Remembering Parveen Shakir on Her Sixteenth Death Anniversary

“We ought to have met, in another time, in pursuit of attainable dreams, below a different sky,

Upon a different earth, we ought to have met then, there.”
Parveen Shakir

Today marks the sixteenth death anniversary of a great poetess of Pakistan. Even after sixteen years of her death, her poetical works remain unmatched. As a prolific poet, she started writing at a very young age. The first volume of her poetry “Khushbu” got great critical acclamation in 1970s. The other volumes of her poetry, “Sad-e-Barg”, “Inkaar”, “Khud Kilami” and “Kaif-e Aaaina” were also equally popular. Besides her poetical works, “Gosha-e-chashm” (compilation of her newspaper columns) was also acclaimed.  The work “Mah-e-tamam” forms a compilation of her all poetical works.

Her poetry primarily draws deep influences from Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi. She used to call him “Ammujan” and the first collection “Khushbu” is dedicated to him. Also, the opening poem titled “Sar-e-Shaakh-e-gul” of “Khushbu” is also written on him. Parveen is also the first poetess to use English titles for Urdu poems. Her poems “Ecstasy”, “Prism”, “Catharsis”, and “Duty” have English titles.

Parveen had her own style and diction that remains matchless with any other poet of Pakistan. Ghazal and freestyle are the only two forms of poetry that she used. Her poetical works mainly reflect the themes of love, gender discrimination, social injustice, feminism, social stigmas and romanticism. Apart from being a romanticist, her works reflect the tranquil concepts of love, beauty and contradiction, along with usage of metaphors and embodiments. She was also the first poet to use a term “Larki” in her works. 

“Gaye janam ki sada” from her first work “Khushbu”, are a few lines……..

“Woh ek larki………

Ke jis se shayad mein ek pal bhi nahi mili hun………

Mein uskey chehre ko janti hun k uska chehra…………..

There is another poem “Muqaddar” where she writes……..

“Mein wo larki hoon jis ko pehli raat……..

Koi ghoonghat utha key yeh kehdey………”

This unique style of using feminine language is seen rare in the world of a male-dominated Urdu poetry, where a girl is openly talking about something she feels or something that touches her.  This gives the most elegant female touch to her work. After Fahmida Riaz, Parveen was obviously the next Urdu poetess to bring out and sketch an influential feminine voice that was both exigent and engaging to a male dominated society. This was the area where she created her own forte. As compared to her ghazals, her freestyle work is more about social matters and taboos like gender inequality, gender unfairness, nationalism, sham, prostitution, human psyche and current affairs.

She is one of those Urdu poets whose works have impressed everyone through her thematic and pragmatic poetry. Her works simply add a new facet to the customary theme of love by presenting it in a simpler yet more transparent style and by using a multiplicity of words and metaphors to express different thoughts with varying intensities.  Her works truly define the susceptibility of several generations and reflect an in-separation of poetry and tragedy. The very deep romanticism that radiantly runs in her works shows a subterranean and colossal refinement with an amalgamated melody.

Her poetry has also been sung and composed by many singers and musicians. Tassawar Khanum beautifully sang her poem “Tooti he meri neend magar…..”. Famous band Vital Signs sang her poem “Chehra” in different versions. Tina Sani sang her “Sundar Komal Sapno ki..” Mehdi Hasan sang “Koo ba koo phel gai”  from collection “Khushbu” in 1982. Habib Wali sang “Gori karat Singhaar” from her collection “Khushbu”, later which was performed by Jawad Ahmed as well.

Her first book “Khushbu” won Pakistan's Adamjee Award and she was later awarded Pride of Performance. She left us on 26th of December 1994 in a car accident.

If he be scent, let him not touch me

and pass, until he be part of my existence.

The flower half-opened its lips,

I shall cleanse his lashes with my shawl

So the dust of this day's journey,

May not enter tomorrow's!

Farhan Khan & Hasnain as Guests on Our Show

Clips of K2 Klub Eid Show

Furqan Javed & Chodry Noman as a Guest on Our Show

Rizwan ul Haque and Pietro as Guests on Our Show

Clips Of Haroon as a Guest on Our Show

A Dreadful Hall mark

I was planning to write on this issue, but the biggest hurdle in my way was the data availability. After talking to several male models and some event managers, I was able to write on Homophobia and abuse that exists in the modeling world. This happens to be a critical and crucial part of the modeling world. In Pakistani fashion industry as well as fashion industry abroad, this culture is found too much. The models and starters who want to begin their career and earn name in the world of modeling often fall prey to gay photographers, artists, stylists and even designers at times. “Homophobia is a hall mark of the fashion industry.” as these are words from a female event manager, who is also responsible for finding fresh talent and new faces. Not being paid on time was also something that she talked about. “Homophobia in showbiz is very normal and rife because the victims hardly report the crimes out of a deep sense of shame. The predators go scot free and are usually ready for others victims because they know they will ever be punished”, she said. Another female model promoter talked about it as well. She is of the view that culprits are never punished, since victims are shy to share their stories and let the world know about them. She also talked about a modeling agency owner who asked her the details about a young boy. Plus the models are also scared. They think that the gay culprits would simply ruin their career and job, so they never bring out the stories. An upcoming model straight went to the promoter and complained to her about the male photographer who was constantly harassing him during a photo shoot. Fashion industry is one of the most challenging and demanding industries and the survival in this industry becomes harder just because of this culture, especially for those who don’t want to be a part of the homo culture.

