The 6th sense

Just another aimless guy across the bridge

2012-12-21T12:56:00.001-08:00

In the silence of dazzling midnight, escaping from the chaos of a third world order country. The place where crowds of lowest caliber hassle to fill in their tummies, where the strings of inapplicable restrictions sew the lips of about 90% of psychopathic lunatics, slumbering an aimless and useless life.

From the suburbs to the most eccentrics parts of the city, a wave of passion ascends slowly till the day, where it reaches its peak. With a few sizzling spikes on his head and driving like the Schumacher brothers, approaching the speed of light. He could feel hundreds of eyes catching a glimpse of his captivating Mercedes.

On occasions, he felt proud but most of the times, arrogant. It wasn't his fault at all because reasonably, his good times taught him this egocentric lesson. His wallet always remained full till the end of very month - the day that brought another ten thousand inflating Pak rupees to his pocket by his filthy dad, the most plushest guy he ever saw on the face of this planet. His mother, the most heedless creature, was a party animal. A mis timely trait that relocated into him - he was socially hyper. He was a cool, nasty, flirty bitch; in the circle of his friends. He loved to shine, to dominate, to crush, to roar, to win, to be the coolest emo in this universe.

He was an under-rated punk, with a rebellious guerrilla hidden under the scum. The Guerrilla like Castro, Zapata or Che Guevara that would fight against all for his personal rights and modern liberty. He believed in what he did and did what he believed - when depress he either would smoke up a few cigarettes or gulp a few sips of branded Sam Adams beer.

His secrets were even deeper and dark - but a piece of ordinary diary page in the eyes of the elite class, he lived in. For the last three months, he experienced a havoc seven break-ups; sometimes the girl was careless, sometimes he was casual, sometimes the thingie wasn't a masterpiece, sometimes the slut was a cheater or sometimes too childish or annoying. Doesn't matter to him - he was a wealthy heir, adorably cute that girls may talk about him for weeks, great masculine physique that made him bullying his fellow nerds with a threat of staging a public 'phadda', a chain smoker which would play the guitar not exactly but a lot like Slash. Twice a day, he would drive to the most expensive restaurant of the city and and overjoy by chawing the finest chicken steak or spare the dusk fogging out a chocolate flavored sheesha.

He was a branded man, wearing branded shoes, branded T-shirts, branded denim jeans that hung at the edge of his hips. He loved to make just about everything from his fuzzy brown hair, regularly an Afro or sometimes rarely a Mohawk - he didn't mind. All he wanted to achieve was some sort of distinction or greatness to immortalize his satisfaction.

For the last eighteen years of his newly ripen life, he did every thing to embellish his blurred path of life - a number of which the one of his age must have felt ashamed of doing of. It didn't mattered to him, the horse of his life raced blindly around the course of never-ending madness. He often agrees by nodding his head - he has drowned in the sea, sea that chymifies religiosity, devoutness and unearthliness. Oh! someday he'll find a way out - yeah! hopefully someday.

The Same Old Story

2011-06-09T02:17:00.000-07:00

Last song to make me feel,

Like I'm real to this dream,

Last breath to make me see,

How fake people can actually be,

Maybe today's the worst day of my life

But I'll survive,

Cause after every dark night,

There's a bright day,

That covers it all away and I get a chance to be,

A part of you that somehow wants to move out of me,

So, can you see who I am,

Falling down from heavens ground,

Cause I'm the only one left here begging

Beauty is a curse that makes you want to trust,

That makes you want to burn and turn to dust,

But the story's getting old,

Even though I'm told,

That you have to let go of what you hold

Frozen in a moment so cold that i forgot who I am,

The broken hope inside my head taught me how to stand,

Cause you cover it all away when i get a chance to be,

A part of you that somehow wants to move out of me,

I've taken away all of my fears,

I'm bringing you down with me

I've opened my eyes to something real,

You could never be close to me

Can you see who I am,

Falling down from heavens ground,

Cause I'm the only one left here begging

You were a curse that made me want to trust,

That made me want to burn and turn to dust

But the story's getting old,

Cause I had been told I'd have to let go....!

(M.S.Khan)

[Self-Invasion - The Pagliacci version]

2011-05-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

World doesn't decide the pace of life; perhaps. The waves of fortune slide away the chuck of goodness. Creeping through the luminous stars of fraternity, I leave myself alone in this brawler's world. A perfect knock-out punch - not even a grappler's arm breaker or high gut-wrench power bomb. An insult of credence back a sloppy guy and his only friend and foe - the loneliness. Loneliness kills a guy, down and under it shrugs him through, stabs him through, the anxiety curses his reign. He just awaits a glimpse of light, just a ray of hope. Some might say that sunshine follows thunder; go and tell it to the man who cannot shine.

Lets go self-accountable this time. With a in-depth indulge of sorrow offered in the package, let this world sublime in another age of time. Take me at the top of the world cause I just want to see my crime. Breathless sighs accompanied by some heart throbbing, "Ahh!". Wow! my Lord I didn't realize, I just stumbled through time . I lost just about everything; they say my greatness, my ambition, my faith and most of all myself. Just only if you had knew, if just only u had knew.

The Revolution!

2011-02-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

From a land very far far away;

I can see a glimpse of light.

A new sun ascending its land,

Start of a new era that grips the fate of an infant.

The pyramid now stands with honor,

The sphinx of a ruler now rusts in the corner,

The Nile now flows with a tide;

Decades ago it had lost its pride.

But why my land still lives in a dark?

The people here! will they ever spark?

Ignorance before credence!

Death of a crowd in grievance!

Splashes of tears then curses the eye,

When one wishes to quickly die.

Generations hanging in the balance,

It's the time to swing the wheel of gallant.

Raise your head up my boy!

Passion is your feat and destiny is the sky!

Break the faces of those who seize your freedom,

Dump those monsters who dare to eat your edam.

Slumber is a curse ask a raider who lives inside,

Forfeit the fear of battle just go there and fight.

Please don't be ashamed of death!

Cos' martyrs never fall from the peak of zenith.

The statue of robin hood awaits to be consecrated;

The tales of bravery are yet to be scripted...!

(M.S.Khan)

The Little Things!

2011-01-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

Head like a rock spinning round and round;

I found it in a hole sitting upside down.

Paint me a wish on a velvet sky.

You demand the answers but I don't know why?

Cos' in my mind there is no time.

But the little things they make us so happy!

Just being the loser that plays lost and found;

All I want to do is live by the sea,

Standing by the edge of an ugly bree,

Hiding under the coat of a garden pea,

Cos' it's good to see you're free.

Still those little things they make us so happy!

So what would you say if I said to you?

It's not in what you say it's in what you do.

You point the finger at me but I don't deceive.

Close your eyes my friend and pretend to believe;

Cos' one day your mind will soon conceive.

That the little things they make us so happy!

Just then, close your eyes

2010-12-31T04:37:00.000-08:00

Fugitive and illusively wise;

Colors of her soaked in dyes.

Hours when no one rescues twice,

In troubles and gambles she burst in cries!

Just then, close your eyes;

And play with the dream that lets you retry.

When words become lime and pale,

The fear inside her tends to stay.

Her smile bows down and begs for bail,

The time rushes as a ship to a quay.

Just then, close your eyes;

And play with the dream that lets you retry.

Jammed packed in the world of ten;

The day when the world pays no damn heed,

The evening when a farmer flatters a sore hen,

Misty morning when she incurs with the curse of greed.

Just then, close your eyes;

And play with the dream that lets you retry.

Like the branches of a fruitless tree,

She's never sure if she's nearly late.

Never been the one she wants to be,

When amazed by the crippled and her fearless gait.

Just then, close your eyes;

And play with the dream that lets you retry.

Please Forgive My Fear!

2010-10-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

I walk on space,
On air so thin
I fear to fall.

Dear God forgive me
For my fear to love
For being so small
In a world so big
Forgive me for not wanting pain
For seeing it first before joy

I know I shouldn’t look first,
At how easily I bruise
Or harden my shell to outside touch,
Or hide within my self,
Or stare with dead eyes

Forgive my fear
Of reaching out over empty spaces,
For taking all the love you give
And giving nothing in turn

When next I shy, nudge me to try
When next I sigh, nudge me to smile
When next love needs, steady my feet
That I may be here,
To brave my fear.

(Anonymous)

A Wondrous Fable

2010-10-05T03:29:00.000-07:00

His name was Fleming, and he was a poor Scottish farmer. One day, while trying to eke out a living for his family, he heard a cry for help coming from a nearby bog. He dropped his tools and ran to the bog. There, mired to his waist in black muck, was a terrified boy, screaming and struggling to free himself. Farmer Fleming saved the lad from what could have been a slow and terrifying death.

