MONTHLY MAGAZINE VOL# 01 ISSUE# 06 DECEMBER - 2019

A MAN OF PASSION RideTheWorld ThanksgivingEveryDay

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MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 2 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 41 EDITOR Editorial MESSAGE

EDITOR IN CHIEF KIRAN M. ALI KHAN Editor Message 4 A Man of Passion (An Exclusive Interview with Capt. ® Atta Muahammad Khan) 5-9 EDITOR TAMOOR ABBASI Palestinian Exhibition 10 CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER TALLAT CH. Tamoor Abbasi Little Island 11-12 DESIGNED BY AAMIR KASHIF A perspective of paintings in Pakistan 13-14 “has tried to see the subject in the historic ear Reader. A 1954 magnificently illustrated continuity and in the context of the various Pakistan Publications collection Amal-e Chughtai aesthetic, cultural or ideological influences — Art & Culture Exhibition 15 Dedition, Art in Pakistan based on Allama Iqbal’s verses instrumental in its fruition. His concern has been DIRECTOR by Jalaluddin Ahmed, updated was self-published in 1968. less with the artist, he admits, than with his work, and republished in a bigger Under the hammer at auctions, for the ideas and intentions of an artist may largely Turkish Pakistani Restaurant in London 16 edition in 1962, and Ahmed’s this luxury edition is now in the influence what the artist creates but it is through COL ® AZAM QADRI monthly journal Contemporary c o l l e c t i b l e p u b l i c a t i o n s the work alone that we must judge the Art in Pakistan (1960-64), category. artist.”Within a year, in 1992, another Ferozsons Thanks Giving Everyday 17-18 surface as the earliest record of SARDAR GHULAM MUSTAFA publication, Contemporary Painting in Pakistan publications on Pakistani art. Clippings of journalistic texts of by Marcella Nesom Sirhandi, also framing post- (SOUTH EAST ASIA /Resident Editor ) the last three decades of the 20th Philadelphia-Zoo 19-20 Partition art within a historical perspective, +85598850786 F.S. Aijazuddin reviewing the century preserved in Fomma referred to the art of the ’70s outgrowing European book in 1991 for Libas magazine Trust’s Ali Imam archives reveal influences and moving towards its own culture and A Talk with Alvaro Rodamundu 21-22 states, “Ahmed’s pioneering that art writing continued identity. Jahanzeb Khan introduction to the state of art in through the ’70s and ’80s in spite Sarmad Iqbal Pakistan up to the 1960s had of a stark absence of major art In art critic Amjad Ali’s Painters of Pakistan, A tribute to Shabbir Shariif, NH, and SJ 23-24 covered the work of 60 painters volumes — (an art journal Azhar Pasha printed by the National Book Foundation in 1995, whom he categorised not Artistic Pakistan by Bashir leading painters were grouped into categories with M. Imtiaz-Ur-Raheem according to movements or Mirza had a brief run from 1968- Christmas 25-26 an analysis of their styles. The jubilee year of schools — 15 years (i.e. 1947- 1971). Much later in 1991, the Pakistan’s creation was marked by two Irfan Akram 1962) is too small a period for second widely known art book, Mansoor Abbasi-UK publications. One was 50 Years of Visual Arts in Enlighten Face of Faith & Interfaith Harmony 27-28 this”, Aijazuddin maintained — P a i n t i n g i n P a k i s t a n Pakistan by Salima Hashmi and Quddus Mirza. “but according to generations”. (Ferozsons), written by artist Asia Art Archive cites it as “an experimental book Another book with a different Ijazul Hasan, came on the PRINTED BY: which documents the thinking and the philosophy Labour Party will Create £ 1 Billion Arts Funds 29-30 approach, sourcing past glory, h o r i z o n . R e v i e w i n g t h i s of the artists of Pakistan”. The second, a scholarly ZAFAR SONS tradition and reconstructive compilation for Libas (in 1991), investigation of the history and development of thought, A.R. Chughtai’s Aijazuddin observed that Hasan Colourful Spectrum of Heaven on Earth 31-32 modern and contemporary art in the subcontinent, PUBLISHED BY Image and Identity: 50 years of Painting and Sculpture in Pakistan 1947-1997, an OUP volume, Kiran M. Ali Khan Shopping 35-36 was authored by critic Akbar Naqvi.

FOR COMMENTS PLEASE WRITE TO US AT Korean Buddhist Monks visit Pakistan 37-38 Unlike previous publications, contemporary sculpture was given due space and he devoted a Office#12 3rd Floor Al Lateef Center Main Boulevard chapter to women painters to capture the Gulberg III Lahore Flowers Exhibition 39-40 articulation of self and gender concerns in their art. Email: [email protected] In 1998, critic Niilofer Farrukh’s Pioneering Perspectives, a Ferozsons publication, was the CONTACT # 0321-5003005 first exclusive focus on three female artists — Scheherezade Alam, Nahid Raza and Mehr Afroze — whose work questions established conventions in a changing urban landscape. Price Rs. 220

