Ageing isn’t only about the face ‘wrinkling’ up into a little wizened prune. It involves the entire body and the parts most prone to ageing and, often the most neglected, are the neck, the hands and the feet. While we slather on the moisturizers and rich rejuvenating creams on the face, we do nothing for the hands and feet, apart from a monthly manicure and pedicure. And as for the delicate neck area, the first to give way, we often forget to even moisturize it!

The skin wrinkles and ages due to extrinsic factors like exposure to pollutants and the sun, bad nutrition, smoking and stress, and intrinsic ones like the natural process of the slowing down of cellular turnover and changes in the skin’s structure.

For instance, the fat that generally plumps up the skin in the face and the neck migrates to the torso as we age, leaving these areas hollow and wrinkly. The skin on the body, hands and feet becomes much drier than normal and tends to wrinkle much faster - after all, the skin here has already been through a lifetime’s exposure to harsh detergents and unfriendly shoes. The blood circulation to these areas slows down, and constant expressions and movement contribute towards lines and folds in the neck area. Here’s what you can do to make sure your body doesn’t age faster than your face…

NECK IN THE NOOSE

Moisturize this delicate area with gentle upward strokes. Use a moisturizer with gentle alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to minimize wrinkly folds.

While you can camouflage your rapidly-ageing neck with carefully draped ‘dupattas’ or stoles, avoid going on drastic diets after you hit your 40s, unless you are obese and need to lose weight for medical reasons. A bit of extra fat on the neck and cheeks gives an impression of youthfulness.

HANDS-ON TREATMENT

We abuse our hands throughout our lives with domestic work and harsh detergents. We don’t bother with sunscreen when we go out in the sun. With age, the skin becomes drier and prone to wrinkles, taking on the appearance of dried parchment in extreme cases.

Applying a heavy-duty cream on your hands every night before sleeping works wonders. Massage the cream in well, and pull on a pair of cotton gloves to ensure that it stays on the skin for a longer time. Avoid the use of harsh detergents, and use rubber gloves while washing dishes to prevent further drying.

Do use a sunscreen on your hands. Most skin cancers are caused by overexposure to harsh UV rays, and often start on the hands. However, if you discover some dark spots or patches, don’t panic. These are probably liver spots, common on ageing fair skins. They are caused by years of cumulative exposure to the sun. The pigment in these cells has become overactive, and clumps together to form spots, which start as a light tan and gradually darken. If you feel uncomfortable about them, do go to a dermatologist and get them checked out to rule out any malignancy. “You can use a cream with two per cent hydroquinone like eslite or melalite to reduce the dark spots. Remember, apply these creams only on the spots you want to get rid of, as these could further intensify the dryness. If all else fails, your dermatologist could offer laser treatment to fade them.

FOOT FETISH

Our feet are usually crammed into ill-fitting shoes, mostly left to their own devices, rarely pampered and often abused. Consequently, as our feet age, they start throwing up unwanted problems like corns and bunions. Very often, dried and neglected feet will also have unsightly cracks.

While the feet have large and active sweat glands, they also have very small oil glands, so this is one area of the body where you must moisturize regularly. You should apply a foot cream every night before bedtime and pull on a pair of soft cotton socks to allow the cream to work its magic. Soak your feet in warm water at least once a week, and remove dead cells with a gentle pumice stone. Do massage in a light foot cream after your bath and treat yourself to a professional pedicure once a month.

WALKING TO YOUNGER SKIN

Follow these tips and rest assured that your hands, feet and neck won’t reveal your real age. And you don’t always have to indulge in much-hyped, pricey lotions and creams either; an inexpensive basic moisturizer like Vaseline can work just as well.

Our grandmothers swore by the exfoliating properties of chokar (wheat husk) mixed in malai that sticks to the bottom of the pan after the milk is heated. The scrub was used for rejuvenating and removing dead skin. Coarse gram flour or besan is yet another effective homemade scrub they used. Traditionally used, a turmeric scrub, over time, is known to remove facial and tender body hair altogether.

What are face scrubs?
Facemasks that have the quality of rubbing or scrubbing the skin are called face scrubs. Scrubs bring the blood to the surface of the skin, remove dead cells, and smooth and clean the skin. Face scrubs also work wonders for spotty skin. The best way to use the face scrub is to spread it over the face with fingertips, wait for it to dry and then remove it by a gentle scrubbing movement. This should be followed by a wash with lukewarm water.

Use one of the following face scrubs suiting to your skin type.

An olive oil scrub for winters
Mash a cup of fresh grapefruit and mix it with one-fourth granulated sugar and six teaspoons of olive oil. Hop into the shower or bathtub and gently massage the mix over rough areas of skin with a loofah sponge or rough washcloth. Rinse with cool water.