The victims want to earn a name and want to be well paid as well. But this kind of abuse and harassment simply ruins their self-worth and self-esteem. Another model talked about the kind of politics, monopoly and homo culture. “There is little kind of dirty politics and homo culture in the modeling world,” she said. She also feels that men and women both often find it hard to have a survival in modeling world just because of this issue. An upcoming male model, who has worked for many agencies also, shared in his words how a very well known male designer had offered him to promote him to a high level in fashion industry in Pakistan and abroad only if he fulfills his wrong demands. He also talked about a photographer who tried to harass him during a photo shoot. Later, almost each model talked about a feeling of anger, hatred, fear and shame that they went through. The models also talked about being harassed too. 

The problem is that severe gender roles are taught from birth by the family, schools and the media, all of which firmly define and uphold the concept of hegemonic masculinity. Ismat Chughtai wrote on it in her highly and critically acclaimed story “Lihaaf” on which she was persecuted as well. The lady, on which she wrote this homo encounter story, later met her and told her that just because of this story she was able to leave her husband. Homosexual activity is a misdemeanor and prohibited in most Muslim-majority countries. What can be done, what shall be done, and what has to be done is a very big debate. After all its all modeling and fashion world. It’s not even easy to talk about such issues nor find any real solution to it. The law for harassment is up there, but people are scared of making a complaint against any culprit, for a better career. It’s not something non-professional but un-ethical, or may be un-lawful as well. 

Names of the victims have been changed for privacy.The following post was published in 

Express Tribune, with some changes.......This was the original version.......

Sabrosa Purr: Los Angeles New Superstars

Sabrosa Purr is a genre-defying band from Los Angeles, California. The band comprises four members: Will Love is the guitarist, Jeff Mendel is the lead guitarist, Angie Mattson is on bass and Mahsa Zargaran is on drums. Their self-produced début EP was released in and then the follow-up EP was released in 2009. Their full album, produced by Tracy Chisholm, is estimated to be released in fall 2010. The band has performed and toured several places like US and Japan. Some of the beautiful songs by the band include "Fashion kills", "The Lovely People", "Closer" and "One Weak Moment". 

---

Sadaf Fayyaz: What would you say about your education and music training?

Will Love: I took some lessons at home, else I am self-taught.
Jeff Mendel: Same as Will, took a few lessons as a kid, but mostly self-taught.
Mahsa Zargaran: Classically trained in piano since the age of five. Self taught in other instruments with help and tips from my awesome musician friends (i.e. I wouldn't be the drummer I am today without input from Mr. Love).

SF: What would be your inspiration in music?

Will Love: Mine came from tones, textures, ambiance, peanut butter, espresso and John C. Reilly.
Jeff: Definitely inspired by Bill Murray and Ramen
Mahsa Zargaran: I'm inspired by details, rain, Balenciaga, Le Corbusier, Ayn Rand, fog, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Daniel Day Lewis, Rachmaninoff.

SF: Give a brief intro of the band members.

Will Love- Singer/Guitarist, I started the band. I wear tighter pants than are probably fashionable which is probably what inspired our song "Fashion Kills", which is today the #4 most requested song on KROQ's Locals Only Top 5!
Jeff - Guitars and socks
Mahsa Zargaran: I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran and had never even heard of The Beatles until a few years ago, so I never thought I would ever be in a band in my life, let alone be the drummer of one of my favorite bands of all time! I saw Sabrosa Purr live at Spaceland in 2008. Fell in love with everything about the band and became an instant fan, and I can't believe that now I get to be the Purr drummer!

SF: What made you guys go for music?

Will Love: My uncle; He was a great musician who played in bars all over Texas. Seemed like a whole helluva lot of fun.
Jeff: My brother gave me a Jimi Hendrix album when I was 12 and it changed my life.
Mahsa Zargaran: I never thought I had the option of pursuing music as something that's more than a hobby until 5 years ago when I moved to Los Angeles and went to recording school thinking it would be fun to learn to record music I write in my spare time someday. I had never met any musicians until then. And that changed my life forever.

SF: What was the first instrument you learnt playing and at what age?

Will Love- Drums at age twelve. I played snare drum in the marching band.
Jeff: I got a guitar when I was thirteen
Mahsa Zargaran: Piano at five.

