Winter brings fear and joy

Published in Pakistan Observer (25 Oct. 2011)

Sana Jamal 

Islamabad – With the first chilling winds of the season, the cold weather has made its presence felt in the capital city quite raucously, sending alarm and fear for have-nots and delight for haves. Those who can afford it, have already prepared for the season, and have brought out their woollies to cope with changing weather conditions. In contrast, there is a big proportion of Pakistanis including the flood-affected people and Internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are taking the change as a threat and challenge to their lives. 

For some, the changing season may bring joy, compelling them to savour the delights of winter food such as dry fruits, soups, coffee, chocolate and milk, and inducing them to plan a trip to a nearby hill station to witness the snow fall. But for those homeless, flood-affected people who still await badly-needed relief goods and gears, winters are not only uncomfortable, but potentially dangerous. According to National Disaster management Authority, more than 8 million people of Sindh have been affected by the floods 2011.

In search of Cultural Identity..

Art exhibition at Hunerkada opens

Published in Pakistan Observer (16 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – A thought-provoking exhibition of drawings, followed by a video presentation was held at Hunerkada Art Gallery on Saturday. The latest art exhibition by Asma Arshad Mahmood, a Toronto based artist, portrays her effort to connect the dots of identity with lines of culture and origin. Complicated subjects such as politics, religion and history emerge as the voice and images of her work.

Gallery Louvre’s vibrant entry in Islamabad

Published in Pakistan Observer (15 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – With the largest solo exhibition of Pakistan’s renowned artist Ahmad Zoay, Gallery Louvre has stepped in Islamabad’s art and culture scene. “Gallery Louvre is a new comer to the capital but has been part of art scene for over a decade” told Salim Lalani, one of the curators at the gallery. The first Louvre entity was launched in 1999, in the heart of Karachi city, and since then, it is regarded as one of the recognized names in the art galleries of Pakistan.

The gallery, located in the posh area of the capital city, has carefully selected the recent works of Ahmad Zoay for its first exhibit, as the bright multi-coloured canvases not only refreshes the soul but also leaves one with a very pleasant feeling for a long time. The art show that opened on Friday evening would continue for a month.

Artistic dialogue between Berlin and Karachi

Exhibition “Through my Eyes - Soul of Pakistan” 

Photograph by Hameed Moinuddin on display at
an exhibition “Through my Eyes – Soul of Pakistan”.

Islamabad – A photo exhibition titled “Through My Eyes – Soul of Pakistan”, featuring around 50 photographs shot in Karachi by a Pakistani photographer, Hameed Moinuddin were put on display at Art Hall, Kunstklinikum in Berlin on Tuesday, October 12, 2011.

Hameed’s inspiring photographs have been beautifully integrated with poetic texts, which are written by Maria Dost, a Berlin based author and photographer. Her poetic expressions, along with the pictures, are articulated in such a way that gives an impression of artistic dialogue between Berlin and Karachi.

Reflecting Age of Neo-Colonialism through Art

Published in Pakistan Observer (11 Oct. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Since Art is considered a reflection of the society, the changing times and consequential circumstances seem to have greatly influenced the artists of our times. One such artist is Amin Rehman, who excels in employing textual expression in his artwork. Amin’s latest art exhibition titled ‘White Wash: Art in the Age of Neo-Colonialism’ opened at Rohtas Art Gallery in Islamabad on Monday.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Canadian High Commissioner Ross Hynes and his spouse Madame Vanessa Hynes, who greatly appreciated the work of the artist. The exhibit attracted scores of art lovers from the city particularly foreign diplomats, because the art show has something different to offer. Amin has used text as a language for his paintings, literally using sentences as the subject of his artwork. And that’s what makes the artwork unique as compared to other art exhibitions where the viewers appear perplexed while trying to decipher the obscured meaning behind the artist’s endeavor.

Faiz remembered as a symbol of Hope

Umeed-e-Sehar ki Baat Suno
Published in Pakistan Observer (5 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Faiz Ahmed Faiz was remembered as the symbol of hope, heroism and constant struggle for the people of Pakistan particularly for the youth and oppressed class by the academics on Tuesday.
The poetry of Faiz was depicted in the form of mime act and musical performances by the students of the University of Gujrat (UoG). The event titled Aik Shaam Faiz ke naam (an evening dedicated to Faiz) was organized by UoG, in collaboration with the, Higher Education Commission (HEC) and National Testing Service Pakistan NTS.

