Inam's Blog

ME AGAINST ME !!!

2012-01-28T23:14:00.005+05:00

Me: Inam do you think that things would ever get better here?

Me: (After some deep thought) Yes!

Me :How?and please remember that my Canadian immigration has been accepted so I want a neutral opinion rather than an opnion coming out of Patriotism.

Me: Well I think there are very valid reasons to be optimistic about ''our'' future.

Me: Like what???

Me? On behalf of God whoever (or whatever)decides fate of this country,apparently has decided to introduce few basic reforms. First two reforms were 1:Introduction of Free media and 2:Establishment of NADRA Data base.Third one is coming the form of Electoral reforms under which about 30.75 million bogus/fake votes have been cancelled.

Me:So how long would it take for all of this to have an effect?

Me:About five years!

Me:and during these five years????

Me: ‘’V’’ all will be tested!!!

Me: Why should't i leave now with my family for Canada and come back when(If ever)this country becomes a better place for living!

Me : ???!!!???

‘’V’’ ALL WILL BE TESTED BECAUSE NOW SYSTEMS CANT DELIVER.ECONOMIC INSTABILITY WOULD BECOME JUSTIFICATION FOR ALL SORT OF CRIMES(AND FOR ALL SORT OF PUNISHMENTS).PEOPLE WOULD FEEL CONFUSED ABOUT RELIGION AND NATIONALISM WILL BE QUESTIONED.APPARENTLY THESE LONG FIVE YEARS HAVE JUST STARTED!

R “V” suffering (or enjoying) Split personality disorder!!!???

2011-11-18T08:59:00.002+05:00

In the last few years I watched couple of movies which were about people suffering from Split personality disorder. List of such movies include A BEAUTIFUL MIND, SHUTTER ISLAND ,BLACK SWAN . Characters suffering from this disease become a different person in a given situation (or in response to a stimulus) and once they come out of the situation than they become usual themselves(the way most of the people know them).Interesting part of this disease is that such people don’t remember anything about what they did while being the “Person in the situation” so practically if they commit a crime or hurt themselves then they would feel innocent after being caught for the crime or would feel hurt without realizing that they have actually hurt themselves.

Couple of days ago I made a similar realization about myself .I was feeling hurt being a PAKISTANI due to the crimes which are committed against my country and nation and then suddenly I realized that I am no different from Asif Ali Zardari or from anyone from the Gang. My own crimes are limited because my power to commit a crime is limited .Same is the case with everyone around me .

From a motor mechanic to a Government officer, From a Doctor to a teacher

Most of us

Compromise on our work ethics

Want to dominate others

Want to be treated differently from the masses

Want to be above the Law

How much crimes “V” commit under such situations depends upon stimulus of Authority and Power, Stronger the stimulus and bigger would be the crime. Due to our “National Personality Disorder” “V” don’t remember the crimes which “V” commit individually while being in the situation and “V” don’t remember that “V” have hurt ourselves(being Pakistani).After committing a crime or hurting ourselves “V” search for the criminal and the savior around us without realizing that both are within us(part of our being).

How killing would stop the killings !

2011-08-18T23:27:00.007+05:00

I never realised what a bomb blast is untill I actually heard one at Moon market Iqbal Town,I felt what immages were telling when I actually saw the burned shops.Before that images were just part of the News (worthy of attention for max few seconds and than flipping of pages of newspaper or switching to other channels).Now when I listen to News about Karachi than its easier to visualise how blood gushes out of the body,How women scream and mourn,How it feels to be desprate!How suddenly people become things which are to be burried (disposed off)before moving on with life.

Tonight when I started typing this post than the central idea was that unless C.M Sindh, experience the same sufferings,the bloodshed would not stop in Karachi,Fight between Pathan(who are moving away from north and settling in Karachi)and Urdu Speaking(who don’t want Pathans to settle down as it would affect political dominance of MQM)suits all the stake holders in Karachi!

For MQM this situation delays poulation census so that voter lists are not updated to indicate changes in demographics.

For ANP its an opportunity to counter strike and establish themselves with more seats in Karachi.

For PPP (Sind)it’s a fight between two groups who have settled and occupied a land which originally belongerd to Sindhis so it’s a source of satisfaction for them.

This situation can be immediately stopped and Law enforcing authorities can regain control Only and only If someone from the Government loses some of his loved ones!

(No Bulshit statement would come by Rehman Malik when his own son would die and Federal Govt will not seek advice for sending rescue teams when CM Sind would be kidnapped and his mutilated boddy would be found in a bag).

People in the power(and people who are indifferent about the country) must taste the sufferings!They must realise that “ what goes around ,comes around!”

BOL !!! (Time to open up!)

2011-06-28T00:03:00.004+05:00

BOL was the most awaited MOVIE OF THE YEAR. There were many reasons for having expectations from it. Firstly it was second movie by Shoaib Mansoor after “Khuda Kay Liya” which appealed both masses and classes simultaneously. Second reason was Atif Aslam !(Though one discovers after watching the movie that this movie is not about him at all!)

There is no doubt about the level of entertainment it offers. Subject, Story, music , performances and overall presentation all gel well with each other. The movie discusses how hypocratic and shallow our value systems are and how do “V” use religion only when it suits us!!!In order to present the true picture of the society ,Director Shoiab Mansoor has freely used and censor board approved use of abusive language, names of the sects, some humor about religious beliefs and practices.
All of this could have been easier to swallow had the movie been classified for mature audiences only. It becomes a very uncomfortable situation to handle when children and elders both are around and you are listening raw and blunt local expressions related to prostitutes and family extension.

My estimate is that the budget of the movie would be around 15 million Rs. It has been released in 23 cinemas nationwide and the kind of opening it has received by the audiences, it should be able to recover its investment within one week. It would send very welcoming signals to new film makers who want to make films but are reluctant due to social and film industry conditions. This movie is also expected to be released in India by Eros International so lot of revenue can be expected for the makers of this move who made a very non commercial movie(which occasionally sounded like sponsored from NGOs and Family planning commission of Pakistan!).

After observing how Indians and Iranis have used cinema for their national interest, I feel “V” all were wrong to laugh at and ignore local cinema. Film makers like Shoaib Mansoor have actually showed us that when there is a will than there is a way so inspite of all the social unrest and slump at Lollywood, A movie(without any skin exposure) has actually pulled the crowd back to cinemas.

Pakistan beyond Pakistan!

2011-05-25T22:31:00.005+05:00

So what is next for Pakistan?

Army failed when hostages were taken at G.H.Q

Air Force failed when Americans came and left through air without being intercepted for Osama Operation

Navy failed when planes were destroyed at navel airbase

Hope from legislature is fading and “V” never looked up to the Executive/Parliament for rescue.

People failed when religion and personal opinions got mixed up and value systems got shattered

All of this could be avoided had “V” not assumed that Army, Judiciary,Madrisas or other institutions are above criticism and audits. They are free to interfere in electoral process for keeping REAL public representatives away from Parliament.

When “V” criticize Army than its not the operational staff from an ordinary soldier(Sipahi)to a colonel but Ranks of brigadier and above which apparently are not focused on their responsibilities. Army’s involvement in Politics has surely affected its professional competency as Pakistan’s history of Wars in Dhaka and Kargil suggests.

It is now becoming a commonly known fact that Nukes and Gwader port are the reasons due to which America, Israel, Iran and India are becoming involved in Pakistan. Supposedly these countries have planned and funded to create unrest in Pakistan and as a result “V” as a nation are just not settling down economically, Socially and politically.

In spite of disappointment “V” must backup our forces so that they feel stronger while replying to the might of USA and Europe. Now a days “War of Bader” (Gazwa Bader in which 313 Muslims defeated mighty enemy with God’s help)seems to be an out of fashion and logic reference but I feel that it is just the right reference while considering to stand up against America.

Like everyone on the media ,”V” are doing nothing but discussing the magnitude of failure for the state but “V” must realize that 180 million can not migrate, If “V” actually accept American offer/threat and give up our weapons of mass destruction than “practically “V” would be redoing what general Niazi did in 1971.

Hey People! “Pakistan is our country and our recognition even if “V” migrate from the country. Our children born in America and Europe would be Britain based Pakis OR British Pakis or Paki origin Americans so lets not give up what ”V” have(our identity!)! Either “V” like it or not but “V” need to be different from our Rulers.”V” need to own the country and everything about it (either good or bad).If something needs to be changed than practically "V" should do something or just shut up!

Lets believe that there our good times ahead and yes “V” have accepted that “V” will be tested (apparently within the next 12 months). Lets be ready that survival of a nation roots from the sacrifices which come by free will, May it be in the form of loosing Life, Loss of valuables or unacknowledged acts of heroism.

My country men! Lets decide that human life is not more precious than the country(unless a life is needed for the country)and lets accept that if the Americans are coming than they loose more than “V” do! ”V" are a nation of 180 million believers and it would take more than weapons to defeat us!

Is the choice obvious?

2011-04-07T12:27:00.006+05:00

Ever since I started observing Politics in Pakistan, I saw me and my family supporting Pakistan Muslim League. We were always against People’s Party and now the dislike has become even more intense during current Zardari regime. Till few days back I was anxiously waiting for tenure of current Government to end for Mian brother’s Muslim League. Now I am confused about possible effectiveness of PML(N).

I am confused between Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (Imran Khan) and Pakistan Muslim League(PML-N).I have started feeling that Imran Khan has shown great team management skills in whatever he has achieved so far. He comes across as a person who sets very tough targets for himself and than steadily works towards achieving them. Like most of the American Presidents ,he excelled and became a young achiever in a profession before joining Politics.According to number of sources ,he had a chance to hold P.M office through care taker government or during Musharaf regime but he refused.According to Wikileaks he is the only main stream Politician who is not under American influence.

Initially I believed that PML-N is in a better position to improve economy. Mian brothers are businessmen so they know how to develop infrastructure and boost economic growth but when I look back at their performance in the last three years than I feel disappointed. Before Mian Shehbaz Sharif took over as C.M of Punjab ,Pervez Elahi had established RESCUE 1122,Traffic Warden systems,Free education(though all of it came with a packaged deal of corruption) but during his current tenure Shehbaz Sharif has not displayed any achievement which can be considered this effective.PML-N supporters argue that atleast Shehbaz Sharif did not remove what Pervez Elahi had established but they cant claim much as far as any new developments are concerned. There is a big question mark about effectiveness of Danish public school systems when there is a huge education related infrastructure already available which needs to be rejuvenated.It is true that current Punjab government is under great pressure from terrorism and offensive politics from People Party(also according to Transparency International Punjab has lowest corruption ratings amongst all provinces) but failure to manage Sugar mills(about seven of them belong to Mian Shareef Family),Poor management of Young doctors association,Handling of PCS officers are a few examples of management which is reactive rather than proactive.

Couple of days back when I was getting irritated about tax deduction from my salary than I came to know that Imran Khan paid Rs 1.8 million tax as compared to NO Tax by Gillani and Zardari and Rs 5,000 of Mian Nazaz Sharif. I feel that no matter how good relations Mian Nawaz Sharif has with the Gulf and Asian belt but if such a billionaire is not ready to pay tax than how can he be honest about issues and concerns of Pakistani Tax payers who are paying Tax without any social security system.I feel this is time to try someone new to keep the hope alive rather than getting disappointed by the people who are in a habit of justifying failures

Is there any twist in the tail???

2011-03-18T22:44:00.002+05:00

“V” all hate the way Raymond Davis (or whoever was he) has been released. There is no point in further discussing how bad our national integrity is hurt(If “V” had any!).Even those looked upset who were already saying that he would be released in spite being a spy and a murderer.

I feel that his arrest was not circumstantial, He was arrested and kept for so many days because ISI(Intelligence Services Agency) of Pakistan and CIA(Central Intelligence Agency)of America had to negotiate .ISI wanted to send some strong signals for restricting growing American involvement in Geo strategic issues of Pakistan. Some people believe that Americans are architecting for Pakistan what they have already executed in Egypt, Tunisian Republic, Libya and Bahrain .

USA keeps both the corrupt leaders (and required Army personnel) and their alternatives at their Payroll in all strategic locations (If some leader does not extend his support than can be substituted by his close but corrupt next in command).For this purpose they need to do their home work at the grass root level. That is where likes of Raymond Davis come in who are familiar with the local languages and have enough courage to remove anyone whenever needed.

Conspiracy theory is that ISI did not allow release of Raymond until CIA asked rest of the agents to pack back from Pakistan .If this theory is true than USA strikes over Pakistan would be lot more open and deadly now(Just like drone attack on 17th march North Waziristan Agency at the Jirga.There is some hope that these direct offenses by American troops might finally shake Army to react and push back the Americans.If it actually happens than Raymond's release might turn ot to be a blessing in disguise!

Media Matters!!!