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 3 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 4 He took over Alhamra Arts Alhamra Arts Council is providing financial Council on June 2014 and stayed help to deserving artiststo improve the arts in that position till October 2018. quality, and present our traditional values in At the Alhamra Arts Council he befitting mannerwith their hard work and directed his efforts in all the three dedication. spheres of its facets, that is, A MAN OF Performing Arts, Cultural Arts, Under the guidance and leadership of Capt. ® and Calligraphy, Paintings, Atta, Arts and Cultural activities have Portrait. remarkable progress, which is continuing after his retirement on the path carved by him. In the performing Arts his focus was on Musical instruments like His views about new renditions of Qawali Guitar,Sitar, Harmonium and where many Pop elements are being integrated Singing. he said although Qawali in itself is pure Sufi music but with changes in people’s listening PASSION During Ata tenure as Executive habits he is not much against it but still he Director, many positive changes believes we must remain loyal to our roots and were brought in Al Hamra Arts that is what at Al-Hamra they are striving to Do. Captain(R)AttaMuhammadKhan Councils spread over all His views on the ban on many Pakistani actors provinces. by India.He answered being a patriot,he firmly believes that we have to defend the integrity of To match our activities with Pakistan so any form of media that speaks or International standards, more acts against it should be banned.Art has no than Ten countries ambassadors geographical boundaries therefor it should not are participating in our activities target other countries believes. and upgradation.

Beer known in arts circle after his stint Al-Hamra Arts Council as its Executive Director from 24th June, 2014 to 2nd October aptain (R) Atta Muhammad 2018. Despite being Khan born in the small city of CArif Walla after completing a bureaucrat, he his matriculation joined agriculture university for F.sc from where he completed his B.sc in had a great love for agriculture as well. He joined Army in arts and culture 1978; where he served till 1986. After passing the exam of CSS, he left and truly promoted Pakistan Army and joined the Civil Services. During his deployment at Baluchistan, he was abducted and arts and culture imprisoned in Afghanistan. It was a time of great depression but it passed during his tenure and he came back to Pakistan safely. Cap (R) Atta was an ardent fan of Arts as its head. and a poet of himself as well. Because of his passion after joining Al-Hamra , he remained actively busy in leading Al-Hamra towards the torch bearer of cultural and social activities in Pakistan.

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 5 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 6 father he has always given them liberty to me Captain and it is Allah’s great blessing. Ali Khan, Humaira Arshad to name a few. choose for themselves about their future path He has made me Captain and Deputy Colors of Pakistan as long as it suits their aptitude. His eldest Commissioner as well.” He has written four books: daughter is a doctor, second son is in State “Colors of Pakistan” was an amazing and Welcome remarks by Executive Director Al- celebrities from various countries appeared bank, third is at Lums, other two are doing O When asked how he became a poet despite 1. Tikon wonderful Program which was organized by Hamra Arts Council Capt. (Retd) Atta on stage in colorful dresses of various & A levels. being in army and a bureaucrat. He said in 2. Basat-e-Khawab Lahore art Council in collaboration with Muhammad Khan. regions and nations and got thrilling school his brother introduced him to poetry “Paper Miracles”. This was a unique Program appreciation. W h e n a s k e d a b o u t h i s c h i l d h o o d and ever since that has invoked his talent for 3. Sar-e-Zindan me where Ambassadors and Diplomats of 19 He welcomed diplomats and distinguished During these performances’ folk singer recollections he said, “My mother used to call it. His poetry work has been sung by Hamid countries participated in colorful Fashion guests. He was of the view this show will from Cholistan Krishan Laal Bhel 4. Rang Rasan Show and Cat walk. The Diplomats were present a softer image of Pakistan with in Presented folk song Dance performance by wearing colorful and specially designed country and abroad. Later on different Japanese artistes and urdu patriotic song by dresses of all regions of Pakistan. The event performances were shown to the audience. H. E. Ambassador of Bosina were also His major contributions during his stint as the occurred as per following schedule of Photo It was a wonderful and amazing presentation highly appreciated. Shoot Press Interview @ Red Carpet organized by Al-Hamra and Paper Miracles. Executive Director Alhamra Arts Council are: Announcement by Master of ceremony. Forty Ambassadors, diplomats and

ta organized two major events at culture of Pakistan was depicted through more than 1000 cultural event national and which people from more than 20 various means like cat-walk show, musical international program through different Acountries participated. In this events and Sufi Qawalis etc. During his turnover embassies. Organizing Pakistan Corner at Thammasat University Thailand

aptain Atta organized an exhibition where an enclosure was organized at the Colorful image.The Ambassador of Pakistan for the faculty and students of Pakistan enclosure containing Pictorial, and also graced the occasion. CThammasat University Thailand, written material about Pakistan Soft and