The next day, a fancy carriage pulled up to the Scotsman's sparse surroundings. An elegantly dressed nobleman stepped out and introduced himself as the father of the boy Farmer Fleming had saved.

"I want to repay you," said the nobleman. "You saved my son's life."

"No, I can't accept payment for what I did," the Scottish farmer replied, waving off the offer. At that moment, the farmer's own son came to the door of the family hovel.

"Is that your son?" the nobleman asked. "Yes," the farmer replied proudly.

"I'll make you a deal. Let me take him and give him a good education.

If the lad is anything like his father, he'll grow to a man you can be proud of."

And that he did. In time, Farmer Fleming's son graduated from St. Mary's Hospital Medical School in London, and went on to become known throughout the world as the noted Sir Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin.

Years afterward, the nobleman's son was stricken with pneumonia.

What saved him? Penicillin.

The name of the nobleman? Lord Randolph Churchill.

His son's name? Sir Winston Churchill.

"Someone once said what goes around comes around."

Cursing Yourself for Past Mistakes

2010-10-03T05:25:00.000-07:00

"Many of us spend our whole lives running from feeling with the mistaken belief that you cannot bear the pain. But you have already borne the pain. What you have not done is feel all you are beyond that pain."

(Khalil Gibran)

How do you deal with your past mistakes?

Today, I'd like to recommend a great way to burden your mind, waste time, and lower your self-esteem.

It's called Cursing Yourself for Past Mistakes.

Try it out on yourself and people you dislike! It's very easy to do, and anyone can do it. It’s great for injecting endless hours of frustration and stress into your life!

I've known many people who do this very well, but just in case you're having some difficulty, here are some pointers to send you on your way?

First, think of all the things you did or failed to do in the past.

Especially, things which you cannot do anything about it now. Constantly remind yourself of them and beat yourself up for them.

A good way to do this is to keep whining about them. If you can regularly complain to others, it is even better! Remember to sigh a lot too. There's nothing like constant verbal repetition for these past mistakes to really stick. Then, tell yourself that you'll never be able to adjust your behavior to prevent similar errors in future. Learning from mistakes just never crossed your mind. Remember, self-improvement is a myth.

This kind of thinking will start a vicious cycle. Remembering how incapable, unlovable, and foolish you are will enable you to continue repeating past mistakes. Now this part is essential in order for the entire self-loathing process to work.

In no time, you'll be able to whittle your self-esteem down to such a degree that you will have no problem thinking you're absolutely incapable of success and happiness. The strategy is laughably simple: reinforce negative thoughts and experiences and they will inevitably lead to negative feelings and outcomes.

Remember, you are not special, you are not unique. The world simply doesn't need another loser like you. If you're doing everything right, by this time, you would have lost most of your friends, alienated your family members, lost your appetite for food and life, and are looking forward to a lonely, meaningless existence.

So, if you're ever bored, and need to kill some time, depress your spirit and embrace failure as lord of your life, try cursing yourself for past mistakes. Have fun!

Bill Gates speech: 11 rules kids did not and will not learn in school

2010-09-21T04:48:00.000-07:00

Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!

Rule 2: The world doesn't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

The seashore!

2010-09-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

I sat by the seashore, all alone tonight,
Thinking of you in the setting sun’s light,
You and I, baby, we were completely same,
Like a soul cloned in two bodies,
Like same heart, but different brains.

Remember the seaside, we used to enjoy,
Used to dance with the splashing waves,
We kissed lovingly under the moonlit night,
As I sang you serenades.

You held my hands, swore never to leave,
But all I hold now is sand,
The sand that, like your memories,
Is slowly slithering out of my hand.

Who knew you would do infidelity,
And run so far away from me,
Choosing death over me as your partner,
Leaving my soul to search for you longingly,

I feel like a pebble, sitting on the beach sand,
Orphaned and cold, ever since you left my hand,
These waves are all I have, for they took you away,
And so I await my turn, waiting at the shores for eternity.

(M.S Khan)

Dictator's Ship & its Crew - An Epilogue

2010-09-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

The truth is harsh but it stands tall: dictators might get themselves beheaded under the 'constitutional guillotine' of article-6 but, what about the 'political crew' that endorsed their every action of vivacity? Do they deserve another chance? If dictators don't then, thumbs down to them too.

It seems like yesterday. Yeah! I remember that eve of October 12, 1999. The day my father heard a rumour of yet another military takeover. I was in second standard and was forcing my young mind to get a glimpse of a situation. As an innocent 'bacha', the first genuine thought that struck my mind was, "Why Pakistanis are fighting against each other?". The grown-up mind still seeks for a much 'simpler' answer, even to this date.

Each stage of life doesn't last forever as did my childhood, that faded away in a rush. Soon, I entered my 'mainstream teen life'. The time when I was revealed to the heroics of one man; General Musharraf. The man was a definite choice for my ideal. Bold, confident, patriotic and sincere; I became his eternal fan. After witnessing his fiery speeches in 'Jalsas' and his development proclaimations in 'Sarkari TV', obviously for an 'ordinary guy' like me, he was the voice of people for years to come.

Till the day, when it all went wrong. The dark year of 2-007 overshadowed his dominance. Later, in a 'comedy of errors' he lost his grip on CJ issue, Lal Masjid Operation, Benazir assassination - and most importantly he lost my respect. His mass oppression caused his decline and soon, he fell off his head.

'Ruthless' Musharraf as depicted in cartoon

February 18, 2008 elections marked a sunrise of a new dawn. When my 'freshly riped' mind came to know of some new faces in the political arsenal and of course, a new index term 'Jamhuriat and its Husaan'. Where the talk shows preached the beneficialness of the democratic system, my mind was puzzled on something else - I came to know that 'General Sahib' was a 'dictator' - he wasn't a 'revolutionary reformer' or a 'enlightened moderator', a 'charismatic enigma' or a 'true commando' - he was just another dictator. The over-rated outspoken buffoon who robbed a poor country, and flew to London; as did Iskander Mirza during the first martial law or like most recent 'display of patriotism' of self-proclaimed 'sher', Nawaz Sharif.

Anyways, the word 'Dictatorship' - I thought I had heard this word somewhere. Yes! The great Roman emperor Julius Caesar, he was a dictator too; sadly got killed by a mob of parliamentarians. How could I not mention German der Fuhrer Adolf Hitler, who killed a millions, according to the 14th chapter, of my torn history book in class seven. But, why frequently uttering the the word in present times; I was surprisingly amused. Were the public masses of ours were cursed by slumber decade ago? Did the word actually existed in the Oxford dictionary when cope d'etat was in progress?

As a student of science, I tried to adopt a more logical method to 'dissect' the new word. I suggested that 'Dictatorship' is popped up of two words - 'Dictator' and 'Ship'. Of course, a dictator needs a 'Ship (Country)' to drive it as its captain. To sail it to the 'destiny unknown' with his 'fictional wisdom'. But, it has turned out that dictator's ship wrecks over time and drowns in the deep blue sea; as far as the to and fro experiences of Pakistan, the country suffering in the hands of four military adventuresome, speaks for itself.

Those who know about ships can argue that captain is not only the guy responsible of a failure. There are many faces behind the scenes as well - the sailors, the seamen and midshipmen - what you can simply call a crew. The crew is the real supporting cast, so why blame only the captain? When other members had their golden times too. So why only blame the men in uniform when, others are stinging behind public's back too?

Take a look of illuminating faces of some of these crew members and the history they share with their respective captains:-

1. Bhutto & Ayub Duo

"The dictator is the one animal who needs to be caged; He betrays his profession and his constitution. He betrays the people and destroys human values. He destroys culture. He binds the youth. He makes the structure collapse. He rules by fluke and freak. He is the scourge and the ogre. He is a leper. Anyone who touches him also becomes a leper. He is the upstart who is devoid of ideals and ideology. Not a single one of them has made a moments contribution to history " - (Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto)

Young Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto looks upon Ayub Khan as an inspiration

He might be the greatest orator in the national history but, it is hard denying the fact that he himself commenced his career in the political arena under the umbrella of the first and the only Field Marshall, General Ayub Khan.

President Ayub Khan and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto with other members of cabinet

Bhutto became the youngest Pakistani cabinet minister when he was given charge of the energy ministry by President Muhammad Ayub Khan, who had seized power and declared martial law in 1958. He was subsequently promoted to head the ministries of commerce, information and industries. He became a close and trusted advisor to Ayub, rising in influence and power despite his youth and relative inexperience in politics. In 1962, he was appointed Pakistan's foreign minister, swift rise to power also brought him national prominence and popularity.

The 17 day war against India in 1965, proved to be the rift between him and Ayub Khan. Bhutto blasted unpopular 'Tashkent agreement' labeling it as the surrender of Pakistan to India. He resigned in June, 1966 and expressed strong opposition to Ayub's regime.