Students presented an impressive mime performance themed on the great poet’s optimistic poem “Umeed-e-Sehar ki Baat Suno” (Hark to the hope of the dawn). The act, portraying the efforts of Faiz in bringing revolutionary changes in oppressed society through his poetry was highly appreciated by the fully attentive audience.

Memory Lingers On: Remembering Victims of 2005 earthquake

Published in Pakistan Observer (8 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal


Islamabad - Six years later, since the massive earthquake struck northern Pakistan in October 2005, the heart-rending reminiscences continue to live on in our memories. The day is a memento to remember those who lost their lives and loved ones, and also to pay gratitude to those individuals, organizations and governments who offered assistance for relief and reconstruction work in the affected areas.

Today, special ceremonies and prayers will be held all over the country, particularly in Balakot, Muzaffarabad and Bagh to pay homage to thousands who were injured and displaced due to the calamity. Though the suffering in the aftermath of the earthquake was of unimaginable proportions, but the calamity also brought out a positive aspect of the nation, proving that Pakistanis are rightly considered one of the most charitable nations in the world.

To commemorate 6th Anniversary of the 2005 Earthquake, a photo exhibition has been arranged in Islamabad commemorating the victims of the devastating earthquake and highlighting the relief and reconstruction efforts.

Rediscovering the maestro Sadequain

Published in Pakistan Observer (4 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad - To relive the legacy of calligraphy art, and rediscover the work of Sadequain, one of the finest painters, a book launching ceremony and exhibition was held in Islamabad on Monday. The grand exhibition was organized by Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) in collaboration with Sadequain at National Art Gallery. The exhibition can be rightly called a visual treat for the art lovers as this is the second largest display of Sadequain’s magnum opus since his demise in 1987.

The ceremony started with a documentary on Sadequain made by PNCA in 1975. The book launch was followed by a presentation on the life and achievements of Sadequain by Dr. Salman Ahmad, a nephew of Sadequain and President of Sadequain’s Foundation of San Diego, California. The book titled, “Mystic Expressions by Sadequain – an odyssey to exaltation with Ghalib, Iqbal, Faiz and Sadequain” has illustrations, which could be taken as interpretations of poetry of these famous poets by Sadequain. The illustrations of Ghalib were done in 1968, of Faiz during the 1970s and ‘80s, and of Iqbal during the 1980s.

Young pupil promote Pak-Japan understanding

Published in Pakistan Observer (30 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Inspiring words and splendid colours at the Art and Speech Competitions about Japan not only expressed the talent of young Pakistani students but also promoted Pak-Japan cultural understanding and relationship.

Good old family system is fast fading away

International Day of Older Persons marked 
Published in Pakistan Observer (1 Oct. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – In this era of technology, with all its advantages, the traditional values and morals are at a greater risk of fading from societies, causing generation gap. This gap is leading to breakdown of traditional values, diminishing the centuries old difference between the eastern and western societies as regard to care of elder members of the family. 

Multi-generational families, distinct feature of East, are becoming a thing of the past in many modern Asian cities where today’s young people prefer to maintain their privacy and stay away from traditional united family system. To the misfortune of elder generation, the western concept of nursing homes for veterans is emerging fast in Asian society including Pakistan where young are usually advised to take personal care of their parents respectfully.

‘Hamara Yaqeen – Piyara Cheen’

Students hold peace walk to mark National Day of China
Published in Pakistan Observer (1 Oct. 2011)
Sana Jamal

ISLAMABAD – Chanting slogans ‘Hamara Yaqeen – Piyara Cheen’ students of Islamabad thronged the Parade Ground (D-Chowk) in Islamabad, on Friday, to endorse the Pak-China friendship. The peace walk was held on the eve of the national day of the People’s Republic of China to pay tribute to the long-lasting friendship.