2011-02-16T15:54:00.004+05:00

One of the few things which have improved in last couple of years is the independence of media. I do not say that it is broadcasting/publishing truth all the time but still competition keeps the channels /Newspapers alive and focused. In order to survive and compete, channels are giving more and more importance to investigative journalism. Those Anchors and programs which got initially successful just because masses were clapping at the fighting between guests and participants now have to find new tools to sustain program ratings. They are reinventing charisma of presenters, playing MMS clips of scandals and breaking corruption related stories. On one hand I really admire wonders of competition between media groups but on the other hand “V” also need to be careful that this competition is not “Perfect competition” of economics in which “No single buyer and seller can influence the market”. With the rising strength of media, few media players /groups are rising even more quickly than the media industry(and they can take advantage of their prominence and influence) and that is what “V” need to watch out from!

“V” need to be more analytic before forming any opinion based on a media report. Most of the sponsorship is supposed to come from Karachi which is under influence of MQM so channels are very careful in broadcasting anything against Altaf hussain and his supporters. In fact channels have to run coverage of MQM party meetings because otherwise their broadcast in Karachi can be stopped via cable operators. Similarly Anchors at ruling party’s payroll become lenient on government inefficiencies and start justifying its failures (Consider response of Rauf Klassra , abbas ather and Nazir Naji at various talk shows and in their own columns).Similarly some presenters/columnists seem to be at Opposition’s payroll (likes of Irfan Siddique and Ata ul haq qasmi etc).

“V” as viewers need to be aware of the developments taking place in our country and in this regard “V” need to analyze what media presents and highlights but at the same time in case of a breaking story or a scandal “V” should consider coverage by media opponents to have a clearer picture about the Issue. For example If a news breaks at GEO than “V” can wait for Dunya, DAWN NEWS or Express to cover the same incident before displaying any reaction or forming any opinion. Some times on the same channels presenters arrange to air both sides of the story so “V’ can analyze through arguments, body language and tone variation of the guests about how much they believe in their own and party point of view.

Some people might say that these talk shows or columns are loosing significance because nothing seems to be improving but the way developments are taking place at the strategic ends,Role of media is crucial in bringing the updates.”V” need to spend more time in analyzing what the local and international media covers and what it hides.I feel that media has raised awareness of an average Pakistani about national issues and power structure in the country.

No one killed Narendra Modi!!!

2011-01-16T15:54:00.010+05:00

Only those who keep walking get sweet returns...
look at the sun's perseverance - dynamic & always on the move, never dormant...
hence keep moving.

This is the title quote at the home page of an Indian who is considered to be one of the primary suspects in 2002 Gujarat violence/Riots and Godhra Train Burning(India) in which about 2,000 people lost their lives and thousands got injured(Supposedly mostly Muslims who also lost their businesses and role in economic activity).His involvement in the incident was so obvious that even the Americans (who are considered pro-India due to their vested economic interest ) revoked his visa( He was cited for responsibility for violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998). As an aftermath of the riots, there were calls for Modi to resign from his position as chief minister of Gujarat. The opposition parties stalled the national parliament over the issue. Even Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Telugu Desam Party (TDP), allies of the BJP, asked for Modi's resignation. Modi submitted his resignation to the Governor and recommended the dissolution of the 10th Gujarat Legislative Assembly. In the following state re-elections the BJP, led by Modi, won 127 seats in the 182-member assembly.He is theChief Minister of the Indian state of Gujarat since 7 October 2001, making him the longest serving Chief Minister of the state of Gujarat.

Being a Pakistani I used to believe that Indians keep on electing him because they all hate Muslims so elect the symbol of this hatred but I am afraid that I was wrong and following are the reasons why!!!

1: 2001 Gujarat Earthquake: For Narendra Modi's outstanding contribution for disaster management and rehabilitation, on 16-10-2003 Gujarat govt got UN Sasakawa Certificate of Merit for outstanding work in the field of disaster management and risk reduction.

2: He re-organised the government's administrative structure and embarked upon a massive cost-cutting exercise.As a result of his elaborate efforts, Gujarat registered a GDP growth rate of over 10% during his first tenure. This was the highest growth rate among all the Indian states.

3: Gujarat has only 5% of India’s population and 6% of its geographical area, but its contribution to India in terms of ‘Value of Output’ is 16.10%; in terms of exports it is 16% and in terms of stock market capitalization it is 30%.With over 3 lac small scale units, over 2200 large and medium industries, 83 closely integrated industrial clusters, 182 industrial estates and 33 Special Economic Zones with flexible labour laws and an easy exit policy – Gujarat is one of the most industrialized states of India. Gujarat has a 16.2% share in India’s industrial production whereas the percentage of man-days lost in Gujarat due to labour strife is just 0.52% - the lowest in the country.

4: What is more important is that the growth is coupled with financial discipline. Soon after he became the Chief Minister, Modi focused on curtailing government expenditure and emphasized on the recovery of government dues. The sales tax income which was Rs.5,890 crores when he took over increased to Rs.10,606 crores within 4 years, more importantly without imposing any new taxes. Since the last 3 years, development expenditure is more than the non-development expenditure in Gujarat, which is an unusual phenomenon.

This post has not been uploaded in praise of Narendra Modi and to portray him as a Good person but to create awareness amongst all those people who are arguing about roles of Salman Taseer and Mumtaz Qadri.”V” need to realize that when a ruler brings welfareto his people than no one can kill him .I am not referring to death in terms of soul leaving body but soul surviving in the minds of the people and in the Systems/Institutions developed!

Narendra Modi started his career from Rashtriya savik singh(Indian militant extremist group) and later on established himself politically through Bharatiya Janata Party BJP which is also known for its extremist views but he is acceptable for the society due to his administrative ability whereas our extremist leaders our known for creating social mess only!!!

A few of the awards bagged for different developmental initiatives/achievements in Gujarat during the tenure of Modi are:
• UN Sasakawa Award for outstanding reconstruction work in disaster risk reduction
• World Bank Green Awards for excellence in environment consciousness during post earthquake rehabilitation
• CAPAM Gold Award from Commonwealth Associations for innovations in governance
• Dubai International Award to Surat Municipal Corporation for Best Practices in SWM and Urban Governance
• India Tech Excellence Award 2005 for the most progressive and dynamic state in power sector reforms
• UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award for reconstruction of a Gurudwara damaged during the earthquake
• Computer Society of India and Nihilant Technology Citizen Facilitation Award for the Best e-Governed State
• Computer Society of India and Nihilant Technology Best Service Orientation Award to Ahmedabad Collectorate’s Citizen Charter
• ELITEX 2007 - Best E-governed State Award from Government of India in January 2007

Sources:Related web links

Rising Pedophile cases in Pakistan (Do “V” need to be cautious???)

2011-01-03T12:20:00.003+05:00

With the rise in economic depression and spread of uncensored and unchecked entertainment media there seems to be a rise in all sorts of crimes. Theft, burglary, murder were always there but recently media is reporting lot of Pedophile cases. Children have been found dead after being molested and abused in different cities. According to a report in “Daily Times”
Punjab is on the top of the list for child molestation with 62 percent of such cases, 154 in Lahore and the rest in other cities of Punjab. In total, 68 percent girls and 32 percent boys have been the victims of pedophilia. The number increased by 9.4 percent as compared to 2008. Statistics show that around 81 percent of the cases were registered with the police. The study shows that 2,012 children were reportedly abused in 2009 and most of them were abused by acquaintances.

According to Wikipedia As a medical diagnosis, pedophilia is typically defined as a psychiatric disorder in adults or late adolescents (persons age 16 and older) characterized by a primary or exclusive sexual interest in prepubescent children (generally age 13 years or younger, though onset of puberty may vary).

One opinion is that such cases were always here in our society but its just that media has started reporting them now. Such incidents are a norm in Madrisa (religious schools where children usually study under boarding system). In rural areas Men marrying girls of 13 years or less age is also a type of abuse (Apparently they refer to marriage between B.B Hazrat Ayesha and Holy prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H for justification even though it might not be the correct reference as some suggest that B.B Hazrat Ayesha’s was an adult by the time she started living with the prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H).

Suggested safety measures:

1: Pedophilias are the people who are so weak (mentally) that they can only target children rather than adults so no matter how strong they look, ”V”(both men and women) can face them and resist them physically .If they are shameless less than “V” should be at least fearless if not ruthless with them.

2: Usually these are the people who are known to the children and have a direct or indirect access to them so for your child’s safety trust no body even the Uncles, Neighbors or the servants who take them out for walk or for free sweets. At least keep an eye on whoever is accompanying your child.

3: Until your child crosses the age of 18, try to monitor on hourly basis when the child is out of sight.

4: Encourage children to keep a mobile while leaving home other than the for school(Give them low cost cheap mobiles which can only be used for voice or data communication so that children don’t attract burglars or loss of mobile due to any reason doesn’t cost much).

5: In case of a mishap usually parents avoid reporting of such incident due to social stigma, PLEASE DO IT SO THAT YOU CAN SAVE OTHER CHILDREN or at least refer to Law enforcing, media authorities or some related NGO with a request to stay anonymous (Even our police is likely to be helpful when it comes to crimes against children).

Do “V” need an official religion????

2010-12-18T01:18:00.008+05:00

Before discussing this issue “V” should be clear if having Islam as our official religion makes any difference and if adopting a secular status would change anything.

Impact of having Islam as the official religion:

Islam is a complete code of life so a country where it is the official religion there should be a clear display of Islamic principles and practices in economic, political and social systems and institutions but that is not the case here!
Our Banking system is established on interest based financing (In my opinion the ones offering Islamic banking are also actually interest based).Our political system doesn’t allow honest people to be elected. Our social system does display Islamic way of worshiping but “V” as a society appear to be confused about our Islamic values, ideology and principles.

So what if “V” actually become secular?

I think practically it would make no difference because our primary issue of dishonesty and corruption is due to not following Islam even when it is official religion so it would make no difference if Pakistan becomes a secular state rather the little check and balance that “V” have like people not drinking publicly or restrictions on skin exposure on media would end and as a result temptations which arise through income earned by dishonesty would become easier to express. The clash and social unrest which “V” feel disturbed about due to rift between various sects and religious groups is not due to having an official religion but due to not having an official Islam! And this is likely to continue even if Pakistan officially becomes a secular state.

If “V” continue to operate as an Islamic state there should be greater emphasis on basic Islamic aspects like:

Work and shopping should be held during Prayer time(irrespective of the way a person performs prayer/Salath).

Arabic language should be taught from class one just like English, Urdu and Mathematics so that our children feel comfortable to study Islam just the way they feel comfortable while reading books and novels.

Financial sector should be pushed to offer Operating lease.

And If “V” become secular than?

There would be greater need to implement social justice and equality otherwise our collapse would come earlier even though Secularism doesn’t stop anyone from following his religious beleifs.

Note: Some people might say that practically “V” are into idle worshipping and corruption/dishonesty/crimes are all rising because “V” are turning away from God (Rehman and Rahim) but I still feel that being a poor Muslim is better than being a good non-Muslim and if the society becomes officially secular than people might drift away from the little faith that they have due to what they see officially happening and practice out of routine!

Learning beyond what has been leaked!!!!

2010-12-06T08:49:00.004+05:00

These days “V” don’t enquire about headlines but ask about what has been leaked by Wikileaks!

Most of what has come out was already known and has only been verified but it doesn’t matter if the leaked facts are a discovery or Are they based on true facts but what is more important to understand is the way Americans run their intelligence systems!!

America is the largest economy and the only superpower of the world. In order to feed its economy (which had a GDP of 14.3 trillion dollars in 2009 even when it was in the middle of worst Financial crises since great depression of 1930s)it needs raw materials from the third world ,Oil from the Arab world and watch dogs from throughout the world to keep an eye on economies which can challenge its dominance so it suits them to keep control of whatever is happening politically throughout the world. The Intelligence network throughout the world updates Pentagon and Whitehouse about who is gaining popularity and who is actually supposed to be popular to safeguard American Interest in different regions. It might sound a bit far fetched but If Americans are this much concerned about who is ruling a country and which Ruler actually suits the Americans than it is very much possible that they can remove anyone from the scene or can bring in whoever suits them and they can play as Machiavellian as they want to by keeping Generals at their payroll and Public representatives on their funding!

Whatever the little that I know of about history, this is how superpowers have always been. They maintain effective communication systems and are indirectly involved in political maneuvering through money, land, women or victimization. Today when I look at the Americans than I realize that they cant be this successful against nations which have self belief like Germans or Chinese but against only such people who are confused about their true identity like us!!!

Lessons for the teachers!!!

2010-11-24T11:09:00.008+05:00

Since the time I started going to school as a student till the time I started going as a teacher, Never for once I doubted about the fact that teacher is final authority in a class room in fact is “The Authority” in a class room. Authority with reference to everything happening in the class and if possible in the minds of the students. Since last two years I have become doubtful if “V” the teachers are carrying our traditional character and are actually doing nothing but surviving rather than seeking joy from the work which "V" do!

“V” the teachers Struggle

To keep the spirit of nationalism alive during teaching when most of the students look determined to leave for abroad and practically work and save for development of other countries.

To keep the individual integrity alive in a society where school teachers are considered to be lower level professionals.