A herbal face scrub
Mix three tablespoons of the herbal infusion (your choice of herb - dried chamomile, elderflowers or fennel for normal skin types - with hot water, left to infuse for approximately 20 to 30 minutes then strain, keeping the infused liquid) with two tablespoons of fine oatmeal to make a paste. Let it stand, allowing the oatmeal to soften, for about five minutes. Gently massage the mixture into your face for five minutes. Rinse, pat dry, tone and moisturize.

A wheat germ scrub
Mix a tablespoon each of oatmeal, wheat germ and skimmed milk powders with a teaspoon of sandalwood powder. Fill these ingredients in a muslin bag. Dip the bag in lukewarm water and gently rub it on your face and neck for 15 minutes or more in circular movements. Wash off with tepid water.

An orange peel scrub
Take two tablespoons each of oatmeal and wheat germ powders and mix these with four tablespoons of orange peel powder. Store the mix in an airtight container and use when required.

A blackhead removal scrub
To loosen blackheads, combine equal parts baking soda and water in your hand and rub gently on your skin for two to three minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Scrubs for oily skin

A cornmeal facial scrub (for oily skin)
Place two tablespoons of cornmeal in bowl. Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice with two tablespoons of curd or buttermilk to make a paste. Let the mix sit for five minutes. Gently massage paste into face for five minutes. Avoid the area around the eye. Rinse well with warm water. Pat dry. Tone and moisturize.

A carrot face scrub
Take a tablespoon each of yeast powder/ Brewer’s yeast, lemon juice, carrot juice, olive/ almond oil and mix these with one and half tablespoon of curd. Blend these well together. Apply this on the face for 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water. If the skin is very oily omit the oil and if dry add more oil to it. Do not use this on the acne prone skin because it may cause an infection.

A turnip face scrub
Boil 50 gms each of carrot and shaljam (turnip) and mash them well. Add 25 ml milk to these and apply on the face. First remove it by scrubbing and then wash off with lukewarm water.

A pea face scrub
Take four to six tablespoons of pea powder with one-fourth tablespoon of lemon juice and two tablespoons of rose water. Soak the pea powder in rose water and lemon juice for half an hour. Then beat it well. When beaten apply this face scrub for 15 minutes. Then wash off with lukewarm water.

Scrubs for normal skin

An orange face scrub (for normal skin)
Mix two tablespoons each of dried orange peel (powder), oatmeal and cold cream to a paste. Apply on the face. When it is slightly dry, remove by scrubbing. Finally wash off with lukewarm water. Remember to rinse your face with cold water at the end.

A barley face scrub (normal to oily skin)
Mix a teaspoon each of barley powder and milk with two teaspoons of lemon juice to form a very smooth paste. Apply this on the face, leave it for 15 minutes and then remove by scrubbing. Wash off with lukewarm water.

Scrubs for dry skin

An oatmeal face scrub
Mix a teaspoon each of oatmeal and almond oil. Apply it on the face for 15 minutes. Then remove it by gentle scrubbing movements. Finally wash it off with lukewarm water. A buttermilk face scrub

Mix three to four teaspoons of buttermilk with two tablespoons of oatmeal and apply it on face. Let it dry and then wash off with lukewarm water after removing it.

An almond face scrub
Beat a tablespoon of almond oil with two tablespoons of nourishing cream to make a paste. Apply this paste liberally on your face using gentle scrubbing movements. Let it dry slightly then wash off with lukewarm water giving your face a final rinse with cold water.

Scrubs for patchy skin

An oatmeal face scrub
Mix together a tablespoon each of milk powder, oatmeal and lemon juice. Apply this scrub on the face. When dry remove it by scrubbing. Then wash off with lukewarm water. Give a cold water rinse too.

A banana face scrub
Beat the yolks of two eggs with a cup of almond or olive oil until thoroughly mixed. Then mash a ripe banana and mix it in the mixture of egg yolk and oil. Smear over the face and neck. Leave it for 30 minutes in which a little lemon juice has been added. Also rinse off with cold water. It is very effective in removing blemishes. A sunflower face scrub

Beat the yolk of an egg. Add a teaspoon each of Brewer’s yeast and sunflower oil in it. Mix well and apply it on the face. When it is dry wash off with lukewarm water. Do not forget to give a cold-water rinse.

beauty@rewaj.com

Eyebrows are generally overlooked by the masses; they’re the ugly stepsisters to their more glamorous siblings, the eyes, nose, cheeks and month. But a pair of well-groomed eyebrows can open and lift the visage in a way none of the other facial features can - even without make-up. Here are a few simple steps on how to pluck your way to a better you.

As with any art, you need the right tools for the job. For creating flawless eyebrows you will need a brow pencil, brush, powder and gel. But above all, invest in a top of the line stainless steel pair of tweezers. Spending between 50 to 100 rupees on tweezers reduces the time it takes to pluck as well as the pain and suffering. Chose a slant-tipped set, which incorporates the benefits of both the flat and point tipped tweezers into one pair.