The walk titled “Friends of China Peace and Harmony Walk” was arranged by different organizations including Islamabad Crescent Lions Club (ICLC), DEVCOM-Pakistan, All Pakistan China Friendship Association (APCFA), Sir Syed Memorial Society, Saba Trust, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and Federal Directorate of Education.

Participants waved the flags of Pakistan and China, while a number of children showed up carrying placards with slogans: “Long live Pakistan China Friendship”, “Hamara Yaqeen – Piyara Cheen” (our faith, the loving China), “We are proud of Pak-China Friendship”, “Pak Cheen Dosti Zindabad”.

WPC demands extensive role of women in Politics

Published in Pakistan Observer (30 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Following a round-table conference, a unanimous declaration was passed by the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, on Thursday, calling for equal opportunities for women in the public and political spheres. The Parliamentarians also agreed to build consensus among their respective political parties to provide at least 10 per cent quota for women on winnable general seats before the next elections.

Revisit of Foreign Policy urged

Published in Pakistan Observer (27 Sept. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – In the wake of worsening Pakistan-US relations, speakers at a seminar on ‘security situation and role of media’ urged a diplomatic solution and revisiting of foreign policy. The interactive discussion on media's role, arranged by South Asian Women in Media (SAWM) at SAFMA center in Islamabad, soon turned into a debate on foreign policy of Pakistan.

Lt. Gen (R) Talat Masood, analyst, urged a “diplomatic solution to rising tension between Pakistan and the United States following US accusations against Pakistan armed forces.” He however noted that despite harsh criticism in American statements, there is a space for reconciliation. He observed that, “the relationship between Pakistan and US is going through a critical stage and both the two countries should revisit their policies to avoid strategic collision.”

Hajj – a mean to strengthen Islamic solidarity

Published in Pakistan Observer (28 Sept. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Prominent Islamic scholars from around the world, on Tuesday, highlighted the real message of Hajj and advised the Muslim Ummah to close their ranks to establish a unified Islamic approach against serious challenges.

Speaking at the two-day international conference on “Hajj - Unity and Solidarity of Islamic Ummah”, organized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Cultural department of embassy the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Islamic scholars called for a united Muslim stand during Hajj. The conference was attended by a large number of Pakistani and Iranian scholars as well as intellectuals from countries including Afghanistan, India, China, Bangladesh and Tajikistan, are participating.

Population management can help develop nation

Published in Pakistan Observer (27 Sept. 2011)
Sana Jamal

Islamabad – Manageable population can lead to progress of the country while the uncontrolled population rise can result in shortage of basic necessities of life. This point of concern was raised at national seminar on World Contraception Day held on Monday in Islamabad.
Senator Suriya Amiruddin noted that “with a population of 177 million, Pakistan is the sixth most populous country of the world” and added that Pakistan has the highest population growth rate in the world at around 2.05% and if the populace keep mounting with same rate, Pakistan is likely to become 4rth most populous country of the world by 2050.

Structural changes in society stressed to offset VAW

Published in Pakistan Observer (25 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Women from South Asian region often experience and face gender inequalities due to rules of a patriarchal social system, which makes it difficult for women to seek their due rights as they have little support from the community and state. To address the concerns of survivors of violence, a number women rights activists from the region gathered at the South Asian Conference on Violence against Women (VAW) to review policies, and institutions in South Asia that have attempted to provide relief to women survivors.

Artists depict the beauty of Potohar region

Published in Pakistan Observer (24 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad – A captivating exhibition titled “Hues from Potohar” that opened at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) display the work of prominent artists from the Islamabad and Rawalpindi depicting the splendor of Potohar region. The art show is featuring over 120 paintings and sculptures, based on imagery, striking bright tones, landscapes of Potohar region and vivacious hues weaved by artists of exquisite skills.

“The exhibition is a homage to all those who had been instrumental enriching the hues and colours of the plateau and giving Potohar a unique character of its own” said Nahid Imam, artist and director of visual arts at PNCA. On the opening day, a large number of participating artists as well as art lovers gathered at the National Art Gallery to get a glimpse of the remarkable art pieces that truly depict the Potohar’s rich historical and cultural heritage as well as its geography. Dr. Marilyn Wyatt, wife of the US Ambassador to Pakistan was also present on the occasion.