General Yahya Khan transfers power to Bhutto after fall of Dhaka

Later, in the turn of events which involved the establishment of People's Party, Ayub's resignation, elections of 1971 and fall of Dhaka - Bhutto was sworn into power from 1972-77, the time during which he gave the nation it's 3rd constitution, which is still in practice. Bhutto's government was later overthrown by General Zia-ul-Haq in a bloodless coup. He was executed in 1979 after the Supreme Court of Pakistan sentenced him to death for authorizing the murder of a political opponent, in a move that many believe was done under the directives of General Zia. Thus, Bhutto is distinctive in being the only decorated leader that was perhaps, was built and sadly killed by two different dictators.

2. Nawaz & Zia Woo

“We want democracy and nothing else. I am here to play my role and also make my own efforts to rid the country of dictatorship.”- (Nawaz Sharif)

General Zia-ul-Haq having a nice chat with Punjab's Chief Minister Nawaz Sharif

'Sher-e-Pakistan' Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif served the country for two non-consecutive terms, as its Prime Minister. His political career started in Punjab during the tenure of General Zia-ul-Haq, who is credited to be his political father, guru and mentor.

PML(Q)'s campaign poster directed towards Nawaz's loyalty

Under the provincial government of Punjab in 1981, he served as the Minister of Finance with additional charge of Minister of Sports. Sharif later, served as a Chief Minister of Punjab for two consecutive terms. Some critics blame Nawaz Sharif to be a progeny of Zia-ul-Haq, who supported the Martial Law by working for the dictator as Chief Minister of Punjab for about a decade. In 1988, Zia died in a suspicious plane crash the time when, Nawaz Sharif was seen as an active participant during dictator General's funeral. The action that was pointed by PML(Q) during its political campaign in 2008. The campaign posters showed him supporting Zia-ul-Haq and carrying forward his 'Islamization legacy'.

During his tenure as country's premier leader, Sharif gained unmatchable popularity and international acclamation for ordering Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests in response to India’s nuclear tests. His brother Mian Shahbaz Sharif served Punjab as its sole Chief Minister during both of his reigns. Sharif's second term came to a dramatic standoff when, Army Chief General Pervez Musharraf took control of the authority and overthrew the government on 12th October, 1999.

The tagline speaks for itself!

Following his removal by a military coup, Nawaz Sharif was charged with kidnapping, attempted murder, hijacking and terrorism after he allegedly tried to block Pervez Musharraf from landing his plane at Karachi Airport. In December 2000, Sharif began his exile in Saudi Arabia after being pardoned by Pervez Musharraf.

Afterwards, Sharif's political ideology transformed dramatically overnight, and he decided to fight dictator's unlawful rule instead of repeating his previous feat; signing of charter of democracy with Benazir Bhutto was a proof in this respect. Sharif returned to Pakistan in September, 2007, as a new 'Champion of Democracy'. And still awaits for his third regime of ultimate power.

3. PML(Q) & Musharraf Affair

General Musharraf with other PML(Q) members addressing the public

The PML (Q) was the undisputed "King’s Party" of General Musharraf's administration. After the Nawaz Sharif government was overthrown by General Pervez Musharraf's coup in 1999, the PML (Q) came into existance when it split from the PML (N) after, creating yet another schism in the history of the PML.

President Musharraf with then sworn Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat

Led by Mian Azhar and later Shujaat Hussain, the party was openly backed by General Musharraf. A political party with influential members such as the Chaudhary's of Gujrat, Pervaiz Elahi and Chaudhary Shujaat Hussain ; Chaudhary Ijaz ul Haq ; Humayun Akhtar Khan. The PML (Q) started as a small group of half a dozen like-minded people in the PML, in defiance of Nawaz Sharif and his family's monopoly on the party. Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi came to the 'rescue of stability' of country and saw their new party PML (Q) win the general elections of 2002. The unpopular 17th amendment was overwhelmingly endorsed by members of PML(Q).

Under Musharraf's authoritarian headship, PML(Q) government completed its allocated 5 years of rule - becoming the first and the only government to do so. The trio of Mir Zafar ullah Khan Jamali, Chaudhry Shujaat and Shaukat Aziz enjoyed the designation of being country's Prime Ministers. The other Chaudhry, Pervaiz Elahi served Punjab as its Chief Minister from 2002-2007. The Cinderella story ended when their later years of rule, were plagued by the curse of CJ issue, Lal Masjid and Bugti Operation. The President of the party Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi supported Musharraf step by step. They have been faithful to the general in even the most adverse circumstances.

Chaudhry Brothers are criticized for their unconditional support for Musharraf

February 18, 2008 was the day which marked the decline of PML(Q). The party lost major parliamentarians in the 2008 general election, gaining only 49 elected seats, and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the PML (N) opposition parties won the election. On August 18, 2008, President Musharraf resigned under the pressure of facing an impeachment. The day after, Chaudhry Shujaat declared 'to run the party without the assistance of under-hands.' - which were used before. PML(Q) now suffers from severe schizophrenia period, after facing numerous split-ups and is on the way to its 'much expected' drop-scene.

The truth is harsh but it stands tall: dictators might get themselves beheaded under the 'constitutional guillotine' of article-6 but, what about the 'political crew' that endorsed their every action of vivacity? Do they deserve another chance? If dictators don't then, thumbs down to them too.

“I want to say something on behalf of all Pakistanis!"- A Paki in New York

2010-09-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

The US duo might have won the U.S Open final, but Aisam definitely won the crowd, and respect of millions.

Every time our nation is in a state of total despondency and hopelessness, something happens to make us hold our heads high and be proud of our homeland.

Pakistan’s Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi delivered his message of love and peace loud and clear, and it had nothing to do with tennis, or even the US Open doubles title for which he put his heart and soul but didn’t succeed.

After the final on Friday afternoon, the 30-year-old Pakistani star tennis player took the microphone and addressed the estimated 15,000 at Arthur Ashe Stadium, probably the biggest crowd to watch a Grand Slam doubles final and made sure the moment wasn't lost.

“I want to say something on behalf of all Pakistanis,” he said following Friday’s 7-6 (5), 7-6 (4) defeat to the Bryan brothers, Bob and Mike. “Every time I come here, there’s a wrong perception about the people of Pakistan. It is the wrong perception that Pakistan is being a terrorist country,” he told the crowd and the millions of people watching the final on television around the world.

“We are a friendly, loving, caring people and we want peace as much as you guys want it. May God love us all.”

Later, Aisam expanded on what he had told the crowd. “There are extremists in every religion, but just because of them you cannot judge the whole country as a terrorist nation. I just wanted to get this message across as a Pakistani.”

Aisam, Rohan, Mike and Bob Bryan pose with their trophies and Pakistani and the Indian flag are visible among several U.S flags.

The crowd jampacking the stadium responded by giving him a standing ovation and tears to Bob’s eyes. His doubles partner, Rohan Bopanna of India, stood by him. Together, they’ve formed the politically charged tandem known as the Indo-Pak Express. U.N. ambassadors from Pakistan and India—Abdullah Hussain Haroon and Hardeep Singh Puri, respectively sat side-by-side in the President’s Box, the second straight match they’ve attended together, cheering the same unexpected struggle their team brought to the greatest doubles team of all time, the Bryan brothers.

The 16th-seeded Qureshi and Bopanna followed up their run to the Wimbledon quarterfinals with five wins in Flushing, the venue of U.S. Open tournament.

“They’ve proven that when Indians and Pakistanis get together we can raise fire,” Ambassador Haroon said. “I think on a people-to-people basis, they’re setting an example that the politicians should follow.” Prize money and rankings were never a motivating factor, Aisam said, only good news for his flood-stricken countrymen and a platform to express his message of American misunderstanding.

He also defended the decision to build a mosque near the World Trade Center site. “For me, as a Muslim, that’s what makes America the greatest country in the world - freedom of religion, freedom of speech,” Aisam said. “If the mosque is built, I think it’s a huge gesture to all the Muslim community out there in the world. I would really appreciate it.”

Aisam said he understands the reasons for sadness on 9/11 and that he accepts that it is when he comes to the U.S. that he has the most trouble with immigration checks. He said he had been stopped at airport immigration “every time” in New York - three hours at a time - including after his latest 15-hour flight for the Open.

Aisam also said, “My parents are watching in Pakistan, and I love you all.”

It was unusual that Ashe Stadium was nearly full even at noon, when the match started. “I could see a bunch of Indians and Pakistanis out there at 10:15 when we were warming up,” Bob Bryan said. “I was looking around and I’m like, ‘We’re not going to have this whole crowd on our side for sure.’”

He also said Aisam’s statement to the crowd choked him up. “I could see him,” Bob said. “He was quivering a little bit. He was very choked up. Just to give that message to everyone was very heartfelt. What they are doing is a lot more important than winning the U.S. Open.”