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 7 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 8 Unplugged Al-Hamra

lhamra Unplugged Season 1 is a Colleges and Universities. Grandson of Ustad Tafu, musical platform for talented Capt. Atta Muhammad Khan (Executive Contestant, ’s student, AVocalists and Musicians. After Director) is the founder of this project. He female vocalist of Pakistani movie, Naqsh other platforms like Coke Studio, Nescafe initiated this program in August 2015. Band, LUMS Olympiad winner. Season 1 Basement, the Floor etc. Lahore Arts contain 8 songs. Songs were selected Council has taken the step to initiate the Its Auditions were held in Alhamra Arts according to the different type of listeners in Palestinian Exhibition project “Alhamra Unplugged Season 1”. Council, Kinnaird College, University of Pakistan. Pop, Rock, Folk, Sufi, Qawali, This project has been completed under the Lahore and F.C College. More than 500 Classical. All genres were targeted because supervision of Alhamra. Artists of Season 1 contestants participated and only 23 Artists different classes of audience have different The Palestinian Community in the United are young and belong to different Schools, were selected. Artists include Justin Girls, type of songs choice. Kingdom organised Christmas fair exhibition in London. This exhibition was organised to promote Palestinian products. There were special stalls of embroideries, jewellery, food, handmade soaps and ceramics, all made in Palestine. Surprisingly, most of the products were beautifully crafted and handmade. The exhibition was attended by the Ambassador of the State of Palestine, Shadow Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture (Thurrock Council) Cllr Qaisar Abbas and other dignitaries from different walks of life.

Cllr Qaisar Abbas said “Other countries make arms to kill innocent people and children whilst Palestinian uses their 'arms' to craft beautiful products. I am amazed to see these beautiful products. It's so encouraging to see that people living in constant fear still have such artistic skills.” The Organiser, Mr Ali El-Saleh said “We always want to show the world that the Palestinians have so much potential in every field. We encourage all to buy Palestinian products and support our The Palestinian Ambassador said “The Palestinian artists.” people have so much potential. They are creative, peace loving and deserve to live in peace.”

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 9 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 10 ‘LITTLE ISLAND’ AFLOATINGPARKCOMINGTOHUDSONRIVER IN2021BYCOLLIERSUTTER

loating on the Hudson River, just off 700-seat amphitheater for year-round behind, and play, lay back, and be the Chelsea shoreline, will soon be a performances. Billionaire Barry Diller, stimulated every which way by the F2.4-acre island oasis called Little who is funding the project with wife and Island,” Diller said in a statement. Island for New Yorkers to escape to for fashion designer wife Diane von some good fun. Furstenberg, has ensured that 51 percent of The $250 million public park is set to open tickets for these performance will either be in spring of 2021, and the landscape looks How is this "floating park" possible, you free to the public or under 30 bucks, so you positively dreamy: rolling hills, walking ask? The design, created by Thomas can count on this to be an affordable or free paths and lawns for activities, and 100 Heatherwick, uses 132 tulip-shaped activity to do in NYC. species of trees and shrubs. concrete columns that rise above the water to create the unique Little Island structure. It’s a joyous feeling to see Little Island rise up in the Hudson River, and now I can’t The best part? Aside from all the eye- wait for New Yorkers and its visitors to catching nature, Little Island, will have a cross the bridge, leave the boisterous city

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 11 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 12 able to produced jewels who made their names in the field of art of paintings. A PERSPECTIVE OF With the growth of educational activities, not only subject of fine art flourished but also various art institutions sprang up both in the public and private sectors. As a result, number of artists came in the market looking for work to pull on PAINTINGS their daily life. Although job opportunities were created particularly on teaching side IN PAKISTAN but those could not suffice the need. When commercial art galleries he present trends of appreciating art of paintings in Pakistan is almost established and started operation, confined to the aspect of esthetics, whereas it has wider function. It is well artists rushed to display their work Tknown that an art piece provides useful information and knowledge to the for sale purposes. Unfortunately, society in an attractive manner, which ultimately becomes a part of history. That’s proper understanding about the art why we are able to find out social, cultural, religious, economic and even political could not be developed among most values of our past and present. of the art dealers and even in the interested public, which diverted the An artist gets inspiration from his environment and records his feelings on the canvas directions towards decorative art. through elements of art like, forms, lines, colours and composition in such a creative approach that it catches the eye of the viewers. He not only tries to capture the natural Commercial galleries owners being beauty, but also highlights various issues of the society as perceived by him. interested in making money were However, one can see that the direction of art has been diverted from its actual obliged to follow the requirements function due to lack of of their clients, who were mostly proper understanding among buying paintings to decorate their the society and off course, drawing rooms. Thus, galleries financial needs of the artists. o w n e r s s t a r t e d p r o v i d i n g Since art is essential for the signs of art such as tools made of pebbles more information about the requirements life being a means of putting than one million years ago. There were early of clients to the artists and m a n i n t o a s t a t e o f civilizations like Mesopotamia, Akkadian Art, r e q u e s t i n g t h e m t o p a i n t e q u i l i b r i u m w i t h t h e Babylon, Indus Valley, Ancient Egypt, the accordingly, which dominated the surrounding world, there is a Aegean (Island of Crete of Aegean- North east of creative skill. This is not the case of need to keep it on the right Nile Delta) and China, which witness to the all artists, but many were compelled track. activities of art and crafts of those days. The to fulfil the market requirements. Greeks and Romans played very important role No doubt art was primarily in development of arts. Later on, art appeared Such circumstances off course, have considered for aesthetic with strong concepts of religions like Buddhism, damaged academicism to some enjoyment, but later on Christianity and early Islamic Art. Afterward extent, but artists have to fulfil their realized that it had served the European Art Movements took place, which creative thrust to record the history. religion, system of life, the greatly influenced art of Pakistan due to colonial Similarly, the current trend of history, the community in system of education. holding art festivals frequently also general and also fulfilled m a y l e a d s t o w a r d s passion and inner vision of The first two decades after partition, could be commercialization, which needs the artists. The work of art considered as golden era because the consideration of the policy makers created by the old Masters in view of the literacy rate and socio- hung on the walls of Western foundations of the academicism were laid down economic conditions. m u s e u m s c o m p r i s i n g in the (1958) leading art different themes relating to institution of the country and Fine Arts Certainly, many artists are social, cultural and religious Department, University of the (1940). n o t c a r i n g f o r t h e m a r k e t subjects with qualities of However, gradual decrease in the system of requirements. They are doing work aesthetic are the examples. academicism happened because of various in their own style portraying the Similarly, in this part of the Muhammad Javed changes in the education system. One of the environment and life of the people, world one can find almost the reasons may be, fresh graduates were inducted to which will survive on long term s a m e s p i r i t b u t w i t h Senior Artist and Art Promoter take over the responsibilities of very competent basis. In any case art of paintings in difference in the ideologies. and devoted faculty of the past. Likewise, the Pakistan is flourishing and will cultural trend was such that students did not never dye. Existence of art has links with the pre-historic period rather with the creation of remain as committed as those of the past due to mankind as Allah has given him the mind to think, which motivate him to do non-availability of jobs in the field. something creative. It can safely be said that art of drawings and carved forms in the caves was being used by hunters as language. Therefore, its roots are very deep Besides, steadily habit of finding out short-cuts covering centuries of process of growth indicating way of life of the generation like also played adverse role in the learning process. customs, conventions, socio-cultural and economic practices. World History of Art Despite these factors, both the institutions were by Hugh Honour & John Fleming published in 1982 (p-13) indicates discovery of