Gender Equality Impossible Without Help from Men: Plan 2011 Report

Published in Pakistan Observer (23 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Girls and women around the world can only win the battle for gender equality if boys and men in their lives join the cause to help improve their lives, says a new report released on Thursday in Islamabad. The report ‘Because I am a Girl: The State of the World's Girls 2011’ published by the children's rights organization Plan International, states that men of all ages - fathers, brothers, husbands - must play an active role if gender equality is to be achieved for girls and women.

Joint Struggle to counter VAW urged

Published in Pakistan Observer (23 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Speakers at a conference here on Thursday urged for collective struggle and structural reforms to challenge Violence Against Women (VAW) in South Asian countries particularly. The three-day South Asian conference on “Reclaiming Space: from victimhood to agency: State and civil society response to VAW” organized by Rozan in Islamabad was widely attended by women activists from all over Pakistan who were joined by delegates from India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Mukharan Mai, the chief guest of session shared her own story from a victim of violence to a survivor and then an activist taking forward the movement for education of young girls. With the motto to “stop violence through education”, Mukhtaran weaved the struggle of VAW by educating not only women but also men in her region.

Mental, physical activity needed to counter Alzheimer

Published in Pakistan Observer (22 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Experts urged Pakistanis to remain engaged in healthy physical and mental activities to counter threats of Alzheimer disease, as “people who were less active during their leisure time nearly quadrupled their risk of developing the mind-robbing Alzheimer's disease.”

Speaking at a public awareness seminar to mark World Alzheimer’s Day arranged by Shifa International Hospital (SIH), on Wednesday, consultant neurologists insisted the government to establish dementia clinics and nursing homes. The expert panel included Prof. Mohammad Tariq from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences; Dr. Ismail Khatri, Head Neurology Division SIH; Dr. Arsalan Ahmad and Dr. Azhar Saeed, both SIH neurologists. Physicians emphasized on promoting awareness of the disease amongst general public and educating physicians to screen the elderly patients for dementia.

Acid crime Bill may lapse within next 30 days

Published in Pakistan Observer (20 Sept. 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has expressed its concern that if the Bill against acid crimes was not adopted within 30 days, it would lapse and lose its credibility. In a statement issued here on Monday, NCSW noted that on one hand the incidents of acid crimes are on the rise in the country while on the other hand, the Bill against acid crimes, which has been passed by the National Assembly, is at a standstill as it awaits the approval of the Senate. “This significant bill may lose its credibility and would meet similar fate like Domestic Violence Bill, if it is not adopted within next 30 days” NCSW official told Pakistan Observer.

CRM stresses for Commission on Rights of Children

Published in Pakistan Observer (10 Sept 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - To observe and protect the rights of the millions of ill-fated children across the country, Child Rights Movement (CRM) has demanded the government to establish National Commission on the Rights of Children, since “there is nobody with a statutory status for the protection of their rights at federal level.”

World Literacy Day marked in Islamabad

Promoting a Culture of Reading in Pakistan

Published in Pakistan Observer (9 Sept 2011)

Sana Jamal

Islamabad - Literacy is, rightly termed as ‘a bridge from misery to hope’. It is the ultimate key to open the door to progress, self learning which enhance human competencies and also help to achieve many other rights. On International Literacy Day (September 8) - a day aimed at highlighting the significance of literacy to individuals, communities and societies, several programmes were in arranged by academicians.

Remembering a great Story teller - Ashfaq Ahmed -

Published in Pakistan Observer (8 Sept.2011)
Sana Jamal

In this era of information technology, those old days are swiftly fading away, when children would restlessly wait for the time when their parents would tell them fascinating stories. Those stories used to be vital means of means of educating and entertaining the young generation. But regrettably, this primary activity of learning at home is losing its fame because of abandoning the habit of reading specially the Urdu literature including the great Urdu storytellers.

One of the finest storytellers of Urdu language was Ashfaq Ahmed (Aug 1925 -Sept. 2004), whose seventh death anniversary was observed with reverence on Wednesday. But the great story teller is still alive in the memories of many because of his enthralling tales with great morals which are often repeated by parents and grandparents as bedtime stories for the children.