Now, with the right tools in hand, you’re ready to renovate your face. Look at yourself in the mirror and decide what shape of face you have - is it more oval than round, for example, or is it heart-shaped? Also, using pictures of celebs with similarly shaped faces as your own can help you gauge what shape arch will look best. There are a number of different brow shapes to choose from, but the top three are curved, angled and rounded.

In general, a curved brow - works well on all face shapes. An angled brow - will give your face a lift, making it look younger. Finally, the rounded eyebrow - softens features and works best on a heart shaped face.

With your eyebrow shape in mind, use your brow brush to sweep the hairs up and then trim any surplus hair above the top of your natural arch. Make sure your brow starts and stops where it should. Your brow ought to begin at your tear duct, peak at the outer edge and end at the outer corner of your eye.

Plan on plucking out any hairs that are found outside the designated area. Using a white pencil or concealer helps to denote the hairs that have to go. A helpful hint: hold up your tweezers to your face with one end at the edge of your nose and the other at the end of your eyebrow. You know your eyebrows are the right length if there is a straight line from the edge of you nose to the outer corner of the eye to the brow.

Now for the masochistic part of the process. Holding your tweezers at a 45-degree angle, pluck out the hairs that you have tagged for removal. Always pluck hair in the direction it grows - it’s easier and quite a bit less painful. Also, using a bit of toothache medicine or ice on the brow will numb the area and keep you from getting teary-eyed. Once you have your desired shape go back and thin out the brow so that it looks sleek, not bushy. Next use a freshly sharpened brow pencil to help define and fill in sparse areas of the eyebrow.

To simulate real hair use short, irregular-length strokes of the pencil. Brow powder will give thin brows overall definition, and is great for a more natural daytime look. Once again using the brow brush, sweep powder up and outward over brows. Finally, to keep your eyebrow hairs in place dab on some gel - or, in a pinch, some hair spray - and let it dry.

Remember, your brows are just as expressive as your eyes. They communicate the subtlest of emotions and reveal your character. So take a look in the mirror and see what your unkempt eyebrows are telling the world about you - then decide what you really want them to say.

beauty@rewaj.com

Think about that. Here we were believing that all such views were outmoded. That no longer do people judge you by the colour of your skin. Apparently it was all our misconception. Maybe in other parts of the world people are still generally relaxed about skin colour but here in Asia, and specifically Pakistan, white is still right!

We all know that asians have a marked preference for light complexions. You all must have been warned at one time or another not to bask in the sun lest u get tanned and your tanned skin then ruins your matrimonial chances! Sounds familiar? Read on…

In times long gone, fairness was held as a privilege of the rich only - tanned skins being the definers for the working classes. As time went on though, these rules got switched. Now the rich are the ones who have the tanned skins since they can afford going to sun-drenched resorts for their vacations. But somehow, Asians clung on to old traditions and especially now there seems to be a craze to return to our roots, and this can be proved effectively just by seeing the demand for fairness creams. Forget fair and lovely, we now have every big brand investing in their own set of fairness creams (nivea and oil of ulay included).

We all say we don’t believe in all this and are very mod-shod in our thinking, but ask yourself -truthfully. How many of you have a fairness cream on your dressing tables right now? You might scorn it but you still use it! Far from people getting over the ‘Ive-got-to-be-fair-or-I’m-ugly’ syndrome, the ads on TV on these wonder creams seem to be increasing day by day to meet up with consumer need!

Picture this ad - modern, fair, jeans-clad, articulate young woman with good job, cute guy, awesome car, smiling and living life to the full, how has she reached such a pinnacle of success??? Fair and lovely ka kamaal hai!

Hello! What message is this ad supposed to impart on all those impressionable minds out there? That this woman (who symbolizes the women of our age) is not prized for her brains (which should have been the reason for her getting a good job), not for her attractive personality (which should have been what got her the guy)-nooo…These people go about flaunting that it is only her light complexion that is responsible for her career as well as social success!

Too long have we heard songs on ‘gori rangat’! In fact women rights activists have gone as far as demanding that such offensive ads be pulled off the box. These advertisements are imitating real life…and they’re depicting a materialistic world. Stop thinking about your chances of marriage being ruined. If the guy/girl judges you by how you look, they aren’t worth having anyway. Stop giving in to taunting old relatives who go on and on measuring you on the fairness Richter scale. Embrace your natural skin tone and good riddance to the rest!

By Kalsoom Shahid

The Married Man
Is an explanation needed? He’s merely married for his kids and it doesn’t matter if his wife understands him or not. He’s never going to be there when you need him the most: and if he ever gets divorced, he won’t consider getting married to you.
And if you meet a guy who claims that he is single, who doesn’t give you his number, neither would he take you out on a date nor to his friends, then he just might be married.

