Featuring Shveta Shourie

Close to Home The Legacy of Child Brides Hijab and the City The Struggle for Identity The Top 10 Movies of 2007 15 Minute Abs! Earrings Under $10 Fashion by Shveta Shourie

Spring SHOES NOOR TV 4 Brothers Pursue a Dream

www.sitaramagazine.com

Editors Creative Director Photography Director Bronwyn Harris Gary Weisler Faisal Kakar Diana Lopez Nargis Nazari

Photographer Yousef Egbert

Marketing Directors Tariq Ehsan, Billal Nazari

Advertising Executives Saliman Ehsan, Rahim Kakar

Client Relations Managers Palwasha Ehsan (Pashto), Ayisha Kakar (Dari), Mured Kakar (English)

Staff Writers Harris Akbar, Madia Akbar, Yousef Egbert, Nasrin Ehsan, Bahar Hashemi, Madina Kakar, Mujghan Mojadedi, Nargis Nazari, Tamem Rasulzad, Isabel Sanchez, Khalida Sarwari, Saleem Shah, Madinah Wardak

Contributing Writers Farah Bayan, Annabel Burton, Weeda Mojadedi, Durrana Nejat Rahimi

MySpace Editors Madina Ghafar, Shabnum Ghafar, Setahra Omeryar

Advertising inquiries [email protected]

Questions or comments [email protected]

Article ideas or suggestions [email protected]

SiTARA Magazine 100 First Street Suite 100 – 101 San Francisco, CA 94105 415-839-6824 ON THE COVER FASHION & BEAUTY Fashion Spread NOOR TV: THE JOURNEY 19 Featuring Shveta Shourie 43 4 Brothers in Pursuit of a Dream Ha/Né - Yes/No 26 Fashion Yes and No’s FEATURES 27 Must-Haves: SHOES Close to Home: The Check out the latest Spring 12 Legacy of Child Brides footwear fashions! The Sale of Daughters as a Source of Income 28 Bag Check Don’t leave home without 34 Hijab and the City these 7 vitals! The Struggle for Identity in American Culture Must Haves: Earrings 30 Under $10 Afghanistan: Fun and Flashy earrings by 58 Never Forgotten Mariam - all under $10! Keeping Your Culture Alive ENTERTAINMENT 60 Hope on the Horizon The British Consul General 36 Club Review Says Afghanistan Has Come Far, But Still Has a Way to Go 46 Top 10 Movies of 2007 68 Family in Islam 47 Must-See Movies of 2008 AAMO’s First Bay Area Conference Draws Over 750 Attendees 48 Movie Review: Provoked 8 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 CONTENTSwww.sitaramagazine.com HEALTH & FITNESS MONTHLY FEATURES Keeping Your New Year’s Restaurant Review 50 Resolution in Check 38 Afghan Recipes 51 15-Minute Abs 39 SPORTS 52 Dear Nargis Total Knock Out Guy of the Month 72 Female Boxers in 56 Afghanistan 62 How Embarrassing! Afghans Prepare for the 73 2008 Beijing Olympics 64 Horoscopes 3 Athletes Confirmed for the 2008 Olympics 66 Daily Pick-Me-Ups CULTURE 74 Girl of the Month 16 Tamem’s Top 10 Poetry The Top Ten Afghan Books 76 79 H2’s Fakayees 54 Afghan Wedding Tips What not to do at the next Featured Car Afghan Wedding 81

You Know You’re Afghan Madina’s Quote of 63 When... 82 the Month If this sound familiar, you must be Afghan 82 Afghan Superstitions Looking for a fight? Or just trying to get in the door? 83 Duri Wa Dosti How to keep in contact in April spite of a busy lifestyle CONTENTSwww.sitaramagazine.com 200April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE8 | 9 Subscribe now to SiTARA Magazine

12 Issues Only $39.95

Log on to www.sitaramagazine.com to subscribe to our Print or Online Magazine!!! Letter from the Editor Dear Readers,

NOWROZ MUBARAK! We are finally here! Thank you so much for all of your support. I’ve been asked so many times why I decided to take on the challenge of launching SiTARA Magazine. Many people have told me that it will be a difficult project to accomplish and wonder what my motivation is – why am I taking this on?

My answer is simple…I did it for our future. I did it for my daughter, Laila, so that when she grows up, she understands she has roots – that she has a history and a culture so rich that others are envious! I did it for the youth who may not be fortunate enough to understand the connection between where they came from and where they are now. I did it to show them that we do not have any excuses to be behind. We are here and we can be and do anything. We can see the amount of potential that we have by just looking at our generation!

In our first issue, we are proud to recognize people like Yama Yousefzai, who with his brothers brought us Noor TV, an unbiased worldwide TV station. Tareq Azim, an Afghan boxing star, travels to Kabul to train girls in boxing and soccer (“Total Knockout”). We have featured the Afghan-American Muslim Outreach (AAMO), an organization who continues to show us that Islam can guide us through all stages of life, and help us to strengthen our families (“Family in Islam”).

We felt that it was important to cover issues around the world, from the epidemic of child brides in Afghanistan (“Close to Home: Child Brides”) to growing up American in an Afghan household (“Afghanistan: Never Forgotten”), look for a different topic to be covered each month as part of these ongoing features. The world is learning more about Afghanistan, and we want to bring this information to our readers as well. In “Julian Evans Lecture,” the British Consul General talks about what the international community needs to do in order to help the country stabilize.

Along with these serious topics, we wanted to bring some more lighthearted features to our readers as well. SiTARA Maga- zine will keep you updated on all of the greatest entertainers, and all the exciting events in our community. We think you will enjoy the advice in “Dear Nargis,” and hope that you write in with your questions for Nargis to answer. “Tamem’s Top Ten List” should also be a monthly favorite. We will continue to bring you all the latest fashion, and hottest trends. Finally, meet SiTARA Magazine’s Girl and Guy of the Month for April.

With that, we welcome you to our first issue of SiTARA Magazine! We value your readership and would love to hear from our readers. Please feel free to send comments and suggestions to [email protected] and don’t forget to visit our website at www.sitaramagazine.com.

Shafiqa Ehasan Editor-in-Chief By Na r g i s Na z a r i CLOSE TO HOME THE LEGACY OF CHILD BRIDES

About five percent of households in Afghanistan rely on selling their daughters as the main source of income. hile the world has Amnesty International states focused on the war that women in Afghanistan con- Wagainst Taliban and tinue to suffer widespread abuse rebuilding Afghanistan’s democ- that largely goes unpunished. racy, the suffering of the people However, Afghans around the has largely gone unnoticed. Due world hold onto hope that a dif- to years of economic turmoil ference can and will be made, and high illiteracy as well as the giving Afghan women hope of a uprooting of opium farms, about prosperous future. five percent of households in Afghanistan – according to Refugees International – rely on selling their daughters as the • Every 30 minutes an main source of income for their Afghan woman dies families. This widespread des- during childbirth peration has also led to a higher percentage of girls becoming brides before they reach their • 87% of women in fifteenth birthday. Afghanistan are illiterate This means that while Afghan The following organizations women are prospering world- are dedicated to brightening the • Only 30% of girls in wide, our sisters at home are be- future and lives of Afghan women: ing sold every day. Sometimes as Afghanistan have access young as seven, once these girls to education UNITED NATIONS enter the homes of their hus- DEVELOPMENT FUND FOR WOMEN: bands, they are his family’s prop- • One in every three Afghan erty. Unfortunately, the legacy of afghanistan.unifem.org child brides has a long history women experience in Afghanistan. The child bride physical, psychological AFGHAN WOMEN’S tradition leads to early pregnan- or sexual violence NETWORK: cies which, according the United www.afghanwomensnetwork.org Nations, is the leading cause of death for girls aged 15-19 in the • 44 years is the average life AFGHAN CONNECTION: developing world. The maternal expectancy for women www.afghanconnection.org mortality rates in Afghanistan in Afghanistan are among the world’s high- AFGHANISTAN WOMEN est. Up to 50 Afghan girls die COUNCIL: each day from pregnancy related www.afghanistanwomencouncil.org complications. Although Afghanistan’s new THE AFGHAN WOMEN’S constitution set minimum ages MISSION: for marriage – for females, 16, www.afghanwomensmission.org and for males, 18 – these laws are commonly ignored. In Af- ghanistan, between 60-80% of marriages are still forced. In fact, according to the United Nations, Afghanistan is second only to the Democratic Republic of Congo in terms of the number of child brides.

TAMEM’S TOP 10

AFGHAN By Ta m e m Ra s u l z a d BOOKS

Books, books books!!! That’s what all of our parents talk about. They tell us, “You need to get an education to be successful in life. Go to school, read books, study and get your degree in college. Then you can get married!”

In today’s society, we learn of books available that relate ing in many English classes. American history, European to Afghanistan. We can finally We Afghan people are mak- history and sometimes African drop our American Studies book ing history! Today, people have history in schools. No matter for a few minutes and pick up a started to drop their history books if you’re in elementary school, Afghan-related story! and pick up Afghan fiction, read- middle school, high school, or My own personal fam- ing and analyzing the story. We college, you never hear one thing ily friend, Khaled Hosseini, is can’t forget about all the other about the history of Afghanistan; just one author of these books. Afghan books out there! The Kite only the current chaos there. Everyone now seems to have Runner was just the beginning However, Afghanistan has a long heard of his books (The Kite of a stream of books written by and beautiful history. We know Runner and A Thousand Splen- Afghans. SiTARA Magazine is this, because it is our motherland; did Suns) or have seen the movie allowing me to speak my mind where our parents came from. version of The Kite Runner. He and bring a Top Ten List of sub- But why don’t we read is the most successful Afghan jects related to Afghan culture. Afghan books and learn the his- writer of all time. At my own Stay alert, since each new list will tory of Afghanistan in school? school, The Kite Runner got San be a new subject. This is Tamem’s Recently, Afghanistan has been in Jose State’s 2007 Book of the Top Ten: the headlines, beginning the flow Year Award and is required read-

No. 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10

What would you like Tamems next Top Ten to be about? Email suggestions to [email protected]

Bay Area Immigrant & Refugee Services is here to assist you with:

Green Card US Citizenship Passports/Travel document Family Visa Petition Affidavit of Witness Power of attorney Translation

These are just a few of our programs and services. Please contact us at:

[email protected] ORDER ONLINE!