To maintain average standard of living when inflation is making the PAK Rs. more and more worthless.Few days back I came to know about an teacher who is trying to get himself a Visa and a work permit to be a Labour in Italy. Upon query he replied that he is ready to do work as a labour as long as he is earning in Euros which currently have a conversion rate of about Rs 114 per Euro. Apparently the skill of a janitor seems to be of more worth than the education which we get and the honest living which we make.

I guess “V” the teachers have few lessons to learn ourselves.

Education doesn’t guaranty economic prosperity and teachers who are not earning enough need to consider additional sources of income by allocating time and effort in additional activities rather than just waiting for extra coaching opportunities which seem to be fewer than the candidates.

Effective financial planning becomes more important with limited resources so divert resources from nonproductive activities like spending on weddings or consumption items to Asset accumulation like Gold Jewelry or buying real estate through installments.

Take pride in what you are doing !Keep learning! Plan! focus and remember there is always room for the best at the top!!!

Brave or Coward ???

2010-11-10T10:22:00.003+05:00

Living In a country where integrity never mattered, A cricketer Running away to save his life seems to be a petty issue. Legal adviser and other officials of Pakistan cricket board are scolding the player for not taking the management into confidence about life threats and are displaying suspicion over this act as being for the objective of getting British residence and support.

There are few factors which are to be considered in this regard.

According to player’s brother, Muhammad Zulqurnain had a multiple Visa of England so staying and working in England was possible for him anyway. Being cricketer he could sign county contracts or second class club cricket.

He gave a statement that under the given circumstances “Nobody” could be trusted. If PCB officials are also included in “Nobody” than is it because they are not strong enough to provide protection or is it because a match fixer could not reach a player without some degree of involvement by the board officials in match fixing?

Muhammad Zulqurnain is married and 24 years of age .His act of running away for life at the start of his international carrier should be condemned as an act of a coward or an act of Bravery as he refused to become another Kamran Akmal !!!?

Please add comments to this post by sharing your views about the incident.

How/When does mass killing become easy???

2010-10-12T12:21:00.007+05:00

Like most of us I also used to argue that whatever the suicidal bombers are being taught by their masters,killing of civilians can never be justified but over a period of time I have learned that in some cases a person is not likely to feel anything for the innocent.

Let’s consider the situations when killing the innocent does not test our conscious

1: Couple of days back when I went back home after a long hard day than I realized that a life partner is such a blessing of God whom you share all the pleasures and sorrows with. A life partner makes you feel loved and you also feel joy in returning the love through your acts of kindness and forgiveness of mistakes. Now if someone suddenly takes away your life partner whom you love or any of your parents who are a source of your faith and peace or may be your children who are the reason you never get tired of working hard at your office than how would you react to acts of that person?

Ans: You would kill the person who killed your family

Many say that suicide bombers come from the areas which are attacked by Drone and apparently the people who are blowing themselves away through suicide bombing are the ones who don’t feel for families of others the way nobody felt for their families which were lost in Drone attacks. When such people come for target study in urban areas than they see economic prosperity and Indifference by bulk of the population towards that part of the country which is attacked by Americans but no body comes for their rescue! So they feel urgency to blow everyone along!

2: Last Ramadan me and two of my friends tried to book an Aftari at Freddy's Cafe and rate of Buffet Aftari was about Rs 1,400 per person. I calculated that an average Pakistani household consumes about 2-3 Kg of flour per day for three meals for a family of about 6 persons. If per Kg flour costs Rs 30 than about Rs 2700 are needed to buy flour for the whole family so practically two people eating at Freddy's Cafe or three people at any other restaurant on M.M Alam road Lahore actually spend an amount on a single meal which can buy flour for an average family for the whole month (Remember in lower socio economic groups Roti is the primary consumption item). If someone is not earning enough even to buy flour than why would he mind blasting Freddy's Cafe rather than watching his family die out of hunger or despair?

Ans: If the person can’t have enough to feed his family than he would kill the people who are overeating and overspending and showing no empathy for his children and family.

American media and society seems to be intolerant towards both of the above mentioned categories of killers but ironically they themselves are no different and represent a third category of killers!

Third type of people who don’t feel while killing the civilians are the ones who kill out of greed (for power, control and authority) and overwhelming desire to display dominance).Such people like Americans don’t feel while killing the “bloody third world civilians” for larger interest of America just like “V’ don’t feel while overeating when millions of people are suffering from hunger and deprivation in the flood struck areas and this way killing continues !

Do we need simpler solutions???

2010-08-26T12:37:00.003+05:00

Different people at different occasions have mentioned that in NWFP AND AFGHANISTAN there is no concept of snatching, burglary or theft.

Let’s consider few possible explanations:

1: People living in such areas follow traditional system of Jirga, a Council of local elders and respected people for dispute resolution. Decision making by Jirga is swift and is based upon judgment by majority. These people are from the area so they are in a better position to analyze the crime scene and the accused. There is no need to hire Lawyers with high fee so justice is in reach to the poor.

2: There is no concept of license for keeping weapons due to which anyone would be cautious while entering into someone’s house as almost everybody keeps a weapon and knows how to use it without dependence on any law enforcing authority.

3:People living in Afghanistan and Khyber Pakhtounkhuah(formally NWFP) don’t have to spend much on construction(Local terrain does not allow much to build up),There is not much established garments industry so self stitched cloths don’t leave much margin for comparison and status display.

4: There is little concept of Job and most of the people make their living through trade and its related activities due to which unemployment is low.

Whereas in Pakistan everything is opposite
Even though the above mentioned life style has survived in hilly areas and thinly populated territories but at least we should reconsider requirement of license for keeping firearms. I personally feel that anyone having an I.D card should be allowed to keep a weapon If not than at least issuance of license should be resumed and made simple.

Note: Apparently police in Gujranwala and Sialkot has adopted the same philosophy and is encouraging people not to rely on Police support.

Axed sentiments!

2010-07-24T23:10:00.010+05:00

Pakistan was on its way to win the "Twenty Twenty" cricket match against Australia .I was watching it with my mother who was continuously reciting holy names and verses for Pakistan’s victory.During the match there was a commercial break when suddenly Katrina Kaif appeared in an Ad for a bleach cream.In order to clarify she showed all the proofs about how effective the cream was for her!

I had seen the Ad for "Veet" before but while watching it with my mother, it felt different! This Ad is not the only one which can be considered offensive for Pakistani audience especially of mixed age groups. T.V commercials of Axe (Deodorant), birth control products and Seductive Movie trailers are all played on cable channels and people don’t raise any voice about it. Either because they keep on switching channels so they switch the channel just in time while watching with a minor or an elder or they are getting used to watch skin exposure with family.

I think its very important to realize that getting exposure to adult content at such an early age can make a child lose his/her sense for social values.The obvious signs can be witnessed through treatment of young women at public places.

Many people would say its all backward thinking and in this modern age when the kids can carry video clips on mobile phones or watch adult entertainment on computer, It would be naive to assume that children should be kept from watching such Ads which don’t even carry any “real” exposure but I would say that one of the reasons for our deterioration is losing our Value system and swallowing whatever comes in the name of modernization.

PEMRA(Pakistan Electronic media regulatory authority)can at least restrict skin exposure on family and sports channels.

Remember! Tallest trees have deepest roots also!so if we want to be something recognisable on the world map than "V" will have to hold our heritage and Values firmly the way Jews,Chinese, Japanese, or Indians have done.

Cant “V” Kick start it????

2010-06-29T23:57:00.005+05:00

“V” see “others” play !

“V” watch, clap and also feel excited while watching other nations play and rule the sports grounds and tournaments.

When I discuss Soccer with my students or watch events like Olympics than i feel desperate to discuss any Pakistani player representing the country in clubs like Manchester United,Real Madrid or Pakistan at the top of medal tables in Olympics or a Pakistani player playing against Nadal and Pakistani flags waiving in wimbildon but than i suddenly come out of imagination and fantasies and i look around only to realize that like every other department our National Sports federations display a typical “Why work can’t be done attitude!” They will keep on explaining (if someone asks during any international tournament)what are the reasons for lacking representation at international sports events or under performance of our team but you would almost never find them discussing ideas of overcoming budget shortage and launching training programs.

By now every living Pakistani knows that “V” are a poor nation so if “V” want to improve our performance in sports than “V” need to consider following aspects.

Sports help in keeping integrity of a nation alive ,bring honor to a nation and teach it to compete and fight.

Money does matter but efforts and ideas are more significant.“V” have the examples of very poor nations winning Olympic medals and poor players making it to the top.
A lot can be learned just by watching the champions play but in the long run infrastructure support is required so for every sports association it should be made compulsory to achieve realistic and measurable targets of expanding infrastructure or at least for managing a pool of coaches for conducting camps at schools,colleges and universities.

Careers in sports are too risky and unreliable so study scholarships can be offered to kids with talent for any sports .This way young children would have family support to allocate time for sports.

Sports are becoming more and more scientific.Technology and technique is not likely to be brought in by the people who don’t believe that “V” can win so if a sports minister does not deliver or a Sports office bearer does not produce results than they should be removed from their offices.

Sponsors are attracted to what is popular in masses .If high prize value tournaments are organized for non professionals than that would attract crowd to such sports which are not commonly popular in urban and social population simultaneously like Football,Basketball,Baseball Rugby etc.These are also the sports which provide an opportunity to make a career in international clubs and have international sponsorship deals with huge money and recognition.
Sponsorships can bring in the required investment for infrastructure development.

Searching for a Leader (Everywhere including inside You!)

2010-06-03T21:26:00.005+05:00

At various discussions about condition of our country I find people concluding the discussion through any of the following remarks

Someone like Khomeini is needed here!
Only a bloody revolution is the solution!
“V” lack leaders who can deliver!
Its all because of the leaders that “V” are ………up!

Do leaders reflect the nation or are the nations a reflection of their leaders?

If we consider leaders like Mahathir Muhammad and Quaid E Azam than “V” realize that single person’s charisma can influence millions but on the other hand if “V” consider nations like China, India, than their growth in the last four decades cant be associated to any single leader who changed them altogether but rather these nations kept on discovering people in different walks of life which wanted to deliver excellence and had the ability to aspire others to adopt the same approach.

Is there anything common in the Nations which grow and develop quickly?

Here are few possible explanations

They keep religion out of their economic activities (whereas “V” justify our laziness under notions like It wasn’t God’s will! or “V” should not spend much effort on worldly matters as these would be over as soon as the judgment day arises so “V” should rather focus on prayers and meditation!)

They give more priority to conduct and discipline (the two elements are also present in our religion but practically “V” have shifted our focus on religious appearance/getup and prayers rather then exploring what God wants us to discover through efforts and belief.

People of Developed nations are nationalists ( “V” are not sure if “V” are a nation)

Why are “V” discussing this topic?

Pakistan is going through a critical time and many people still don’t believe that disintegration of Pakistan is of any interest for the Americans. They feel that Gwader port,Unexplored natural resources and Nuclear assets are of no concern for the troika of America ,India and Israel but I feel that the time is getting closer when Americans would want to operate in the region directly rather than through manipulation of the Governments. I also feel that in the next stage of American planning, present government would be removed within this year even if it survived through July2010 so whenever it all starts happening than ”V” should have an idea that what kind of people can guide us to survive.

Maula Hood system of management and justice !

2010-05-23T23:12:00.012+05:00

Unless God does it! You cant kill him!( Maulay noo maula na maray tay maula nai mar sakda!)Ever since I heard this dialogue , I found it very filmy and unreal along with the character of Maula Jutt who was not supposed to lose under any circumstances and I looked down upon people who envied such a character who was impossible to exist in real life but the way things are going and the extent to which our collective frustration has grown I am desperate now to find a Maula Jutt in our society.

Maula Jutt is supposed to be someone who doesn’t play by the rules and is strong enough to beat the Bad guys and most important of all he doesn’t die. When I analyze popularity of characters like Maula jutt and Robin Hood than one thing is common in them that they were about societies in which system was too strong to let the weak people live in peace and these characters could muscle the system away to help the poor and weaker of the society.

Lets see what are the factors which create space for people like Maula Jutt and Robin Hood.

1: Members of the society are too lazy and psychologically too weak to struggle themselves so they clap for whoever is practically bringing solutions to their problems.

2: In the society there are few who have lost a lot themselves and now they have nothing else to lose so they struggle against the system for revenge and recognition. The ones who survive and succeed are remembered as heroes and the rest as nobodies so people struggle and try to succeed.

3: When dominant portion of the society is corrupt than struggling through the system is like trying to float by a boat of affected wood so success is more likely to come off the system.

No matter how we explain a society’s acceptance towards people who deliver results without following the rules but practically when individuals dominate the institutions than there is greater probability that such individuals would eventually start misusing the power rather than take corrective measures to rebuild the society and this is likely to happen because too much concentration of power in an entity usually results in a spill rather than a trickling down sharing of power to gain collective strength.

Waiting for a perfect man!

2010-05-10T10:51:00.002+05:00

While working for the cellular and Education industries I met many women who were educated, good looking and had reasonable family backgrounds but were still single. On occasions I found them depressed for aging quickly and due to not being approached by a suitable person to get married with.