Added Mike, “A sport can bring people together. You know, these guys are going to be great for the game for a long time.” The Bryans said they are planning two fundraisers in the next month to raise more money for Pakistan flood relief.

The Champions and Runners-up of U.S Open Men's Doubles.

Aisam-ul-Haq, the bright young Pakistani tennis player, has given the nation a reason to smile this time around. Not only did he bring us honour and recognition by entering the finals of the US Open, but the way he held his ground and defended his nation is what makes him a true national hero.

No amount of diplomacy could have achieved what this tennis player did with a few simple sentences that were free of any intention of point-scoring or personal agendas.

Our political leaders should follow the example of this brave player who defended the honour of his nation on and off the turf. Keep the flag flying high, Aisam, the nation is proud of you.

Only God I Saw!

2010-09-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

In the market, in the cloister — only God I saw.

In the valley and on the mountain – only God I saw.

Him I have seen beside me oft in tribulation;

In favor and in fortune — only God I saw.

Neither soul nor body, accident nor substance,

Qualities nor causes — only God I saw.

I opened mine eyes and by the light of His face around me

In all the eye discovered — only God I saw.

Like a candle I was melting in His fire:

Amidst the flames outflashing — only God I saw.

Myself with mine own eyes I saw most clearly,

But when I looked away into nothingness, I vanished,

And lo, I was the All-living — only God I saw.

(Baba Kuhi of Shiraz)

Note:-

Baba Kuhi is an Iranian Sufi poet-saint. He spent many years in retreat and prayer in a mountain cave just north of Shiraz. He died in 1050 A.D., and was buried just outside of Shiraz, on a hill called "the green old man" (Pir-i-sabz). It is said that just before Baba Kuhi died, he made a famous promise that if anyone could stay awake for forty consecutive nights at his tomb that person would be granted the gift of poetry, immortality, and his heart's desire.

"Evergreen Sayings"

2010-09-15T12:26:00.000-07:00

"Stung by the splendor of a sudden thought."

(Robert Browning)

"In literature as in ethics, there is danger, as well as glory, in being subtle. Aristocracy isolates us."
(Charles Baudelaire)

"The greatest inspiration is often born of desperation."
(Comer Cotrell)

"He just couldn't quite get his leg over."
(Jonathan Agnew - over Ian Botham's 'Leg-over incident')

Wake up the dawn and ask her why;
A dreamer dreams, she never dies
Wipe that tear away now from your eye.
(Noel Gallagher - for Oasis's song 'Champagne Supernova')

"Dr. Livingstone, I presume?"
(Henry Morton Stanley - on finding the lost David Livingstone in Africa)

"If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you."
(Oscar Wilde)

"In life, as in football, you won’t go far unless you know where the goalposts are."
(Arnold H. Glasgow)

"Whenever I climb I am followed by a dog called 'Ego'."
(Friedrich Nietzsche)

"A man cannot be comfortable without his own approval."
(Mark Twain)

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
(Ralph Waldo Emerson)

"Confidence... thrives on honesty, on honor, on the sacredness of obligations, on faithful protection and on unselfish performance. Without them it cannot live."
(Franklin D. Roosevelt)

"Nothing exists except atoms and empty space; everything else is opinion."
(Democritus)

"Just when you think you know the answers, I change the questions."
(Rowdy Roddy Piper)

"The important thing about that freedom train, is it's got to climb mountains. We all have to climb mountains, you know. Mountains that go way up high, and mountains that go deep and low. Yes, we know what those mountains are here at Glide. We sing about them."
(Reverend Williams - for movie 'The Pursuit of Happyness')

I met my Love after 7 years!

2010-09-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

I met my love after seven years,

When my life had finally changed its' gears,

Frozen like statue; my reaction was never clear,

Either recall my haunted past with fear,

or welcome the babe with holy cheer,

or sit idle and do nothing but stare,

I saw my love after seven years,

Her fluffy cheeks turned pale though,

Time is a foe; I realized too,

Eyes drenched with twilight,

Never dreamed to spare that cruel night,

Her smoky lips and golden hairs,

I saw my love after seven years,

The night when the moon glazed and stars twinkled,

What about me a loser? who musted and trembled,

I thought a lamp of hope would really lit,

But later it turned out nothing but shit,

For an instant I dreamed of her and me in a fairy ground,

Priceless palace where no one was there to found,

Dancing in her fingers a approached closer to her cheeks,

Woke up; The waiter brought me some kebabs and sheiks,

I ate them quickly as I was falling late,

My life, my love, my girl, my fate,

She smiled again as she used to do,

Her elegant feat stole my heart though,

Soaked in the memories of past,

The time me and her had a blast,

As every love story has a twist,

I wished I had never experienced that quest,

The envy of others caused my demise,

I wish now I had killed those three blind mice,

I claimed to be a man of versatile,

But never knew my love was too fragile,

At an instant, I caught an eye-contact,

Her elegant sight had the same impact,

Her fainted face soon revealed the time that had passed,

Me; out-smarted, out-dated and out-classed,

At an instant, she was gone,

Like a thrilling mist of Armageddon,
The die-hard patient then, searched for Teressa the nurse,

The moment his life was doomed with curse,

I resisted even though I wasn't that clever,

I believed that our love would live forever,

Shocked to death plus eager and keen,

D'you you really know what I mean?

History is mystery; either Nixon or Zedong,

I inquired myself, "Where did it all go wrong?"

The day I made a home of plastic clay;

Those noons when I heard depressing tunes of fray,
Those evenings I cried lonely in my loft,
You're my night angel that turned Lara Croft.
There are four and twenty million doors
No matter my gardens grow the shiny ores,
I'm all done with life's endless corridor,
It now seems I don't care no more.
A flying dove dies as a rotten rover,
Oh boy! my love then flashed 'Game Over',
I met my love after seven years,
A night later; when I bursted with tears...!

(M.S.Khan)

A joke of Communist Times...!

2010-09-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev is welcomed by East German Leader Erich Honecker (R) with a fraternal kiss in East Berlin after the Gorbachev's arrive to celebrate the 40th anniversary of East Berlin.

Erich Honnecker (the president of

East Germany

) was invited to Moscow by Gorbachev for a visit. After weeks of preparation by Gorby, Honnecker arrives in Moscow. As part of the celebration activities, there is a big parade through the streets of Moscow. While the two are watching the parade, Gorbachev takes a small boy aside and asks him, "Who is your mother?" The child replies, "Mother Russia." "And who is your father?", asks Gorbachev. The boy answers, "Why, its you Uncle Gorbachev!". Finally Gorbachev asks the boy, "and what do you want to be when you grow up?". The boy proudly replies, "a good communist!".

Erich Honnecker, meanwhile, has been watching this and is very impressed. So impressed, that he decides to invite Gorbachev to [East] Berlin for a visit. Again, after weeks of preparation, Gorbachev's plane lands in Berlin. And again, part of the celebration includes a parade. Remembering what Gorbachev did in Moscow, Honnecker repeats the scene: He asks a little boy in the crowd, "Who is your mother?" The child replies "the GDR [German Democratic Republic -

East Germany

]." "And who is your father?", asks Honnecker. "Why, its you Uncle Honnecker!", replies the child. "And what do you want to be when you grow up?" queries Honnecker. Without hesitation, the boy replies "an orphan."

"Slide Away" - Oasis

2010-09-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

Pen- Picture:-

Slide Away is a song about falling head over heels in love with the one person who you think is going to be by your side forever. Its a song about wanting to let go of everything else around you and run away with the only thing you think is true and real in your life. It also shows a story of dreaming of your true love and wishing and hoping that the loved one feels the same way. Then it turns out the the person you love does feel the same way and you feel you could slide away forever because now that your together nothing will ever match up to it. It gives power to fight the uncertainties of life and to meet the unlimited success. The masterpiece from Noel Gallagher is surprisingly one of the most under-rated songs of Oasis's music history.

Lyrics:-

Slide away, and give it all you've got
My today, fell in from the top
I dream of you, and all the things you say
I wonder where you are now?

Hold me down, cause all the world's asleep
I need you now, you've knocked me off my feet,
I dream of you, we talk of growing old
But you said please don't...

Slide in baby, together we'll fly
I've tried praying, but I don't know what you're saying to me

Now that you're mine
We'll find a way
Of chasing the sun
Let me be the one, that shines with you
in the morning, I don't know what to do
two of a kind
We'll find a way
To do what we've done
Let me be the one, that shines with you
And we can slide away, slide away, slide away, away...

Slide away, and give it all you've got
My today, fell in from the top
I dream of you, and all the things you say
I wonder where you are now?