COMMUNITY BLOG!

To Advertise, Contact Us at: [email protected] f e a t u r i n g FASHION Sh v e t a Sh o u r i e

Re d -g r e e n p r i n t e d

g e o r g e t t e d r e s s w i t h a

b i a s c u t f l i r t y h e m l i n e .

Be a u t i f u l l y p r i n t e d

g e o r g e t t e h a s w h i t e s a t i n

p o l k a d o t s m a k i n g it a v e r y

captivating s p r i n g d r e s s . $166

Al l p r o d u c t s c a n b e p u r c h a s e d Fo r m o r e information , p l e a s e visit b y c o n t a c t i n g Sh v e t a Sh o u r i e a t w w w .s h v e t a s h o u r i e .c o m s h v e t a @s h v e t a s h o u r i e .c o m 408-582-4867 Bl a c k e y e l e t c h a m o i s s i l k

d r e s s c o a t w i t h l a v e n d e r

g e o r g e t t e lining. Bu t t o n s

embellished w i t h Sw a o v s k i

c r y s t a l s ; v e r y e l e g a n t

a n d c h i c , s o f t a n d l i g h t -

w e i g h t . Pe r f e c t f o r

e v e n i n g w e a r in s p r i n g . $580

20 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Da z z l i n g c o c k t a i l t u n i c .

Pe r f e c t w h e n w o r n w i t h a

p a i r o f j e a n s . Em b e l l i s h e d

w i t h s e q u i n s , w o o d e n a n d

t u r q u o i s e b e a d s , t h i s t u n i c

m a k e s y o u g l o w . La c e a n d

n e t detailing m a k e s t h i s

h a n d -m a d e p i e c e a m u s t -

h a v e in y o u r w a r d r o b e . $340

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 21 Et h e r a l l y s h i m m e r i n g

p i n k e v e n i n g d r e s s .

Em b e l l i s h e d w i t h s e q u i n s

a n d b e a d s , t h i s d r e s s

is s u r e t o t u r n h e a d s .

V-n e c k l i n e in f r o n t a n d

b a c k is v e r y f l a t t e r i n g . $380

22 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Ey e -c a t c h i n g w h i t e

c r o c h e t h o b o b a g w i t h

w o o d e n b e a d s h a n d l e ;

v e r y s t y l i s h a n d m u s t -h a v e

a c c e s s o r y f o r t h i s s e a s o n .

Al s o a v a i l a b l e in b l a c k . $135

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 23 Gl a m o u r EDP, 2.0 f l .. o z .

Ex o t i c a n d m y s t i c a l l y

captivating f r a g r a n c e b y

Sh v e t a Sh o u r i e . $52

24 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Gl a m o u r Pe r f u m e Oil

0.3 f l . o z . $38

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 25 Ha / Né : Yes / No

You could Make sure to A sweater It is never Ha! never go Né! look in the Ha! dress, leg- Né! good to look wrong with black; and mirror at all angles before gings and boots are still like you’re missing fabric sexy, colored pumps are leaving the house. hot this chilly Spring. from your blouse. in for Spring.

A matching Minis are Ha! belt is the Ha! super hot, perfect finish to a nice even if you throw on a This ensemble Only wear Spring dress. pair of leggings to make Né! would only Né! short heels them more comfortable. work if her granddaugh- if you have the height ter was wearing it. to pull it off; otherwise you’ll just end up looking stalky.

26 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Must HavesSHOES

Neutral colors, with some spring shine. $80 Aldo stores or www.aldo.com. Baby blue and yellow are everywhere this spring. Clutch $49.95, Shoes $59.95. Bakers Stores or www.bakers.com.

This is the way black and white are done this spring. Clutch $49.95, Shoes $59.95. Hot spring stillettos. $80. Aldo stores or www.aldo.com. Bakers stores or www.bakers.com.

Animal print, the new black this spring. $80. U could never go wrong with spring floral to bring Can’t have spring without PINK! Aldo stores or www.aldo.com. some excitement to something simple. Clutch $49.95, Shoes $59.95. Clutch $49.95, Shoes $59.95. Bakers stores or www.bakers.com. Bakers stores or www.bakers.com. www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 27 Bag Check

Check out these 7 things you should have in your bag this Spring.

1. Lipstick It’s always good to wear lip- 2. Hair Ties stick under your lip gloss to A must, you never keep your lips extra moistur- know when you will get ized and to give your gloss that the urge to tie your hair kick of color for Spring. back, or when the sun will make you want to.

4. Cell Phone/PDA 3. Hair Brush Always keep your cell Unless, your hair style does not phone or PDA handy. permit, run a brush thru your Not just for the obvi- hair every couple of hours. It ous reasons, it is also will keep your hair looking a perfect phone book neat, and will actually stimu- when you need to store late it to grow faster. a phone number, or set an alarm for an important appointment.

5. Gum/Mints Anytime you stop to get gas or need to pick something up from the local bread market, grab a pack of gum or mints. Treat yourself to a variety of flavors to give some flavor to your day.

6. Eye Drops Whether you wear contact lenses or not, spring can really dry out your eyes. Carrying around eye drops will not only keep you seeing clearer, they will keep you looking refreshed.

7. Hand Sanitizer Stay healthy by staying germ free. A couple of quick drops of hand sanitizer every now and then is an easy way to stay well. www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 29 MustEARRINGS Haves By Mariam

Spring is here! Time to take your scarfs off and put your hair up. Time to shine! Earrings have always been the perfect accessory, but this season big, shiny, super- star earrings are in. Check out my latest and remember accessories by Mariam are always under $10. $7 $7 Black Beaded Black Double Heart

$6 $8 Black Polka Cream Sparkle Dot Hoops Hoops

$7 $7 Red Beaded Silver Sequinned

$7 $8 Silver Gold Coins Jeweled

30 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com UNDER $10! $6 $7 White Polka Blue Beaded Dot Hoops

$8 $7 Silver Coins White Double Heart

$8 $8 Pink Fishnet Silver Stars Hoop

$8 $8 Black Sparkle White Fishnet Hoop Hoop

Please email orders to: [email protected]

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 31

What identifies you? Is it the way you see yourself or the HIJABa n d way you want to be seen? the ByCity Mu j g h a n Mo j a d e d i

Does your culture provide an identity, or maybe your religion? In a world where people struggle everyday to identify themselves and stand out amongst the crowd as smart, independent, self-made people, where do you fit in? Finding yourself may seem like an easy thing to do, but the road to your true identity can be a difficult one – even impossible for some.

34 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | AprilMarch 2008 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com n a country where society A Hijabi often feels that she I am uneducated, oppressed, or has taught us that identity is the black sheep; it seems like a radical. Iis something that can be everyone’s attention is directed at The struggle of identity and bought and displayed by carry- the woman wearing hijab. the hardships that come with ing an expensive designer hand To a Hijabi, it can often feel finding yourself and staying com- bag, having the latest gadgets like you are reliving the same day mitted to your goals and true or getting the latest hair style, again and again. Even though beliefs will always be a part of we in turn have turned to soci- every day you may drive on dif- this life. We will truly never be ety to mold us into what they ferent roads to go to school or able to find ourselves in a label think our identity should be. In- work or go shopping in various – even that of Hijabi. Instead, evitably, most of us Muslims at places, one thing will always be the true struggle for identity is one time or another in our lives constant: the reactions of others. within yourself. have come to recognize this pat- You may be driving on different tern of constantly wanting mate- roads but there are always peo- rial things. ple with confused looks on their After recognizing this be- faces as they pull up next to you havior, we set out in search for in their car. You may go to your answers to why it is that we feel workplace or to school, but ev-

Sometimes I just want to grab the scarf off my head and throw it in the face of these types of people and say “there, are you happy now...do we all have to look the same?”

this certain emptiness. Many ery day there is a that client, or Muslims, myself included, turn classmate with a surprised look to the only thing we know that to see you working or trying to is certain. This certainty is the further your education. You may undoubted love we have in our visit different grocery stores , but hearts for our Lord, Allah. No there is always that one person matter what we do or where we who feels comfortable approach- are in our lives, we know that we ing you in the produce section can always turn to Allah. in order to make a selfish com- In building this relationship, ment about feeling so oppressed how do we set out to do what is for you, make a comment about right and good? For most Mus- the war, or to simply ask, “Why lim women, one of the first steps do you wear that on your head?” we take after we establish regular while pointing indirectly towards prayer is to wear hijab to cover their own head. ourselves and make Modesty Sometimes I just want to grab our home. my scarf off my head and throw But like many Muslim wom- it in the face of these people and en in America whom have chosen ask “There, are you happy now? to wear hijab, I know that it is Do we all have to look the same?” not a responsibility to be taken But, of course I would never do lightly. Wearing hijab for over that. Instead, I usually give them five years, I can tell you with cer- a simple answer, while attempt- tainty that being a Hijabi is an ing not to sound like someone everyday struggle. who is wearing this scarf because

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 35 Club Review

BETTY’S ROCK BAR By Na s r i n Eh s a n

“This place can and will draw everyone into its charm.”

