Ms JUNE 28, 2015
ISSUE NO. 158
A comedy of errors
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Ramazan and menstruation
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inside En vogue — Pretty in pastels
Domestic goddess —
Mint margarita
Section In-Charge: Dilaira Dubash Sub-Editors: Amna Hashmi Nisma Chauhan Designer: Umar Waqas Feedback: women@tribune.com.pk
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The industrious Sehyr Anis
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The buzz
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
No matter what kind of emotions we are experiencing, everyone resorts to some, mooduplifting comedy, regardless of their age and gender. It doesn’t matter what we are watching or listening to, be it entertaining conversations between Moin Akhtar and Anwar Maqsood on Loose Talk or the comfortable laughter of the hit American sitcom Friends, comedy provides a temporary fail-safe method of forgetting our worries. But the thing with comedy is that it doesn’t just seek to entertain, it perpetrates some effects on our day-to-day lives. While on the surface, jokes and laughter seem to exert a momentary influence, it’s important to question if there are any other consequences, seeing as how many of the jokes relate to issues in our private lives. One such pertinent topic — a recurrent theme in many comedies — is the concept of weight and how people react to different shapes and body sizes of those they interact with. Using looks for jest is one of the oldest tricks in the book, with a number of famous clowns and jesters from various stages of literature, art and history, gaining fame via their ability to joke about abnormal weight, height or facial features. From the below average height of the fool in Shakespeare’s King Lear to the more recent Marx brothers and Charlie Chaplin (who used tightfitting or oversized clothes), jokes regarding appearances have always drawn laughter from the audience. This method of using physical features as props is acknowledged by stand-up comedian Ali Gul Pir, who believes that comedy indeed requires certain body types. “One of Hollywood’s greatest comedians, Chris Farley, was very large and often used his looks to add to his comedy,” says Ali. “Even though your looks don’t really matter, being overweight can be funny. Take Laurel
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THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
and Hardy as an example. In all of these cases, imperfection is funny.” Ali, who’s first single Waderai Ka Beta, a satire about the political set-up of Pakistan, achieved great success back in 2012, understands different forms of comedy and how they deal with weight respectively. “There are different sub genres of comedy,” he explains. “There’s satire which is a reflection of reality in a witty way but there are also slapstick pieces which are only intend to make others laugh. Stand up includes observational comedy and then there’s political comedy. Some of these genres have a message and are meant to make you realise something, but others only aim for laughter.” Indeed, this type of comedy may be part of a comedian’s selfdeprecating sense of humour but what happens when the humour is aimed at others, namely those with a body shape or size that is not considered ideal by society? Research regarding body image and its reinforcement in the media by scholars like Miriam Rachel Lowe and Gregory Fouts provides a clearer look at the risk of resulting physical and psychological damage, especially among young adults. Numerous studies have stated that the depiction of extreme slenderness and the overall portrayal of bodies in the media could be causing a rise in eating disorders, especially among young women who wish to lose weight. They further imply that onscreen exposure to such stereotypes, through funny, dramatic or intense depictions, reinforces the association between being thin and physical attractiveness, personal self-worth and success. Based on these findings, it is evident that promoting an ideal body image ultimately leads to dissatisfaction amongst the audience, be it male or female. According to Pakistani actress Hina Dilpazir, there is much more to the situation than what meets the eye. “What kind of jokes affect the audience depends upon how a character has been written,” she elaborates. “It doesn’t matter if someone is short or tall. What is more important is the situation and how the joke is carried. In this case, the greatest control is with the writer of the character and the story.” Hina, known for lending her excellent comic timing to roles like Momo in Bulbulay, Mitthu in Mitthu and Shakooran in Quddusi Sahab Ki Bewah, has extensive knowledge of the genre. According to her, the most important thing in understanding comedy and its relationship to weight is maintaing a good sense of humour. “Creating good comedy is hard work,” she admits. “In most cases, how weight is dealt with changes from character to character. Each character has its own demands, some require more slapstick humour while others