Slide in baby, together we'll fly
I've tried praying, and I know just what you're saying to me

Now that you're mine
We'll find a way
Of chasing the sun
Let me be the one that shines with you
in the morning when you don't know what to do
two of a kind
We'll find a way
To do what we've done
Oh, let me be the one
That shines with you, and we can slide away...

Aquasaurus eats Pakistan: The search for new life beyond blood, sweat & tears

2010-09-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

Haseena Begum weeps as she recalls her home being washed away in Multan

We have seen it all? Haven't we? 'The astound episodes of horror and dismay, infected by the curse of doom.' After all these years we have been through one can only ask the merciless fate; Hey mate! Is every catastrophe is designed for our 'endurable' Pakistan? How long these 'pranks of test' would last? Is there any full stop to this 'kamikaze' which has entrapped us for the last 63 years?

Recall, the musty and old-fashioned 'amma jis', who wandered and maundered in hope of snatching a sack of 'chaki atta'; Those black-outs half a day that tortured a blooming student's academic brains; Those weeks when young and half-grown boys were brain-washed to bombarding deaths; High-flying drones inching in our territory; A 'rocket' shoe barely missing the 'head' of head of the state; Those hours when 'The Times' published us as 'the most dangerous nation of the world'. Welcome to 'our Pakistan': whose tale is full of adventures lead by trait of misguidance and the devious character of mistrust.

Devastation at Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

And, now the havocs offered by the surfs of the devastating flood. Pakistan has never faced such a calamity in decades. From the gigantic hills of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa till the twirling tides at the shores of Karachi, the entire nation is soaked in woe of agony and apprehensions. Heart-rending spectacles have now turned into a matter of routine. Humanity cried to its fullest when, millions of us witnessed a frail old 'baba ji' who palmed the 'chauki' of demolished roof of his owned 'makaan' that perhaps, drank his whole manhood, disappearing in the combers of riddling death. Television channels highlighted a jumbo sized building that failed to anchor to a steep base, and tossed off to its head, where it soon vanished in the waves of generous-turned 'ruthless' River Indus.

More than 1,500 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands stranded by flooding triggered by the annual monsoon rains. The floodwaters have washed away millions of hectares of crops, submerged villages and destroyed roads and bridges. Disease is spreading among Pakistani flood victims, and there have been warnings that dams in the south may burst. The power infrastructure of Pakistan also took a severe blow from the floods, which damaged 10,000 transmission lines, transformers, feeders and power houses in different flood hit areas. Flood water inundated Jinnah Hydro power and 150 power houses in Gilgit. The damage caused a power shortfall of 3.135 gigawatts. Aid agencies have warned that outbreaks of diseases, such as: gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and skin diseases due to lack of clean drinking water and sanitation can pose a serious new risk to victims of flood. Floods have submerged 17 million acres of Pakistan's most fertile crop land, have killed 200,000 livestock and have washed away massive amounts of grain. A major concern is that farmers will be unable to meet the fall deadline for planting new seeds in 2010, meaning a massive loss of food production in 2011, and potentially leading to long term food shortages. In short, flood has resulted in obliteration of infrastructure, agriculture and mankind itself.

"I will never forget the destruction and suffering I have witnessed today. In the past I have witnessed many natural disasters around the world, but nothing like this." (UN Secretary Ban Ki-Moon)

The 'Godfather' of tsunami, as Ban Ki-Moon claimed it to be, is now surely a catechism for our fellow brothers. Where, the distinct backgrounds now share the same arena without a roof, the calamity has surely shown it's worst possible face and suggests extraordinary measures to cope with it. This sensitive time phase of Pakistan can now only be elaborated under two major headings:-

1) The curse of God (Azab-e-Elahi)

The validity of the first heading will surely be endorsed by majority of my readers; as it touches the strings of sentiments of many of us. Fundmentalists suggest that ethics and morality are pillars on which one's tent of life stands. Either as an individual or as a whole they, form a key ingredient of one's way to un-parallel success. We promised to practice the same at our beginning but later, faced a collapse plagued by misery, individualism and injustice. When, the men of 'land of pure' ignored the cure, the nature depicted its color in most devastating way. Humanity in these years died many times and screamed with pain; those complains have surely now bursted in shape of tears of flood.

Perhaps, Pakistan is currently passing through the most tragic moments of her history. The once called pure land is now filled with impurities not only because of the system displayed by government but also because of the inhumane actions carried out by fellow citizens of our nation. The floods sent by nature which are invading our country killing and destroying the lives of many as well as our infrastructure are part of natural disaster but the after mark and the relief for those people is the responsibility of our government which promise average man to fulfill their necessities in such tribal times.

But, we cannot only rely on the government machinery to perform and carry the heavy load on it shoulders only. So, what is our real obligation as a Pakistani? as a Muslim? as a human at first. The Holy month of Ramadan is upon us and we can only ask for forgiveness for our sins to the Merciful; the lengthy tearful prayers with a sincere 'tauba'. It's the perfect opportunity for us to counsel our brothers. As it's the need of time, to stand united for the cause and focus to provide selfless assistance to the rescuers. We are engrossed in our lives fully which leaves us with no option to care and help others. Please think about it and try to put to use your positive contribution in order for Pakistan, in times of disaster and need, as it is every individual’s responsibility.

People displaced by the flooding tussle for food aid in Khangarh village

2) The system of God (Nizam-e-Elahi)

The other aspect argues about the reality-check more. Water flowing over or water at the dead level; we either get lot of rains or we don’t get them at all. In a country like ours’ where a big resource of power generation is through the reserved water from dams the necessity for construction of more dams heightens even more when the consumption of electricity is on the rise every coming year.

A non-issue becomes an ever impending issue in our country when the matter falls victim to politics, hence the Kalabagh Dam issue. Not very long ago those having ‘insight’ would say that various cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would drown in consequence of the construction of the Kalabagh Dam. Nevertheless, they were still drowned when the recent flood waters swept away life from corner of several populous cities.

Map showing Dams in Pakistan

When I compare the present scenario where the flood has left everything in haphazard, to a possible situation we cold have had if the politicized dams were actually constructed - I see a much lesser destruction. The journey from a point where our country was well known for its canal irrgation system to the present extremes of draughts and floods speaks volumes of the politics of vested interests, of bias and treachery to the citizens that continues till day.

Instead of making the country of ours a victim of ethnicity and regionalism, we should adopt a more broader spectrum - seeking for a national interest and avoiding self-suicide. If we still don’t resolve to construct new dams, God forbid, we would be worse off in the time to come.

Because, the destruction of calamity is not confined and doesn't label itself for either a Balochi, Pathan, Punjabi or Sindhi; but in fact, shakes the entire humanity. The heart of every Pakistani cries for his/her brother. Learning the clear lessons from this 'shakermaker', is the only remedy to fight the hard times - that still await us.

A Letter to our Beloved Prophet "Hazrat Muhammad (SAW)"

2010-08-16T04:58:00.000-07:00

To

Hazrat Muhammad (SAW)
The Last Prophet of Allah,

Dear Sir,

I am one amongst your “Ummah” who want to express his respect, gratitude and thanks for what you’ve left for us to follow in order to achieve success and glory in this world and thereafter to come. You have seen sent as a blessing for all mankind who follow you and Allah Almighty has addressed in surah “Anbiyah” as:

وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِّلْعَالَمِينَ

“And We sent you as a blessing for all worlds. (Suratul Anbiyah 21:107)”

Your personality cannot be appraised by any words as it have been so complete and perfect by all means either as administrator or as an companion; as a leader or as a general; as a husband or as a father, in deed you have been a role model in every aspects of life and shall remain till the day of judgment. Allah in Holy Quran says:

وَإِنَّكَ لَعَلى خُلُقٍ عَظِيمٍ

“And verily, you are on an exalted standard of character. (Suratul Qalam 68:4)”

I feel myself a very blessed person to find myself Muslim and amongst your Ummah yet I feel ashamed and embarrassed as I see that Muslims are not united and they have not been following all those preaching of Islam for which you and your companions suffered a lot of hardships, difficulties and resistance from forces of evils. I can still recall one of your instructions in your last address to Muslims of Makkah. You said, “Do not bow before my grave because your ancestors used to do the same and eventually they declared the graves of their prophets as their gods.” I pray to Allah that let this not be happened with us (Amin).

Dear Sir,

I am in my teenage now and I pray to Allah that May I be blessed with honesty so to be a follower of “Sadiq & Amin”; when I’ll grow to be professional may I be blessed with sincerity & dedication so to manifest myself your true follower; when I’ll be an administrator may I be blessed with integrity and honor: when I have to do justice may I be blessed with the same strength as you did on many occasions and when I stand to offer my prayer may I be blessed with fear of Allah and obedience so that my worship should witness to Allah that I am following the path which you’ve shown to us.