36 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com For us Afghans it is sometimes tough to find a place to just hang out with your friends and have a good time. If you’re into rock and alternative music and are looking to dance, play pool, or just hang out with your friends, I’ve got the place for you. Betty’s Rock Bar is the hottest club to have ever hit Walnut Creek, California. Complete with a full bar, a stage for live music, huge dance floor, flat screens on every wall, and pool tables for those shy dancers – it has it all! The awesome contemporary art- work on the walls is definitely a sight to see. I recently attended Betty’s 80s night with my husband, cous- Gilbey Clarke & Enrique Montero ins and their spouses, and it was the most fun I have had in a long The founders of Betty’s Rock Every Tuesday night is Rock time. I found myself dancing all Bar are Bill Russell, Robert Lopes, Star Karaoke for all of you aspir- night. My husband, who is not and local club promoter Enrique ing musicians. Other upcoming much of a dancer or a club-goer, Montero of Surreal SF. You may Betty events include tribute bands BETTY’S ROCK BAR had a blast at the pool table. have seen Enrique in clubs like to Tom Petty and the Heartbreak- Betty’s Rock Bar is one of the Spin in Walnut Creek and Roe, ers, Sublime and No Doubt – to few places that we both agree on. Fluid, and Ruby Skye in San name just a few. For more info on They had tribute bands to De- Francisco. He is a friendly, down upcoming events go to www.bet- peche Mode (my all-time favor- to earth guy who takes good care tysrockbar.com. If you want the ite) and Erasure. Both bands were of his guests. Check out his web- feel and vibe of San Francisco, very entertaining and rocked the site at www.surrealsf.com. only better, and without the com- house like you wouldn’t believe. The club had its grand open- mute, this is it. Check it out – you In between performances, they ing on November 30, 2007 with will not be disappointed. played classic hits from the 80’s. special guest host former Guns N’ Since it was 80’s night, I thought Roses and current Rock Star Su- the crowd would be a bit older pernova guitarist, Gilbey Clarke. and youngsters would be else- Since then, the club has been hop- where for the night. I was huge- ping, with never a slow night. ly mistaken. There were many 20-somethings in the place who may have never heard of the music played, but were there enjoying the night anyway. This place can and will draw everyone into its charm.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 37 De Afghanan By Sa l e e m Sh a h

As you drive down Fremont Boulevard in Fremont, CA, you have many different restaurants to choose from. One of the smallest restaurants in all of Fremont, overshadowed by the large theater frontage, can easily be missed LOCATIONS: if you don’t stop to visit or shop at the local bread Market, jewelry store, rug store or one of 37405 Fremont Blvd. the numerous other local businesses. Fremont Fremont, CA 94536 is considered Little Kabul because of it’s high 510-745-9599 population of Afghans that live in the city and have opened all types of businesses in the area. 1303 Polk St. Fremont Boulevard has become home to many San Francisco, CA 94109 offices, stores and restaurants for the Entrepre- 415-345-9947 neurs who have migrated to this City. De Afghanan Restaurant is truly “A Needle 1160 University Ave in a Haystack.” From the time you walk into the Berkeley, CA 94702 door, the atmosphere makes you feel at home. 510-549-3781 Three glass-topped round tables squeezed in front of the grill and counter can accommodate Price Range: Moderate about 12 diners. The constantly ringing phone Payment: Cash Only and the row of styrofoam containers packed Parking: Street with food lined up on the counter point to a lucra- Good for Groups: No tive take-out business. On the walls you can find Takes Reservations: No amazing pictures from all over Afghanistan. They Take-out: Yes prepare the food right there in front of you and as Waiter Service: No soon as it’s ready they pass it over the counter to Outdoor Seating: No you. The combined aroma of fresh bolani, skew- Good for: Lunch ers of meat simmering over an open flame, and Recommendations: Bolani and Tika kabob Restaurant Review Restaurant fresh afghan bread make your mouth water. The house specialties include Bolani (Katch- alu or Ghandana), Teka Kabob, Chicken Kabob and Chaplee Kabob. All the entrees come with Shoor Nakhut and salad. De Afghanan Restau- rant has been at the same location for over 15 years and has had customers from all over the world. If you love to get the taste of an authentic home cooked meal without the wait then this is the place to go. Afghan Recipes

Appetizer: Sabse Borani 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, well-rinsed and chopped 1 medium onion - thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic - minced 2 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 cup lightly drained plain yogurt (drain about 1 hr - easiest method is to place the yogurt in a coffee filter and let stand)

Place damp spinach in a saucepan, cover and cook until wilted. Drain and squeeze to remove excess water. Heat oil in a large skillet, sauté onion at low heat until golden, add garlic and sauté briefly, then add spinach, and cook for a minute or two more. Let cool. In a bowl, smooth yogurt and add spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Serve cold with crisp hot bread or nan.

Entree: Qaubili Pilau Heat 1/2 cup vegetable fat in a Dutch oven or pressure cooker, add 1 medium onion, diced, and fry until lightly browned. Add 1 lb. of beef or lamb, cut in 1 inch cubes, and brown. Add 2 cups water, 1 tsp. salt and 1 1/2 tsp. mixed spices (equal parts of cinnamon, cloves, cumin and cardamom, ground). Cover and simmer, or cook under pressure until the meat is tender. Remove the meat and set aside - save the juice for cooking the rice. Cut 2 carrots into toothpick size pieces. Heat 1/2 cup vegetable fat in a saucepan. Add 1 tbsp. sugar and the cut up carrots and simmer until tender. Remove carrots from fat, add 1 cup dark, seedless raisins, and cook until they swell up. (You may also brown a couple of tablespoons of blanched almonds.) Remove each and set aside. To cook the rice, boil the meat juice and add 2 cups long grain rice, 1 1/2 tsp. salt, and sufficient water to bring the liquid 2 inches above the rice. Add the oil in which the carrots were cooked and 1/8 tsp. saffron (optional) to the cooked rice. Put meat and rice in a large casserole, cover and set in a 300 degree oven for 20-30 minutes. Place meat in the center of a large platter. Mound the rice over the top and sprinkle with carrots, raisins, and almonds. Serves 6-8.

Dessert: Gosh i Fil (Elephant’s Ear) 3 lg. eggs 1/4 tsp. salt 1 tbsp. sugar 2 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 cup milk 3 3/4 cup sifted white flour 2 cups vegetable fat cooked syrup of 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water mix of 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp. cardamom and 1/3 cup ground pistachio nuts

Beat eggs, then add and beat together salt, sugar, oil and milk. Add sifted flour to beaten mixture, turn out on lightly floured board and knead for 10 minutes until smooth. (Add a little water if necessary). Roll out small sections of dough to paper thin circles or squares. For ears, pleat in one side of a circular piece - for bows; pleat in the center of a rectangular piece. (You can make these up to a foot in diameter - whatever your pan will accommodate.) Heat fat in a large shallow pan, and fry ears a few at a time until lightly brown, turning once. Remove from fat and drain. Pour dribbles of syrup over pastry and dust at once with generous amounts of powdered sugar, cardamom and pistachio.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 39 NITE SCENE

NowRoz Filming

42 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com By Du r r a n a Ne j a t Ra h i m i a n d Fa r a h Ba y a n Noor TV: The Journey

Something incredible can be said of individuals who are willing to put everything they have — financial security, stability, and comfort — on the line to pursue a dream. This dream of unifying a people who have suffered decades of war, hardship, and uncertainty, seemed not only difficult, but impossible to do. However, this was a task that Yama Yousefzai, a young Afghan native living in the San Francisco Bay Area, along with his three brothers were set to do.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 43 Fayaz Rahimi Garvin Tso Durrana Nejat Rahimi Haris Mujaddidi Omar Popal Chief Operating Officer Creative Director VP of Marketing Sales Manager TV Personality

ith one-eighth of the ative Director) went about spending all ages and backgrounds. Realizing Afghan population living much of their life savings into cre- that a large part of today’s Af- Woutside of Afghanistan, ating a television station that did ghan community resides outside of there seemed no effective way to not discriminate based on ethnicity, Afghanistan, they recognized that it promote a message of unity – until tribal, political, or religious divides. was important to not only have pro- the birth of Afghan satellite televi- Instead, they focused on creating a grams in Dari and Pashto, Afghani- sion. Even though the science of television station that educated its stan’s main languages, but English television had been around for at viewers about all the different cul- as well. least sixty years, the concept of tures, languages, and ethnicities of “It is this generation of broadcasting globally via the free to Afghanistan: a television station Afghans that will grow and air satellite system was a relatively that was as diverse as the people of become the future of Afghanistan,” new one among the Afghan commu- Afghanistan themselves. states Yousefzai. “Thus, we need to nity. Yet now there was a medium Noor TV was the first Afghan make sure they understand their cul- that could connect all the Afghans television station to feature an all- ture and values, even if that means around the world with an easy flick Uzbeki show, among its countless communicating in a language not of the switch. This was the key that Dari, Pashto, and English shows. native to our homeland.” Noor TV’s Yousefzai and his brothers were It also commonly featured schol- popularity is not unrecognized. On looking for, and after months of ars from many different Muslim the sixth anniversary of September hard work, dedication, and sleepless schools of thought, allowing view- 11th, Noor TV was featured in sev- nights, they were finally able to turn ers to participate live and call in eral local television news reports their dream into a reality. with any questions. However, the and newspapers about the ongoing On August 1, 2007, Yousefzai most noteworthy characteristic of Afghan struggle and Noor TV’s ac- and his brothers “lit up” our televi- Noor TV was its policy of having no complishments. Within such a short sion screens with the introduction of political bias in any of its television period of time, Noor TV had gained Noor TV, The People’s Television, programs. This, they affirmed, was a tremendous reputation and popu- broadcast out of a highly equipped, to keep the focus on unity and to not larity uncommon to other Afghan five-thousand foot television studio exacerbate the political divides that television stations. located in the heart of the Bay Area have already crippled Afghanistan Yousefzai and his brothers hope in Hayward, California. over the decades. to continue Noor TV’s success by Noor, meaning “light” in Dari, With the support of the large providing its viewers with more high was created in hopes of unifying local Afghan community in North- quality and diverse programming, and creating understanding amongst ern California, which has been num- including more shows aimed at the the millions of Afghans around bered at 70,000, Noor TV flour- Afghan youth. “The more our youth the world. Having been born in ished in bringing its viewers a fine watch Afghan television, the more Afghanistan but raised in the Unit- balance of both educational and they will be connected with their ed States, Yama Yousefzai (Chief entertainment programming. From culture, language, and homeland,” Executive Officer), along with broth- special musical concert nights to states Fayaz Rahimi, Chief Operat- ers Fayaz Rahimi (Chief Operating game shows and comedy programs, ing Officer. And with the growing Officer), Haris Rahimi (Production Noor TV has been able to success- popularity of their current program- Director), and Tamim Rahimi (Cre- fully cater to a diverse audience of ming, Noor TV has been able to

44 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com expand both their network and stu- don’t discriminate. Other stations are BH: Could you name any well-known dio locations. In February 2008, more political but we bring shows for people that have been guests on some Noor TV opened up their Or- all ages. of your shows?