don’t. But a good sense of humour is always welcome.” Nonetheless, the extent to which comedy can influence the psyche of viewers still remains unanswered. While most of us are happily laughing away at the expense of excess chub, dwarf heights or dark skin, will our perspectives ever change? Amna Saleem Khan, an avid fan of comedy, understands how some jokes can have adverse effects in the real world. “There are definitely a lot of jokes about fat, short and dark-skinned people,” she says. Amna highlights India’s most popular show Comedy Nights with Kapil as an example, saying “the show is huge and one of the lead characters is constantly made fun of for being fat. Words like ‘moti’ and ‘ugly’ are used together quite regularly.” Another example can be found in one of the show’s most loved character, Palak — a male actor posing as an overweight female. The many jokes cracked regarding Palak include comparisons to bulldozers, water tankers, drums, etcetera, on top of which, Palak is also mocked for being ambitious and flirting with other actors. Hence, it appears that the idealisation of slender and fair women is something comedy often promotes, directly or indirectly. Interestingly, this is not a phenomenon restricted to just our part of the world as jokes about weight, body shapes and complexions are common worldwide. Shows in the West are just as culpable for trying to generate laughter over failed diets, breaking balances and tight clothing as their counterparts from the East. “Even in Friends, people laughed at Monica because of her weight although one can argue that their portrayal was less derogatory,” says Amna. Perhaps this is due to greater awareness regarding obesity in the West than other parts of the world. Nonetheless, physical comedy can exert a direct influence on anyone, particularly the younger generations. “If a comedy show is portraying the fact that making fun of a fat person is okay then people will think
it is okay,” explains Amna. “Ultimately, this increases bullying amongst children as well.” In her opinion, the lack of media regulation and limited dialogue on the matter are to blame. With such obvious and dangerous ideas being promoted, do those involved in the health business benefit? According to Syed Kamran Ahmed, the head of executives at Shapes, a health and fitness club located in Karachi, there are various reasons why people join the gym but few would admit to worrying about their weight because of the negative portrayal on media. Kamran explains that different people have different goals when it comes to fitness. “While some are aiming for weight loss, a fair number simply want to maintain their weight or reduce fat from certain areas of the body,” he says. Research on the benefits of laughter often ends with the phrase ‘laughter is the best medicine.’ From lowering blood pressure to stress hormones, it is not only a cure for physical ailments but also helps promote a general sense of well-being and a positive outlook in life. But when this laughter is at the expense of others, propagating ideas that may be harmful, perhaps one should take a closer look at the message that is being sent out through comedy. Anum Shaharyar is a freelance writer. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mass Communication.
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En vogue
Zara Shahjahan’s latest collection is filled with colours of joy Collection: Zara Shahjahan Eid Lawn 2015 Styling, Makeup and Hair: Hannan Siddique Photography: Nadir Firoz Khan Model: Thayane Oliveira
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
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Lifestyle
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
By Kanwal Tariq
Ramazan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, is considered to be one of exceptional blessings. During this month, Muslims all around the world fast from fajr (dawn) till maghrib (dusk) and observe taqwa (a path that lead towards Allah). The practice has been made obligatory for every Muslim, although there are some exceptions. In general, those travelling, sick, pregnant, breast-feeding or menstruating are allowed to miss a few fasts which must, however, be compensated for after Ramazan. Amongst all of these, there has always been some discrepancy when it comes to menstruating during Ramazan. Certain social taboos surrounding menstruation perpetrate more distress than anything else. Even though modern society has accepted the female reproductive cycle as natural, women in our part of the world are still expected to hide it. One of the major problems associated with this is that, as a society, we still believe that menstruation should not be discussed with boys. While a girl has to remember her monthly cycles, worry about stains or act like she would any other day when her body is feeling otherwise, boys are considered too sensitive to be informed about it. This leads to women having to lie unnecessarily, often pretending to be fasting when they are not just so their father, brother and other male relatives do not find out about their ‘condition.’ Moreover, lying is probably the least bothersome of their problems. Many women are expected to wake up for and eat sehri and iftaari with their families in order to maintain the facade of fasting. For instance, 28-year-old Sarah Shahid*, a research scientist currently living with her uncle abroad, faces a similar situation. “Since I was living with my uncle’s family, I had to wake up for sehri and pretend to be fasting all day. It was particularly difficult to fast when I couldn’t as I was always afraid of questions I might have to answer,” says Sarah. On the other hand there are women like 29-year-old PhD student Naila Tahir* who only wakes up to prepare sehri for her family. “I do not necessarily have