After having direct conversations and observations I realized that most of them were single not because they were never approached by anyone but due to the fact that they were not ready to marry someone who was not fulfilling the criteria of a “perfect man”. The way I understood it, this is the check list which an urban girl (especially the one who has done her graduation or Masters from a private educational institution)follows while saying yes to a man. Importance of the mentioned variables is according to the assigned weights.

Financial stability (70%)
Salary
Job/Position

Vehicle which he drives (10%)

Education (10%)

Looks (7%)
Height
Complexion

Family obligations (3%)
Groom’s brother and sisters still unmarried

In the above mentioned variables assigned weights might vary from person to person but most of the urban women appear to give primary importance to financial stability. Same trend seems to be popular in males also where men practically define a good family as the one which can raise or match status of the groom and can offer financial support and assistance.

With reference to the above mentioned observations please answer to the following:

Should it be considered “greedy” to look for a person who is financially sound or is it a “realistic approach” to life considering rising cost of living or is it our laziness that we want to join the achievers but do not want to share someone’s struggle?

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Are “V” Losers by choice?

2010-05-03T08:57:00.004+05:00

A colleague of mine gave an example to indicate the fact and the more I thought about it the more I realized that as a nation we are so good at creating issues and making a mess out of nothing that we loose our focus from more significant challenges. Such issues root from our inherent habits and no ruler can be blamed for them.

“V” are not organized :
Consider our graveyards for instance, by the exception of very few graveyards most of them do not have an index system so if you have to find a grave than you also have to find someone from the family of the departed to take you along. After prayers in the mosques (especially after Jumma and Eid prayers) we all rush to leave at once but we do not try to form a Queue or avoid walking on other people’s slippers. Same attitude is reflected when there is no one to control the traffic than we do not try to control our selves!

“V” are idle worshipers:
“V” love to create and maintain relationships with those who are having power (“V” leave them once their authority is over).”V” believe from the deepest core of our hearts that reference and bribery are the master keys to any problem so “V” are more than willing to compromise on our principals and moral values.

“V” are bad investors:
Major part of our earnings goes to worldly pursuits like spending on social occasions such as marriage and death ceremonies which consume a significant part of our savings and borrowed amounts but have absolutely no return.

“V” have impoverish thinking:

When “V” struggle than our focus is only on physiological ,Security or social needs rather than on self esteem or self actualization needs so “V” don’t try to utilize our potential and seek challenges.

Please participate by answering to the following.

1:Is not being organized the reason why we are not organized politically or is it due to the fact that unlike other nations our messiah leader has yet not appeared who would change everything after organizing and leading a revolution.

2: Do “V” practically believe in God’s existence?

3: “V” have to spend on social occasions like marriage and death anniversaries because every society has its own ways of socialization like in west there are bars and clubs and if don’t spend to celebrate or commemorate such occasions than it would further reduce social get-togethers which have come to a minimum due to terrorism and social atmosphere. Do u agree?

4: A society in which most of the members are struggling to make their ends meet. Can it produce such scientists, writers, producers who can make a difference?

Confused Muslims!

2010-04-22T09:14:00.007+05:00

The more I observe the more I realize that Islam is basically a way of Life in which primary focus is on behaving in a certain manner in our routine life and the other part of the religion which is about prayers and meditation is actually of lesser importance.

I feel this way because with the passage of time I have seen the society deteriorating in terms of moral values and conduct .On the same channel we see clip of a Beauty contest ( of the stage which is suitable for adult viewers only )and an episode of “Alim on Line” by Dr.Amir Liaqat Hussein for guiding on religious affairs.
I see people keeping beard, calling themselves hajji sab and not honoring commitments or asking for adult entertainment at the DVD stores or being involved in bribery . Women following hijab continuously seeking male companionship. People performing Hajj(Pilgrimage) through income for which it is almost certain that it is not hard earned. The most painful of all unrighteous deeds/sin which is telling a Lie/Falsehood has become acceptable and a norm in our society. “V” the whole Muslim society collectively have failed to understand curse of Interest based economy .

When I mention sins or ill practices by people keeping a beard or women following Hijab than it does not mean that I do not consider others as Muslims but I mention it to indicate confused acts . “V” are ready to talk about a possible bloody Islamic revolution (Iran’s Khumani style) but we are not ready to filter our entertainment, change the way we treat our women or increase our income without actually working for it.

1: Can we have a new censor policy, banking system without a forced radical change?

2: Do we actually want to change this society and ourselves?

3: Did Taliban succeed and are still successful because major part of the society wanted to change but did not want to step out of its comfort zone so when a group enforced Islamic practices than the bodies followed which the minds knew was right?

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Begging from the Beggars

2010-04-14T10:31:00.007+05:00

I was still in my teens when a family elder suggested that I should visit the most famous Shrine/mausoleum of Lahore every week. The idea was to keep me in the loop of spirituality which saves a person from going astray.

I started visiting the place every Friday for praying. After couple of months I realized that every time during prayers at my visit ,I do not mention the one whose shrine I am standing at and I only give reference of Holy prophet(P.B.U.H) so during pray I decided that soon after giving Holy prophet’s reference ,I would give reference of the shrined. At the end of the prayer when I actually tried to do it than I realized that I have made an error of sequencing the references as after referring to the ultimate reference I can not give reference of the shrined so next week when I would come than I would give reference of Holy prophet(P.B.U.H) at the end but next week I realized that I was unable to quote a reference even before Holy prophet’s reference so I finished the prayers through only one reference which was of Holy prophet (P.B.U.H).

In the same time period I used to be almost a pathological liar so when I prayed to God for helping me quit than by mistake I gave reference of Abu baker Siddique (who was known for being truthful and whose generation I belong to) .Soon after referring to him I felt guilty for not referring to Sadiq and Amin (Holy Prophet’s tittles for being truthful and trust worthy).I asked for God’s forgiveness and from that point and age onwards I always refer to Holy prophet(P.BU.H)which is the ultimate reference, during my prayers. I also stopped visiting shrines and Mausoleums.

Different people have different opinions about use of references during prayers.

Being an ordinary person who has not conducted any research

1: Do you feel urge to use “any” references during prayers?

2: Do you agree with the idea that God would be more attentive to our prayers if we beg him in the name of people who were very pious and are not alive anymore.

3: Is use of references in prayers a reflection of our national trait i.e. using references to get the things done which we feel we can not do on our own and similarly we don’t believe that we are good enough to convince God to listen to our prayers so we refer to the people who are supposed to be better humans than us.

Please participate in the discussion by adding comments to the post.

Is this the second last stage?

2010-04-02T09:41:00.011+05:00

Couple of months back I wrote a Blog “Would Pakistan be the next Karbala” (24th December 2009).This post shows possible Map of Pakistan if we actually loose our war of survival against Americans, Israeli and Indians. I feel that every time the Americans have to execute a plan in the region, they bring in a government which “directly” supports them. For example when they had to hold the Russian advancement in Afghanistan than they brought and supported Zia Ul Haq. When they themselves had to come into the region than they brought Musharaf (I really don’t think that these Army coups were circumstantial or reactionary rather these were planned many years ago and it was only a matter of deciding that who would execute them on America’s behalf).

When Musharaf government failed in administration and Army lost its repute because of one person than Americans changed the faces and supported “Daughter of the east” to gain support for the west .Apparently due to some pro Islamic groups in the forces she did not make it but Influence of American government is very much obvious and they are still co-coordinating with the people they need(Gen Kiyani accompanied our ministers for the strategic dialogues with America rather than head of government or state).

ISIs head Gen Pasha has got an extension in his job contract apparently because If Gen Kiyani does not do it for the Americans than he will be substituted by Gen Pasha just like Musharaf carried his substitution in the form of Gen Kiyani. It will be naïve to assume it to be a coincidence that Gen Kiyani and Gen Pasha are both associated with ISI which is considered to be Brain of Army. Directly dealing with Army suits the Americans for swift delivery of orders and due to the fact that Civilians have failed to control the Army (Rehman Malik’s attempt to control ISI through Interior ministry).

Recently parliamentary committee signed 18th amendment for which I feel is another effort to sustain political system in the country and stopping Army from ruling directly or indirectly. In spite of its corruption and poor administrative abilities ,I feel that this government will not be able to help the Americans the way an Army rule can so present political set up would soon be finished and it will be replaced by a Government of Technocrats backed by Army .Support for the new government will be gained through very simple means like providing it with enough Electricity to cool the masses down, providing financial assistance to subsidize basic consumption items like wheat, sugar or rice etc.

Once the new government would not face threat of resistance by masses than the final stage of redesigning the Pakistani map would start and Americans, Israelis and Indians would attempt to denuclearize Pakistan along with taking Gwader port away from us and than their interest in the country would be over.

Please participate by answering to the following:

1: Whatever is mentioned in this post, is it just a conspiracy theory?

2: Liberation movement in Baluchistan, Rise of Islamic groups in Northern belt, Anti Punjabi/Army sentiment in Sind; In the light of all these issues would Pakistan survive?

3: Is it just the right time to discuss Shoiab Malik's wedding?

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Ashfaq Ahmed and Paulo Coelho!

2010-03-27T21:42:00.008+05:00

Best thing which I discovered while growing up is discovering God in everything around me! It must have happened to many who struggle independently and eventually realize that our strength roots from accepting our weaknesses to God.

In my mid twenties I learned about a writer who was sharing similar experiences(though apparently his relationship with God looked much more direct!)about creating and maintaining relationship with God by being observant about Nature .This writer was Ashfaq Ahmed who in his dramas like “Mann Chalay ka sauda”( A Naïve’s bargain)and talk shows like “Zavia”(Prospective)discussed the concept of approaching God by following simple principals of honesty and deciding according to what our heart tells us to do(If we keep it pure).

After couple of years I heard about a Brazilian writer “Paulo Coelho” whose book “Alchemist” made record sales throughout the world. The Alchemist was originally written in Portuguese and has since been translated into 56 languages, winning the Guinness World Record for most translated book by a living author. It has sold more than 65 million copies in more than 150 countries, becoming one of the best-selling books in history.

In spite of the fact that Coelho’s work primarily reflects his Christian orientation whereas Ashfaq Ahmed’s is of Sufi Islamic school of thought but after reading both of them ,one realizes that God is so easy to approach if we believe that he exists!

One thing which I have failed to understand is that why it was Paulo Coelho who got all the recognition and why not it was Ashfaq Ahmed?
Please suggest a possible reason that why do “V” not get the due recognition even when “V” DESERVE IT.

1: Nothing is of value unless it can be sold! and “V” are not good at selling our brands because “V” don’t believe in them.

2: “V” are tagged as failures because of our not so bright past so it would take a lot more than work of few hard workers to make the world realize our true potential.

3: “V” do not think that “V” are good and automatically the world agrees about our opinion about ourselves!

4: “V” do not deserve recognition and “V” are getting what “V” actually deserve!

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Might is Right!(Very right?)

2010-03-19T11:14:00.007+05:00

“V” the Pakistanis dislike when people display dominance at social interaction platforms. “V” feel uncomfortable when people consider themselves superior on the basis of wealth they have accumulated, the designation they are working at, Cast they belong to, Neighborhood they are living in etc.

Reason why this mindset is objectionable is that it pushes for discriminatory treatment like an An Army Col would never want to stand in the queue to buy a Pizza or a Policeman would not want to pay for a stage play’s ticket.
Belief that Laws should be bent for people who belong to higher socio economic groups or status has become so popular that there is a mad race going on to gain power so that “V” can be treated exclusively in the society rather than enjoying spending what we have earned through our hard work and as a result “V” have forgot to differentiate between fair and unfair! and same is reflected through our politicians which are individuals who became Public representatives to be treated exclusively rather than people who join the parliament to bring a positive change in the society which they represent.

What are the factors which push a person to adopt this belief that might is right!

1: People have been abused while being weak and now they want to gain and exercise power to seek revenge from whatever comes their way.

2: People lack substance to achieve something on their own so they seek Might as a cover.

3: People are cannibals by nature so survival routs from eating others like us!

4: “V” are such bad parents that we do not teach our children any Values but just tools to be out of reach for others.

Please add comment if you consider any of the above mentioned as the primary reason for display of power publicly.

Can I make a difference?

2010-02-05T00:38:00.009+05:00

A lot has been discussed about Aafia Siddiqui.Media talks about her academic background and her association with prestigious institutes like MIT.At the talk shows Politicians from the ruling party defend themselves by saying that it all happened (Her arrest from Karachi) in Musharaf regime and they have nothing to do with it.Opposition scores points against the government by accusing them of negligence and poor followup of the case. “V” the Pakistanis talk about the fact that it could happen to anyone of us and that no Pakistani is safe and something should be done about it. “V” are discussing it the way “V” always do and things keep on getting from bad to worse .