SF: Tell about your favorite bands and musicians.

Will Love: Radiohead, Prince, Oasis and Eminem
Jeff: Floyd
Mahsa Zargaran: Massive Attack, Portishead, NIN, PJ Harvey, Radiohead, Scott Walker, George Michael, Pink Floyd & Sabrosa Purr of course! (I hadn't heard any of these bands until only a few years ago, except for George Michael. Yes, apparently I did grow up under a rock.)

SF: Share a few lines on your upcoming album.

Will Love: well our upcoming album is named "To The Crickets and The Ghosts" that is a triumph over adversity as I imagine most albums by indie bands are. That album is intense because our lives were so intense while writing and recording it. But, there's some beauty in there as well. The overflow of beauty can be found on our EP "Volaras".

SF: Where would you place your music genre?

Will Love: Indie/Alternative/Glam & Shoegaze
Jeff: I'd throw in Rock, too.

SF: Tell something about your cover songs?

Will Love: Yes, so many
Jeff: Yes.
Will Love: Ok, we're being smartasses, you really meant to know what they were. :) I did"Cocaine" by Clapton/JJ Cale and "To Bring You My Love" by PJ Harvey, and "The Cross" by Prince. But, we've yet to record that last one.

SF: How do you learn things?

Will Love: Currently from pain and the internet.
Jeff: I learn from books.
Mahsa Zargaran: Books. And Will Love. The guy is an information junkie. I almost can cancel my internet or any connection with the outside world, maybe even go back to living under a rock and I wouldn't miss a thing that goes on as long as he visits my rock once in a while.

SF: What is music according to you?

Will Love: I suppose music could be defined as "when various sonic elements get along with each other".
Jeff: "sounds that make your brain say 'yummy'"
Mahsa Zargaran: An engagement with others (not necessarily humans)

SF: What message would you like to give the readers?

Will Love: You are more appreciated by these 4 people that most of you have never met than you could possibly imagine.
Jeff: Come to our shows! Naked!
Mahsa Zargaran: I am very excited for you to discover us! There are textures we've been making that I've never heard any other band create.

 The Interview was published in Unrated Magazine.

A place of Marvelous Art and Architecture

The Serena Hotel is built in the heart of Islamabad and reflects history and enlightening heritage. The Hotel complex extends of 13 acres of landscape gardens. The real triumph of the Hotel is its rich and beautiful interiors as well as its exclusive location. The design combines a hybrid of modern as well as traditional styles, with a modern scheme and open plans and traditional finishing and detailing style. The unique combination enhances its prolific décor and marvelous style that differentiates Serena Islamabad from other hotels. 

While talking about the architecture of Serena, the rich use of “Mushrabiyas” (bay windows) throughout the façade and lobby add more splendors to it. The main idea behind is the use of “Sheesham” wood and a revival of old Islamic Civilizations where bay windows were used for fresh air circulation. Apart from depicting a rich Islamic and cultural architectural heritage, the true style is simply reflected in aesthetics of the public areas, rooms, corridors and restaurants, with a deeply rooted sense of art. The manifested work of the artisans deeply encompasses the magical beauty on ceilings, walls, floors and furnishing. The hand-made glaze tiles add more majesty to the interior. Also the hand-carved “Naqashi” could be seen there. The interior has simply artistic creations by Ustad Saiffullah, Michoo Sallah-Ud-Din, Shafique Rana, Master Mahmood and Ustad Allah Rakha.

The interior uses a rich and fine combination of Botticino marble flooring, Sheesham wood, earth-tone on walls and Chakwal sand stone in an ideal blend. Upon reaching the entrance, one sees a sand blasted intricate glass designs that impart the image of a circumspect luxury. The striking use of marble flooring throughout the hotel reflects the mastered and skillful work of Pakistani artisans. The lobby is simply scattered with classy and nostalgic imagination. Especially the fountain at lobby adds more grandeur and charm to it, with water flowing from bowl and Diyas (lights) floating on the surface. Thus, the style creates an ambiance of harmony and serenity. The lobby’s floor is interlaced with symmetrical and geometrical patterns of marble.

Also, apart from the interlaced designs, the unusual use of materials and their replication at certain places add more attractiveness, opulence and glamour to the interior decor. The antique and marvelous Persian rugs add more complexity and beauty to the interior. This reflects a style of perfect proportion and balance, deeply enriched with exquisite craftsmanship and deep hall marks of Islamic architecture. The use of wooden arches that frame colonnades supporting balconies is truly ravishing. Also, the linear and proportional extension of the colonnades, bifurcating spaces and attaching the lobby adds more exquisiteness to the interior. The rich Iranian crystal-made Shamadans (chandeliers) add a highly romantic touch to the lobby lounge. The elegant crystal chandeliers known as Shamadans in Turkmenistan and “Lalae” in Iran are one of the most fabulous décor pieces at Serena.