ange County studio branch, taking YY: Well, basically almost every well- BH: Do you feel like you have any com- advantage of the second largest known person or artist in the Afghan petition with other stations? Afghan community in California. community has been to our station. And in March 2008, Noor TV be- YY: None of them are my competition. For example: Valy, Naim Popal, and came a global satellite television sta- I only go for positive competition. Farhad Darya to name a few. tion, airing directly to millions of homes across Europe, the Middle BH: Who was your main support in BH: Who would you really want to doing this? bring to the station? East, Asia, and most importantly, Afghanistan. YY: I was motivated by my family YY: I really would like President Bush Even though Yousefzai and his members. because he spends a lot of money on brothers have succeeded in creating Afghanistan. Why not come here and a popular and reputable Afghan BH: How did you feel when you first talk about it? Also, Hillary Clinton or started this project? Barack Obama. television station, they know they

still have a long road ahead of them YY: Kind of nervous, but at the same BH: Is there anything you want to say for accomplishing their true goal of time very confident! to your young viewers ? creating unity and understanding among the diverse Afghan commu- BH: Do you have any new shows that YY: Yes, at a time when people need to nity. “That is something that can’t you are working on? unite regarding Afghanistan, I would

say to the younger generation, “Edu- be done alone,” states Yousefzai. YY: Yes – we actually have 12 more cate yourself, go back to your country “It takes each and every one of us shows we’re working on, and they and do something good!” to look past stereotypes and labels will be ready by March. As for now, we

and to respect each other, not only as have 32 shows. BH: Anything else you would like to Afghans, but as human beings. Like tell all your viewers? the grains of sand that make a desert BH: What is the most difficult part of or the drops of water that make an running a station? YY: I’m always thankful. I just want to say thanks to my family, host, and ocean, once united, Afghans will have YY: Well, I think the most difficult is viewers. the power to do better.” That mission the cultural difficulties.

is not just a goal for Noor TV, but BH: Are you voted most popular on one for all of us to strive towards. BH: Are there any funny memories any sites? you have when you’re working in the station with your employees? YY: Yes, we were actually voted most

Interview with Yama popular on www.Glwiz.com. YY: When we first went on air, when Yousefzai (founder of we first opened up, we always forgot to turn off the microphone when we Noor television) went on commercial, and our viewers By Ba h a r Ha s h i m i would hear our conversation (laughs)!

BH: Do you do any fund raisers? BH: When was the launch and grand opening of Noor TV? YY: Yes, we recently had a fund raiser in YY: Our launch was on August 1, 2007 the winter for the people in Afghani- Noor TV Grand Opening and our grand opening was July stan. We raised more than $30,000, July 29, 2007 29, 2007. and helped out about 3,500 families.

BH: Tell us what makes Noor TV differ- BH: How is the feeling before starting ent from other Afghan channels. any show?

YY: We are diverse, and we are the YY: Oh wow – it’s just a big rush first TV station to bring diversity – we (laughs)!

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 45 ENTERTAINMENT

By Na s r i n Eh s a n

TOP 10 MOVIES OF 2007 MOVIE $ GROSSED MOVIE $ GROSSED

Sp i d e r m a n 3 $336,530,303 Th e Bo u r n e $227,471,070 1 6 Ul t i m a t u m 2 Sh r e k t h e Th i r d $321,012,359 300 $210,614,939 3 Tr a n s f o r m e r s $319,071,806 7 8 Ra t a t o u i l l e $206,445,654 Pi r a t e s o f t h e $309,420,425 4 Ca r i b b e a n : At Wo r l d s ’s En d

Th e Si m p s o n ’s $181,132,370 9 Mo v i e

Ha r r y Po t t e r $292,004,738 5 a n d t h e Or d e r o f t h e Ph o e n i x 10 Wi l d Ho g s $168,273,550

46 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com MUST SEE MOVIES OF 2008 Ra m b o Sylvester Stallone is back as Rambo. It’s the fourth movie in the series. Can he do for Rambo what he did for Rocky in 2007? You’ll just have to see for yourself.

In d i a n a Jo n e s a n d t h e Ki n g d o m o f t h e Cr y s t a l Sk u l l The longest name thus far in the series. It is directed by the famous Steven Spielberg and written by the almighty George Lucas and David Koepp. This time Indiana Jones is joined by Shia LeBouf who plays Matt Williams. Matt helps Jones race to find the Crystal Skull. Cate Blanchett also joins the team.

Se x a n d t h e Ci t y : Th e Mo v i e Fans of the HBO show won’t want to miss this. The foursome are back together again. Some are settled down and some are still looking. There may even be a wedding.

Ge t Sm a r t A classic TV show turned movie. 40 Year Old Virgin’s Steve Carell will be playing the in- famous agent 86 Maxwell Smart. He will be teamed with agent 99 played by the beautiful Anne Hathaway.

Sh i l p a Sh e t t y Shilpa Shetty, who has an undeniably amazing body, has recently released a yoga DVD. LLYW It is called “Shilpa’s Yoga” and is targeted BO OO toward the European market. She reveals all D her secrets to having a sexy, yet curvy body. Shilpa seems to be doing very well for herself in the European front. She has a perfume out called S2 and it seems to be at the top of the charts in Britain. Her musical Ms. Bol- lywood has also found success in 16 cities across Europe. Keep it up Shilpa!

Sa i f Al i Kh a n Saif Ali Khan stars in the upcoming movie “Race” and he is following in the footsteps of Jackie Chan and completing his own stunts for the movie. The movie is directed by duo Abbas–Mustan. In one scene Khan is to jump down from a 22-story building and he refused to use a double. He wanted to do it himself. Khan was tied to a harness while he completed the jump. He did the jump 3 times until the scene was perfect. An ambu- lance and a doctor were on standby while shooting the scene; fortunately their services were not needed. Go Saif!

Rani Mukerjee and Saif Ali Khan have found friendship since the two have starred in movies like “Hum Tum” and “Ta Ra Rum Pum.” Now they have teamed up again in a yet untitled movie shooting in Bankok. Mukerjee will be playing a nanny to Khan’s kids in the film. While filming, apparently Khan was missing his lady love Kareena Kapoor quite a bit and was venting to his dost Mukerjee about it. She gave him a warm and loving shoulder to cry on. Khan was quoted as saying to IANS “Rani is one co-star I can open up my heart to. She’s a pal. And she listens.” Mukerjee’s kindness is a bit surprising as her and Kapoor have had a long standing feud. www.sitaramagazine.com March 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 47 They started as friends, but in Bollywood, like Hollywood, friendships rarely stand the test of time. MOVIE REVIEW:

PROVOKEDBy Na s r i n Eh s a n Directed by Jag Mundhra, self refused to testify as it would Of course Provoked stars Aishwarya Rai, bring shame to the family. She the case Naveen Andrews, Robbie Col- was convicted for murder and never goes trane, Nandita Das, and Steve sentenced to life in prison. to court. McFadden. It is a British film Throughout the movie we Instead she and is based on the true story of see flashbacks of her life and the is charged a woman who kills her abusive abuse she endured. Her husband with the husband. cheated on her, lied to her, did lesser crime The movie begins with a not give her money, raped her, of man- man, Deepak Ahluwalia (played and at one point threatened to slaughter by Naveen Andrews) caught on kill her with a hot iron. While and released fire. We later learn that it is his in prison Kiranjit begins to feel with time wife that set him on fire. The a freedom she never had before. served. This wife, Kiranjit Ahluwalia played She becomes close to her cellmate was a landmark case called “R by the famous Ashwarya Rai, is who teaches her English. Her v. Ahluwalia” in which they re- grief stricken and seems incoher- court-appointed lawyer seems to defined the term “provocation” ent as she clutches on to her two not be helping her with an ap- in the cases on battered women sons while the police try ques- peal at all. This is where a group in the UK. tioning her. She does not speak of South Asian social workers This movie was very good English well and refuses to re- who called themselves Southall and Ashwarya Rai’s acting was spond to any questions asked of Black Sisters. They get Kiranjit a superb. She was very believable her. We later see her husband in lot of media attention as well as as a naïve woman from Punjab the hospital who says to one of find a way for her sons to visit who speaks very little English. It the nurses “the bitch tried to kill her in prison after the mother- was slow at times, but the mes- me.” Kiranjit is charged with in-law had initially refused to sage was very powerful. The attempted murder and is sent let them see her. They confront flashbacks make you feel for to jail. She is appointed a court her lawyer about not filing for her. I would like to have seen a ordered lawyer that informs her an appeal and take matters into bit more about her life with her that the case does not look too their own hands. After spend- husband than the few flashbacks good. Six days later while Kiran- ing quite some time looking for they showed. The real Kiranjit jit is in prison, her husband dies. a lawyer to take Kiranjit’s case Ahluwalia approved of the mov- She is now charged with murder. for little money, a man named ie and thought it was very well The case goes to trial and it is Edward Foster (played by Rob- done. She enjoyed Rai’s portray- mentioned that Kiranjit was bie Coltrane) comes forward al of her. Definitely worth check- abused, but the details are not and says he will take the case ing out, it is available on DVD. discussed. Her mother-in-law pro-bono. It turns out this man lies on the stand when asked is the brother of Kiranjit’s cell- if she had ever seen her son be mate who did not allow to take violent with Kiranjit. We see in her own case because they have a flashback that she had, but in a strained relationship. Edward court she says no. Kiranjit her- is able to get Kiranjit an appeal.

48 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | March 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com OUT OF THE ORDINARY

ABOVE YOUR EXPECTATIONS!

Contact Red Rose for all of your Entertainment Management/Promoting needs.

Ajmal “AJ” Sardar 408.595.4612 Abdul David Akbaryar 510.706.5103 myspace.com/redrosemgmt www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 49 HEALTH/FITNESS

KEEPING YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION IN CHECK aBy Is a b e l Sa n c h e z Ok, we all like to start the To lose ONE pound, you year envisioning ourselves 10-15 must burn approximately 3,500 or even 20 pounds thinner. We calories in addition to what you make this great big plan on how already burn during your daily we will accomplish fitting into activities. Sounds exhausting, those jeans that we like to keep right? But if you make simple stashed away in our closets be- changes to your daily routine cause they’re one size too small. and keep track of your calorie REALITY CHECK — easier said count, you should be able to than done, right? Well, here are do this with no problem. some great tips for those brave With a few simple changes, souls who are still trying and not you can lose about one pound a giving up. week. No hard dieting or making

INSTEAD OF DO THIS CALORIES SAVED • Having a Coke Drink a glass of Water 97 • Egg McMuffin Small whole wheat bagel + 1 185 tbsp of peanut butter • Using your break Walk up and down a flight of 100 to snack stairs for 10 minutes • Hitting the Get up 10 minutes early and go 100 snooze button for a brisk walk • Watching TV Do 10 min of yoga 50 after work Total Calories Saved: 532

yourself go crazy with all sorts of diet pills. Studies have shown that taking diet pills are usually temporary fixes that most of the time will do more harm than good. Take the challenge and become healthier overall.