If one has to know what is sacrifice, he should see to the sacrifice of Insar & Muhajrin in the way of Islam; if one has to know how to keep promise he should see to the handling over of Hazrat Abu Jandal during agreement of Hudabia and if one has to know what is forgiveness when I must say that no period of time can ever reflect any better example of forgiveness as it had been displayed by your kind and blessed character at the conquest of Makkah when you announced forgiveness to all.

The characteristics of all prophets have been blessed upon you by Allah and Allama Dr. Muhammad Iqbal offer praise to that in this manner.

الایا خیمگی خیمہ فروھل"
"کہ پیش آہنگ بیرون شد ز منزل
خرد از راندن محمل فرو ماند
زمام خویش دادم در کف دل

For faithfully,
Muhammad Shahrukh Khan

Note : This is a glimpse of the Award-Winning Letter in "A Letter to our Beloved Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) Competition" organized by Pak-Turk International Institute in March 2007. Specials regards to Sir Zain, whom without this would never had been possible.

Sultanat-e-Pakistan: 'La Familia' Domination & Pakistan

2010-07-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

Is it any wonder why princes & kings?

Are clowns that caper in their sawdust rings;

Cos ordinary people that are like you and me,

We're the builders of their destiny.

It was an exhausting afternoon about 38 years ago when, a storm of people took it to the streets of the country; a country whose fate was never sorted-out and where the breeze of fear blows, even today. The crowd mourned with anger and then, launched a strong protest against an elite military ruler, who had imposed his constitution on a newly-born republic. As a commanding soldier, who says 'do or die', the authoritarian was deprived of an art of 'public politics' and payed no mind to the most important point in his draft. He had mistakenly made Pakistan a 'republic' instead of an 'Islamic republic'. The response was sudden and expected. A 'country' became a firm 'nation' on this issue and strongly demanded to rule out the clause. The public pressure was so immense that even, the most fiercest dictator bowed down to the wave of unrest. This is how our beloved country 'Islamic republic' of Pakistan was constituted.

Despite, proclaiming itself as a 'republic', Pakistan has failed to establish a strong and an authentic democratic system, over the years. Democracy, in shape of hypocrisy, has suffered severe blows in the hands of several martial laws and army regimes.

The political analysts and literary wing of ours, has always blamed the so-called 'military establishment' for a retarded political growth. Most of them, are of the view that frequent interceptions from the barracks has crushed the national morale and always took the country, a decade behind.

Despite of huge criticism, everyone of us agrees with the fact that, the 'political industry' of Pakistan is known for its two peculiar characteristics:-

a) Corruption
b) Bad-Governance

The above of two 'distinct features' of our internal complex political world has forced, the world outside to confine Pakistan in the list of Third world countries. Thus, also provide a valid excuse for the armed forces to 'march-in' in the political affairs. Their 'ironic hands' have cleaned the system many times but for a long-term process, killed the practice of democracy.

The politicians of Pakistan who are in charge of the system nowadays, are enjoying more financial power instead of public power. From the banks of Swiss and beyond the priceless palaces of Raiwand, the tales of 'hidden treasures' are becoming more eminent.

President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari (left) with his son Chairman of People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari (right)

'Factual Myths' of Pakistan reveal that since its birth, the crown of power is vested among the 22 families. These families (not less than 'families of nobles' in renaissance era) had always had their share in the history of Pakistan. Their powers seems to be endless; either feudal or industrial. These imperial dynasties ruled the country with complete supremacy and had an impact on 'economic health' of Pakistan.

The repeated Philip story which always brought forth an Alexander, has proved to be more applicable to Pakistan. The obedient residents of this 'realm', have always nominated a 'duke' after 'duke' over the years, but never payed heed to craft a one, with their own hands.

In a country, where vote is already an omen plagued by ethnicity and regionalism, our self-imposed 'unawareness' has always reserved an elite successor for the throne. In a crowd of millions, we cry for a beacon to seek light; but our foresight is too blurred to find one. The proud nationalism of ours then, search for a lost motivation in the times of need, which only a true leader can impart.

Hamza Shahbaz Sharif of Pakistan Muslim League (N)

Why is it so? The answer is short and simple. The unfortunate union of ours has never accepted it's 'right to rule'. Whereas, the initial principle of democracratic system states 'an establishment of a governing body of the people, by the people and for the people'. Because, we have never strived to wake up a rusted leader, cursed by slumber within us, to turn the tables of fortune once and for all.

The will to rise and shine for this country along with national prestige died at the moment when, we in the state of paranoia surrendered to political hierarchy; a phyletic lineage accompanied by an obsolete imperial rule. 2% of aristocratic families of political preeminence, which have never allowed the overwhelming middle/lower class speakers to emerge, which pose an extincting threat to their political domination. They control the hearts and minds of the local population through the huge lands they own.

"Under the 18th amendment, the clause of intra-party elections has been ruled out; giving authority to party heads to stay-on. The new amendment might have reduced President's prestige but, provides party heads the power of issuing order to dissolve the parliament, at any instant."

Ironically, all major political parties (with few exceptions) are run on family basis. After the death, a son or a daughter is nominated as party head. This act of 'democratic suicide' is now legalized under the recent 18th amendment, where raising a voice against the rigid and tyrannical party leadership has been declared as a crime. None of us ever ruminated that our screams of social and economic dismay would be synchronized as a tacit of mistrust.

Moonis Elahi of Pakistan Muslim League (Q)

The beginning of this insurrectionist passage might seem extraneous. But, as far as it goes the citizens of this nation; who are proudly restrained to their traditional patriotism and are fond of uplifting their dignity and self-esteem have given away their identity, in the process. The purposeful creation of this nation has been erased from our memories; no one even dares to explain the future of the flag embed with crescent and star. The daily efforts of ours are the going in vain as we witness our daily rights and merits eaten by the moth of nepotism, corruption & injustice.

The nation which nullified the tyrant and totalitarian rule of a dictator in 60's, has become weak with startle. It's frailty resulted in the extinction of a number of ambitious leaders, in the way. The Islamic Republic, for which our ancestors fought for is now on the road of becoming supreme monarchy, with fate of crown sealed for decades.

So, how about rephrasing 'Republic' of ours into 'Sultanate'- where a prince son inherit a king father and where power is vested in noble families; to help the blue babies of "Bhuttos, Sharifs, Chadhurys, Syeds, Qureshis, Legharis, Gillanis, Khosas, Jatois, Bugtis" and their dynasties to rule for centuries. Let, the innocent Bilawal, the outspoken Hamza and the proactive Moonis to be the next emperor while, others clap and praise their tales of never-ending success.

Pakistani Soccer Fame-men

2010-07-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Even, though Pakistan seems to be an unknown name when it comes to football. But,there comes no doubt from the fact that "Green Shirts" lack no talent in making a mark in this sport as well. Despite, a par average record in football as a team, the Pakistanis were still able to exhibit their unique individual skills to the world. Many of our "Pakistani Proud Diaspora" generation has been a regular part of power house clubs in Europe & Asia. Below, are mentioned some huge soccer-names from Pakistan, who are waving the nation's pride in various corners of the world :-

Zesh Rehman

Captain Zesh Rehman playing for Bradford City

Zeshan "Zesh" Rehman is a British Pakistani football defender who plays for Bradford City. He was the first British Asian to start a Premier League match and is the first to have played in all four divisions of professional football in England. He also plays for the Pakistan national football team and was the first Pakistani international footballer to play professional football in England.

Fulham's Zesh Rehman challenges Didier Drogba of Chelsea during a match

He started his career at Fulham and made a total of 21 league appearances. During his time at Fulham he had loan spells at Brighton & Hove Albion and Norwich City. In 2005 he switched allegiances to Pakistan from England. A transfer to Queens Park Rangers followed and he went on to make 46 appearances for the West London-based club. During his three year stint there he went on loan to Brighton & Hove Albion, Blackpool and Bradford City. The third transfer of his career involved him moving to Bradford on a free transfer in June 2009.

Former Gunners Captain Thierry Henry & 'Pride of Pakistan' Zesh Rehman in a quest for the ball

So far Rehman has made eight appearances for the Pakistan national team and has participated in the World Cup 2010 qualifiers. Outside of football he is known for being an ambassador for Kick It Out, the Asian Football Network and the Show Racism The Red Card campaign. In addition to this he has appeared on BBC Radio 1Xtra and writes a blog for Setanta Sports.Rehman has said that, his "sole purpose in trying to be a success as a professional footballer is to inspire other Asian players to follow my lead and achieve their goals."He is an ambassador for the Asian Football Network (AFN), a grassroots community-led initiative designed to support and facilitate the development of grassroots Asian football in the UK. He has also worked with the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) to try and increase the number of British Asians taking up a career in professional football, and has attended meetings with the PFA in order to achieve this goal. In January 2007 he took part in the London 'One Game' initiative held at The FAheadquarters in Soho Square, London. He has also been involved in the Show Racism The Red Card campaign and he has taken part in Chelsea's "Search for an Asian Star" campaign. On 12 July 2008 he took part in the Islam Expo event at the Olympia exhibition centre in West Kensington, London, a four day event whose primary purpose was to build bridges between Britain'sMuslim communities and the rest of society. Rehman took part in a panel giving feedback from his own experiences about the positive use of sport.