As ceilings are concerned, they are produced with the same elegance and splendid geometric expression of interlaced wood with floral motifs beautifully brushed in ochre, amber green and Indian red. The main lobby ceiling exemplifies the rich “Naqashi” of Ustad Saif-ur-Rehman. The magnificent transformation of Sheesham into splendid piece of art is commendable achievement. The ceiling of the main lobby has been lined with a plaster and arabescue stucco tiles.

The Zamana Restaurant delightfully blends together Moorish, Kashmiri, Islamic and traditional sways in an assorted fashion. The overall special effort by the designers and architects to essay and safeguard the customary crafts has been an inimitable feature of Serena Islamabad. “The Maghreb” Speciality Restaurant luxuriantly enthralls with an enhancing brilliance and exotics achieved through the beautifully arched ceilings and crystal chandeliers. Talking about the interior of the Banquet Hall, it’s beautifully and richly lavished with features of Moorish and Islamic brilliance. One would find a family note of Islamic finery and gorgeousness with textured plastered walls and hand-painted domed ceilings. However, the doorways from the Hall have been outlined with the lime plaster and stucco respite. Also, the vibrant ceilings of the Banquet Hall are painted by Ustad Saif-ur-Rehman that truly exhibits his genius. Just like the lobby, the hall is also enriched with drapery of colors and intricate furniture.

As coming to the art work, the Serena’s interior exhibits a rich collection of art work by renowned artists like Naheed Raza, Gulgee, Amin Gulgee, Samina Ali Akhtar, Maleeha Ali Agha, Masroor, Kazi, Abrar and Has-saan Gardezi. The “Maisha” health club and pool offer some nice gym facilities, along with some steam room and dry heat saunas too. Talking about the fabrics and carpets, the most revived designs have been used from Swat, Punjab and Kashmir. The rich source of Afghani hand-woven carpets, Kilims, Moroccan and Tunisian traditions encompass a deep heritage. Special care has been taken in the design and selection of fabrics, curtains and carpets to ensure factual manifestation of Islamic Architecture. The architecture at Serena truly reflects the masterpiece beauty and skill of Nayyer Ali Dada. The fabrics and furniture is of Casabella where furniture and wood work has been by Mohkam Furnishers.

The Post was published in Aaj TV. 

A Passion Chronicle

Published in Ad Gallery Vivo

Vol 3, Issue 7

By

[Sadaf Fayyaz]

What your favorite stars state about their biggest passion, is something that would interest you a lot. There is no human in this world, without any passion. Yet some people may be unaware of their true or biggest passion. According to Brian Norris, “Passion is a gift of the spirit combined with the totality of all the experiences we've lived through. It endows each of us with the power to live and communicate with unbridled enthusiasm.” This is something straight from the hearts of different celebrities. They talked about their passions: 

 “My biggest passion is definitely music and it always strengthens me to deal with all the obstacles in life. It is the main driving force behind whatever I have achieved so far. It helps me to strive for more and fight all the challenges in life because it brings a lot of energy and positivity in me. “Ali Sher 

“I feel my biggest passion is excelling in the field of arts especially show business. It helps me obtain my aims and objectives of life which are to be a good human being and learn as much as I can. It exposes me to different faculties which are thought provoking and makes me interact with different people from diverse backgrounds which serve as a big boost to my learning curve. Since I am a professional banker too and show business is my only passion, it takes its toll at times since banking is an equally demanding field. But I must say that over the years, I have learnt the art of time management, for which I am grateful to my IBA Dean and Director Dr. Wahab, for time management teachings.  I enjoy both the fields and this keeps me going!” Farooq Hasan

“That would be to be somebody whom people can look up to and count on. I want everyone around me to be happy and I want myself to be so strong that when people might need me and my help, I would be able to say ‘yes’ and I would be able to help them.  I want everyone around me to feel that they have someone they can count on no matter what.... that is my passion ... I don’t know if I am making any sense but I can’t live this life just for myself, but live for others. People live for themselves. If I do the same, there would be no difference between me and them. When I am gone, I want everyone to miss me, when I’ll die my head would be high.” Nouman Javaid 

 “My biggest passion is music and I want to express my feelings via music. If I have any obstacles that interfere with my passion, I slowly try to minimize the obstacles and focus more on my passion. A famous quote says ‘Where there is a will, there is a way ‘.” Kami Jee 

“My passion in life is to make films I believe in. As nothing comes easy in life, I look at all the obstacles as a means to get one step closer to my objective.” Adil Sher

 

“Other than just doing what I love, I guess I'm driven by making my mark in history, being memorable and proving to those who ever doubted me or were indifferent to me wrong. I only have one life, nothing after. And I want to make the most of it. Nothing will stop me from doing that.” Adil Omar