50 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com MINUTE ABS 15 15 minutes a few days a week can really put you on the path to rock hard abs.

CRUNCHES LEG RAISE INCLINE KNEE RAISES

Lay down with your arms Grasp the handles of the Lie back on an incline across your chest or behind leg raise apparatus, hang bench, hold the top bars your head and keep your straight down and raise and raise your legs. feet on the floor or raise your legs until they are them. parallel to the floor.

INCLINE SIT-UPS ROMAN CHAIR SIT-UPS

Lie back on an incline Hook your feet under the bench, hook your feet pad, lay back comfortably under the pad, keep your and rise back up to the knees bent, place your starting position. hands behind your head or across your body and slowly curl your body up- wards to your knees.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 51 You seem lost somewhere in the middle of a traditional Afghan family and the Dear Nargis, American culture you grew up in. My I am a 16 year old girl who was born advice to you is to speak with your par and raised in San Francisco. I have two ents in a respectful and modest way and- sisters and recently my 18 year old sister- discuss with them your aspirations for a got nikkah through an arranged mar higher education and a career. Discuss pos- riage to someone she has never even sible solutions in merging their dreams for met. I am terrified that my parents your future along with your own dreams. have the same fate in mind for me, Be mindful that you are part of a new however I have dreams of my own that generation, and that they have not had or I would like to pursue. I want to be experienced a great majority of the Ameri- able to go to college and have a career can culture that you are immersed in every and at least know the person that is day. Approach everything very delicately and suppose to be my partner in life. How respectfully. You must assure your parents that can I make my parents understand? Anonymous you are not running away from your Afghan culture. Explain that you are simply trying to find a solution where you can successfully incor porate your traditions into your future. -

Dear Nargis, I am a 23 year old senior at Sacramento State University. I had an extremely strict upbringing and my parents are very traditional Afghans. I have been dating my girlfriend for about 4 years now and I am in love with her and plan on marrying her. My girlfriend is an American girl and I am scared of how my parents will react when I tell them that we have been living together for the last 2 years. What should I do? Mo

My, my, my - this is a very tough question! Unfortunately, I am afraid there is no right or wrong answer. The circumstances seem such that no matter what you do, someone will end up getting hurt. The only thing you can do is try to explain to them that you are in love and intend to be with her and hope that your parents will allow you to live your life and respect your decisions. However, the fact of the matter is that you must be prepared for the worst, since you have stated that your parents are very traditional Afghans. Do not expect that they will take this news lightly or well.

52 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Dear Nargis, I just got married a few months ago through an arranged marriage. My family assured me that my husband and his family were very open minded, but already my husband is demanding that we have kids right away and that I become a stay at home mom. I really love my job and I don’t think I ever want to be a stay at home mom, but definitely not right away. My husband and his family are putting a lot of pressure on me and saying that no women in their family work please help! Anonymous

Education is key, Jaanum. You must try to educate your husband’s family on the advantages of you furthering your career and your life. Your husband is meant to be a partner in life for you. As a partner, he should understand that you would be miserable in the life that they envisioned for you. Thankfully, in this day and age you have complete control of your career, your body and your decisions. Do not give up your dreams for the sake of others, because you will become regretful and unhappy.

Dear Nargis, I am getting married in a couple Jaanum, this is quite a dilemma that you of months and I found my dream have. On one side if you listen and put dress. The problem is that this dress of sleeves on the dress you will be unhappy my dreams is a tube top and my future but on the other hand if you do not put in-laws are not happy about it. They sleeves on your dress it will create drama want me to put sleeves on the dress, with your in-laws before you are even which would completely ruin it. They married. The best advice I can give you is are saying,“bada” and that “mardum to go with your heart. Either way there gap meznan.” is potential for you to be hurt or have Anonymous regrets. If the sleeves do not look awful and it will please your in-laws, maybe you could put them on during the Asta Buro, then remove them before the wedding photos are taken. If you really cannot live with them then stand firm and wear your wedding dress the way you want it to be. Salaam Doosta (friends)! At the end of the day, the wedding is a celebration binding you and your If you need a friend or just someone to talk to, please - fiancé. You will be the ones who cher send me your questions and concerns. As a second ish the day and your wedding photo- generation Afghan young adult, I have been through graphs for years to come. a lot, along with my family and friends, and can relate to your problems. I offer honest and useful advice that you easily understand and apply to your life. If you need advice, please email me at: [email protected]. I would love to help. Nargis Nargis’ wise words of wisdom:

“You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.” www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 53 Afghan Wedding Tips By Ma d i a Ak b a r

Girls

Up do’s are meant for the bride.

Wear clear deodorant, but please wear it.

Don’t request the same song over and over.

Lip liner is meant to line your actual lips, not inches outside them.

Go easy on the blush, you shouldn’t be spotted from a mile away by the color of your cheeks.

Guys

Don’t shower in cologne….it’s not meant to be an air freshener!

Your tie doesn’t need to be the same color as your shirt!

Your tie also shouldn’t be below your belt buckle or above your belly button!

Your hair gel shouldn’t be dripping off your head.

Try to stay inside the wedding hall at least half the night.

54 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008

GUY OF THE MONTH

Belal A. Kaifi

56 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com t was in the middle of the night that my father, an Afghan diplomat, and mother fled their home country, Afghanistan.

II was born months later in Frankfurt, Germany Western Career College. I was responsible for teaching (April 8th, 1981) and when I was one month old, my courses in management and mathematics. Only a few family – one of the first Afghan families to move to the months later, I was promoted to the General Education Bay Area – relocated to San Francisco, California. We Program Director of the campus. have now lived in the U.S.A. for almost 27 years. I am currently the General Education Program My parents moved to America – a foreign country Director at Western Career College and also an adjunct where they understood neither the language nor the professor of Business Administration at Franklin Uni- culture – to provide a better life for their children. versity in Columbus, Ohio,where I teach MBA level As I was growing up, my parents always stressed the courses online. After I receive my doctorate, I would importance of being proud of my identity, which like to explore my options in academia on an interna- consists of being an Afghan and more importantly, a tional level and teach at Kabul University or the Amer- Muslim. My parents have inspired me to always strive ican University of Afghanistan. for excellence. I am an Afghan-American mentor and leader in my By the age of 22, I earned my bachelor’s degree in community and an advocate of saving Afghan culture. Business Administration from San Jose State Universi- In my free time, I play football and soccer with my ty. At 24 years old, I earned my master’s degree in the fellow Afghans. I am also a research assistant for Dr. public sector of Business Administration from Califor- Farid Younos, who is my mentor. I assisted him in pub- nia State University. I was admitted into a doctoral lishing his latest book, Democratic Imperialism: Islam- program at the University of San Francisco when I was ization vs. Democratization. 25 years old. I currently have a year left in my doctoral My first article, “The Ultimate Sacrifice” was pub- program and will be researching the impact of lished in February of 2008. I also plan on publishing my September 11, 2001 on Afghan-Americans in the work- dissertation soon. force for my final dissertation project. In the future, I would like to help in the rebuilding I traveled to Afghanistan for the first time in process of Afghanistan by utilizing my education and August of 2005, teaching English in the evenings. It experiences to help develop a strategic plan for was in Afghanistan that I realized my passion for Afghanistan to become a sustainable and self-suffi- teaching. When I came back to America, I applied to cient country. several colleges and was offered a teaching position at

Do you want to be SiTARA Magazine’s guy of the month?

Email us at [email protected] and tell us why you should be featured along with your story and pics. www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 57 By Madinah Wardak

Never Forgotten

Afghan - American. American - Afghan. When my eyes fall onto these words, I see two completely different concepts. I see a clash between two cultures, I see confusion. I see my cousins, my friends, and in the end, I see myself.

58 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com rowing up American in Hosseini came out with “The Kite an Afghan household Runner” and our country became Ghas proven to be one more than “the biggest opium of the most arduous tasks I’ve producer” or the land of the radi- faced. My adolescent years were cal Taliban. We became people spent trying to hide my culture, who had a story, people with a hoping people would not wonder history, with a purpose. I began As first-generation Afghan-Americans, we must keep our land alive, never to leave it behind in our parents’ past.

where I came from, nodding my to clip out articles, read on the in- head, “yes” when asked if I was ternet, and tell my closest friends Persian, Mexican, or Indian. the struggles my parents had At home, I spoke Pashto faced there, and in the journey less and less, and almost forgot coming here. Farsi. I attended fewer Afghan I now know the importance events, and lost interest in news of maintaining my heritage. Even about my parent’s homeland. It just remembering our land is was not shame, I was, for some better than abandoning it to be reason, worried, that others just “Americanized.” As first-gen- wouldn’t understand, others eration Afghan-Americans, we would not...“get it.” must keep our land alive, never How and why I got over all to leave it behind in our parents’ of that I don’t know. Maybe be- past. Although we are not near cause high school brought on an- it, and although it may be too other chapter; new friends, new dangerous to visit, it is best to school, a new idea of what was revive it here. A person without culturally “okay.” I attended Van a culture and past is not a per- Nuys, a High School in Southern son at all. Our morals, mindset, California, a melting pot, where and persona are all dependent on I became a part of the Medical it. And a place as beautiful and Magnet chapter. I was surround- rich with history like Afghanistan ed by Koreans, Armenians, Mex- deserves the best of preservation. icans and African-Americans. In our blood and faces, we carry My best friends became Arme- the Khyber Pass; we carry our nian, Persian, Indian, and all of Buddha’s, our ancient mosques a sudden, my culture was okay and our amazing history. But and understood. Things like ar- most importantly, we carry the ranged marriages and family future of Afghanistan. If our gossip became funny stories we genetic identity will never change, told each other, and it was at this why should our cultural one? time I realized how much I loved It is our duty to keep Afghani- my country. stan alive. To make sure it is Over the years, my heart grew Never Forgotten. fonder of Afghanistan. Khaled

www.sitaramagazine.com March 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 59 By Khalida Sarwari HOPE ON THE HORIZON British Consul General says Afghanistan has come far, but still has a way to go.