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 13 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 14 aachi Arts and Crafts Exhibition was held in this November 2019 at Qasr-e-Noor,Model Town, Lahore DFeaturing a variety of products ranging from Pottery to Arts And Craft jeweler, shawl to stone Carvings, the three-day event brought TURKISH-PAKISTANI together artisans and entrepreneurs from all across Pakistan As they displayed their eclectic wares under one roof.

Whether you’re looking to add an ethnic touch To your home. A Large Number of stalls from the different artists were also there Exhibition that you can be benefit from. RESTAURANT IN LONDON

A new restaurant has opened in East This restaurant is a new business London, uniquely offering special venture and brainchild of well Turkish and Pakistani dishes. The known restaurateur, Mr Khizar restaurant was inaugurated by well Hayat Chaudhary. The owner, Mr known social and political Chaudhary said “We are offering personality and British Councillor unique dine in and takeaway Qaisar Abbas, Shadow Cabinet experience for our customers. Member for Communities and Turkish and Pakistani dishes are our Culture of Thurrock District. Cllr speciality. Our food is less spicy, Abbas, in his opening remarks said grilled and includes healthy “I am very pleased to be part of this portions of salad. Our food is ceremony. This is a unique prepared by special and experienced restaurant, offering different variety chefs from both countries.” of food. Every day brings different opportunities and today is the day to It is to be noted that Turkish food has taste two different styled dishes become very famous in recent years under one roof.” among all communities in England and particularly in London.

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 15 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 16 Thanksgiving Every Day

have a secular practice that is useful, school. It’s a time to have dinner with no matter what faith you have or what family and to share what you have Icountry you live in, or whatever appreciated in the previous year. politics you have. I don’t know of any religion that lacks the idea of blessing or However, I have Thanksgiving every day. non-material gifts. How? Ellen Snortland

When I was 19, I attended the ‘est’ My late friend, Robin Carlson, invited me f o r, l a rg e a n d s m a l l , a n d t h e n training, a controversial “enlightenment” to join a group of other Landmark Forum “forecasting” the rest of the day? program created by Werner Erhard. It grads all around the world, to participate Although the “grateful” list is not literally transformed into now what’s called in a daily listing of 10 things that we’re a Landmark “practice,” it is reflective of Landmark Worldwide. They conduct the grateful for and to wind that list up with an the kind of activity that comes out of their Landmark Forum. It turned out and accounting of how we’d like to see the educational programs. continues to be the best thing I’ve ever rest of our day progress. done. It was a secular approach to my Regardless of your own beliefs, from Grateful internal life that included self-reflection Here’s an example: deep religious commitment to no about my promises to myself and others, Today I am grateful for: practice, it’s not even a matter of faith to my participation in my world and Being married to the kindest, smartest, see that starting the day counting the community and finally, resulted in my most talented, funniest guy I’ve ever met things that hurt in your life will put you on connecting with a spiritual side that I My parents a different track for the day. Start listing wasn’t always able to attain with All the people it takes to bring food to our your “gratefuls” with a buddy, family or a traditional worship. communities list every day, and you’ll see a difference Our neighbors next door in your outlook on life. Lists I originally registered in the ‘est’ training, The opportunity to go to visit Pakistan not because I was looking for secular and make friends there spirituality but because many people I My sisters H a v e a g r e a t a n d G R AT E f u l By Ellen Snortland loved and respected raved about the Coffee in the morning Thanksgiving, today and every day and program. For others, it was considered a All of my incredible friends think of us in the U.S. and how much we “California American wooey wooey, fruit Oranges from our tree care about you too! and nut-cake cult.” Today, I’ll take the time to ask each I share this background with you by way person at the dinner table what they are Ellen teaches a writing workshop in of giving some foundation to a practice grateful for. I’ll thank each person Altadena, California. Contact her at: that I’d like to share with you on individually for something that they’ve www.beautybitesbeast.com Thanksgiving, and perhaps on-goingly. In done or said that I appreciate. All is well. the U.S., we have a holiday called Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of That’s it! See how easy it is to start your November every year, and mostly day with listing 10 things you’re grateful everyone has the day off from work and