The “Divorced But Not Quite” man
Though divorced, he’s definitely married to the past. The legalities have taken place, he lives away from her. Unfortunately, he is still emotionally tied to his ex.
He’s got a broken heart, a mind that desires to know about the man his ex might currently be dating and a guilt that won’t quite about the children and how they’re affected by the turmoil. This guy isn’t ready for a new woman in his life, you may date, and he may have enthusiasm, but his ex will be there too, flooding your time with memories he refuses to put to rest. If she calls, he will run to her side. Hopefully you wouldn’t need him at the same time. Your best bet for the man who loves his ex-wife is to be his best friend but search elsewhere for a man to call your own.

The Midlife Man
The midlife man is as clueless about himself as he is about his life. He may have had a wife, family and all the riches a short while ago. However, one fine day he probably realized that he was getting older and had barely accomplished anything worthwhile. Moreover, he hated the fact that he had gray hair and needed glasses to see anything closer than arm’s length away from his face. Other men realize that life, indeed, is passing in front of them and they also realize that having a life partner who doesn’t share their interests and future goals is robbing them of the joy in their lives. This is a nice way of saying that they’ve grown apart and he recognizes the fact and is ready to move on to the next phase of his life with or without someone with whom to share it. An admirable ambition, but make sure that you don’t get chewed up in his search to find someone who understands him. After all, how would you understand him when he doesn’t understand himself?

The Won’t Commit Man
So… it seems that he is absolutely perfect. Or is he?
This man has it all - beautiful home, good manners, he’s physically fit and financially sound. If he’s in his 20’s, don’t let him get away. If he’s in his 30’s, reconsidering your feelings for him wouldn’t be a bad idea. If he’s in his 40’s, or beyond, don’t even bother to move your clothes into his closet. He likes things just the way they are; thank you. the man who wouldn’t commit doesn’t want to share his home with a woman, not even you. he is happy with his pictures on his walls and his clothes all over his room. The thought of a woman rearranging his furniture in his home makes him cringe. And children?! No way. Unlike the divorced man, there’s no hope with the man who won’t commit as he is reluctant to try the first time. How to recognize him? Well… he’s the main who doesn’t like changing himself and his routine, he’s only slightly tolerant to children and of course, he doesn’t’ make commitments in a relationship.

The “Who Could Care Less” man
If you are more interested in being with him, than he is with you, tell him bye - bye. This isn’t about the normal, average guy who hides his emotions because he doesn’t want to appear to b a “sissy”. This is about the man who make you have doubts about your own attractiveness to the opposite sex., the man who doesn’t try to kiss you, the man who shies away from what would be considered “normal” romantic responses. He doesn’t need an excuse and you don’t need a reason, but if you’re looking at him with thoughts of a romantic future, better look elsewhere.

The “Mom Warned You About” man
He’s smooth and urbane and says all the right things. There’s no way you can’t help falling in love with this man and find a reason to run back to him all the time. However, he punches you black and blue when you make him mad. He demands an hourly accounting of your time away from him but its better that you don’t anger him by asking where he’s been the last night. He stays out all night “talking” to a buddy and accuses you of cheating when you’re gone. He works when and if he feels like it, but is quick to quell any thoughts you might have about working a few hours away from home. Of course he’ll beg your forgiveness when you get enough of the craziness and tell him that he’s history. He’s counting on you being hooked enough to want it to be true. So keep your eyes and ears wide open

The “Without A Home” man
You met him somewhere, but forgot where. Moreover, he’s happy with you taking the lead in the relationship, providing him with the comfort of a place to stay, meals on a table and a warm bed. But is that what you intended? He’s like a stray dog that shows up at your doorstep hungry and tired, and is grateful for any solace that you are willing to provide. He never has any money. He may have friends, but you’ve never met them, and he would rather stay at home that go out. Is it because he loves your company so much or is it that he doesn’t want to be seen with you?

The Man Of Your Dreams
The man of your dreams wants to express to you that the sole purpose of his life is to make you happy. He wants you to know that he is different from all the other men you know. Now would you ever let go of a man as sweet as him? Of course not as all your dreams would go with him too. Unfortunately, the dreams are simply illusions of keeping you. nevertheless, while you are still looking for the right man, the man of your dreams should stay right there with you to accompany you through the bumpy journey of your life, side by side… but not hand in hand.

Prince Charming
Prince charming or the “knight in shinning armor” man is one who can’t turn away from the calls of a damsel in distress, and when it’s you who’s being rescued, you cant’ help being oh so grateful that he came along. But honey, don’t get you hopes too high on this one staying too long in your castle. He’s ever alert to the sounds of damsels in distress and his trusty steed is ever ready to rush to the next rescue, even if it means dumping the last princess from the saddle to make space for the next.