60 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com verybody’s talking about “If the coalition withdraws, in the country hold the honorable Afghanistan. On CNN, Afghanistan will be a failed state,” position of a judge. In schools, Ereports of the daily car- Evans said. 40 percent of the students are nage are sandwiched in between Evans proposed objectives to girls and a third of the teachers Britney Spears’ latest escapades prevent the further downfall of a are women. and confessions of weary-looking nation that is ranked first among As they say, it ain’t over un- has-beens on Larry King Live. the 50 least developed countries, til the fat lady sings. In Afghani- Afghanistan has made its pres- according to the United Nations. stan, the fat lady singing would ence – and not just in the news. The first objective is to make represent American and British The Western world is meeting Afghanistan self-sustaining. In troops pulling out. Evans fears Afghanistan in books, like Kha- order to become independent, that women will especially feel lid Hosseini’s acclaimed novel, Evans stated that the second ob- the consequence of this endeavor: The Kite Runner, and in kabob jective for Afghanistan is to es- “They will be plunged into a new houses, over bolani and carda- tablish the institutions that will dark age.” mom tea. Though tarnished and be necessary. The third objec- Evans was realistic in his as- broken – much like its inhabit- tive is to provide British military sessment of affairs in Afghani- ants – and barely functioning as forces that would help enable the stan, saying that even with the a nation, Afghanistan is finally Afghan government to imple- U.K.’s commitment of over 900 getting recognized, due in part to ment policies in its venture to be- million dollars in developmental the momentous events that trans- come a democratic nation. efforts and investment ventures, pired on September 11, 2001. Contributions from the in- the country will remain poor for “The international commu- ternational community have not a while, stating “Afghans have to nity forgot about Afghanistan,’’ been ineffectual and should not be responsible for themselves.” Julian Evans, the British Consul be underestimated, Evans said. In Responsibility entails a uni- General, explained in a lecture the presidential elections in 2004, fied vision to put an end to the last month at the Berkeley City 70 percent of Afghans voted, many years of national and cul- Club in Berkeley, California. with a 52 percent voter turnout tural rape by foreign invaders Evans spoke about the cur- in 2005. The media, formerly and the Taliban. Time has seen rent situation in Afghanistan and banned by the Taliban, now con- many dynasties, nations, and the national and moral obliga- sists of five television stations and empires crumble to dust and rise tions of the United Kingdom to 200 newspapers. Security around again and Afghanistan is no dif- the war-torn nation. Evans said the country remains stable, with ferent. If the strong and ruggedly that, for its part, the U.K. is com- the exception of particular re- beautiful landscape of the nation mitted to continuing its peace- gions in the south. Women are is any indication of the nature of keeping efforts in Afghanistan, thriving in the national assembly its people, then there is hope yet admitting that while dangerous, and judicial branch. A quarter of for brighter days ahead. it would be morally indefensible the members in the national as- not do so. sembly are women and 42 women

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 61 How Embarrassing!

Fall Trip By Ann o n o m o u s s t a ff m e m b e r y entire extended family decided to go to Lake Tahoe last fall. The younger crowd thought it would be cool if we separated into two cabins: one for the older family members and one for Mus. A few of us decided we were going to do makeovers on the under 21 girls so we could get them into the casinos.

We were downstairs in this huge, but creepy cabin when I thought I would run upstairs and grab my hair staightener to speed up this makeover process. On the way back down, being my unbalanced self, I did not realize there was no stair railing and tried to lean against it. With everyone watching, I fell down sideways right off the stairs. The brand new plasma TV was about two inches from falling off the stand when I finally landed on the floor. Everyone was laughing so hard (including me), that we didn’t notice I cut my knee open and ended up limping the rest of the trip — which was a great reminder for my family to make fun of me the whole time.

Not So Friendly Morning? By Ka r e e n Be l l

y day began at 3:45 am, followed by a long hour and a half commute to work. It was a good day considering it was Monday, traffic was bad and I had managed to run into two people Mwho seemed to be having bad days. All this before the sun came up.

The first person was at the coffee drive-thru, who did not only ignore my morning greeting but gave me a weird look and quickly handed me my coffee along with about 20 napkins. “Whatever!” I thought to myself, “I’m not going to let her ruin my perfect morning.”

I fought my way though traffic and was just minutes from work; as I approached the toll Plaza and greeted the second person having a bad day, the “unfriendly bridge agent.” I pulled up, smiled and once again was shunned as she took my cash and didn’t return the smile. Three minutes from work I noticed that there was an accident holding things up. Determined to not let it bother me, I pulled out my makeup bag and prepared to add some lip gloss. As I flipped down the visor and looked in the mirror I was horrified…I remembered that while I was in line at the coffee drive thru I pulled out my favorite natural shade lip liner and applied it to the entire lip without using a mirror. As I stared at myself in the mirror now, I realized I had used my black eyeliner instead! Yes, my lips were black, and the 20 napkins I had been handed earlier totally made sense now!

Share your embarrassing stories with us! Email them to: [email protected]. You Know You’re When... y a d i a k b a r Afghan B M A

“You Know You’re Afghan When” is all about what makes us who we are. It’s about our parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and other family members. Some of them may remind you of yourself or someone in your family. Here are a few examples in this month’s issue about being Afghan:

You order hot tea as your beverage at restaurants when you go out to eat.

You refer to your dad’s friends as “uncle.”

Everyone in your family buys a car every 6 months and then sells them to buy another one.

Your parents had five daughters in hopes of having a son.

When you drive by Afghan businesses, your parents always look for how many cars are in the parking lot.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 63 HOROSCOPE

By Astrologer Annabel Burton

Venus in your sign from the second week of April boosts your love life and invites you to Aries recognise who and what you love. It’s time to turn on the attraction factor and draw closer (3/21—4/19) to you that which you desire. So far, so good and since Mercury and Venus conjoin in the first week, the scene is set, certainly as far as your ability to talk the birds from the trees is concerned! The New Moon in your sign on the 6th gives new life to old ideas and new life in general; get rid of the old, start afresh and have a clean sweep.

Superb connections at the start bring good news from overseas and a chance to travel. Taurus Whether you are planning ahead, or already taking a trip of a lifetime, it’s great to get (4/20—5/20) away from the old and familiar and see what you can discover in the big world out there. Venus links to Uranus, promising some surprises and maybe announcements from your nearest and dearest that could come as a bolt from the blue. Keep calm and let the fuss die down before you over react. After the 20th, the Sun is in your sign giving a sense of peace and tranquility that’s been missing for a while.

This month, get in touch with friends you haven’t seen for a while, and expect some Gemini new faces to enter your circle too. Your ruler, Mercury, connects with Uranus and Ve- (5/21—6/20) nus promising some exciting and unusual social events that could lead to greater things. You are also likely to change your viewpoint quite considerably and there is a sense of experimentation too. If you have been hankering to start your own business, or strike out on your own with an idea this could become reality in April. The 20th is key point in the month where the final piece of the jigsaw falls neatly into place.

Although you are now beginning to benefit from Jupiter’s actions in your chart, this Cancer month sees a greater emphasis on your plans to explore, to have adventure and to add (6/21—7/22) real meaning to your life. You are asking searching questions and finding answers too, but it’s taking you to places you haven’t been before. For single Cancerians, you could be meeting someone who lights up your life and in any case, this is definitely a time where you feel you are finally getting somewhere, and the brakes are off. The Full Moon on the 20th is a turning point for you and brings a moment where you make a major decision about your future.

You benefit from the Aries Sun, which shines a light on your chart area of exploration and Leo adventure, but also brings connections with a foreign flavour. Your circle of friends is enlarg- (7/23—8/22) ing as are your expectations in life and a quick glance back to several months reveals exactly how far you’ve come in a short time. It’s true that you are still making sensible choices as far as your finances are concerned and you have discovered what your true values are. This brings confidence and belief in yourself which has a beneficial knock on effect. After the 6th, Venus can bring a welcome boost in both romance and cash.

64 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Intriguing developments in terms of partnership can result in a new approach for you, Virgo since Venus and Mercury, your ruler, link with Uranus a change for the better is likely, as (8/23—9/22) long as you are open to experimentation and don’t cling on to the past. Make way for the new and exciting, but don’t expect a quiet month! You usually feel better with some kind of order but initially, any adjustments that are going on in your life can be disruptive. Still, the Aries Sun favours change and transformation and when Mercury moves into fellow earth sign of Taurus on the 20th, you can expect life to settle down a little bit.

Now that the Sun is in your opposing sign of Aries, you may get the feeling that everything Libra is happening around you, but you are a little powerless to do anything. This is a temporary 9/23—10/22) situation and while you are waiting patiently for others to sort themselves out you would be forgiven for going off and doing your own thing. There is only so much cooperation that you are willing to give and this is a time to draw the line. Being open and honest works better for you in the long run but after the 20th those matters that you have been waiting to finalise, do come together as you’d hoped.

You are making the most of the helpful link between your ruler, Pluto, and steadfast Scorpio Saturn. Rather than expecting a quick fix or a solution that won’t stand the test of 10/23—11/21) time, you are thinking long term and permanent. This can bring superb results in those matters to do with finance and property. Meanwhile, the most creative sector of your chart is being activated by Venus and Mercury, so this brings a wonderful time for socialising and getting involved with whatever gives you pleasure and enjoyment. It’s good to get the work/life balance right again. Make a note of the 20th for important news.

Your ruler, Jupiter, makes fantastic connections to both Venus and Mercury, Sagittarius promising a great start to April, especially for any ideas you have around 11/23—12/21) travel, social events and what you do for fun. Family matters are high on the agenda too, and while you may be making plans regarding something that effects all the family, it is of course, for everyone’s benefit too. A clash with authority is posisble but legal matters work out well this month. It’s all about what is fair rather than who is the strongest as natural justice will win the day. News on the work front turns out better than expected.

Changes within the family are possible this month, but you are also connect- Capricorn ing strongly with the past. You have a superb sense of timing and this becomes 12/22—1/19) evident in the first week. This has more importance than you realise as a chance enounter brings opportunity in terms of work direction and career development. Travel is well starred for the month too, and you seek out new experiences overseas. The Full Moon on the 20th marks a special day for you, particularly when it comes to an important relationship. You make a decision which has a positive impact on your future.