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 17 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 18 Jennifer Cotton at the Philadelphia Zoo Lumi Nature November, 2019

Penguin Peace on Eart snake awake

expression Evergreen Dreams with Food Trucks 25’ Christmas Tree made of lit amingo and and Heat lawn ornaments

Philadelphia Zoo Lumi Nature

northern Lights - Polaris the 35' Polar Bear made from white recycled car doors

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 19 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 20 lvaro, Rodamundu is a world- renowned Spanish cyclist who By Tallat Ch. Arecently came for a tour to Pakistan. During his visit we were fortunate enough to have a chat with him.

Alvaro introduced himself as a normal person who without prior experience in A TALK WITH large crossings was spending his life as everyone did by having a job, stable couple and almost children. But suddenly an epiphany struck him and the utopian dream of travelling the world became ALVARO possible. In his current and first visit to Pakistan, He RODAMUNDU entered in Pakistan by China-Pak Border and started touring from then on all the way to Northern Areas of Pakistan. The visit seems impossible on a bicycle to us lazy common folks but not for the passionate him who enjoyed every moment of it. The breath taking scenery, the ardent desire to explore and innate will to conquer all that has yet to come ; fueled his energy and made the journey possible for him. Seeing all the scenic beauty of RIDE northern areas of Pakistan, it was like living in a dream and he didn’t want to miss even a single bit of it. By staying in THE his camp at the ‘’Babu Sur top’’ he felt alleviated. The organic food and sumptuous dishes of northern areas was the icing on this already memorable tour which he enjoyed to his heart’s content.

From there on, he travelled on his bicycle WORLD to Lahore Where he visited all the famous places and frequented many restaurants. He started his travelling four years back from Alaska. Now he has crossed 50 countries .He shall be leaving on Oct 29 from Pakistan to India and he will continue his traveling onwards.

Prior to his visit to Pakistan, he was apprehensive about the security situation here. But seeing is believing and after touring throughout the country he felt Alvaro, Rodamundu is a world- elated to have made so much connections with so many wonderful people who are renowned Spanish cyclist who not only friendly but very hospitable as well. He walked through the streets only to recently came for a tour to find people with courteous smiles and humble attitude ready to help at any time. Pakistan. During his visit we were He is famous in the world by ‘’Roda fortunate enough to have a chat Mundu’’ which means to ride the world as he is Spanish and spends his life in with him. We wish him best of luck on his all future endeavors and hope to see him back soon.

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 21 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 22 WHAT MORE CAN A SOLDIER DESIRE (A tribute to Shabir Sharif, NH and SJ) As a captor of Sulaimanki, in process creating legends for times to follow Teaching his enemy a lesson which became difficult for them to swallow

Major Shabir Sharif Shaheed left for heavenly abode on 6th December. During action he exhausted his ammo and was ordered to surrender I wrote a poem on my friend in 1976. I am producing extracts from that poem to remember him and let everyone else remember him today. He instead pounced upon his captor and killing him asunder By Azam Qadri, Nowshera 1976 Then he saw enemy tanks approaching, firing their deadly gun Knowing exactly what to do, he himself manned his anti-tank gun Soon he set the enemy armour ablaze That soon turned in a matter of moments into fire and haze In the process he got a fatal blow from one he had not seen Then he fell but his brave Company held out with results that could later be seen For his exemplary bravery he was awarded the NISHAN-E-HAIDER The highest gallantry award our great country has to offer An award that is given to the bravest of all who go far beyond the call of duty And lay down their lives for our beloved COUNTRY Well then it was sans glorious life, sans Shabir The brave belong to heaven, that’s where he lives