Since the last couple of years I have started feeling that the people with decision making authority do nothing and they just talk about the issues and justify their failures.If I look down upon them for this reason than I should be different from them .After listening to the news of her conviction and a recount of the events by her sister I considered possible ways of reacting like Painting her name on my car to show solidarity.Wearing a black protest band during school hours so that students ask about it and I answer to create more awareness about the issue but these options looked easy.Irrespective of their effectiveness I had a feeling that I am doing what everyone else is doing i.e I am just talking!Than came the option of running a campaign against American products through the blog but we are bound to use so many American products which are required for survival and for our national growth and quitting such items would actually would’t bother Americans but hurt our own progress.I realised that even if I cant stop using microsoft Window or rest of the items which make America the largest economic entity on the planet,the least degree of sacrifice that I can make is to boycott such American items which are not needed for growth or survival like American entertainment so my dear fellas today on 5th of february 2010 I quit American music and movies
which I am so fond of and I am doing it because it’s the least that I can do to show solidarity to a daughter of my country who was taken away against Pakistani laws and without any trial due to the fact that “V” the Pakistanis are such shameless greedy cowards that we sell our women whenever we need to .”V” are a nation with no integrity,no moral values,no ownership to our heritage and no belief that there is a God whom we will return to !

Please share your opinion by adding comments to the following!

Would quitting American entertainment make a difference when “V” all get pirated media which does not generate any income for Americans and “V” cant boycott rest of the American products?

Do symbolic gestures (like quitting consumption items) really matter to nations?

Does it matter to feel sad and angry when no one else is watching?

Have we given up?

2010-01-31T19:19:00.009+05:00

In Cricket ,senior team lost to a senior team and the junior team lost to Australia’s junior team . Winning and loosing are as common as sports themselves but when it comes to “V” the Pakistanis than winning always seems to be coming by chance or by luck and we never believe that winning is our right!

Why are Aussies always sure that they can!
And why are “V” always shaky that can “V”?

What are the stimulants of Hunger for victory?
Why do some nations keep on winning and some keep on justifying failures?

I analyzed various segments of our society and noticed few things.

Our poor people (People who have nothing to loose but still they keep on loosing!)

They scold the system but do nothing about it!and almost without exception they all are occupied with their physiological needs as one would expect but they really do not know the power they can have being large in number and getting united due to common interests the way the rich do!
They look towards the rich (Politicians) for help and rescue without realizing that the rich enjoy being rich to the fullest when they are surrounded by poor! So the interest of the rich would be that nothing changes around them!
The little that I know of about world history is that without exception no economic or political revolution became successful unless Masses (who were poor of the society) joined it and no autocracy survived once masses stood against it!
Inventions and Developments came by those who could see beyond the dinner table and beyond themselves when they had nothing to look up to!

When I look at the poor around than I observe dishonesty and laziness across all groups of people ranging from a Motor mechanic to a Molvi who teaches through the holy book! .They want to have free rides and lunches in the name of poverty but do not want work hard to alleviate it!

Our middle class (What would the people say? group)

They scold the system but do nothing about it! and people from this segment are always busy in portraying to the poor that they are rich and to the rich they portray that they are not poor! Our middle class overspends through borrowed money on occasions and events just to keep their Hats high! Their misery seems to be ever lasting and ever deepening! They save and borrow to spend at marriages/Death anniversaries and at number of occasions which have no religious or economic justification. Middle level socio economic groups just work or snatch!(through misuse of authority) to keep an image and status in the society as being rich and being in between rich and the poor they keep on consuming resources rather than investing them!

Our rich! (Big pockets but impoverish thinking group)

They scold the system but do nothing about it!.Religion and Economic systems both hold them responsible for rest of the society but they themselves keep on discovering new shapes and forms of hunger and they hardly work for self actualization. At parties the rich look desperate to have something which is just a drink! And they show off cloths/Mobiles and bags the way children do(impoverish thinking) and they never seem to realize that getting certified as rich through showing off consumption items is actually a sign that their heads are down towards their bellies and instead they should have been looking up to achieve something more than consumption of a human body!

When these social classes join than they also display few common traits!

“V” are Bad investors In terms of time and money (we consume a lot which could be avoided or saved like we spend billions of rupees to import Tea and Beatle leaf rather than using the money to grow such items in the country the way Saudis have become self-sufficient in growing wheat!)

“V” are not organized (Obvious signs come at roads, after prayer time at mosques, in our graveyards and our economic and social development policies!)

“V” lack self respect!(Consider conduct of our ministers/Heads of government/Heads of state, of those generals who withdrew in East Pakistan/Siachin/ Kargill, of those cricketers who are still desperate to play IPL after Indians have humiliated them, of us who still admire Indian stars without realizing what they think of us!)

“V” do not own our country (consider visa applications/immigration rate in our country!)

“V” do not believe in God so we keep on offending him through our acts!

We are sure that nothing is going to change but do we give up that easily on ourselves or on children when they are under performing? If not than why have we given up on our mother land? Please reply by adding comments to the post!

Does God understand Urdu?

2010-01-24T20:18:00.006+05:00

As soon as our Elders introduce us to God ,they start telling us the ways to communicate with him and very soon one realizes that what a difficult task it is! as Arabic seems to be the only language which can travel from the earth to the skies so we have to speak it even when we do not understand it!

At later stages we learn expressions like inshallah which means with God’s will but practically our acts prove that we believe in everything but God’s Will like References to get Jobs or bribery for smooth functioning. We offer our daily prayers in Arabic and again when we do not understand what we are saying to God so deeds contradict the words. We rush to finish our prayers only to get back where we had left from in the life based upon the sole objective of directly or indirectly accumulating wealth.

When we are born than call for prayer (Azan) is made in our ears and when we would die than our prayers would be offered. In spite of knowing this as the time between the Call and the prayer we are occupied in everything which is temporary and we are ignorant of what would last beyond death. Probably without exception all the religious scholars are convinced that prayers should not be performed in Urdu (some might not be sure if prayers in Urdu would even be accepted)but if prayers are meant to discipline us than how can we follow a discipline which we do not understand ?

Similarly if we are handed over a machine manual than this manual is supposed to help us running the machine and if we can not understand it than it wouldn’t be of any use even if we learn it by heart. Quran is supposed to be the manual of Life. We take pride in finishing its chapter in 20 min, we show respect to the people who have learned it by heart by addressing them Hafiz saab but what’s the point in learning it or reading it with command when we fail to comprehend the code of life in it!

Is language actually significant in religion if we actually believe that God is all around us?

How can we be proficient in a language (Arabic) which is not practiced in routine and if we need to practice it than what is that need?

Do you think Quran should be taught in Urdu at the age when our kids start taking its lessons?

Should prayers be offered in Urdu?

Please participate by adding comments to the post!
And remember that this blog has been established to generate discussions and sharing of ideas by common people so no body is right and no body is wrong .Its just ordinary people sharing what they have in mind!

Are we loosers because of our parents?

2010-01-19T22:40:00.008+05:00

In any society (civilized or uncivilized), Systems prevail to coach the younger about ways to behave or survive .These systems are run by the elders and are adopted by the youngs as effectiveness of such systems is time proven and it continues to be so till the time some change is observed in the society or environment and the elders make modifications in the systems to adopt or reject such change and progression of the society continues. Civilization keeps on following the path to progress but its focus remains at the basics like Food, Shelter and clothing even though time keeps on redefining and reshaping our hunger and need for protection.

Such systems also prevail in our society where elders guide in the light of religion, culture and traditions but apparently our elders are not convinced about any single system(If fundamental guidance should come from Nationalism? Islam? Economic interests?).Whatever they teach is restricted to sustaining or improving family’s socio economic status. They emphasize on education as it brings greater job security (but that is all that it does!). They also tell us to behave like a Muslim (to the extent practices don’t displace us from our comfort zone and we can help the needy and perform Pilgrimage through the money earned by bribery and other unfair means!).

Being children our evaluation is on the basis of our obedience and ability to earn. Assuming that it is not an over simplification of the issue but at times I feel that the reason we are not growing as a Nation is that we missed parents like Jews have who made sure that their younger ones stick to their roots without loosing focus on their objective of controlling power centers of the world. Proof of Jews being better parents is the success which they have achieved in Economic, Media and Research related fields (probably three more blog posts can be uploaded just to list down Jewish Nobel Prize winners, Media enterprises, Financial Hubs and achievers).

Too much obedience kills spirit of free thinkers who can challenge the system and ill traditions. Our elders always look happy while telling us that how beautiful the past was (when they were young!) and how pathetic the present is and they almost always never realize that actually its because of mentally living in "The Past" which keeps them from preparing the young for "The Future!" Our society still has not learned that it’s the combination of wisdom by the elders and energy of the Youth which makes a nation progress and not by raising a breed which is just trained to follow the rules rather than challenging them!

Please participate in the discussion by adding comments for/against the following opinions and do mention your name at the end.

Should Economic prosperity be considered as a criterion to judge paternal abilities prevailing in a society?

Are Japanese, Jews and Americans better parents than us?

We the Pakistanis loose at every front (Sports, economy and system development etc) not because we are unfamiliar with struggle but because we don’t work hard and our elders have nothing to do with it?

Are we different from Meera (Irtiza Rubab)?

2010-01-10T19:06:00.004+05:00

Before answering this question we need to describe her.

She is a Pakistani Film actress who was commercially successful in Pakistani movies /T.V commercials and later on she appeared in few of the Indian movies by mainstream distribution houses. That was when Pakistani Classes started noticing her and that was when Pakistani media started highlighting her poor English and immature media statements. Recently Pakistani media broke two scandals about her secret marriage and her failed attempt to host a program in English.

If we list down the reasons of her ridicule than here are the main ones

1: She speaks incorrect English

2: She did Kissing scenes in an Indian movie

3: She married secretly and denied it

4: She makes media statement which most of the Pakistani people find hard to swallow
Let’s see if she is an exception!

1: For her incorrect English
When I ask people that would they laugh in the same fashion if Julia Roberts speaks incorrect Urdu than the usual reply is Oh! She (Julia Roberts) is different! She is such a beautiful great actress and than I ask if looks and performance are the criteria than why are we stuck with Meera’s English and than they say “If she can’t speak it than she shouldn't try it!” but the fact remains the same that we find it stylish to speak incorrect Urdu but display our national inferiority complex when we judge people by their command over a foreign language rather than their expertise in certain areas.

2: Criticism over her Skin exposure and kissing scenes in Indian movies becomes the funniest!
When done by the people who are regular viewers of English movies and have absolutely no idea of what is going on in Pakistani movies! What she does on screen has no justification but if she is bad because of her extreme display than why are Indian and English movies allowed in Pakistan? And what about all the T.V shows on cable with viewer’s classification of 16&18 SNLV ratings but practically absolutely no viewer’s restriction?

3: She kept her marriage secret
the way most members of our society hide their corruption (which prevails from a motor mechanic to Head of the state. Major portion of our society is corrupt .More corrupt are the ones who have more authority and the less corrupt ones are desperate to expand their share!

4: She acts naive at media
than are the Politicians different in this regard? Any one can refer to YouTube to compare conversation between Firdous Ashiq Awan and Kashmala Tariq or Fauzia Wahab’s replies to Javed Chaudhry and more which have been collected through various channels and shows.

I am not a Fan of Meera and I have never admired what she does at or off the screen but I do appreciate the way some of our actresses try to face the world because if I had born in the neighborhood where most of them have born and raised the way they have been raised, I really don’t think I could ever face the world after knowing what it thinks about me!

What is your opinion? Are we (Pakistani society collectively) different from Meera?

Please reply by adding comments and do mention your name!

Is the Nature retaliating? (Should we bother about it?)

2010-01-01T01:00:00.007+05:00

About an year ago I saw a movie called “The Happening” .It was based on the theme that the way Humans are damaging it, Nature has started reacting .In the movie this reaction came through plants. After watching the movie I felt it was entertaining but now I feel actually it was alarming!
Why?
Please consider the following facts!

I checked Brief History of the most commonly known diseases which have an epidemic element and the list included

HIV Aids more than twenty-five million people around the world have died of AIDS-related diseases. In 2008, 2.7 million people were newly infected with HIV, and 2 million men, women and children lost their lives. 33.4 million people around the world are now living with HIV. according to http://www.avert.org/

Swine Flue Recent World wide total: 1,562,049 cases, 16,665 deaths according to www.flucount.org

Bird Flue There have been 252 human deaths globally from the H5N1 strain and 399 confirmed cases of infection since 2003, according to WHO data.

What these three diseases have in common is that their origins are associated with what Humans have traditionally lived with or consumed for their survival!

HIV Aids virus originated in populations of wild chimpanzees in West-Central Africa

Swine Flue is related to regular exposure to pigs

Bird Flue related virus is often traced to locations where humans, chickens and pigs live in close proximity.