“My biggest passion is of course acting and I have been very passionate to give the best in my serials. I have received so much respect, love and acceptance for just being what I am. Acting is a serious career and one cannot it take it as a hobby. Achievement comes at the cost of hard work. Acting is like a little child in you who keeps exploring new things in you. With the passage of time, I think I have had my share. There isn’t any place where you don’t face any difficulties or obstacles and Television is no different, I remember there was a time when new dramas were coming in and almost every channel was competing with Indian Media but we continued to produce some good dramas that finally forced the audience to change their minds. Now, I think Pakistani audience loves watching Pakistani dramas, since I witnessed an encouraging feedback that keeps me on my toes. I just want to continue doing some good work and I feel responsible to project Pakistani media in International arena. For this, most of the senior actors are working towards it and we all very hopeful (touch wood). Adnan Siddiqui 

“For me my biggest passion is first of all praying to my Allah, then my singing and my family. These passions have helped me overcome all obstacles and attain all my aims in life.” Zille Huma 

“My biggest passion is to never stop playing music. My aim and objective is to have my own album out and to see that music comes back in to the hearts of our fans. Barriers will never stop but the most important thing is to break all the barriers. I as a musician and as many find it difficult to get rid of the current obstacles, but one can go on and never give up. I will always be a true and passionate musician and try to bring out the best from my heart, love and peace.”  Allan Smith 

“My only passion is to be a recognized/world acknowledged Director with my own established production house and a banner that produces films with conceptual value. 
My life! I am one of the fortunate ones who have had a chance to do what is my passion. Acting and direction are my life and my passion. My entire existence is driven by my passion. This work is my life and I live my passion every day. My closest friends and family are part of this field and together we live a life of envy as some would say. My passion is the force that drives my life and every day I feel it in my gut and through my achievements that I am moving closer to my goals.

Obstacles & Barriers! This is a difficult line of work as there are many fine lines that are crossed by many and to keep yourself straight and honest is what some say is an obstacle in itself. However; I have my strict stance that there is nothing that cannot be overcome with diligence, hard work and honesty. These have been my strengths and these have brought me further than anything else could have. Daily obstacles and barriers are a part of this industry but then these are the very things that turn you into a stronger, more successful person. As a woman of course problems are two-fold as it is tougher to be recognized, tougher to make your mark as a director/producer. Yet; I have been fortunate in this also. My friends and the people in this industry have been helpful and kind also especially my business partner Bilal Sami with whom I have a production house "KCGL". Nadia Afgan 

“My biggest passion is making music, or rather seeing music happen through me. I have come to believe firmly in the fact that if we follow our passion, our dream genuinely, single-mindedly and patiently - all our other needs will be taken care of by the grace of the One. Obstacles are immensely necessary in order to 'hone' my craft, my intent and my passion - therefore the strange fact that art and music often flourish in conditions of social/political/religious repression!”Arieb Azhar 

 “My passion is to create- to translate a feeling, a vision into a reality, more like a fabrication of my thoughts!- Obstacles occur on both levels visual and otherwise-the key is to overcome them without compromising your vision!- so- it is usually hard but long enough in the business, one gets to learn how to handle such issues well.” Fahad Hussayn

All About Suicide

"Suicide, Durkheim's third major work, is of great importance because it is his first serious effort to establish an empericism in sociology, an empiricism that would provide a sociological explanation for a phenomenon traditionally regarded as exclusively psychological and individualistic.

Durkheim proposed this definition of suicide: "the term suicide is applied to all cases of death resulting directly or indirectly from a positive or negative act of the victim himself, which he knows wil produce this result" (1982, p. 110 [excerpt from Suicide]). Durkheim used this definition to separate true suicides from accidental deaths. He then collected several European nations' suicide rate statistics, which proved to be relatively constant among those nations and among smaller demographics within those nations. Thus, a collective tendency towards suicide was discovered.

Of equal importance to his methodology, Durkheim drew theoretical conclusions on the social causes of suicide. He proposed four types of suicide, based on the degrees of imbalance of two social forces: social integration and moral regulation.

Egoisitic suicide resulted from too little social integration. Those individuals who were not sufficiently bound to social groups (and therefore well-defined values, traditions, norms, and goals) were left with little social support or guidance, and therefore tended to commit suicide on an increased basis. An example Durkheim discovered was that of unmarried people, particularly males, who, with less to bind and connect them to stable social norms and goals, committed suicide at higher rates than unmarried people.

The second type, Altruistic suicide, was a result of too much integration. It occurred at the opposite end of the integration scale as egoistic suicide. Self sacrifice was the defining trait, where individuals were so integrated into social groups that they lost sight of their individuality and became willing to sacrifice themselves to the group's interests, even if that sacrifice was their own life. The most common cases of altruistic suicide occurred among members of the military.

On the second scale, that of moral regulation, lies the other two forms of suicide, the first of which is Anomic suicide, located on the low end. Anomic suicide was of particular interest to Durkheim, for he divided it into four categories: acute and chronic economic anomie, and acute and chronic domestic anomie. Each involved an imbalance of means and needs, where means were unable to fulfill needs.