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 23 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 24 n the last week of November, celebrated as the day of Jesus' birth. December as well as during rhe day people around the world Although the exact date of Jesus' 25th December, which are attended Iincluding the United Kingdom birth is unknown, in the early fourth by large number of people including and Europe, begin decorating their century, the church set the day of children. It is also a tradition to homes, streets and towns to 25th December to celebrate Jesus’ invite friends and relatives, cook celebrate upcoming Christmas. birthday. However, some Orthodox traditional dishes and to make Every town and city endeavour to denominations of Christianity special cakes to celebrate this day. It decorate it in different, unique and celebrate it according to the is customary to give gifts to your beautiful way. Gregorian calendar in January and family members, relatives and some even in June. friends on this happy occasion. By Qaisar Abbas All the colourful and glittering lights and decorated streets bring There is a huge significance of Jesus Various political, social, religious sense of joy and happiness of festive (PBUH) in Islam. His name is and business organisations also season. Christmas trees, which are directly or indirectly mentioned organise special parties to celebrate available in all sizes, are decorated over 187 times in Quran. Thus, he is Christmas. Shopping malls and with twinkling stars, candles, lights the most mentioned person in the stores introduce special discounts and are placed indoors and outdoors Holy book of Quran. In Surah during this season and billions of of homes, offices and town centres. Maryam (Mary), the Holy Quran pounds worth business is now Christmas tree tradition was says "And He hath made me blessed associated with Christmas. On this originated from Germany in the wheresoever I be, and hath enjoined occasion, charitable organisations 16th century and is now integral on me Prayer and Charity as long as also do their utmost efforts to help part of the festival. Yes, for children, I live; "(He) hath made me kind to the poor so that there is no one left there is no Christmas without Santa my mother, and not overbearing or hungry. Clause (also known as Father miserable; "So peace is on me the Christmas) and his gifts. day I was born, the day that I die, Don’t let anyone trap you in hatred, and the day that I shall be raised up embrace love, spread happiness and Although Christmas is a Christian to life (again)"! (Verses 31-33). celebrate Christmas. Death to religious festival, it is also now H a t r e d ; L o n g L i v e P e a c e ; culturally celebrated in almost all The priests and senior Christian H a p p i n e s s f o r e v e r ! H a p p y countries of the world. Christmas c l e rg y h o l d s p e c i a l p r a y e r Christmas to everyone. day is a public holiday in many ceremonies at their respective countries. Christmas is primarily churches on the night of 24th

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 25 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 26 ENLIGHTEN FACE OF FAITH & INTER-FAITH HARMONY ccording to generic definition, complete trust or confidence in someone or By: Muhammad Sohail Babar Khan Asomething is called faith. Biblical or (Senior Solicitor) religious definition of faith will be considered as it is a connecting power into a spiritual realm which links us with God and makes Him to But when unfortunately, religion is interpreted in become a tangible reality to the sense and a different manner for different and personal perception of a person. Divine code of conduct purposes, then there creates a gulf among all the revealed by the link or source of Divinity for the faiths which is resulted unrest, friction among the benefit of beings and Human beings is called social fabrics and gives a birth of viral disease of faith. extremism; if this disease is not treated and controlled on time, it becomes congenital which There Rabindranath Tagore says overpowers even the most literate minds in the society and entire social wisdom gets comes two “ Faith is the bird that feels the light and surrendered before fanaticism. sings when the dawn is still dark” definitions The World is in a dire need to heed these noble The Holy Quran laid the foundation of concepts at a time when civilisations are getting interfaith dialogue; the models of dialogue fragile, violence and extremism have become a of faith in cross-border global crisis. What the World need in the Holy Quran are stated clearly “ Say O today is the formula for the attainment of mind; one Muhammad (P.B.U.H) come to a word that religious harmony. is common between us and you” is generic The death toll due to ethnic, religious and The real concept and outcome of faith is to sectarian extremism is more than the first and integrate one person to the other but not to second world war together in 20th Century. The definition disintegrate. No religion in the World teaches or few leading and prominent Countries in the preaches anything wrong but the interpretation of World should step up and play a role as torch of faith the religion by the pseudo intellectuals create a bearer and take initiative to promote and initiate a gulf among the people of different faiths. Every dialogue for inter-faith harmony to promote and other Muslim is a believer of one hundred and twenty diversity and equality in the World. This can be a four thousands messengers of God which means culmination point of interfaith harmony if we is religious each Muslim has a faith on all the Divine Books, touch the level to bring all the people of all faiths and all the religions and such concept of under the umbrella of one platform without any believing inculcates uniformity among all the discrimination. definition. religions and their believers; it means believing on everyone becomes a fundamental element of I would like to quote Rumi who projected faith and at the same time, it inspires to be Interfaith under these golden words “ All connected with everyone without discrimination religions, all this singing is one song, the of colour, race, creed and religion. differences are just illusion and vanity. The Sun’s light looks a little different on this wall Such concept makes the horizon broad to accept than it does on that wall, and a lot different on everyone from the core of heart with honour, this other one, but it is still one light” dignity and with respect.

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 27 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 28 “LABOUR PARTY WILL CREATE £1 BILLION ARTS FUND”