Mr. Right
Nevertheless, there is still a ray of hope to find Mr. Right. The world is a big place and is full of men who would prove to be wonderful companions and lovers in search of someone like themselves. They’re reluctant to open their hearts, but even more reluctant not to, afraid that they will find the one woman they didn’t trust enough will end up being the one woman they could have trusted with everything. They are out there somewhere…

Source: Fashion Collection

Thus you have Kumkum saris, Ramola, Tulsi and Parvati saris and anyone visiting India is told to get them, says Arshad Ali Khan, a trader from Karachi.

“Till a few years back, there were not many takers for saris in Pakistan but suddenly you see women all around wearing saris, even at parties and social gatherings,” says Khan.

Besides this, the India Benarsi saris too are always in demand in Pakistan. They are given in weddings and as gifts and people are willing to pay any price for them, he says.

“The trade is still not totally open and most of the time these saris are taken by either small traders or people who are travelling from Pakistan to India by bus or train for their personal use or giving to relatives,” says Shaukat, another trader.

He says if the trade becomes open, saris itself can become a major item of export to Pakistan, and some varieties from there can also be sent to India.

Source : Hinudstan Times

After fifty years I still sing this song.

Those were the good old days of rapturous film music. Songs composed by Punkaj Mullick, R.C. Boral, Anil Biswas, Naushad, Shayam Sunder, Ghulam Haider, Khemchand Parakash, S.D. Burman and others, and sung by K.L. Saigol, Punkaj, Jugmohan, Hemant Kumar, Khursid, Shamshad Begum, Lata Mangeshkar, Kanan Bala, Talat Mahmood, Muhammad Rafi, Manna Day, Noor Jahan and Mukesh were so much a part of our lives. Today, in the twenty first century, these good old songs still touch the strings of the heart. Isn’t it strange that none of these composers and singers could be replaced by anyone seen remotely coming at par with them in melodic creativity and tenderness?

We came to Karachi in 1950. There was no gramophone in the house and the only time we could hear a song was when the radio was switched on. Soon I was on my own. I walked the streets of Karachi and made new friends. For the first time in my life I went to a music programme where M. Kalim sang a number of K.L. Saigol’s songs. I had heard those songs in Chittagong - where the clouds came over dark and thick and brought torrential rain. Days rolled by. The musical experience unfolded - layer by layer - and it was a journey into ecstasy! On the amateur stage of Karachi were singers such as Rahat Ghaznavi, Ahmed Rushdi, Ishoo Jagiradar, Deborah Daniel, Madhu Almas, Pervez Dastur, Dinaz Minwalla, Latif Kapadia, S.B. John, Patloo Sisters, M. Kaleem, Habib Wali Muhammad and others. They drew large crowds and people heard them with attention. On a higher pedestal were Mehdi Hasan, Iqbal Bano, Farida Khanum, etc. They enthralled the audience. Bulbul Chaudhry, his wife Firoza and Ghanshyam taught classical dance at the well-attended art schools run by them. Karachi bubbled with musical passion and people hummed and smiled a lot. Artistes from across the border came over frequently. Life in other cities of the country, particularly Lahore, was equally joyous and full of cultural energy. We were far from anxiety and fear. Memorable film music was being composed by Feroz Nizami, Master Inayat, Ghulam haider, Rasheed Attre, Khursheed Anwar and other. (Paayal mein geet hain cham cham ke and Ulfat ki nai manzil ko chal aa are reminiscent of that time). I was now a somewhat serious listener. I recognized a few raags and qualified for an occasional invitation to enter studio 9 of Radio Pakistan, Karachi and sit respectfully in a corner. A beautiful new world opened up before me. There it was - the galaxy! Ustad Bundoo Khan, Ustad Habib Ali Khan, Ustad Zahoor Khan, Ustad Nathoo Khan, Ustad Macchoo Khan, Ustad Umeed Ali Khan, Ustad Manzoor Ali Khan, Ustad Ramzan Khan, Ustad Kabeer Khan, Ustad Asad Ali Khan, Ustad Umrao Khan, Ustad Nazar Hussain, Ustad Allah Ditta, Ustad Shahamat Khan, Habib Uddin Khan … They sang and played exhilarating music and they had calm and attentive listeners in front of them - bureaucrats, businessmen, elite of the town, students, ordinary citizens like me.

What, then, went wrong? When I ponder over it, it is difficult to point the accusing finger at any single person or incident. I suppose the downfall of classical music in this country has been brought about through a sustained and collective effort! I may be wrong, but if we divide the fifty years of Pakistan into different periods, the following picture emerges.