English Legend Alan Shearer finds hard to escape from the clutches of Zesh Rehman

Adnan Ahmed

A product of Man Utd Youth Academy, Adnan Ahmed for Huddersfield Town

Adnan Ahmed is a professional footballer who plays in the Hungarian top flight for Ferencvárosi TC. Ahmed is a British Asian of Pakistani descent. Because of his Pakistani parentage he was eligible to represent Pakistan at an international level.

Initially part of Bury youth academy, as well as a two year stint at Manchester United Academy afterwards, Adnan chose to join Huddersfield Town where he turned professional.

Despite making a few appearances for the club in league and cup competitions since turning professional, Ahmed's career has been hampered by persistent injury troubles.

Ahmed has the unfortunate distinction of being the very first player to be sent off at the Keepmoat Stadium, the new home of Doncaster Rovers. He was shown the red card for a two footed challenge on Rovers' Mark McCammon, the scorer of the very first goal in the stadium during Huddersfield's 3-0 defeat on 1 January 2007.

In January 2007, Ahmed went to Lincoln City, who had shown an interest in him, on a one week trial with Huddersfield manager Peter Jackson saying "It will be a good experience for him and will hopefully make him appreciate what he's got here". However, no deal was done between the clubs and as a result the player returned to Huddersfield. On May 9, 2007, he was released from the club.

England's Joe Cole stands beside Adnan Ahmed of Pakistan

On 25 May 2007, it was announced that Adnan had joined Tranmere Rovers side on a free transfer, becoming manager Ronnie Moore's first summer signing of 2007. He made his debut coming on as a substitute in the 2nd half at home in a 1-1 draw with Yeovil Town on 1 September 2007. However, competition for places in midfield saw him make just five further appearances during his debut season with the club.

Because of lack any real first team opportunities, Adnan went on loan to Conference National side Mansfield Town at the end of October 2008, making his first team debut in a 2-0 defeat away to Torquay United on 1 November 2008. He became an instant hit with the Mansfield fans scoring a penalty in the 3-0 win against Salisbury City, also scoring a diving header against Weymouth to set up a 2-1 victory.

In National Colours

Following his return to Tranmere, he joined Port Vale on trial. He went on loan to Vale on 21 January 2009. Ahmed opened his account with the Valiants by scoring the match winner in a 2-0 win at Macclesfield Town on February 25, 2009. He returned to Tranmere in late March after Vale manager Dean Glover rejected the opportunity to extend his loan, despite impressing fans with his performances.

In July 2009, having impressed coaching staff during pre-season trial matches at Hungarian team Ferencváros TC, Adnan Ahmed signed a two year deal with the team to play in Hungarian National Championship I. He played his first competitive game for the team in a 2-0 win over Diósgyőri VTK in the 2009-10 Hungarian League Cup on July 29, 2009.

Shabir Khan

Shabbir Khan for Worcester City

Shabir Khan is an English-born Pakistani international footballer who plays for Worcester City, having progressed through their youth system.

Khan was called to represent the Pakistan national football team for the SAFF Cup 2009 inBangladesh in December 2009.

Playing for National Team

Amjad Iqbal

A 'lethal sprint' by Amjad Iqbal

Amjad Iqbal is a professional footballer who plays for Bradford Park Avenue. He has been capped by Pakistan.

Born in Bradford, England, Iqbal started his career at youth level with Bradford City before moving to local non-league club, Thackley in the Northern Counties East Football League and signed for Farsley Celtic in 2002.

Iqbal helped Farsley achieve three promotions in four years, the last promotion being in the 2006–07 season when they were promoted to the Conference National with Iqbal as club captain. Iqbal played 20 consecutive games for Farsley in their 2006–07 promotion season in which they finished in fifth place in the Conference North and beat Hinckley United in the play off final to earn promotion to the Conference National. He has twice won the Farsley Player of the year award. He remained with Farsley until March 2009, when he rejoined his former manager Lee Sinnott at Bradford Park Avenue.

During the match

Reis Ashraf

Young Reis Ashraf for Buckingham Town

Reis Ashraf is an English-born Pakistani international footballer who plays for Buckingham Town in the United Counties League Division One. Ashraf played for Pakistan in all three of his country’s group matches against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Bhutan in the SAFF Championship 2009 in Bangladesh, scoring in the team's 7–0 victory over Bhutan.

Duing a match in progress

Atif Bashir

Atif Bashir in-chat with the referee

Atif Bashir Qureshi is a German Turkish-Pakistani footballer, who plays for Barry Town in the Welsh Football League First Division.

Born to a British Pakistani father and a Turkish German mother, Atif could have theoretically played for Germany, Turkey, any of the British Home Nations, as well as Pakistan.

Although initially part of the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup squad, he could not join the team because of his Pakistani passport had not been made yet. Few months later, he made his International Debut for Pakistan in the 2008 SAFF Championship against the Maldives then encountering India and Nepal in the first round.

Atif had spent seven years as a youth in professional clubs such as Hertha Berlin and Cardiff City.

Adam Karim

Adam 'Luke Docker' Karim playing for FC United of Manchester

Adam Luke Docker is an English-Pakistani footballer. He currently plays for FC United of Manchester. In 2007 he was called up for Pakistan, where he used the name of Adam Karim.

Born to a Pakistani father and English mother, Karim began his professional football career with Bury, later joining Altrincham for a few months but then joined Bangor City in the 2005-06 season. He was released at the end of the 2006-07 season despite being a fairly impressive performer. He joined Chorley, but in September 2007 linked up again with his former Bangor manager Clayton Blackmore when he joined Porthmadog. At the same time he was playing for Rochdale club Asia F.C.

He parted company with Porthmadog in 2008. In late 2009 he was playing for Canaries FC in the Lancashire Evening Post Sunday football league and captained them to victory in the Asian Community Cup final held at Stamford Bridge.

In February 2010, he joined Salford City but after a short period asked to be released and subsequently joined FC United of Manchester.

Away from football he is Director and Co-Owner of Rosso Restaurant on King Street in Manchester.

Celebration after a goal

Muhammad Essa

Essa in action in a match against Asian Giants Japan

Muhammad Essa Khan is a Pakistani footballer playing currently for KRL FC. The striker is also the captain of Pakistan national football team and is one of the most talented football players Pakistan has seen in recent times. He can be used as a playmaker particularly in support of a striker, or a genuine centre forward because of his ball holding and passing skills. He is also a left-footed free-kick specialist. Essa has become one the most well known faces in Pakistani football, due to his regular goal scoring at international level.

Hand-Stitched Footballs - Pride of Pakistan

2010-07-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Soccer or football is the most popular sport in the world. And for many reasons, this means great economic opportunity. Pakistani footballs, of course, have a long history of being kicked around in Football World Cup tournaments.

From the iconic Telstar (which was the first designated official game ball, at the 1970 Mexico World Cup and then at the 1974 World Cup in Germany) to the even more iconicTango (the official ball of the 1978 and 1982 World Cups in Argentina and Spain), and even at the last World Cup in 2006 in Germany, hand-stitched, high-performance from Pakistan - really from Sialkot - have been the preferred choice for Adidas, the official providers of match balls to the FIFA World Cups.

Sialkot made headlines all over the world for its very high quality footballs. As per an estimate approximately 80-85% high-quality hand-stitched inflatable balls production of the world originates from Sialkot. The local football industry earned $164 million in export earnings in the financial year 2009.

The most successful sports manufacturing firms now have international collaborations with the well-known sports brands like Adidas (Germany), Puma (Germany), Nexo Sports (Canada), Nike (USA), Dita (UK), Mikasa Sports (Japan) and Slazenger (UK). In the recent past, however, lack of modernisation and allegations of child labour usage have resulted in a loss of market share to the new entrants in the business like Thailand, Korea and China. A workforce of 85,000 was employed to produce 60 million balls per year worth $210 million. In Fifa World Cup years the demand for stitched balls rises by 70 per cent. Consecutive governments however, ignored this industry and failed to plan ahead to tackle the growing competition from China, India and Japan.

For a long time this vital industry also faced criticism from European countries and especially from United States with allegations of using child labour. The Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry took prompt measures to curb child labour from the soccer ball industry in accordance with the Atlanta Agreement signed with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Unicef in February 1997.