Initially, the Moon in your sign brings insight and inspiration so you to act from Aquarius your feelings rather than your thoughts. Don’t be dismissive of your intuition at 1/20—2/18) this time. Connections with your ruler, Uranus, and Venus and Mercury are excel- lent when it comes to using your judgment and your finances benefit too. Clever ways with cash come from inspired ideas and unusual approaches. At the start of the month your energy levels are low, so consider adopting healthy eating and lifestyle change for the better to sustain you over what is likely to be an exceptionally busy time.

You benefit from having both Mercury and Venus in your sign, bringing fabulous social Pisces events and fun occasions where communication is key. The pace of life seems to be speed- 2/19—3/20) ing up and you are having to make quick choices and think on your feet. However, you are adaptable to this sudden change and can find it amusing and exciting. Links with Jupiter can expand your horizons and as long as you adopt an optimistic attitude, there is no reason why what you wish for cannot manifest this month. Long term relationships are continuing well with plans for the future taking shape.

www.AnnabelBurton.com www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 65 Daily Pick-Me-Ups What to do each day of the week to feel better about yourself

Even though it’s still technically the weekend, Sunday Sunday is a great day to get up early and take a brisk walk. It is a great way to start your 01 week off refreshed.

It’s the beginning of the week – start off Monday the week with a bang! Whether it’s work or school, try to be more positive and cheer someone else up who is not having a great 02 Monday.

This is a perfect day to call someone out of Tuesday state, out of the country, or even someone close that you haven’t had time to check in 03 on lately.

Eat healthier – it’s the middle of the week and Wednesday eating healthier will definitely give you the 04 boost to make it through the week.

Today you exercise – there’s only tomorrow Thursday to get through and you will really feel great 05 after a good cardio workout.

You made it to the end of the week – there are Friday no worries, only sleep and fun. Today is the day you buy someone something; whether it’s your siblings or a friend, treat them to some- 06 thing small like a Starbucks.

Party time – get together with family and Saturday friends. Whether it’s your place or theirs, 07 make sure you make time to see them.

66 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com CONTEST

Tell us your story about how you and your family left Afghanistan. The most interesting story will be published in the next issue. The winner will also win a prize of $500!

One entry per person.

Email stories to: [email protected].

Find the top 3 stories on www.sitaramagazine.com next month.

Good luck!

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 67 By Kh a l i d a Sa r w a r i FAMILY IN ISLAM AAMO’s first Bay Area conference draws over 750 attendees

On February 17, 2008 respectable speakers from different walks of life gathered in Fremont to discuss the value of family in a day-long conference presented by the Afghan American Muslim Outreach.

68 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com o conjure up an image of a speech titled “The Wonder which, he maintained, occurs “home” is to evoke the Woman: Challenges of Balancing when there’s misunderstanding Tfaces of a mother and fa- Faith, Family and Community.” between youth and elders. One ther, big brothers and little sisters, To round up the second session, of the consequences of this gap mischievous cousins, chatty aunts Sheik Sadullah Khan addressed includes estrangement between and playful uncles, doting grand- “The Ideals of Parent-Child Re- the two generations. In extreme ma and grandpa. The concept of lationship.” cases, the younger generation home and that of family are in- The final session commenced rebel by choosing to drop out separable. In addition, family is with a rousing speech by Imam of school, run away from home the very origin of our identities, Zaid Shakir, who discussed the or turn to drugs and alcohol. both as Afghan-Americans and “Importance of Family Bond According to Hamid, communi- as Muslims. On February 17, re- in Islam.” cation between youth and elders, spectable speakers from different Drawing upon their respec- in addition to involvement in and walks of life gathered in Fremont tive research and experiences, awareness of one’s culture and to discuss the value of family in every one of the speakers empha- abiding by Islamic principles,

“Our event marked a new trend among Afghans, and Insha Allah people will talk about it for a long time.”

a day-long conference presented sized the relationship between are significant keys to bridging by the Afghan American Muslim family and Islam. “Family is the this gap. Outreach. cornerstone of an Islamic soci- Every one of the speakers The crowds of mostly elder ety,” Nassimi stated. was individually efficient and in- Afghans congregated from all Shakir expanded this con- formative, but credit must also be over the United States to listen nection to the impact family has given to the audience of over 750 to speakers discuss “Family in on the essence of humanity. He members, all of whom remained Islam,” which was divided into stated that the manifestation of patient and engrossed through- three sessions. The first session humanity is in our manners; in out the entire conference, even featured Munir Qtaish who dis- the way we say “thank you” and when the conference continued cussed “Challenges and Oppor- “please” to others. According to for about 20 minutes past its tunities Facing Youth,” and Rona this scholar, it is in the everyday scheduled conclusion. With tired Popal, who spoke on the “Impor- interactions within the family faces offset by newfound enlight- tance of Bridge Building and Co- that such standards of behavior enment, young and old Afghans alition with Others.” are taught and learned. The assembled in the lobby to dis- The second session included absence of manners leads to the cuss what they’d learned during a discussion of the Afghan-Amer- erosion of humanity and the the day. ican Muslim Outreach (AAMO) demise of family,” Shakir claimed. The conference definitely by Masoud Nassimi, founder and In another informative pre- made an indelible impres- president of the non-profit which sentation, Hedayat Hamid talked sion upon the few students in is based in Orange County, Cali- about “Bridging the Genera- attendance. Sara Latif, a senior at fornia. Ameena Jandali spoke tion Gap.” Hamid offered keys Heritage High School in Brent- from the female perspective in to bridging the generation gap, wood, California, said she was

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 69 motivated to consider sponsoring a child in Afghanistan. Aside from the lack of youth presence in the audience, Latif believed the event to be an enjoyable experience. “It was lengthy, fast-paced, intellec- tual and aimed towards youth,” Latif said. Rahima Samady, a Nursing student at Merritt College, cited the conference was an educational experience. “I especially enjoyed the many ways in which we can preserve our roots here in the U.S.,” Samady said. It is likely that many in attendance would echo Samady’s interest in attending future AAMO events. “Organization-wise, it was fabulous,” Khalid S., a junior at California State Sacramento, said. In a letter posted on the organization’s Web site address- ing all those who contributed to the success of the conference, Nas- simi stated, “Our event marked a new trend among Afghans, and Insha Allah people will talk about it for a long time. The challenge is to learn from this event and build a more exciting, educational and inspiring program for our next event.” At present, the organization has not released information about upcoming events. AAMO has continued its weekly educational programs through two live TV shows via 24 hour Afghan TV satellite, Sadaye Haq (Voice of the Truth) hosted by Simin Omar, & Dariche Farda (Window to the Future) hosted by Afghan scholar appears in this guage targeting the youth. Each Marwa Latif. show live to address a particular week, this show facilitates a Sadaye Haq (Voice of the issue and answer questions from forum for the youth worldwide to Truth) show on Ariana Afghanistan an audience worldwide. empower them through live Television Network has become Dariche Farda (Window exchange of ideas and getting edu- a focal point of open discussion to the Future) show on Ariana cated by well-qualified guest speak- and understanding of contempo- Afghanistan Television Network ers from various nationalities. rary Islamic issues. Every week a has been launched in English lan- well-known and highly respected

70 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Subscribe now to SiTARA Magazine 12 Issues Only $39.95

Log on to www.sitaramagazine.com to subscribe to our Print or Online Magazine!!! www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 71 SPORTS

By Yo u s e f Eg b e r t Total Knock Out

After serving as a make- don Olympics in 2012. He has come to Kabul with his shift execution arena The training is led by Saber training and optimism. “Some of up to the Taliban’s removal from Sharify, an Afghan boxing star the girls are really good. But this is power in 2001, Kabul National who won a silver medal in the about more than just sport. What Stadium is finally being used as 1982 Asia Games in Delhi. Tareq you are seeing is social change in intended again. Since then, the Azim, a 25 year old California action. Boxing is a male-domi- inside of the arena has been hear- resident and up and coming fight- nated sport but girls here are being the cheers of fans rooting for er, travels back and forth to Ka- coming interested. It builds their soccer teams or the sounds from a bul to help train the girls in both confidence.” game of buzkashi. These sounds boxing and soccer. After visiting of enjoyment are slowly helping A new generation of Afghan women, the young fade the horrible memories that girls — none older than 18 — are ambitious, the Taliban had not just in the sport, but in life. left behind. There is one sport in particu- Afghanistan for his first time in lar that is becoming quite popu- 2004, he was eager to do some- lar, especially among the young thing to help his home country. women. Walk into the gym on He talks of being inspired by the any given day and you will see strength of the people who want the sight of 30 or more modest to change the country for the bet- girls in headscarves shadowbox- ter after all it has been through. ing and training their hearts out. The group hopes to have A new generation of Afghan a national team set up by the women, the young girls – none end of the year, pending raising older than 18 – are ambitious, enough funds. The gym where not just in the sport, but in life. the girls train has four punching The girls say that besides helping bags, one of which was donated build confidence, they have a lot and the other three homemade. of fun. If women’s boxing does A San Francisco based company make its debut as an Olympic donated clothes and gloves for sport again, don’t be surprised if the girls. you see one of these girls repre- Teaching women’s boxing senting Afghanistan at the Lon- has become a mission for Tareq.

72 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Afghans Prepare for the 2008 Beijing Olympics

Afghanistan first en- for 10 years. If he isn’t at the tered the Summer local club training with the Af- Olympics in 1936. They were ghan Tae Kwon Do national banned from the games in 1999 team, you will find him outside during the Taliban rule, but since of his family’s home in Kabul 2002 have been reinstated and practicing techniques with his 18 are training harder than ever to year-old brother Habib. improve on the countries best fin- Mehbooba is a 19 year-old ish ever, 5th place in wrestling at track star who comes from an the 1964 games. athletic family of five sisters and Three athletes have been three brothers. Being the only confirmed for the 2008 Olym- Afghan woman in the 2008 Olym- pics, Massoud Azizi a sprinter pics her family is very supportive competing in the 100 and 200 of her career and are cheering her meter sprints, Rohullah Nikpah on. On any given day you will find a Tae Kwon Do star appearing in Mehbooba running the track at his first Olympics, and Mehboo- Kabul National Stadium or the ba Ahadyar, the only female, is a hills over looking the skyline of long distance runner competing the capital city. in the 1500 and 3000 meter. The 2008 Beijing Summer Massoud first entered the Olympics are right around the Athens Olympics in 2004 at the corner being celebrated August age of 16. With a 79th place fin- 8th through the 24th. From ish, Massoud has been training everyone here at SiTARA Maga- hard sprinting along the dirt trails zine we wish them the best of of hills that overlook Kabul. Mas- luck. We will be watching and soud feels he is stronger and faster showing our support, we hope now at the age of 20 and is ready to you do too! improve over his last outing. He also has a brother that now lives in California who is also a former Olympic runner. Rohullah is a 20 year-old Tae Kwon Do master who has been practicing the technique

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 73 GIRL OF THE MONTH

Bahar Hashemi

74 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com am very happy to be chosen as SiTARA Magazine’s Girl of the Month. I am also pleased and proud to share my dreams, and accomplishments.