Each category of anomic suicide can be described briefly as follows:
Acute economic anomie: sporadic decreases in the ability of traditional institutions (such as religion, guilds, pre-industrial social systems, etc.) to regulate and fulfill social needs.
Chronic economic anomie: long term dimunition of social regulation. Durkheim identified this type with the ongoing industrial revolution, which eroded traditional social regulators and often failed to replace them. Industrial goals of wealth and property were insufficient in providing happiness, as was demonstrated by higher suicide rates among the wealthy than among the poor.
Acute domestic anomie: sudden changes on the microsocial level resulted in an inability to adapt and therefore higher suicide rates. Widowhood is a prime example of this type of anomie.
Chronic domestic anomie: referred to the way marriage as an institution regulated the sexual and behavioral means-needs balance among men and women. Marriage provided different regulations for each, however. Bachelors tended to commit suicide at higher rates than married men because of a lack of regulation and established goals and expectations. On the other hand, marriage has traditionally served to overregulate the lives of women by further restricting their already limited opportunities and goals. Unmarried women, therefore, do not experience chronic domestic anomie nearly as often as do unmarried men.

The final type of suicide is Fatalistic suicide, "at the high extreme of the regulation continuum" (1982, p. 113). This type Durkheim only briefly describes, seeing it as a rare phenomena in the real world. Examples include those with overregulated, unrewarding lives such as slaves, childless married women, and young husbands. Durkheim never specifies why this type is generally unimportant in his study."

I even read his theory on suicide and Banu Qudsia Raja Gidh too. But I am still unable to understand it. What I wish to say is that so many suicide bombings and killings in our country, how are these classified? Is a collective suicide or accidental death that takes away so many lives? His terminolgy seperates out suicide from accidental deaths.Are social forces boosting this process? Dont know how to categorize it.Where would you put the story of a girl who being a cancer patient refuses chemotherapy to continue her pregnancy, and dies  soon after giving birth to a healthy kid.Where does one put mercy killing or Euthanasia (when doctors kill some patient suffereing from an incurable disease) or the process of "Harakiri" in Japan? What kind does this fall into? Where do honor suicide, forced suicide and Seppuku lie?

(Excerpts from the Book)

(Excerpts from the Book)

“Shahi is an awesome friend, great teacher, a true believer in the power of music, an innocent soul and one hell of a bass player. “            Faisal Rafi

“Shahzad Hassan Shahi would always hold a very special place in my heart for introducing me to the biggest miracle that I have seen in my life ''the understanding of Quran '' Shahi is a dreamer, a fighter and a true genius unfortunately not as business minded as his other colleagues are but the gifts he possesses are far superior ...his production of my third solo album Jaisay Chaho (Aao wahan chalain) was way ahead of its time, India is now waking up to that pop rock sound. I would appreciate if you do not miss anything I have said about him.” Najam Sheraz

 “History knows him as one of the forces behind the Vital Signs. The groove maker of VS. He is one of the best music producers around. He is undisputed king of the art of audio mastering and generally a very understated and decent guy.”    Fayyaz Ahmed

“When the music is recorded in the studio, it is then mixed - which means the volume levels of each instrument/vocals/sound are brought to a level that complies with the genre of music being produced and the impact a band wants to bring to a record. After the mixing comes the mastering stage which refers to balancing harsh sounds, eliminating bad frequencies and giving the entire album an even feel. Mastering on the album was done by Shahi Hasan.”    Syed Farhad Humayun

“I took it to Shahi for final mastering of the album. He has many years of experience and has a nice mastering facility, and he understood where I was coming musically. It seemed to be a natural fit!”   

 Omran Shafique

“Nightmare for any Psychiatrist and an Angel for any Saint.”  Ammar Hashmi

“I always had a vision to sing this song differently, and give it a more modern, yet classical rendition, and I discussed this and brainstormed with Shahi about this. …………..Shahi is a great composer and musician; he is very passionate and a perfectionist about his music. I really enjoyed working with him to create a beautiful, soulful album.”     Devika Chawla

“Shahi is an extremely versatile and multi talented man. He started off his career as a talented composer and musician with the Vital Signs but in the last ten years he has been at the forefront as one of the premier recording engineers and producers in the country. Shahi has played a role in the recording and engineering of my music since the very first Awaz album. I highly respect his opinion when it comes to music engineering. As a human being he is intelligent, has a great sense of humor and is the sort of person you can rely on to be a great friend. He has always made the time for me when I needed him. I think because Shahi has lately been working behind the scenes he is underrated in the general public. However all of us in the music field have the highest regard and respect for his talent. I wish him continued success.”    Haroon Rashid

“He is a very up right person, a sincere friend, does not lie ever and is very sensitive”   Junaid Jamshed