It is estimated that some 93 per cent of child labour was progressively eradicated from this vital industry and necessary steps were taken to provide social protection to children and their families. The children who were associated with this industry were provided with good schooling. The vital steps taken by the soccer manufacturers and exporter were highly praised by the then United States President Bill Clinton in the address at the ILO convention at Geneva in June 1999.

The Sialkot football industry has been contributing millions of export dollars to the national kitty but in the year 2006 the industry's share in the international market took a significant hit with the entry of new players in the market, notably China and India. Manufacturers from these countries were able to supply balls at a much cheaper rate.

According to industry sources, local soccer ball manufacturers have been able to grab around 30 to 40 per cent of the total orders floated globally for the upcoming Fifa World Cup. This is a sharp decline from the 70-80 per cent bagged during the 1998 and 2002 World tournaments. The local football industry earned $164 million in export earnings in the financial year 09, as against an average of $221 million per annum earned during financial years 2005-08. Power and gas shortage are not making it any easier for the industry, and sources say that a number of business have failed to meet deadlines which has dented their reputation.

Technology was also a major factor in tilting the balance against the local industry. The penetration of machine-made balls hit the Sialkot hand made stitched soccer industry.

And in the present scenario of fast growing globalisation hand-stitched balls will not be able to compete with machine-made footballs. It is important that the local industry moves forward and embraces new technology to meet the needs of the international market.

Industry sources also say that China has received large export orders of footballs from a number of countries ahead of the June 2010 Football World Cup. Pakistan Sports Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association is rightly concerned over this state of affairs.

According to Arif Mehmood Sheikh, a former chairman (PSGMEA) the shift of a large number of orders to China should serve as an 'eye opener' for every one. He said that the factors behind the diversion of export orders to China was a combination of rising cost of production and inability to meet deadlines, which in turn were caused by rising POL prices and unreliable power supply. This has made it difficult for Sialkot exporters to compete with manufacturers in China, India, Nepal and Thailand.

With the government looking for new avenues to bridge the fiscal deficit and the trade deficit, it is very important that measures be taken to build upon the advantages that Pakistan holds in the global market, and not allow others to encroach upon them. The Sialkot exporters have urged the government to come up with some sort of trade related package to stop the diversion of football export orders through the Trade Development Authority, likewise enforcing suitable measures to encourage the export of hand stitched fooballs.

Outdated manufacturing techniques still in use by the local industry is a major hurdle in enhancing exports. This industry for its survival is in dire need of advanced technology and early provisioning of skilled labour. The Sialkot manufacturers and exporters have realised that in the event of a change in the global trend from hand stitched balls to mechanically stitched balls they will also need to make the shift.

In order to cope with the menace of machine made balls, the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority has at put in place the final steps for the establishing of the Sports Industries Development Centre. It is expected that this project worth Rs435 million will enable the Sialkot sports manufacturing industry to adopt modern technology, without which there is no going forward.

Unlike the 2006 and previous FIFA World Cups, when Pakistan was represented in each and every game of the world's premier sporting tournament - in the shape of Pakistani manufactured footballs - Pakistan is missing in action at the 2010 FIFA Football World Cup in South Africa.

Ghalib's Legacy

2010-07-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

Mirza Asadullah Beg Khan — known to posterity as Ghalib, a `nom de plume’ he adopted in the tradition of all classical Urdu poets, was born in the city of Agra, of parents with Turkish aristocratic ancestry, probably on December 27th, 1797. As to the precise date, Imtiyaz Ali Arshi has conjectured, on the basis of Ghalib’s horoscope, that the poet might have been born a month later, in January 1798.

The death of his father and uncle during his youth left Ghalib with no male-dominant figures. He then moved to Delhi.

Ghalib’s early education has always been a matter of confusion. There are no known records of his formal education, although it was known that his circle of friends in Delhi were some of the most intelligent minds of the time.

Around 1810, he was married into a family of nobles, at the age of thirteen. He had seven children, none of whom survived (this pain has found its echo in some of Ghalib’s ghazals). There are conflicting reports regarding his relationship with his wife. She was considered to be pious, conservative and God-fearing while Ghalib was carefree, unconventional without any scruples, and arguably not very religious, in the strict sense of the word.

Ghalib was very fond of drinking and gambling (in this respect, he himself admitted he was not quite a strict “Muslim”). Gambling used to be an offence in Delhi at that time and he was even apprehended once for having indulged in it in his own backyard. Ghalib also had an affair with a courtesan who quite admired his poetry. There still exists the First Information Report filed against Ghalib in Kotwali ( “Police Station” is a more convenient term in modern (English) language), Daryaganj, New Delhi that relates his rivalry with the then Kotwal when it came to the courtesan.

Ghalib never worked as such for a livelihood but lived on either state patronage, credit or generosity of his friends. His fame came to him posthumously. He had himself remarked during his lifetime that although his age ignored his greatness, it would be recognized by later generations. History has vindicated his claim. He also is arguably the most “written about” among Urdu poets.

He died in Delhi on February 15th, 1869.

Showering encomium on Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib’s poetry is like employing rich epithets to describe William Shakespeare’s tragedies or Salvador Dali’s surrealistic strokes. Ghalib’s couplets are what he is. He is Urdu poetry. That is all you know, that is all you need to know.

Ghalib’s death anniversary falls on Feb 15. Should it be marked? If yes, then why is it important to mark creative individuals’ birthdays and death anniversaries? Perhaps to remember them? If recalling the important days in their lives makes a difference with respect to carrying out research on them, aexploring hitherto unravelled facets to their works and lives, then why not?

But sadly, despite Ghalib’s undisputed stature as a literary colossus, we’ve yet to decide whether he was an Indian or defied geographical boundaries.

In Pakistan we don’t seem to ‘own’ him as we own Allama Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz or Josh Malihabadi. Yes, scholars have undertaken tasks of ‘understanding’ his works or of Ghalib shanasi (which means getting acquainted with him), but one feels that the vital ‘ownership’ factor is amiss.

So why is Ghalib important to be considered as one of our own? Answers:

(1) he enriched the Urdu language by almost exhausting the possibilities of linguistic inventiveness and creative ingenuity.

(2) he had the temerity to explore undiscovered lands in the realm of poetry that prior to him weren’t even thought of as plausible literary subjects.

(3) he blazed a trail for many a creative man to indulge in ghazal-writing like never before… and the list goes on.

To Ghalib composing poetry wasn’t a leisurely pastime or a part-time job. He was dealing with existence, warts and all. He was just 13 when he got hitched to an 11-year-old girl, Umrao Begum. They had seven children, none of whom survived, and passed away in their infancy. It was but natural that Ghalib was crestfallen. But he never turned bitter or vitriolic. He had seen life eyeball to eyeball. And was an admirer of nature and all that is beautiful.

That is precisely why his verses brim with love for the sensual and the intangible, coupled with thebare truths of being. He knew half-baked measures would make him a run-of-the-mill poet. Yes, he was an iconoclast. Yes, he was alcoholic. Yes, he was a gambler. But these social evils (if they are that) have nothing to do with his extraordinary skill or perceptiveness. He was every inch a poet, top-notch at that. As Intizar Husain enthused about Jaun Elia, Ghalib’s personality had become anextension of his poetry.

T.S. Eliot has given world literature an irrefutable dictum: poetry communicates before it is understood. Ghalib exactly achieved that. Even to those readers for whom Persianised Urdu or intricate phrasing is a tad knotty to comprehend, his couplets appear readily accessible.

For example, every reader of Urdu poetry is familiar with the following two lines:

A worthy picture doesn’t need description/

The paper on which it’s drawn is self-explanatory attire

Yet it is not a simple idea to grasp, but don’t we all love it truly, deeply and madly?

Or for that matter the couplet which is often ascribed to the death of one of his children:

Ghalib’s verses brim with love for the sensual and the intangible, coupled with the bare truths of being. He knew half-baked measures would make him a run-of-the-mill poet.

You say we’ll meet on Judgment Day/

Isn’t this gesture apocalyptic in itself?

This is the work of an artisan as well as of a genius. The couplet is fraught with etymological possibilities. It sounds personal. It has a mystic ring to it. It has an air of worldly wisdom about it. And seems easily identifiable.

Even when Ghalib tries to be a bit impish and light-hearted, compromising on contextual weightiness, he wins the reader over by virtue of his brilliant wordplay.

You don’t let me kiss but keep looking at my heart/

You think that having me for free would be a worthy bargain for you

Mir Taqi Mir was a great poet, period. But he has many imitators, if not successors. Ghalib had neither a predecessor nor a successor. He scaled heights that not many can even think of. According to an adage, you are always alone at the top. Ghalib is alone, for sure.