From 1947 to 1958 we witness the comings and goings of a number of civilian governments in our country. During this period our musicians, though still recovering from the trauma of migration, are young, full of hope and in great riaz (practice). They are making their presence felt in the challenging environment of the newly acquired Motherland. Ayub Khan declares martial law in 1958. After seven years India and Pakistan go to was. Indian films are banned in Pakistan. From now on artistes would have to obtain NOC to visit the country. In this period (1968) we also witness the setting up of a “standing committee on art and culture” by Mr. Qudratullah Shahab, Education Secretary of the Government of Pakistan. Why was this necessary? And what were the Terms of Reference of the Committee?

In 1969 another General takes over. The two countries (India and Pakistan) fight once again. The conflict is bloodier this time and East Pakistan becomes Bangladesh. Pakistani artistes, Shahnaz Begum, Firdausi, Runa Laila, Deboo Bhattacharia, Firoza Bulbul and others become “foreigners” overnight. Once again NOCs and visas are required to perform a common art. I fell, this was the time when the creative vivacity of our musicians turned into despair and bitterness. Our poor performer had also become antiquated by this time. He had lost a few teeth that would make him not “quite presentable” on the magic screen - television! Previously, the tea rooms in radio stations hummed with animated discussions on the eligibility or otherwise of a particular sur in a particular raag; now our friends sat in the deserted tea room, bored and dejected, and cursed their fate. They remembered their well known gharanas and lamented the lack of knowledge and sensitivity on the part of the so-called elite of the city for classical music. In 1971 Mr. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto takes over from Yahya Khan. A new breed of babus and bureaucrats replace the hundreds of sacked babus and bureaucrats. We now watch an enthusiastic (and needless) patronage of folk music on television and radio. No one tells the policy makers that fold music does not need any sarkari sarparasti since it is like a khudrau pauda which thrives in its natural environment. On the other had, classical music being a delicate and fastidious art, neesds official patronage.

ZAB’s innings are over in 1977 and the great Champion of the Faith enters the arena. He has his eye on Pakistani culture as well. He sets up a “Committee of Noted intellectuals” to recommend to him what should be the culture of the Islamic republic!.

The committee assiduously suggests that classical music, dance and sculpture are repugnant to Islamic culture! The electronic media, the most loyal slave of the establishment, promptly puts classical music on the back burner. We witness pathetic scenes in the corridors of radio and TV stations where noted singers and instrumentalists run after petty producers for programmes on radio and TV.

It may be noted that this is the period when most of our Ustads die of heart failure. With the passing way of the Grand Masters, a number of major classical instruments such as Vichtr-Veena, Sarod, Shahnai and Sarangi become almost extinct in Pakistan. It is not yet over. After eleven years, democracy comes to Pakistan and we now have to watch the “performance” of our two “popularly elected” Prime ministers. For ten years! Neither of them have any truck with something as subtle and sensitive as classical music. Obviously, they do not believe in rooh ki ghaza dn it never occurs to them, or to their Ministers of Culture, that the indigenous fine art of classical music must also survive for the enrichment of Pakistani society. Government policies on arts and culture remain the same as in the days of General Zia and others. But an needs music, whether you like it or not! If there if famine and bread is not availale, you eat grass. Water too makes its own course. A new crop of long-haired, hip-swinging, guitar strumming performers take to the musical stage of Pakistan. They have a field day. They succeed in creating a market for their product and provide the much needed entertainment to a thirsty populace. The excited TV producers, most of them with no education in classical music, find themselves in a lot more charming company than the toothless Ustads. They go all out to patronize pop art and turn the young performers into celebrities overnight. To add insult to injury, some TV programme presenters deliberately give shabby treatment to the fortnightly raag rung programme - not introducing the artist properly, not announcing the raag which is being presented, not mentioning the structures of the composition and accompanying rhythm, pacing the programme at the odd hour of 11:30 p.m. or midnight, (when most of the viewers have already called it a day and gone to bed), winding up the telecast in the middle of the performance and so forth. The indifference towards things too fine and arty by dictatorial regimes (which believe in regimentation rather than free expression) is understandable. But in a democratic dispensation, with freedom of expression guaranteed, the situation should have been made more conducive for the old culture. There is no doubt a semblance of state patronage in the shape of rewards and awards given on 23rd Marach. But again, I can cite many eminent names, such as sitarnawaz Ustad Imdad Khan, Ustad Wilayat Ali Khan, saranginawaz Ustad Hamid Husain Khan, tablanawaz Ustad Khurshid Khan, Ustad Asad Ali Khan and others who were never considered worthy of receiving the Pride of performance Award!

The insensitivity of the affluent private sector is also remarkable. While in the neighboring country hundreds of music institutions are funded by the private sector, in Pakistan not a single music school has ever been established by this section of Pakistani society. Let me conclude my lamentation with a quotation from Tagore: “Music and fine arts are the best media of national self-expression. The country which does not have its own music or arts remains inarticulate forever.”