As per my understanding animals of chimpanzee family are consumed in Africa whereas Pig(Pork meat) is majorly consumed in America and Europe.Chicken meat is consumed throughout the world.Now when these animals are becoming the source of such epidemics than it can be considered a change in Nature’s behaviour just like about 20 years ago in order to stop Mosquitos from spreading Malaria,It was suggested to keep the neighbourhood clean but now those Mosquitos are spreading "Dengue" for which they live on clean water(like swimming pools,Water tanks or water stored in plant pots).
I would always want to know more about the changes in Nature’s behaviour but like some other people at times I feel that instead of observing the changes in Nature’s Behaviour we should be analysing the Human behaviour which has changed over period of time due to uneven distribution of wealth.We should be more concerned about the large numbr of deaths coming by Famine, Terrorism and Wars rather than the ones through animal spread viruses!

Does it suit the thirld world’s citizens to think about Nature and Pollution when we are stuck in lot more basic issues like providing basic education,clean water and effective administrative systems?

Or

We should be concerned about Nature and its related elements because they also have an influence on Human Beahviour and over a period of time those civilizations have progressed which closely observe Nature and the Environment which they are living in!
Please share your opinion by adding comments to the post!(and do mention your name at the end!)

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Would Pakistan be the next Karbala?

2009-12-24T22:58:00.013+05:00

Paranoia is called the person who is mentally ill and is obsessed by some unknown fear/hallucination in a way that this state of mind restricts him from performing functions of a normal person. As this definition simply declares a person insane so I carefully evaluated if We the Pakistanis are suffering from this disease or are the threats real? My conclusion is that we are actually insane but not because of feeling threatened by some fear or unreal threat but because we are not doing anything even when we can sense the threats are bigger than what this country has ever come across.

According to new USA plan AfPak, American troops will be increased to about 100,000 men and I suspect that this high number of US marines is not for Afghanistan (where US is suspected to establish few permanent bases) but actually to

1: Denuclearize Pakistan(under the notion of "Failed State"which can sell Nuclear Arsenal to rogue elements for overcoming economic problems)

2: Join NWFP with Afghanistan(Tribals of both sides would live together under the rule of War Lords who would be kept USA friendly by providing Food and other necessities along with freedom for Narcotics trade.This would allow American bases at strategic areas in Afghanistan especially at our western borders.

3: Establish independent Baluchistan while keeping Military and trading bases (trade will be shared with China in order to avoid clash with the giant)

4: Handover Punjab to India as it will not survive once India blocks the rivers which root from India (Rivers which come from Sind are propagated to be having water which can suffice needs of Sind only)

5: The new Pakistan would consist of Some parts of Punjab and some parts of Sind(Karachi might be leased out to pro American Gulf based investors)

For this purpose “great game” has already started!

At least 889 persons were killed and 2,072 others injured in 61 suicide attacks in Pakistan so far this year, as the total number of suicide bombings in the country since 2002 rose to 140.The suicide bombings in 2008 surpassed the last year's figures of 56, including the one in which former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, whose first death anniversary would be observed on December 27, was killed in Rawalpindi. (Source http://www.nowpublic.com)

In April, The News, a newspaper in Lahore, Pakistan, published figures provided by Pakistani officials indicating that 687 civilians have been killed along with 14 AL Qaeda leaders in some 60 drone strikes since January 2008 - just over 50 civilians killed for every AL Qaeda leader.

Impact of Terrorism has been multiplied through alarming economic indicators.It does not take an Einstein to figure out Economic condition of a country which is unable to provide energy to the manufacturing sector since the last two years(Electricity Load shedding reaches to about 14-16 hours a day in Summers and in Winters about 6-8 hours)

As a nation we are condemning Taliban but I recon that once execution of American plan becomes obvious than It will be the religious group which will become the last shield of our defense line and it would also lead that portion of our solders who would refuse to surrender while pay role driven leadership would. For some odd reason I feel that beginning of the end would be in 2012!.

The situation would be very similar to what happened in Karbala!

Few would be against many

Access to water would be denied in order to dictate terms and conditions

Right would be against the Might

Death would be obvious still some would embrace it in principal!

Divorce after age of 55! (Is it surprising?)

2009-12-19T14:31:00.004+05:00

Recently I met someone who had accompanied me during Hajj. I was traveling with my mother and he with his wife. We were sharing the room at Haram Madina so I witnessed the passionate affection which he had for his wife. There was nothing surprising about it as two people who are growing together for about thirty years must have shared a lot. Must have shared lot of moments of joy and sorrows. They must have planned together about their children and raised them etc etc so I was surprised to know about their Divorce when I again met him after about two years. Their marriage lasted for about thirty years.

I think that it’s the seventh or eight incident in which I have come to know about mature age divorce. Getting separated at a late age is difficult to understand as after living for so many years together life partners are supposed to have

Better communication

Better understanding

Empathy

A bit of trust

Everything else which time brings to get the strangers closer!

But how does this happen? Where do all of the above mentioned things go when two people decide to separate their ways.
Following are the few possible explanations

1: One of the partners starts following his self discovery and that is when he realizes that the other person doesn’t understand him. The one following the self discovery becomes reactive towards other person’s ignorance of hi emotions without realizing that he himself took so many years to discover what was always in him.

2: One of the partners starts missing the appeal which the other partner had at a younger age but which can be found in someone else now.

3: There is age difference between the two which gets prominent at the later age and that is when younger partner looses interest in continuing with the relationship.

4: God didn’t bless the couple with any children (especially son) so the husband decides for another marriage at an age when he foresees financial and physical dependence coming.

Practically any of the above mentioned factors can be a reason but the painful part is that usually in our society women are financially dependent upon men so in case of a divorce there are serious question marks on a women’s survival especially when judicial system practically can not force the husband to pay maintenance allowance. In such cases usually Fathers are either not alive or are too old to support and the brothers are more concerned about raising their children.

What is the solution?
Please discuss by adding comments to the post and do mention your name at the end .In order to expand this discussion platform (A new post almost every week) please extend this URL http://inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing and text lists.

My thoughts after listening to the Blasts!

2009-12-08T00:56:00.006+05:00

I was at youtube to download few more songs by Greenday just when I heard it, I stopped for an instance realizing what had happened and denying it to myself like we usually do initially when we come across a big problem or an accident but few minutes later I heard it again and this time sound of explosion felt a bit too real. My mother went out of the house just to take a look around .Servants were excitedly stating what everyone could guess. Shopkeepers near my house closed their shops and rushed as their houses were closer to the area where the sound had come from. Within five minutes I got a call from Islamabad. My sister told me that T.V is running a slide about sound of explosion near Moon market (five minutes away from my house).She was concerned about my safety. In the next two hours I received several calls from family members, Relatives and students. They all had called to show their concern about my safety as I live very close to the area where two Bomb blasts had occurred.

At night before going to sleep I realized that throughout this time when I was getting these calls, I kept myself occupied with the Net. I felt nothing about this incident not even when I realized that I was planning to buy a fruit cake of Shezan bakery from there in the evening when I was leaving for Academy. This indifference apparently had nothing to do with bravery or courage but this indifference was there because Blasts are something that this whole nation is getting used to. If it is happening in Peshawer than why wouldn’t it eventually come around .In this particular case I could sit back and relax because I was watching the Rescue teams providing medical and fire extinguishing services but I manage to sit back and relax even when I suspect that these blasts are not the end but a beginning !

Most of us never feel like coming out of the comfort of our houses in times when we need to show political awareness and awakening at the streets. We feel that it’s not worth it, Raising the Voice is of no use, this country can be saved by a bloody revolution only! Some of us might think that the way things are going, eventually Nation would wakeup? How would this nation wake up when we are just waiting for things to happen on their own? I hope that I am not exaggerating but half the nation is waiting for a leader who would eventually make everything alright and till than we will continue to be dishonest as much as the snatched or gained authority allows. ? For how long we will keep on telling it to ourselves that it would all be over once the Military operation is over? For how long we will continue to scold others without realizing that we are no different! For how long we would continue to offend God. How would this Economic, Socio political mismanagement will not display its outcome? Why would the results be any different when efforts are the same!

Working Housewives???

2009-12-04T18:14:00.003+05:00

Working wives???

Husband: I work so i get tired and when I comeback home than I do not want to be disturbed .Please do not expect that I will be able to help our children study. I pay for their fee and other luxuries and that’s it .Rest is your obligation.

Wife: I also work, why shouldn't I come up with same demands?

Husband: What do you mean you work? You stay at home as a
housewife.

Wife: Who does the cleaning here?
Husband: You do off course.

Wife: Who does the laundry?
Husband: You.

Wife: Cooking?
Husband: It's your job why do you have to mention it?

Wife: Because unlike you, my working hours are never over. You demand break when you are tired but when I am done with cooking than I have to help children do their homework and have to hurry so that I can do the dishes quickly. When I am done with all the cleaning and helping than I have to spare some time for you (while keeping myself looking fresh and pleasant as a woman)so that you do not feel ignored and after such a long day I realize that what ever I do is not considered work. I am given lesser importance than working women.

Husband: This is how women are supposed to be. You are no exception. Any woman has to perform all the duties you mentioned.

Wife: Can't it be said about you also? You do what men are supposed to do.

Husband: Tahir's wife is working and she manages the home also.
Wife: Samina's husband helps the children study and her wife doing the dishes.

Husband: Alright I am sick of all these arguments. If you are not comfortable with all this than you can go back to your parents house and stay there for the rest of your life.

Wife:???
Silence
Arguing woman leaves the room quietly as she has to serve soup to her aged Father in Law.

Why do we laugh at sick humor?

2009-11-21T21:05:00.006+05:00

About a week ago I brought a movie called “Bruno”. It was a sequel so I knew the kind of movie I was bringing home (even though later on I discovered that I had underestimated everything about it).After watching the movie I broke the CD and tore the cover as i did not want to be caught with it and apparently everything went alright (in terms of getting rid of the remains!) but than I had to face something rather unexpected.

TOTAL GROSSES (bruno)
Domestic: $60,054,530 43.7%
+ Foreign: $77,329,526 56.3%

= Worldwide: $137,384,056 100%

TOTAL GROSSES (borat)
Domestic: $128,505,958 49.1%
+ Foreign: $133,066,786 50.9%

= Worldwide: $261,572,744 100%

(Source:Box Office Mojo)

I started analyzing my own behavior during this whole incident. I did not select the movie by chance as I had seen the first part of it called “Borat”. Movies like Borat and Bruno are two of the many which I have seen and without exception have always enjoyed .Usually such humor is based upon

Violence

Odd relationships (either gender based or illegal/immoral relationships)

Exposure of what nature demands to be hidden

Anything which societies prohibit or restrict

I have always enjoyed watching such humor even when I do not appreciate same themes in serious Dramas. Considering commercial success of T.V shows like South Park, Family Guy, Gerry Springer show or Movies like the ones mentioned above, mass appeal for such themes is obvious but the question is why explicit themes are publicly accepted when presented through humor?

There can be number of explanations for this behavior

1: We (as a society) are tempted by such themes but do not admit and when these are presented in humor than we can justify our association by saying “Oh it’s nothing serious!”

2:We (as a society) actually do not consider such themes seriously and that is why we find them really funny as these are the things which we could never imagine

3:We desire to seek pleasure while being disobedient and rebellious from the rules taught to us by the elders and the society so we enjoy watching what we can not do ourselves as most of us for most of the time lack energy to be disobedient and being rebellious.

4:For us everything (directly or indirectly) has to be justified or approved by religion so when we watch foreign shows and movies than we justify by saying “Oh its not about us we are just watching THE OTHERS!”

What is your opinion about mass appeal for Humor based upon explicit themes?
Please share by adding comments to the post and do mention your name with it.

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Next six months?(Before june2010 ?)

2009-11-15T14:11:00.011+05:00

These days everyone is talking about possible “Major Political Change’ in Pakistan. Analysts are talking about shift of power from presidency to parliament; Shuffling in cabinet due to NRO cases reopening after 28th November. Almost all the political analysts are betting for exit of Asif Ali Zardar by the exception of Nazir Naji and Najam Sethi (who disagree either out of hope! or due to having an insight?).I know it’s always easy to bet against survival of a coalition government but in present situation I think NRO revocation, kickback reports in foreign media for military deals, Anti government vibes coming from local media even though all might be true but have been timed for something bigger and is related to Geo Political and Nuclear significance of Pakistan.

Kickbacks in military deals, corruption in third world countries were never considered unusual but than so was the American involvement in different regions. Apparently Uncle SAM learned it from the failure of Germans and Russians expansion plans that instead of directly ruling the country, rule through its own Military and politicians by keeping them at American payroll.

A very alarming report has come through Dr.Shahid Masood (Meray mutabiq fame).In a recent episode he quoted famous journalist “Seymour Hersh” about presence of American Nuclear security agency on Pakistani soils in spite of so many confirmations through USA foreign office positive statements about Pakistan’s Nuclear Command and Control system’s effectiveness. Considering repute of the journalist (please check a note on him at the end of the blog) let’s assume that American security agency members are actually here but what for? What has changed which made the Americans get closer to Kahoota? Could it be without Military consent? Answer to these and so many other questions are likely to come in the near future and I reckon that it will all be clear before June 2010.Whatever the Americans are up to, either its about Pakistani Denuclearization or restricting Chinese trade through Gwader or both but execution of any anti Pakistani plan cant take place without controlling Army and Political setup. My personal opinion is that under an elected government regime with a balance of power it is not possible so either Americans would keep corrupt political entities in power and try to gain control through them (Rehman Malik’s effort to control ISI by interior ministry) or by supporting such Military elements which don’t retaliate against American interests (Likes of Musharaf).