to sit with them during the meal,” says Naila. “Sometimes, I join them out of respect for the holy month. Other times, I take a nap.” Although women are exempted from fasting and praying during that time of the month, they are allowed and even encouraged to continue with other forms of remembrance, such as oral recitations. The exemption has been given to help women deal with cramps, pains and other physiological effects of menstruation without the risk of falling ill. Several religious scholars and other learned individuals hold the same opinion. For example, religious scholar Dr Zakir Naik has been quoted as saying, “God does not want to overburden women. As the blood flows out, you not taking nourishment, not taking food is an overburden.” What he means to say is that if a woman is asked to refrain from eating or drinking during her period, it will be overburdening her body. According to gyneacologist Dr Shameem, “There are no negative effects of fasting during Ramazan, other than general problems like dehydration.” While is this indeed true, the extent of the ‘burden’ varies from woman to woman and some feel it more than others. For instance, 24-year-old teacher Madiha Sheikh* undergoes a considerable drop in her blood glucose levels during menstruation, so much so that she often has to visit a clinic for intravenous (IV) glucose on her first day. “Normally, my mother asks my father to take me to the clinic,” shares Madiha. “But during Ramazan, it is difficult to explain to my brother why I suddenly have to get an IV as I am apparently fasting.” The problem usually is not restricted to dehydration and low sugar levels. Many medical researchers report that even slight hormonal changes can inculcate feelings of depression, anxiety, anger and self-hatred in women. The added stress of ‘faking the fast’ is only likely to make things worse. Also, women are forced to sneak food so as not to get caught by a man family member. The lack of dialogue regarding this natural phenomenon creates a barrier which is troublesome, to say the least. Several women like Madiha are forced into embarrassing situations due to their inability to talk to a male about menstruation. It is one thing to not eat in front of a person who is fasting out of respect, but it is completely different
Medical researchers report that even slight hormonal changes can inculcate feelings of depression, anxiety, anger and self-hatred in women. The added stress of ‘faking the fast’ is only likely to make things worse to have lunch in hiding at your own home! The real problem is that women become conditioned to this mindset. Even in neutral situations, when they are not required to fake a fast, women continue to do so. When working in a hospital setting, Naila reminisces, staff members, who had not fasted for their respective reasons, would usually eat their meals hiding in the courtyard. “I was too embarrassed to join them, thinking they would think I’m going through my menstrual cycle,” she recalls. While each person might have a different reason for not fasting on a particular day, women tend to think that menstruation will be the first justification that comes to people’s minds. When society becomes more willing to discuss menstruation, women will have one less thing to worry about. They will no longer have to wonder every time about their clothes, emotions or pains. Islam already gives utmost respect to women. It’s high time that society follows suit for a more female-friendly environment, both inside and outside our homes. *Names have been changed to protect privacy. Kanwal Tariq is a bio-technologist, a writer and a feminist. She blogs at Whirling Cosmos (kanwalmeghjii. wordpress.com/)
Domestic goddess 7
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 28, 2015
By Hirra Pervaiz
Mint margarita
A refreshing lemon soda infused with mint leaves
Did you know? It is estimated that there are over 600 varieties of mint in the world today. In fact, there is even a mint for cats that are attracted to the smell of Catnip plants! Some of the most commonly known types include: • Peppermint: This is not only the most famous of all mints but also the most commonly used, considering it is the key ingredient of many teas and candies. • Spearmint: As the ‘freshest’ mint of all, spearmint is used in sauces, jellies and teas, as well as breath fresheners.