he snap election in Britain will be including the economy, foodbanks, health unveiled an arts manifesto in Stratford. held on 12th December 2019. The services, employment, education and Addressing the crowd, Mr Corbyn said: “I Telection was announced by the Brexit. Mr Corbyn, in his speech said love theatre, I love art, music, I love the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom “Right now, in Telford in the Midlands, inspiration that it brings to all our lives. Mr Boris Jhonson on 6 November 2019 t h e a r e a w h e r e I g r e w u p , t h e Arts, music and culture are not separate by saying “no one wants it but we have no Conservative Party is launching its from science, engineering and ideas. You choice”. The last general election took manifesto – a manifesto paid for by need that inspiration in whatever you do. place in June 2017 and was called by then billionaires, written for billionaires and Our arts policy is to create a £1 billion arts British Prime Minister Theresa May. The will be delivered for billionaires, but the fund, and that will ensure that the country is in political turmoil since EU problem is the rest of us will have to pay libraries, theatres, and the local arts Referendum of 2016. for it. Nine years of austerity has seen facilities are improved and remain poverty levels that I never thought I would available for all.” The United Kingdom’s main political see again in this country. party (Labour Party) leader Mr Jeremy The Labour Party’s new manifesto also Corbyn visited Thurrock on Sunday, the Nine years of austerity has seen includes free Fibre Broadband across the 24th November 2019 as part of his investment in luxury homes kept empty as country and the minimum living wage of election campaign. The Party leader was an investment opportunity for the super- £10 an hour. The party has also promised received by our writer and local British rich. Nine years of austerity has seen 150 to offer free annual dental check-ups and councillor Qaisar Abbas and his fellow billionaires in Britain. Nine years of fee free prescription for all patients. area councillors. Mr Corbyn was warmly austerity has seen roughly 25 per cent loss Under the Labour Government, the welcomed by enthusiastic local residents in spending power of working-class University tuition fee will be scrapped and party supporters. The local children communities. It doesn’t have to be like and one million affordable homes will be presented him flowers and hugged him. this.” built.

Mr Corbyn spoke about number of issues Later in the evening, the Labour leader

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 29 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 30 pic peaks, rushing water and a chill in the sweet mountain air characterize the Epicturesque valley of Hunza, nestled deep in Gilgit-Baltistan, and engulfed by the great Himalayan and Karakoram ranges.

Explore the valleys of Hunza, Shigar and Khaplu via the renowned Karakoram Highway and immerse yourself in the startling scenery that compels you to not miss even a single gaze from the window of your vehicle without blinking for fear of missing the majesty of this exquisite landscape or one of the astounding suspension bridges that cross the surging rivers with snow melt.

Hailed as “Heaven on earth “ Hunza valley has everything that the vivid imagination of us mortals can picture. Summers are the ideal time to pay a visit to this valley; it offers a COLORFUL respite from the intense heat prevalent in the rest of the country yet is still warm enough to be pleasantly welcoming. Hunza is a favorite among holiday-goers both for its amazing natural beauty and the extensive cultural SPECTRUM heritage it houses. To add more to this the warm welcome of people, the centuries old history , the OF HEAVEN ON juxtaposition of granite greenery , the chance to walk through an age old apricot orchard along water channels cut by hand and the blazing snow covered glory of Rakaposhi and you must acknowledge there is a grand Painted by: KK adventure ahead. This tour might start as an adventure but it EARTH surely will turn out as memories for all times to come.

Painted by: KK

Azhar Pasha

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 31 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 32 LUNA Grand Hotel Luna Group LCC Georgia

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MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 33 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 34 friends, including the Wampanoag tribe Constitution. In 1817, New York became feast. Everybody travels to see their ageing chief Massasoit, mindful of their traditions, the first of several American states to parents. The busiest travel day of the year in to share in the bounty. This forged an officially adopt an annual Thanksgiving the US is the Sunday after the Thanksgiving alliance with the Wampanoag, which would holiday. In 1827, the noted magazine editor holiday: 42.5 millions people were endure for more than 50 years and tragically and prolific writer Sarah Josepha Hal travelling on that day in 2018. in the US. remains one of the sole examples of (author, among countless other things, of The feasting centerpiece is the turkey, a harmony between European colonists and the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little large North American fowl that can feed a Native Americans. Lamb”) launched a campaign to establish family with more than 20 lbs of flesh. Thanksgiving as a national holiday. But It In 1789 George Washington issued the first wasn’t until 1863, in the midst of the Civil The staple is so ubiquitous, it has become all Thanksgiving proclamation by the national War, that President Abraham Lincoln but synonymous with the holiday. Nearly government of the United States: in it, he proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to 90 percent of Americans eat the bird, called upon Americans to express their be held each November. leading to the killing of about 46 millions gratitude for the happy conclusion to the turkeys every year in the US for that feast. country’s war of independence and the What do people do for Thanksgiving? It is This wholesale slaughter prompted a new successful ratification of the U.S. the time when families come together for a tradition in which the president of the US has “pardoned”: one or two Thanksgiving turkeys each year since the mid-20th century. Interestingly, the condiment traditionally paired with the turkey –cranberry sauce –is severely disliked: 29% of the celebrants find it unappetizing in both appearance and taste.

The other thing to do is: shopping. Thanksgiving as a holiday falls right at the beginning of the Christmas shopping season and retailers are eager to clear their inventories by slashing prices. They also hold lavish parades to attract customers. Thanksgiving Day Parades have become an integral part of the holiday in cities and towns across the United States. Presented by Macy’ department store since 1924, New York City’ Thanksgiving Day parade is the largest and most famous, attracting some 2 to 3 million spectators along its 2.5-mile route and drawing an enormous television audience. It typically features marching bands, performers, elaborate floats conveying various celebrities and giant balloons shaped like cartoon characters.