IWhile growing up, I saw and heard my father, Syed While working my way up, I heard many doubts Jafar Hashemi Moghaddam, express his talent as an expressed about me making it this far. People seemed actor and an artist. His work fascinated me, and I to be unsure of my success because I am young, gained interest in the world of art and entertainment. female, and because of other factors. However, I never After my father passed away, I received encourage- let them bring me down. I made it this far, and it has ment to continue working in his field and to express felt good to prove those doubters wrong! I would like the talent which he passed on to me. to thank my mom, Masoumeh Hashemi, for always It was hard work to get to where I am now in the supporting me and pushing me. If it wasn’t for her, I world of entertainment, but when I look back, it was would have never have gotten to where I am now. I all worth it and I have no regrets. Today I’m working as would also like to thank my family and friends. This is a model and a host on the Persian MTV show. My just the beginning, and I am excited for my future! I brother, Kayan Hashemi, and I just started a record have learned that our dreams are never impossible. label named Persian Dynasty Records. I am also a proud Don’t ever give up! writer for SiTARA Magazine! Thank you SiTARA Magazine for giving me the Even though I have accomplished a lot, I still have a opportunity to share my dreams and accomplishments! long way to go. The number one thing to help me get to my goal is my education. That explains why I go to three different schools. I study general education to fulfill my core curriculum, but I also attend acting school and modeling school. With all of these roles, I have had many wonderful experiences traveling and meeting talented artists such as Samiyar, Elcid, Valy, Kamiyar from Black Cats and many more! Even though I am very busy, I am enjoying every second. I love the feeling of standing backstage, about to step on the runway with thousands of eyes watching me. The flashes of the cameras seem to express my excitement!

Do you want to be SiTARA Magazine’s girl of the month?

Email us at [email protected] and tell us why you should be featured along with your story and pics. www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 75 Poetry By Ma d i n a h Wa r d a k

bamyan

the cold dark air is broken by the hint of sun dawn is here and I see our Buddhas standing tall, standing serene with their eyes softly gazing over Bamyan valley whose dirt covered our blood of a thousand years, of slant eyed invaders, of blonde haired men, of a foreign tongue we could not understand. this is the land we have come from the noises of the bazaar, the tabla drums in our song for my country and our Buddhas, watching, protecting us. It is in this dirt that I have found myself. the only welcomed infidels Through these mountains, in a land of covered heads and rosary beads. I’ve breathed my everything. the voice of the thirsty mullah You are the mules, the rickshaws, echoes and bounces off our statues, the pretty girls with bangles on their feet loudly, the words of the Book And jewels in their hair. are resonated through the valley You are the parched voice of the signing mullah, and calmly, the Buddhas stand. the beads in his rosary. You are the naan which I eat The kite that I run It is in you that I have found my heart, because you keep me alive. You are this dirt I hold. In my hand, I hold myself.

76 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com afghanistan!

Some would think me silly Because I want to leave all my freedom, all my comfort, My safety Just to kiss your dirt.

They would think me absentminded Because I want to lie on your green grass and get lost in a sea of my own thoughts of the blood pumping through my body

Would they think me dumb? Because I would rather sleep on your hard earth Than on my feathered I would shed a thousand tears, bed a million miles away? I would cut a million slits, I would drain the blood from my body,

Others would think me crazy just to see you smile. When they see my veiled head, my clear face When all I want to do is to hug your torn children You are all around me, in the mirror, in my Bloodied by confusion and raped by turmoil, food, in my clothing, in my ceremony, in the when instead I can not have a worry in the world men I love, in the features of my face, in the souls I would die for.

you would think me foolish because I want to cry for the pained people, All I’m missing because I need to yell for my god to kill me now Is the air I breath in. I want to run through the bazaars with my siblings, I wan tto lie in the snow until I ache from the cold, until I am numb, until I am blinded by white.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 77 Poetry By We e d a Mo j a d e d i

to my grown up son

My hands were busy through the day I didn’t have much time to play The little things you asked me to I didn’t have much time for you I’d wash your clothes; I’d sew and cook But when you’d bring your picture book and ask me, please, to share your fun, I’d say, “a little later, son.” I’d tuck you in all safe at night and hear your prayers, turn out the light, then tip toe softly to the door I wish I’d stayed a minute more for life is short, and years rush past a little boy grows up so fast no longer is he at your side His precious secrets, to confide The picture books are put away there are no children’s games to play no goodnight kiss, no prayers to hear that all belongs to yesteryear my hands once busy, now lie still the days are long and hard to fill I wish I might go back and do The little things you asked me to H2’s Fakayees By Ha r r i s Ak b a r

Osama bin Laden, feeling ill and concerned about his health, consults a psychic about the date of his coming death. Closing her eyes she Q: How do you know if you’re from the Middle East?

answers, “You will die on an A: You go to the family reunion to find a wife or husband American holiday.” “Which one?” bin Laden asks nervously. Two friends meet each other on the street. “Doesn’t matter,” replied the psychic. “Whenever “Salaam”! Where are you coming from?” you die, it will be an American holiday!” asked Omar. “ I’m coming from the cemetery. I just buried my mother-in-law” replied Hakim. Two new families move from Afghanistan to “I’m so sorry, she is in a better place!” said America. When they arrive, the fathers make Omar, “But why is your face schratched and a bet: In a year’s time, whichever family has bloody all over?” become more American will win $100. “It wasn’t so easy!” said Hakim, “She put on one heck of a fight!” A year later when they meet again, the first guy says, “Today I had a Mc- Donalds breakfast, bought a Q: Why is there no wal mart in Afghanistan? case of Budweiser, watched A: Because there’s a target on every corner. NASCAR, and I’m about to pick my son up from football practice in my brand-new Chevy Tahoe. How about you?”

The second guy says, “Whatever… terrorist!” 80 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com FEATURED CAR

Audi R8 Say hello to the Audi R8….say goodbye to your retirement fund.

This gem of a sports car will feature a 4.2L V8 producing 420hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. It has a top speed of 187 mph and a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds. This car is guaranteed not to disappoint. The only drawback, be prepared to empty out your 401K and join a waiting list for this beauty. A fully loaded R8 will set you back around $150,000.

The R8 is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo platform. Each car is crafted in Germany by skilled workers who piece together around 5000 unique parts to create each masterpiece. Some of the features of the R8 include; an optional bang & Olufsen sound system, Carbon-Ceramic composite brakes, and monobloc Brembo calipers.

Audi really stepped up their game with this car, with many publications considering it to be one of the best supercars ever made, claiming that that the Audi “humbles” Porsche. For the future of this model, keep your eyes open for an even more aggressive 6.0L, 500hp, 738 lb-ft of torque diesel V12 version that was presented at the Detroit Auto Show in January of this year.

Do you want your car to be SiTARA Magazine’s Featured Car next month?

Email us at [email protected] and tell us all about your car and send the pics.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 81 Afghan

Superstitionsy a d i n a a k a r B M K

“If you shake a bunch of keys you might bring about a fight.”

A Superstition is a deep belief or practice based on fear of the unknown, trust in magic or chance; it’s not based on reason or knowledge.

The Afghan Superstition for this month is based on shaking keys.

This is one of the many great Afghan Superstitions that make our culture what it really is. To truly understand this superstition you must be able to put yourself in a situation where something like this could happen. In the next paragraph is a great example of how shaking a bunch of keys can really bring about a fight.

If a child in the house finds his parents keys and starts playing with them, sure enough everyone in the room will say “stop before someone gets in a fight”. Moments later there will be an argument between the parents about the child being too young to understand. At the end they will realize that the keys shaking caused them to get upset with each other and make sure no one shakes a bunch of keys again.

Madina’s Quote of the Month:

“Dil bah dil rah dara”

Translation: A heart has a path to a heart

I chose this quote to be SiTARA Magazine’s Quote of the Month because this Magazine is dedicated to you…our readers. Without your support we would not be here. We want to thank you for letting us into your hearts and let you know that you are in ours!

82 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com Afghan Superstitions Duri Wa Dosti Life is busy, but sometimes our millions of cousins and friends don’t understand when we don’t have time to spend with them. With that, here are a few ways thanks to technology to let them know you still care without losing your job or sacrificing a night of studying that you desperately need to survive this busy life.

Text messaging – It’s not just for kids anymore, a great quick 1 way to let someone know you are thinking of them. The best part is that you can easily shoot a text while at work or school and within a few minutes everyone who thinks you are a flake will know you miss them too.

E-Cards – Too busy to go to the store and pickup a birthday, get 2 well soon, or holiday card to mail out? An E-Card is a great easy alternative that you can send out within a matter of minutes and it’s free for all to use.

Myspace or Facebook – We probably don’t even have to tell 3 you this one since pretty much everyone on Earth has one or the other it seems, but if you are one of the 8 people who don’t then its time for you to join the craze. Both sites are a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, you can share photos with each other, post bulletins about what’s going on in your life, and send a quick message to someone just like an email.

www.sitaramagazine.com April 2008 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | 83 Whether you are a first time buyer, or a savvy investor, Bay Valley Realty can help you choose the right home, make an offer, negotiate, finance, get the right mortgage rates, move and everything in between to make the smart and right real estate decision. With expertise in short sales and bank owned properties. Our Commitment is to help you find the right home with professional customer service and sincerity. We believe in working hard for our clients, so we can bring them outstanding results. We also speak Dari and Farsi. Please contact us for all of your needs.

Offices in San Leandro And Walnut Creek 510-351-8400 [email protected] California DRE# 01312944

NEXT MONTH:

The Tour that Swept the Nation His new album Sitara coming soon!

A quick peek inside the Lyfe of Kareem

86 | SiTARA MAGAZINE | April 2008 www.sitaramagazine.com