“Well Hum Tum was recorded in 2 weeks at Rohail’s house and Shahi played some great Bass on it. I think we all co- wrote a few songs... Jaana Jaana, Mein Chup Raha and Namumkin. Shahi's strength at that time was his bass playing and ability to liven up the proceedings with his humor. We also toured in England with that album and had a fabulous time there. Shahi is truly a great guy and friend as well as an exceptional engineer and producer.” Asad Ahmad

Exploring Sumptuousness of Asad Ahmed

Published in Desi Issue of INK

[Interview by Sadaf Fayyaz]

[Photography by Syed Qasim, Kohi Marri and Rizwan ul Haq]

He is a classy musician with lot of miscellany. Having played with The Barbarians, Junoon, Vital Signs, Awaz and Karavan now, he really masters different genres of music. He has also worked with renowned artists Sajjad Ali, Ali Haider, Haroon and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. His music journey dates back to two decades ago in 1987 and his experience stretches over twenty years; he has touched almost every genre of music. He doesn’t talk much and seems a deep kind of person. The legendary song “Hum Tum” of Vital Signs portrays deep touch of his tour de force and grandeur. The coke studio sessions are truly ritzy and opulent. “Life is good!!! Everyday above ground is good...not much too complain about...work hard, play hard!”

Tell something about your family and education.

I grew up in Dubai. I am the youngest of three brothers. I went to school in Dubai till 8th grade and then we shifted back to Pakistan where I went onto to complete my O and A levels and got a Bachelors degree in Finance and marketing.

How did you get interested in music and what was the first musical instrument you learned to play?

My mother is an artist so art runs in the family. Both my brothers were big music fans and also owned guitars, so it was only natural for me to pick it up at an early age. It was all natural.

What is your inspiration?

My inspiration was definitely a group from NYC called KISS. Afterwards it would be all the great guitar players I grew up with like Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Hendrix and countless others.

Which is your favorite track from “Sara Jahan”?

It is difficult to say since they are all great tracks. The one I love is called “Deewana”.

What is good music according to you?

Good music is anything that takes you away from your everyday life and makes you feel good.

What you expected from "Sara Jahan", has it fulfilled those expectations?

It cannot be answered at the moment.

Why is there a wide gap between your two albums “Sara Jahan” and “Gardish”?

There is because we were all busy doing individual projects. We were all apart and not together at all. Albums are worked on and made when members sit together. I was busy with coke studio as well as touring with Haroon and recording with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.

Tell us something about your musical training.

I am a completely self-taught person.

What message does your music reflect? Is it peace, love or any other?

All of the above, also I think it’s good to be positive which is why we did songs like “Aagay hi Aagay” and “Saara Jahan”. It is to move ahead and to be optimistic and affirmative too.

Is it easy these days, to manage with the competition in the music industry?

Yes it is very easy. Our band Karavan has a very loyal fan following.

How often do you jam? 

We jam a week before a tour: what we do is that we go over the songs that we might not have played for a while and generally tune into things like harmonies and performance moves. We do some practice for it and we are very well choreographed on stage.

How do you see the future of live music in Pakistan?

I perceive it as very healthy. There are lots of bands coming out now but I only wish if we had better venues to play at like arenas and theatres.

Your motivation and learning comes from?

It comes from my inner self belief and confidence within me to go one step further every time.

How do you take criticism?

Criticism from a music critic is useless for me, however if a fan has something to say the heart speaks. So I go more for critics of an ordinary man and I listen to them very closely. I give a lot of weight age to it.

What are future/long term plans of Karavan?

We take it one day at a time. The fact that we have outlasted every single band out there is a testament to our longevity and the fans’ love for us.

What is easier to play for you: a cover, an instrumental or something new?

It is my own music.

What is one thing that you would like to change about the music industry?

I'd really like to put real people who care about the industry in the right seats. The biggest tragedy is that self serving people are running the show.

When you four work together, and everyone has a different opinion about something, how is that managed?

We manage to take the best out of us. We bounce things off each other and in the end you get Karavan music.

Share a few lines on state of music industry (Pakistan).

Currently it’s healthy but, there are ignorant people running channels and record companies and crooks doing the distribution, it will always be the artist who suffers while they fill their pockets with our CASH.

As a band how would you like to be remembered by people?

I want people to remember us as the best live show they ever saw.

Lastly, what is your message to readers of INK?

Buy Saara Jahan and hear the difference between us and the little boys who imitate us.

Chit-Chat Exclusive: Hira Tareen

Published in Desi Issue of INK 

[Interview by Sadaf Fayyaz]

[Photography by: Jeff Eames & Zara Tareen] 

This beautiful woman is the Founder of and Creative Director at H&Z Productions. She has over seven years of experience in the fashion and creative industry. She specializes in styling and make-up as well as the choreography and concept development for runway shows.  She personally works with each model to perfect the walks and routines before each runway event. Hira also heads the Web Design and marketing departments of H&Z. In addition to being a conscientious and sensitive individual, she has amazing “Tabla” playing skills to her credit. INK recently had the opportunity to talk with the remarkable Hira Tareen.