And the day after Thanksgiving became known as the Black Friday, the day when t all started with the Native Americans. Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians stores open early in the morning with T h e y h a d a r i c h t r a d i t i o n o f shared an autumn harvest feast. In September dramatically reduced prices. Some people Icommemorating the fall harvest with 1620, a small ship called the Mayflower left sleep in front of the stores after the feasting and merrymaking long before Plymouth, England, carrying 102 Thanksgiving dinner, and fights are known Europeans set foot on their shores. European passengers—an assortment of religious to occur between shoppers elbowing to get invaders copied the tradition trying to make separatists seeking a new home where they what they want at those prices. Black Friday friends wih the Natives, and framing it within could freely practice their faith. now often starts on midnight, and it is also their Christian traditions, which emphasize Throughout that first brutal winter, most of joined by the Cyber Monday, when people thanking God. In 1565, for instance, the the colonists remained on board the ship, can still pick up remaining good deals on- Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilé where they suffered from exposure, scurvy line. The holiday created to give thanks for invited members of the local Timucua tribe to and outbreaks of contagious disease. the bounty the nature/God offered to us, a dinner in St. Augustine, Florida, after thus firmly became an unbriddled holding a mass to thank God for his crew’s Only a half of the Mayflower’s original c e l e b r a t i o n o f t h e c o n s p i c u o u s safe arrival. On December 4, 1619, when 38 passengers and crew lived to see their first consumption. British settlers reached a site known as New England spring. In March, the Berkeley Hundred on the banks of Virginia’s remaining settlers moved ashore, where they Ivo Skoric James River, they read a proclamation received an astonishing visit from an Rutland VT 05701 designating the date as “a day of Abenaki Indian who greeted them in English, thanksgiving to Almighty God.” and taught them how to plant corn. In November 1621, after the Pilgrims’ first corn What we today, however, remember as the harvest proved successful, Governor first Thanksgiving is what happened on William Bradford organized a celebratory Thursday, November 28, 1621, when the feast and invited their Native American

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 35 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 36 KOREAN BUDDHIST By Jahanzaib Khan MONKS VISIT PAKISTAN A delegation of Korean Buddhist pilgrims visited sacred Buddhist sites in the Hazara division, performing “ religious rituals and prayers.

he group was led by Ven Wonhaeng, art and crafts that are not available anywhere president of Jogye Order of Korean else in the world,” he said. TB u d d h i s m . T h e d e l e g a t i o n ’s The delegation also spent some time in pilgrimage includes historical Buddhist worship and performed their religious sites located in Lahore, Gilgit, Hunza, rituals, while other members pictures with , Taxila, , Takht-i-Bahi Gandhara artefacts, kept at the museum. and Chota Lahore in Swabi. They offered The ladies accompanied by the delegation prayers at Buddhists sacred sites for included Young-Mi Lee and Jun Mi Lee. international peace and interfaith harmony. One of them stated that visiting the was an old wish which had now Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism President came true. Venerable Wonhaeng said historic pieces of the Gandhara civilization are precious and “Coming here is one of the most memorable well preserved at the Lahore Museum. He experiences of my life and the Gandhara art said that was the reason the delegation was and crafts here very valuable,” said Lee. happy to visit. Director Lahore Museum Tariq Mehmood Javed said the museum preserved thousands Wonhaeng wrote comments in the of years of civilization in Pakistan. guestbook. During his visit to the museum, the Buddhist leader took interest in various “We are proud of the fact that not only the art galleries and the Gandhara culture’s art finest antiquities of the region are present in and crafts. He described them as the best the museum, but also that research work on collection in the world. them is underway,” he said. The delegation was welcomed by Museum Officer Asim “I am visiting Pakistan after 20 years and I Director Tariq Mehmood Javi and others. am glad to come here,” he said. The delegation was also briefed about the “It is commendable that the government has Gandhara Civilization and its antiques preserved Gandhara artifacts so beautifully would be other places containing art pieces in the Lahore Museum,” he added. of Gandhara Civilization.

Wonhaeng said the delegation has come “The museum contains valuable Gandhara here to find spiritual peace. Other members art and crafts that are not available anywhere of the delegation are also happy to see how else in the world,” said Jogye Order of Gandhara’s relics have been preserved. Korean Buddhism President Venerable “The museum contains valuable Gandhara Wonhaeng.

MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 37 MONTHLY INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & ART DECEMBER-2019 38 ANNUAL CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW2019 JILLANIPARKLAHORE

By: Irfan Akram he annual chrysanthemum More than 200 kinds of flowers and control negative impacts of the (translates Gul-e-Daudi) show plants of the medicinal value were changing climate. Tw a s h e l d o n F r i d a y 2 9 displayed. Although the exhibition November 2019 at Jillani More than was initially planned to be 10 days Aesthetically planned arrangements of 200 varieties of chrysanthemums were event, following the interest of the plants and flowers were made with put on display at the show organised by citizens, the exhibition was extended. floriculture and nursery techniques by the Parks and Horticulture Authority. specialized horticulturalists and On the occasion, the visitors said that gardeners who also used trash and The winter flowers exhibition attracted more plants can increase rainfall in the broken pots to exhibit the flowers. a large number of people from all metropolis as plants are the stabilizing around the city. factors, which have the ability to

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