis have to pay; nobody else can feel this dilemma.

It’s very complicated for expatriate’s new generation morally and emotionally. Despite of all the good things present in developed countries, it is very unlikely to develop a child with pure Pakistani attitude and when the child finally grows up (abroad) you often find all your life’s effort wasted due to his/her behavior/attitude. Other way around, children of expatriates bringing up in Pakistan are not established the way they would like them to be. Such people intensely miss out the brought up phases of their children and eventually that particular Father-Child bond is not much strong.

In one instance, one of our poor colleagues took some good One Lac Dirhams back home which was equally distributed among all his brothers by his father. He kept quiet in light of their old traditions. What a shame! This news was leaked within our circle, nobody was commenting but the faces were saying: “This was not just.” Just imagine when your loose your right like this…

We miss out National Days/Events while living abroad and spent those particular days by refreshing pure & everlasting memories fromPakistan. In my case, Dil Dil Pakistan is very helpful on 23^rd March and 14^th August!

People often fail to reach back home while their loved one passes away in Pakistan and carry this regret for the rest of their lives. This is the worst part of poor Ghareeb-ul-Watan people.

Negatives faced by overseas

Some people treat overseas people ass money machines and closes eyes to their problems. They think that people abroad are most resourceful and rich. Such people do not realize tough living and earning conditions after which Guys abroad are able to earn money and spend their share as this money is coming for free.

People often ask abroad Guys to find out jobs for them. They think it’s very easy for them to get jobs as their acquaintance is abroad; which is not the case in reality. I personally think people from Pakistan should treat their overseas relatives/contacts as ONE of job finding resources, not the SOLE resource.

Being in contact and remember each other is also very important. Many overseas complain that their relatives and friends from Pakistan do not contact them in a manner they should do rather they take this granted that the person overseas carries this responsibility of contacting them. This is specially felt on Festivals of both EIDs. People must realize the emotions of their brothers/sisters abroad; one call to your loved one abroad can make a BIG difference.

Negatives faced by People at home

People back home are also some times unjustly treated by overseas people. People abroad sometimes think that people in Pakistan do not know anything. That should not happen because we were also the part of same society and culture once. Obviously in lack of a developed environment and equal facilities, how can one behave as per your standards? People abroad should also realize tough living conditions in Pakistan and go to all extents to pay back society be it through sending money to support or to transfer their experiences to help struggling fellows in Pakistan.

Supporting Pakistanis, building a better image!

I tell you one instance when a guy was looted by another Pakistani. My friend had just arrived in Europe for studies and he had no bank account to keep his money. So he trusted that Guy with whom was staying by giving him money as Amanat. In return, that guy spent the good amount of money for repairing his car. As a result my friend faced severe daunts and at one time he was helpless in paying his fee at time. The money was return later in installments around 85% but the pain faced was irreplaceable and changed behavior of my friend forever.

We also hear some negatives about Pakistanis. This mostly includes illegal immigrant status. People dying in ship containers trying to get better future for their families. In some cases, disobedience of foreign law and deception leave Pakistan’s image at stake.

In contrast; apart from sending the revenue, we can play far greater role for Pakistan while living abroad. We can play role of ambassadors for our country. By following the local laws respectfully, being honest to people and obeying our jobs in a justified manner. I have seen people giving their utmost effort to enlighten Pakistan image by their performance at work. Aim of keeping Pakistan’s flag Hi-fi keeps them motivated and they keep on playing their role far from their beloved homeland.

In one of the cases, one of Pakistani offered my close colleague a Private part time job (illegal as per company’s employment contract) but my friend rejected this offer, I remember his words till now. He replied to him “By doing this job, we might well become another case of Salman-Asif-Amir (the spot fixing cricket Guys) and Pakistan could well be defamed in our Office environment, this is illegal ; sorry mate I can not do this work for you”.

Salam to all such people, your are unknown heroes of this Pak-land. Bravo and Respect for you Guys.

Behavior in Calamities

Overseas Pakistanis share a great deal while Pakistan face any natural calamity or for any national cause. We have seen this in Qarz Utaaro Mulk Sanwaro movement, Earthquake, floods and recent drought in Thar-Sindh. In such time, people are just uneasy and desperate to add their part to help their brothers and sisters. People take brilliant initiatives during such conditions and create funds and send money open heartedly as humble gifts to the suffering people back home. Such passion of our nation is un-matched and we should be proud.

  

Future/Ending Lines

Very few people would say that they are living abroad BY CHOICE. Believe me or not, many people are abroad are waiting for a good time to return and give their expertise to this nation. May the time come soon, Ameen.

Many writers and poets have raised their Pen for the overseas Pakistanis; Pardesi literature in form of verses and songs. People listen to such songs and often disappear in memories of Pakistan. My Urdu is not that much of high quality nor I know the technicalities of Poetry, but still this shair right from the bottom of my heart goes out for Pakistan.

Haal-e-dil tujh ko kiya sunaoo’n aaai mere mehboob watan

Tu hai, teri yaad hai, teri yaadein aur Bas!