My complexes: It is to publicly admit my complexes ☺

What turns me on: Humor, confidence and cleanliness

What turns me off: Bad hygiene & negativity

Philosophy of Life: Life is short, do what you love. Stop worrying about others and don’t take yourself so seriously either.

Secret Ambitions: I don’t believe in keeping your ambitions secret.

Favorite perfume: Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel

Favorite car: Not too picky with cars but I loved my Volkswagen Jetta in Dallas! It was a simple car yet had a lot of cool features.

Favorite dress: Whatever dress I happen to be wearing at the moment. That’s the only way I can make it look good.

Favorite place to hang out: It varies…….. sometimes my room, sometimes the outdoors or just a cozy place with good music and friends.

Favorite Movie: Gladiator, Seven, Troy, Avatar, Guru, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Favorite Actors: Liev Schreiber, Russell Crowe, Aamir Khan, Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Jim Carrey and Penelope Cruz

Characteristics that attract me as a person: Simplicity, humor, honesty, good hygiene, politeness, fitness, ambition, humility and confidence

Things I hate to do: Wash dishes and delete emails from my inbox

As a kid I was: Shy and quiet but very observant

What I always put off until tomorrow: Going through my face book friend requests and organizing my email inbox :-/

My craziest fan: My fans are not crazy!

Success to me is: Being content and happy with everything you have achieved so far in life.

Modeling for me is like: A craft as well as form of self-expression, plus it’s a great deal of fun!

When no one is looking, I like to: Wonder why they aren’t: P

Describe a moment in your life that was truly romantic: A couple of times that I have seen the sunrise while being by the ocean has felt really romantic.

My most prized possession: If we are talking about material things then it is my Macbook Pro and my Tabla.

What is the real me like: If you really get to know me, then you will find out that I am really goofy, easy going, playful and I like to make a lot of cheesy puns that eventually my friends get used to and enjoy.

My Idea of perfect happiness: Doing what you love and sharing your moments of success with all the people you love

Three things that I like about myself:
 I’m calm
I’m logical

 I’m sensitive

Three things that I dislike about myself:

I tend to overanalyze things
I avoid phone calls
I’m sensitive
Beauty according to me is: Having that special something that cannot be defined.

Biggest Regret: Not learning how to play the ‘Tabla’ at an early age

Favorite Hero: Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa. I know my answer is very clichéd but I truly admire their ability to not stray from their original purpose and goal, regardless of whatever obstacle they faced throughout their lives.

Favorite Quote: "Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning."
— Gloria Steinem

Biggest Passion: Music & design

Favorite Food: Haleem & Sushi

Favorite Drink: Chai

Fitness secret: It wouldn’t be a secret if I told you

Biggest Expectation: Is from myself, not from others.

Favorite Pastime: Discovering new music and trends in design, technology, fashion, etc. and of course

playing ‘Tabla’

Favorite Song: Koop Island Blues by Koop

Favorite Fashion Designer: I mostly prefer finding vintage items and compiling them myself into an outfit of my own style. However even though I can’t afford most of these designers my favorites in terms of their work would be Zac Posen, Alexander Wang, Thakoon, 3.1 Philip Lim, Alexander McQueen, BCBG Max Azria, Tory Burch. As far as Pakistani designers are concerned, I still have a lot more to learn about what is currently happening in the fashion scene. But from judging what I do know, I love the work of Munib Nawaz, Rizwan Beyg, Nilofer Shahid, and HSY.

Source of Learning: My father, mother, brother, sister, every person that I meet. Plus it comes from books, internet and magazines.

Source of Inspiration: My Mom & Dad, Nature, traveling, the internet, cultures, history, and music.

I hate people who: Hate

Favorite Season: There is beauty in every season.

Favorite Model: I can’t give this label to just one there are way too many amazing models in this world. Each model has something special and unique to offer. However, I do like Gisele Bundchen's confidence and Lakshmi Menon’s style. As far as Pakistani models go,, we have much too many beautiful women here. The list will just be too long.

Zodiac Sign: A true Leo…Roarrrr!

Biggest Weakness: Spicy food

Biggest Strength: Moving on from bad situations and thinking about the next step in my life.

The Biggest Hurdle in my Way: External factors such as the current political situation and violence flourishing in our country.

Message to Readers of Ink:  Always be thankful for what you have but never stop striving for greatness. Don’t indulge in discouraging and negative discussions about the world which are not in your control; however do focus on yourself, and how you can improve the world as an individual citizen. The rest will fall into place. Lastly, do the one thing that you love the most,and throw your heart and soul into it. You will see that success will follow your footsteps. ☺