Source: Music World

Qazi Bashiruddin, a renowned religious and social personality of the community, based in Hamilton, is vigorously active in promoting his message and work. He is busy in serving the people despite his very old age and feebleness. He needs to be encouraged and supported.

He said: “I organize functions to keep our principles, traditions and culture alive. The people must be educated and awareness created. For this we must match festivities with festivities. This will help in removal of confusion and misunderstanding and creation of better understanding about origin and history. The increasing attendance shows interest of the people. It is essential to project our identity and protect our people.”

Qazi Bashiruddin, who is a Pakistani and was a senior banker, has a large number of followers in Canada including mostly leading personalities and enjoys great respect. He said: “We must avoid double standards, which create confusion and problems in our lives. With self-accountability, we can overcome this and many other common but serious problems.”

URS MUBARAK: He organized Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Khawaja Gaisoo Daraz Banda Nawaz (R.A.) of Gulbarga Sharif and Hazrat Khawaja Mahboob Allah Baikas Nawaz (R.A.) of Qazi Pura Sharif on January 2, 2005, at Monti Bianco Banquet Hall in Missisauga.

The event, which started in the evening and continued till late night, included Mehfil-e-Sama. Two parties of Qawwals, Hussain Ahmed Brothers and Qareen Ahmed Shah, presented Qawwalis, which were enjoyed by the audience. The Qawwalis were tribute to the famous saints. Naats were also presented. Langar (Food) was served to the participants. The hall was jam-packed. Maulana Sajid Qureshi delivered a speech on Urs. Media officials were present in good strength.

POPULARITY: Such events are gaining tremendous popularity in Canada. Qazi Bashiruddin is doing his best to make them popular and give them recognition. The focus remains on the Qawwals who are getting good promotion and recognition. Qazi is attracting the people through Qawwalis so that the saints could be introduced to them.

In order to pay real tribute to the saints, the focus must be on their teachings and preaching. Papers must be read on their lives, contribution and achievements. The saints must be properly introduced to the audience so that they not only understand them but also get impressed and inspired by the great personalities. If the purpose is to educate the people and create awareness then the events must be planned accordingly. Presently only Qawwals get importance and focus.

Make the people understand, through literatures and lectures, the message of the saints so that they can understand the Qawwalis and fully enjoy them. The realistic situation is that hardly few people know about their contribution and charismatic work. This is very disappointing. Therefore, the proper introduction of saints is a must to achieve the purpose of the events. The great qualities and works of saints attracted people from all walks of life, both highly literates and illiterates. We must highlight those qualities so that people could fully benefit from them and come closer to The Almighty through proper understanding of Islam. This must be the approach.

BEWARE OF FAKE MULLAHS: We must also protect the people from Fake Mullahs who are harming them most by not delivering the proper message. The fake Mullahs take advantage of social and religious events and promote their vested interests. I happened to hear one such Mullah, who was senior leader of a leading religious group, and was shocked to hear his speech. In fact the whole audience was shocked and showed great patience by tolerating him. My God it was terrible and with no sense at all.

May God protect us all from such persons? He was totally misleading the people and challenging them also to prove him wrong. They must never be encouraged and invited to address gathering of literate and sensible people. Unfortunately, such Mullahs are becoming very powerful and openly exploiting the people. In Canada too, they are trying to establish themselves and fool the people but this must not be allowed to happen. A strict watch is needed.

Source: PakTribune

Be thankful to be alive. Each day we wake up it really is a blessing. Each day is a gift, we should cherish it and do whatever is best. There is no time to fight with friends or be in a bad mood about something. Be happy!

Wear something that you feel comfortable in. If you have a long day planned don’t wear something you are uncomfortable in. you will end up spending the whole day being conscious and won’t enjoy your day. Opt for something you feel confident and at ease in, it really does make a world of difference.

Be an optimist. Start of your day thinking things will work out. The meeting will go well. The tailor will have your clothes ready. You friends will be at your house on time. The new recipe you plan to make today will turn out to be tasty. Having a positive frame of mind can totally change your day. Try it you have nothing to lose.

Take a shower. To get you out of your state of sleep drunkenness take a shower. It will wake you up and get your blood pumping. It will leave you refreshed and ready to tackle all the obstacles waiting for you throughout your day.

Stretch. People underestimate the value of stretching first thing in the morning. Not only does it get the blood flowing, it can help you get rid of any stiffness and soreness you get during the night. Even a couple of minutes every morning really can make all the difference to your day.

Have a good breakfast. Nothing can start your day better than a good healthy breakfast. It gives you the energy you need to feel good throughout the day and do all the things you need to. On an empty stomach, you will start to get tired and lethargic much quicker. Try cereal with fresh fruit or boiled egg and toast.