Under present circumstances it doest seem to be happening through scattered political power and an autonomous Judiciary so the next best alternative is a Caretaker government(based upon technocrats or second line politicians)which would come under the notion “to cover for Political vacuum as a result of corrupt politicians exit(either due to resignation or Assassination). It would last for a period of 2-3 years (enough time to execute American plans i.e. establishing permanent bases in more sensitive and strategic areas and having a share in trade through Gwader)and then leave but I am afraid than there would not be much left to struggle for or to rebuilt.

Please share your opinion about what do you see happening in the next six months. Remember that his blog is a discussion plat form through which we can exchange ideas and opinions. Please extend this address http://inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing and text lists in order to expand the community.

A note on Seymour Hersh: Seymour "Sy" Hersh made his name and career by reporting in 1969 on the U.S. court martial of Lt. William Calley, the commanding officer in what became known as the My Lai Massacre, an incident in South Vietnam where U.S. soldiers tortured and killed nearly 500 civilians. Hersh won the Pulitzer Prize for the story and became one of the most famous journalists in the country. During the 1970s he reported for The New York Times, creating more controversy with reports on the covert operations of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. Consistently controversial, Hersh has written books that tell of Henry Kissinger's secret bombing of Cambodia, John Kennedy's wild and reckless White House, Israel's behind-the-scenes attempts to get nuclear weapons and General Barry McCaffrey's behavior during the Gulf War. Held in high esteem by many, he is also considered by some to be an unreliable rogue. In 2001 he came under fire by the Pentagon (again) for reporting on military actions in Afghanistan; in 2004 he reported in The New Yorker that Iraqi prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib jail in Baghdad, which focused initially on low-ranking U.S. soldiers (including Lynndie England), could be traced to orders by Donald Rumsfeld -- orders President George W. Bush had been informed of ahead of time. The White House denied the allegations, and Hersh was himself once more the subject of headlines. In August of 2004 he published the book Chain of Command: The Road From 9/11 to Abu Ghraib, based on his magazine reports.

Is it Zardari’s time for Ghardari?

2009-11-06T12:59:00.005+05:00

These days every Pakistani is amazed at the way MQM has gained position in popular politics and attention by the media through their stance on NRO and Asif Zardari’s resignation. The way Mutehda leaders are responding, it appears that they themselves were not expecting outcomes of their decisions to be this positive for seeking attention at the National level and especially by the National level media which always appeared apprehensive about Mutehda’s Politics due to its rough behavior in Karachi towards private channels (Attack on Aaj T.V office and blocking of private channels transmission through cable operators etc).

Even though it is still too early to expect that MQM would be able to increase its National assembly seats from outside Sindh, Kashmir and Gilgit in the near future but they seem to be learning tricks of the trade (National level politics).Mutehda has done real damage to Pakistan People’s Party which now is unable to ENCASH Bhutto family’s sacrifices due to major corruption scandals and spilling mismanagement. Many ministers have joined their co-chairman by making commitments which they did not honor (after all getting rid of load shedding was not written in Holy grail!) and by getting involved in immoral (America’s visit dance party scandal) and corruption scandals (Raja Ashraf’s rental power plants along with a long list of Mr.Zardari’s friends involved with Land Mafia and Banking industry scandals).The silliest mistake of all was trying to get direct control over Intelligence agencies ( failed effort to merge ISI with interior ministry and use of IB funds to finance coup against PML(N) in Punjab.

At this stage Triumphs seem to be heading towards PML (N) which seems to be preferable by Army over Pakistan People’s Party (Shahbaz Sharif and Caudhry Nisar’s recent meeting with Army chief).Main stream media also acknowledges its popularity and in the memory of masses there are no major corruption scandals but a principled stance for restoration of judiciary and party’s position against NRO.

To add more to the misery of People’s Party leadership ,all the tools for controlling judiciary seem to be gone and party co-chairman wants to survive with a team which never believed in him (actually avoided him when Ms Bhutto was alive due to his never ending appetite for Free Rides and Lunch).

Some people say that Pakistan People’s party has always survived against adversaries and will still survive but in my opinion this time the fortress has been set on fire by the ones who were supposed to protect it and the only way out is to change the commander and bring in someone interested in saving the Castle (and in making it a fortress).

Is Iran involved in Baluchistan?

2009-10-24T15:05:00.009+06:00

Couple of days back there was a suicide attack on Iranian security forces in which several people lost their lives and Iranian National ego was severely hurt. Immediately Irani Interior minister and President accused Pakistan for the incident. My personal opinion is that this incident took place in response to Iranian underground activities in Balochistan. Question is why? why would Iran be interested in Balochistan? In my humble opinion it is Gwader which reduces strategic importance of Iranian and other ports.

Chahbahar in south western Iran is likely to become the strongest competitor of Gwadar to transit trade for Afghanistan, Central Asia and China. Chahbahar is considered as the economic gateway to the world due to its location on the Oman Sea shore outside the Strait of Hormuz. It shortens the inland link from the sea to CIS countries by up to 100Km. Chahbahar provides the shortest link across to Central Asia and the Middle East. Even Bandar Abbas and Busher sea ports are said to be economically accessible for cargo.

GWADER,Located at the entrance of the Persian Gulf about 390 nautical miles east of the Gulf of Hormuz and about 234 nautical miles west of Karachi. 80 kms from the Iranian border. It is about 320 kms from Cape al-Hadd in Oman and situated in close proximity to the Iranian ports of Chahbahar and Bander Abbas. Strategically located outside the sensitive area of the Straits of Hormuz, a major conduit for global oil supplies in the region. The port came to worldwide focus during the first Gulf War when shipping lines were confronted with security issues. Gwadar, close to the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf, is located on the southwestern coast of Pakistan.

Dubai is the hub of business not only for Gulf but also for rest of the world including Europe, United States, Africa, China and Central Asian States, simultaneously. The gulf region is facing many political conflicts at the moment and huge disturbances in the current administrative structure are expected in the coming years. In such a scenario, a substitute of Dubai is essential to be located before the crisis hits the finances of millions. The substitute shall be a nearest point probably, to ensure continuous supply line of oil from Gulf to the outer world. Fortunately, Gwadar proves to be the nearest and infact more cost-effective substitute of Dubai.

China is emerging as a super economic power of the world in the recent years. Despite occupying a huge area of world's land, it doesn't have any port of hot waters, which can be used the whole year. The distance of Chinese industrial approach to the Shinghai port is approximately 16000 km and the sea travel of 2-3 months is additional. This costs them a lot in the form of taxes and duties as well. As compared to this, Gawadar port is only on a distance of 2500 km from China and the port is working for the whole year because of the hot waters here. Therefore, the interest of China in the development of Gawadar port is infact in the interest of Chinese economy.

The central Asian states, after the independence from USSR, are trying to develop their economies. These states are land locked and Karachi was expected to provide them the services through Afghanistan. For the purpose, a highway from Peshawar to Karachi was constructed but due to Afghan crisis, this line couldn't be established. The Afghan situation is till not clear, so, Gawadar being near to Iranian border will provide port facilities to Central Asia as well.

So it is evident that GWADER and Chahbahar are competitors and their simultaneous existence would reduce Bargaining power of both the countries with economic entities which are interested in trading around this region.This aspect becomes even more significant as Iran is not and never was in good books of Europe and America and with the development of Gwader these regions would't be pressurised to improve relations with Iran and on the other hand due to Gwader,Iran will not be in a position to negotiate with the mentioned regions in a dominant fashion.

Another fact is that Except for Bhutto era,Pakistan was never really close to Islamic countries of Shia Belt (Iran,Iraq,Lebanan etc)and its strategic alliance has always been with Sunni countries like Saudia,Turkey etc so in case of a major strategic issue there is not much historical or sentimental affection to hold back a direct clash.

Lets hope that both of these counties can join together and make a greater use of their strategic location.

What is you opinion?
Please comment and extend this link to your mailing and text links in order to expand this discussion platform to a larger level.

Information sources for this post:
Rupee News
Gwader fact sheet
CSS Forum

United States of Pakistan???

2009-10-11T19:23:00.001+06:00

Everyday when we wake up till the time we sleep, media keeps on reminding us about the fact that how insecure our lives are. Experts keep on discussing that what went wrong, what is going wrong and what will go wrong. These experts appear on one after another channel, explaining incidents and discussing events. A Lot is highlighted about possible changes in Map of Pakistan, Indian intervention in Balochistan, Growing hatred against Punjab by other provinces (so possible split of the larger province),Terrorism, corruption, Growing crimes due to economic reasons and only God knows the limit of what else more.

I was in my mid teens when I used to hear that Bengalis got separated because Bhutto did not accept their election success but with the passage of time I came to know that there were economic reasons too like Bengalis were not getting their share through the income of Jute and the resource allocation was not suitable for the large population of Bengal. Circumstances have not changed even now as I observe economic reasons for an unstable Pakistan. For example if our national resources are split on the basis of population than Punjab gets the largest share, If major chunk of budget is allocated to Defense expenditure than it goes to Army which seems to be dominated by Punjabi population. NWFP demands royalty for water reservoirs built in their area; Balochs demand the same for Natural Gas (along with control over Guwader port), Sindhis are not happy about water resources distribution etc. The hatred has reached to an extent that a Baloch leader was saying it in a T.V interview that if Pakistan army can use American weapons to kill Balochs than why can’t Balochs use Indian support to retaliate.

Pakistan has four provinces and there are separation movements in three of them

Balochistan Liberation Force (BLF)
Giyay Sindh
Tahreek e Taliban Pakistan

Unlike 1971 this time it’s more than Indians who are involved in Pakistan. Indian involvement in Balochistan is carefully discussed but rumors have it that Iran, Saudia and America are also directly involved in our part of the world. This intervention is ignored and or welcomed due to economic reasons. Four provinces are like brothers fighting at the dinner table for having larger share out of the limited food. These brothers are seeking foreign support without realizing that they will be kicked off the table once the family split is completed. The tragic part in our national story is not resource limitation but the fact that we are all Muslims and sharing and sacrificing is part of our religion.

Where would this lead us to? Would NWFP be added to Afghanistan as an AFPAK POLICY by Americans? Would Balochistan be handed over to China to ensure execution of AFPAK POLICY? Would Sindh join India? Would Punjab survive without any water sources and eventually unite with Indian Punjab? Is it all real? Or its just media celebrating its freedom which it never had in the history of this Nation? Is our existence actually at stake? Would Pakistan split and remaining part of it would survive as an American colony?

Please share your opinion by leaving comments and please extend this link http://inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing and text lists in order to extend this discussion forum where a new post is uploaded every week.

Parental Codes(and social checks?)

2009-10-05T10:35:00.000+06:00

Parental Codes???

The most important aspect of Globalisation is advancements in Telecommunication and free information flow .Access to knowledge and entertainment which belongs to another culture / society sounds and feels exciting as it is new to us and mostly it’s in a form which is not acceptable by our cultural and religious discipline so its tempting to be rebellious and break away from traditional school of thought (Which apparently looks backward and outdated).

There is nothing wrong with being rebellious or trying something new but the issue is about lack of coaching and guidance in this regard from elders to their youngsters. Mostly our elders just give orders about what to do and what not to do but rarely do they feel comfortable discussing adulthood related issues with the teenagers. In our society Internet is unfiltered, Movies are uncensored and Cable unchecked. Most of the foreign channels give warnings regarding Viewers restrictions (SNLV 13/16/18 OR 18+ etc) but the problem is that what is acceptable for viewing of and 18 years old American is not supposed to be acceptable for a Pakistani of any age .Similarly uncensored and smuggled CDs are a bit too easily available in our society. In case of WEB it is argued that the number of adult entertainment sites is too large to block but still some effort can be made to reduce this number.

In Urban areas usually average marriage age ranges between 22-30 years whereas adolescence starts at around 12 years so in case of this much access to adult entertainment content, there can be very obvious issues like practicing what is being watched at LCD screens without realizing our society’s digestion for repercussions (and our society is certainly a lot less tolerant for the outcomes even though it shows great patience for the causes and agents responsible for these issues).

What should be done about it?

Nothing as it is bound to happen with the developments in technology?

Or Instead of restricting access we should be more open about discussing the adolescence related issues?

Do we need to seek rescue through religion??

Please share your views by leaving comments on the topic and continue to visit every Week. Please also extend the URL http://inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing and text lists.

Entertainment next?!?!?

2009-09-20T04:12:00.003+06:00

Entertainment next?!?!?

Since the last two decades one of the most significant developments which have taken place in the world of entertainment is broadcasting of reality recordings. Channels like National Geographic/Animal planet/Discovery, All the Tube/Blog sites which upload MMS based scandals or recorded real life incidents and Tons of Data which is shared through Mobile phones or content sharing mediums, all of this is the new face of entertainment.