Look in the mirror and love what you see. People often wake up, dislike what they see, get depressed and go back to sleep to get away from the depression. In reality there is no reason to not like what you see. Everyone is beautiful and everyone has a lot of individual things to love. So what if your things are bigger than Vinnie’s, who cares if your waist isn’t as thin as Iraj’s, doesn’t matter if your hair isn’t as lustrous as Reema’s? You still have plenty to be happy about. Find something you truly love about yourself, like your soft skin, or your sexy cures, or your sweet smile and everyday add one thing to the list of things you love about yourself.

Listen to music. Perhaps fix your music system to play your favorite song as your wake up alarm. You really can’t have a bad day when you wake up listening to a song that makes feel good. If you can’t do that, after you wake up put on some music, it really will help you get in a good mood even after a late night. Try listening to something upbeat and happy.

So, wake up good and enjoy your day..

People who are married or are in committed relationships live healthier, wealthier, and happier. So why do so many marriages end up in divorce?

The answers to these questions are plentiful, but the main reason is simple. It’s easy to “fall” in love, but very few people know how to stay in love. Even though staying in love is our “smartest” choice all the way around! Recent studies on marriage prove it’s one of the major ingredients in life-long success for men and women. It lengthens life, substantially boost physical and emotional health, and raises income over that of single or divorced people or those who live together. Marriage has also been found to boost happiness, reduce the degree of depression, and provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases. So let’s wake up, make up, and turn this trend around! One of the most startling pieces of evidence that shows people are not in touch with what’s really going on in their partnerships is the fact that the majority of people who file for divorce say they didn’t think there was a relationship-threatening problem just six months prior to breaking up. Another shocker is that most couples wait six years or more to seek professional help when their relationship is in danger. By the time they do wake up and smell the coffee, it’s often too late. Truly there is no reason to resign you to a bad relationship whether you’re dating or married. Rather when changing partners and ending up this same predicament again, you can learn to have a fabulous relationship with the partner you already have!

Getting rid of your partner does not get rid of the problem, because half of the “problem” is yours. You can walk out on your marriage, but you can’t run away from yourself, no matter how hard you try! Rather than blaming each other, couples can learn how to work as a team and coach each other through the troubled times and power struggles. To do this, you must create a “safe” relationship so you can express your needs and fears and effectively resolve anger and conflict. More relationships break up because people don’t know how to validate each other (that frustration escalates to become anger) than for any other reason. This is truly a shame, because the skills for “fighting fair” are very easy to master with just a little practice and patience.

One of the biggest causes to unresolved anger between people is a lack of understanding. Men and women have different strengths and weaknesses, different ways of expressing ourselves and different “childhood wound” that we’re trying to heal. While it may seem like we’re from different planets we are actually very much alike when it comes to our need and desire for love and intimacy. We only behave differently in our quests for closeness. Stop doing what you think is “fair” or “right” and start doing what works! It’s not about “working harder” it’s about “working smarter”. Couples can stay together only if they wake up their love and need for each other and make a conscious choice to commit to the relationship, move toward forgiveness, and stay together.

Dead ends are turning points
Those of you who believe you’ve reached a dead end in your relationship or in your dating are actually at the perfect point to turn things around. Whether you’re struggling with a relationship stalemate, frustrated by not being able to get past the third date, concerned about your long-distance relationship, or grinding gears instead of enjoying the shifts and changes that go hand in hand with relationship building you can learn how to make up, stay together, and move forward toward real and lasting love. Too many people break up before they make up a solid couple. At the onset of a relationship or marriage, there’s fascination, the promise of untold happiness, and the thrill of the chase. But at some point things begin to change. One partner may begin to withdraw for no obvious reason, leaving the once-pursued confused and insecure. At this point many relationships stop before they’ve really started. There comes a point in every relationship where we either wake up, or we break up.

Every relationship holds the potential for “sudden shutdowns”. What’s both exciting and stunning is that this turn of events can actually solidify your partnership if you know what to do. There is no perfect relationship or person out there, so stop looking for perfection and work with the partner you have or the one you’re about to start a relationship with. Don’t wait for the “right time”, move now! Every relationship offers the experience we need to perfect our skills. In fact, the relationship process offers the perfect opportunity for personal as well as relationship growth.

Most relationships can be saved but you have to wake up, shake up and possibly even break up before you can make up. Married couples can learn how to stay together and reap the harvest of real and lasting love. Singles can learn how to keep a relationship growing, instead of stopping it before it starts. The truth is that men and women are actually very much alike even though the ways we behave and express ourselves can make it seem like “men are from Mars and women are from Venus.” Both men and women are from Earth and we can call learn to change and enjoy the ride!