I my self when feel bored from routine entertainment and News channels than I usually switch to National Geographic and Animal planet in order to have a “different kind” of entertainment which is based on realities. Sometimes watching an Anaconda devouring a goat can be preferable than shouting Politicians on “Reality Political Talk Shows” or Drama soap serials which just never end (and which never make sense either) but easy access to real violence and adult content can be a bit too damaging for the society because unlike movies these are easy to relate with (especially by the kids).

Channels covering animal life are on the cable since last so many years but the rest of it got popular with the developments in Telecommunications and recording technologies. Even explicit content on adult sites can not be considered this impactful than watching someone in a passionate mood without him or her knowing it (At least at the time of incident people are not aware of being recorded).This trend is not restricted to watching relationships only but also to watching violence. Once at an off the school venue two students rushed to me and excitedly showed a clip through Mobile phone. The video was about a man being slaughtered and the kids (about 11-13 years old) were thrilled while watching it. They were even telling me that I am bound to feel disgusted. During the video they excitedly pointed out various details about the slaughter and once the video was over they looked towards me to have words of appreciation about the video.

The question is when the people got bored from actors than they started watching realities but what would be next than reality, would it be watching live???

Please share by leaving your comments about reality broadcasts at Web, T.V and the tube sites.

The departed

2009-09-10T23:42:00.006+06:00

We all tend to value after loosing what we had but he was always precious by many of the standards which are used to describe a person as someone more valuable. When my colleague broke news of his death than it took a while to sync into it.

It was just before the Summer Vocations of 2009 when I met him outside the school gate, he was there to pick his brother Waleed Butt who actually introduced us to each other. I had never taught to either of them but me and Waleed were friendly because many of my students were his closest buddies due to which he used to visit my class frequently.

Adil Butt passed out of the school Metric section about two years ago; His teachers describe him as a naughty boy with a shy smile. His fair complexion, thick eye lashes, Broad structure and medium height were a signature of his Kashmiri ancestors. Eldest of the five brothers and sisters, the growing youth was indicating it to his father that very soon he would be sharing his work load and responsibilities but no body could imagine that he was growing towards the end at such an early age.

His death is a typical betrayal’s story which followed trust. Boys who kidnapped him were not only his friends but were known to his family also. They took him for ransom and killed him through strangle. The killers probably never realized that they took more than a life .They killed a brother and a son and a student and a Pakistani and a Muslim and God knows what else more.

Other than the death there is more for consideration in this incident. For instance most of the criminals are expected to be less than twenty years old and were involved in this crime for money. At such an early age how did they develop so much greed? Usually adversaries in life make us more cold hearted but they were young boys who were into enjoying life at cafes. Killing through a weapon looks easy as use of equipment keeps you away from having a direct contact and have a feel of other person’s life but these criminals strangled him, what made them so mercy less? Is it rough upbringing or growing temptations which made them Ruth less? Whatever it is has no justification.

What is your opinion about causes of criminal orientation at such an early age?
Please share and perform fatiaa for Adil Butt (May his soul rest in peace).

According to the criminals they threw Adil’s body in sheikhupura canal and so far body has not been recovered. All the details about the crime have been obtained through “Daily Jang”.

"CAT" in the Hospital !

2009-08-30T23:48:00.004+06:00

The cat looked very comfortable on the stretcher in the corner; she was asleep with so much peace that even a dog would have hated to disturb her. After envying her indifference towards the realities around I walked towards the area where my sister was admitted, remembering that it was a hospital meant for humans and the cat could not be kept out because administration was busy in more important things like acting as indifferent as the cat! (and their indifference was obvious in many other administrative aspects of the hospital)

Above mentioned experience has been shared not because of the healthy cat but because of General standards followed in Hospitals of Lahore and those are worth criticism not because of comparison with developed world but because of basic human values. Throughout Lahore, all the known hospitals are almost all the time crowded and due to so much (Business) activity, management can get away with almost everything especially compromised cleaning and maintenance standards.

People from interior Punjab are not likely to get much facility in Local Health care units and established hospitals. Poor infrastructure discourages urban doctors for moving away from the cluster towards lesser developed areas so this is one reason why at the larger hospitals we see Families of the patients resting on ground Mats lying in corridors outside the wards and in the parks outside the hospitals. Such people are not likely to mind a cat’s presence when they themselves have come from where there was no established hospital at all.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) provided figures for the Year 2008 only 1.5% of the total Pakistani budget is being spent on Health so following figures are very much obvious

Year 2007
Physicians per 10000 population 12.0
Dentists per 10000 population 8.0
Pharmacists per 10000 population 1.0
Nursing and midwifery personnel per 10000 population 0.9
Hospital beds per 10000 population 10.0
Primary health care units and centers 1.7

Justifying negligence and Poor administrative abilities under the curtain of Poverty and work load should not be the case with people responsible for human lives but this cold attitude has its own grounds.

Any child who wants to be a doctor works really hard to get enough marks in Matric for getting admission with Pre medical courses and than in F.Sc and than in entry test and than in MBBS and than after one year of House Job in FCPS part one and than after three years of training in FCPS part two. If he clears all of these exams in the first attempt(which is not likely to be the case due to percentile selection being followed in FCPS exams) still he would complete his basic education at the age of about 29 only to discover that there is no Government infrastructure to place him any where and he has to find a Job of about 15-25 thousands to begin with (An average MBA who completes his Post graduation at the age of about 22 starts under similar slabs but starts a career many years earlier with a much larger Job opportunities as spread across many industries).

After many years of hard work and a great deal of luck when a doctor finally starts earning than may be he just focuses on maximizing revenues rather than expenses associated with maintenance of the environment and even if he does ,does it to charge more from the patients.

Considering the issues related to medical field in Pakistan not much can be said but just imagine if people from every profession especially Fire fighters, Police and Army start justifying negligence on similar grounds. Than there might be cats everywhere with no one to bother about their presence.

What is your opinion ?
Please share by registring your comments!(and do not forget to mention your name)
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Staged hypocrisy

2009-08-14T16:56:00.005+06:00

Criticism is one of those tasks which almost everyone can perform and this easy task gets easier when it comes to entertainment industry of Pakistan. A lot can be looked down upon, Humor, scripts, Poor camera work, presentation especially in terms of wardrobe selection, editing and almost everything. With the passage of time as a society we have actually become indifferent about our local entertainment media as we are too much busy with foreign electronic entertainment which is supposed to be better in every aspect and this is where a confusion starts.

There is no doubt about technical advancements which we notice in foreign presentations but this difference has never been the reason for criticism upon local media. We find our theatre and cinema vulgar (and T.V also because it broadcasts stage plays) because women dance and comedians crack jokes based upon Gender and unlawful relationships but what about western and Indian Media? Are they any different in this regard?

Let’s consider few of the popular shows on Cable these days for instance Friends, Desperate House wives, Nip N Tuck etc or consider Saturday Night Live. We watch all of these which offer any thing but what any civil society can digest. Stories based upon people living together without marriage, Humor based upon physiological elements and wardrobes suitable for this environment. In case of western media, Language keeps us from relating ourselves to that environment but what about Indian media where women look and speak like our women but go wild like western stars and they not only act but dance as well in such cloths which are not allowed for our stage performers but still these Indian and western presentations are followed and appreciated whereas similar explicit content is criticized and banned under Pakistani labels.

If something is objectionable on any grounds than those objections should also be raised upon western and Indian T.V and Films. There is a Censor board for our movies but is there any censor board for Indian and English movies? And if such movies escape from censor because these are smuggled than why are they not removed through raiding the shops?
Above mentioned arguments are not to justify shallow levels of creativity but to point out prevailing hypocrisy which exists because as a Nation we are suffering from various Inferiority complexes which probably have been developed due to living on Aid and Loans and mainly because we never really discovered our heritage and roots and just followed what others were following.

What is your opinion?
Please share your opinion through comments and do mention your name .

The Jewish Contents

2009-08-08T21:42:00.002+06:00

I was in my mid teens when one day I came across a novel which many of my cousins and family members were going crazy about. I read the novel and appreciated it, Name of the novel was “If tomorrow comes” and it was written by Sidney Sheldon which initially I considered name of an attractive women until I saw the PIC of the man with white hair. With the passage of time I read almost all the books by Mr. Sheldon or saw movies based on his books. Eventually I discovered that without exception all of his characters, stories and themes revolve around revenge and wealth. He uses whatever he can to add more commercial appeal to the book and for this reason lot of explicit expression is found in his way of story telling. In order to verify my suspicion I searched and found that he is a Jew. The indicating factors were 1: Revenge 2: Wealth 3: Manipulation through power 4: Lack of moral values while enhancing commercial appeal.

Simple Googling provides us with the details of Jewish success in the field of media and Finance .Jewish control ranges in all major forms of media at the largest groups. For example Walt Disney, Warner Brothers (and its subsidiary HBO), ABC, ESPN etc. In print media its Time magazine, Newsweek etc. In the world of finance sources claim that City Bank, Visa Card, Master card are controlled by Jews.

There is every possibility that information provided about Jewish dominance might be exaggerated but what about 49(Bio Med) 28(Chemistry) 24(Economics) 44(Physics) 12 Literature, Nobel Laureates whose names are mentioned for Jewish plat forms, Why wouldn’t these Nobel prize winners deny Jewish connections if they do not exist. Even for the sake of arguments if we do not accept Jews as the largest ethnicity to win Nobel prizes what about the fact that Israel is dominating the Arab world while being surrounded by them and so many Arab countries even when united cant liberate the Sacred places from Jewish control. There has to be something special about them. Is it revenge which keeps them going (after the holocaust) or greed to expand and control. Whatever it is, must be something which we do not have because at the time of partition we as a nation also sacrificed so many lives but forgot all about it even before the second Pakistani generation grew young. Our ancestors came to subcontinent while expanding Muslim empire but we do not reflect such character which shows dominance and aggression, actually we display submission and impoverish thinking which simply does not relate us with our roots.

In spite of the fact that we have had our share of sacrifices, unlike Jews we have not learned from our past and we just live in it.
What is your conclusion about Jewish success? Share through comments!
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The Blood sucking lover!

2009-08-02T12:25:00.001+06:00

One of the most frequent questions which I ask from my students is if they like to read Books of any type or by some particular author and the usual reply which I get is Oh! Books are so boring and then they tell me their ideas of recreation which include SMS wars, crank calls, movies and music etc.

About an year ago I started noticing a book at the desks of the class during free periods or with my students .The title “Twilight” attracted me because of its colors which were red and black After going through the introduction and asking few questions, I came to know that it’s a new series by a writer Stephanie Meyers and the theme revolves around falling in love with a vampire!. The writer has been very elaborative about vampire charms and related description.

My immediate reaction was Oh! another teenage Fad but to my surprise (and to bit disappointment) I noticed students following the second part (and going crazy at the movie of the first one).

I know sometimes different things gain popularity just because a crowd joins in to follow the Fad but soon they loose it when the crowd moves out for some newer interest. In this particular case surprising element was the theme which inspired the teens (A blood sucking lover!).Even though the over all effort seems to be about highlighting good side of being a vampire.

This fascination can have various explanations like these days society is under constant threats of violent groups but the system and its associates which are supposed to defend us, seem to be getting weaker due to which our idea of security and protection comes from things and people with unnatural powers. The other opinion can be the typical one, Falling in love with a human is just a bit too typical so let’s try something new!

Please reply with your comments on the above mentioned trends or your own opinion about the mentioned topic. (Please send web address of this Blog http:// inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing and messaging lists in order to expand this community for discussing various elements of Pakistani society)

Coke Studio

2009-07-31T10:30:00.001+06:00

Asalam U Alaikum,

These days the new in thing in Town are the songs produced under Coke studio which is a sponsored program by the famous cola drink .The theme is Fusion of Eastern Classical/Folk music with POP music, performed by artists which can be considered Pakistani music heart throbs and the whole effort is produced by Rohail Hayat(Vital Signs fame).
Now when couple of episodes have been aired and every body is talking about it and appreciation seems to be coming from all sorts of people,The Rs 17 question is that why do not we feel digestion for classical anf pakistani folk music in their raw form especially when these are considered to be complete forms of music having routs spread over hundreds of years and foundations built upon purity and truth regarding human centiments and feelings.Is it because these two are and were never before music for masses and in order to understand them it is important to translate them into some thing having access accross all social groups like POP music(Popular mucic)the way it has happened in west where Artists like Jimmy Handrix,Elvis Presely and many others used Blues,Jazz and country music and presented it with simplar or fused expressions.
Second opinion about acceptance of Ancient type of music under modren presentation can be that change is inevitable and people have lost appetite for traditions and they only accept old form of performing arts after it changes its appearance (one reason why Cinema has evolved so much over a period of time as use of technology has allowed to present ancient art of acting with so much effects).
Please share your views about Coke Studio and trend of Fusion music in Pakistan by replying to this blog.(Please send web address of this Blog http:// inamarif.blogspot.com to your mailing lists in order to expand this community for discussing various elements of Pakistani society)