Ingredients • • • • • • •
Water 1/2 cup Sugar 1/2 cup Salt 1/2 tsp Sprigs of mint 3-4 (or more, if desired) Lemon juice 3 lemons Ice cubes 3 — 4 Sprite or 7-Up (250 ml) 1 cup
• Pennyroyal: Although it is a relatively less popular mint, penny royal happens to be the most powerful type of mint in terms of repelling insects. In fact, pet owners often use it to safeguard their animals against fleas and ticks. • Chocolate mint: This deliciously rich and dark foliage makes for an ideal dessert following a heavy dinner. SOURCE: PANTRYGARDENHERBS.COM
Mint: the all-rounder herb Did you know mint leaves have a plenty of benefits, other than cooling and refreshing breath? Read on to find out what else this great herb can do for you:
Method • In a food processor, blend the water, sugar, salt, mint, lemon juice and ice cubes together, pulsing until the ice is crushed completely. • Fill each glass up to half with the Sprite or 7-Up and pour the mint mixture into it until the glass is full. • Stir the two liquids to combine the tastes. • Garnish the ridge of the glasses with a slice of lemon each or place mint leaves on top of the drink for decoration. • Serve immediately. Note: Prepare the drink right before serving lest the ice melts. You can, however, prepare the mint mixture beforehand. Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 3 minutes Yields: 2
• A curative herb, mint helps soothe the digestive tract which is why it is so often administered as herbal tea for gastro-intestinal problems. It also eliminates toxins from the body, cleaning the stomach, liver and blood. • The mint plant has sedative effects and disinfectant properties in the form of menthol, limonene, menthone, vitamin C and other antibiotic compounds. • Mint leaves are ideal for relieving symptoms of asthma, flu and bronchitis owing to their antispasmodic properties. Menthol found in mint is a vasodilator of the nasal mucous membrane and helps treat sinus problems. Inhalation of the leaves clears mucous and relaxes the nerves. It also alleviates dry coughs, sore throats, colds, allergies and chest congestion. • Mint oil is used to ameliorate depression, stress, fatigue and headaches, by massaging it over the chest, neck and temples. It has also been recommended for rheumatism, acne, blackheads and ear inflammation. • The aroma emanated by the plant has been proven to curtail anxiety and boost mental performance and alertness. Therefore, drinking mint tea is ideal for students and employees working for long hours. SOURCE: EVERYTHINGMINT.COM/MINT-AND-HEALTH
Woman of the week 8
Dolled up for an event.
With my father and sister. Development practitioner and entrepreneur
At a wedding.
During Ramazan, we have no choice but to ignore feelings of hunger and exhaustion. Considering that this year, each fast lasts up to 15 hours per day and that too in the sweltering heat of June, just keeping our eyes open during the day has become a challenge. But there are ways to curtail the roza-induced lethargy. Read on to find out!
1. Improve your breathing: This tops the list because the more time you spend on enhancing breathing, the healthier your cells will be. The shallower you breathe, the lesser the oxygen that is absorbed into the cells, brain and heart, thereby making one feeling low on energy. It is important to synchronise your activities with deep breathing until it becomes a subconscious habit. Remember to: • Breathe through your nose • Breathe deeply, using your diaphragm • Breathe slowly
2. Exercise: It is a common misconception that exercise during fasting will tire you out even more. On the contrary, it makes for a great energy boost. After all, exercise is one of the fastest ways in which your body is prompted to breathe deeper. Therefore, make time for at least some exercise after sehri and feel more energised than before. Even just 15 minutes of brisk walking can go a long way.
3. Sleep well: As much as you want to sleep through this tiring month, know that too much or too little sleep will leave you feeling fatigued. Try sleeping for an ideal time only, say soon after taraweeh, so as to awaken refreshed at sehri. In fact, a quick nap in the afternoon is also great for energy levels during the day.
4. Pre-plan your schedule and stay busy: You can choose what your mind thinks about! Divert your thoughts from hunger and fatigue by scheduling your routine accordingly. Keep yourself busy as by giving your brain less time to think about anything else, you will focus less on the fast. Utilising your time for something meaningful, be it worship, homework, office tasks or simply spending quality time with your family is a must.
5. Think before you eat: Wanting to indulge in fried stuff during sehri and iftaari is natural but remember that these goodies will only leave you feeling tired and heavy. Plan your meals to include foods that helps sustain energy levels throughout the day. Also, make sure that you chew every bite properly and do not eat right before sleeping, especially sugar or starch-loaded meals. Most importantly, drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and alert. SOURCE: PRODUCTIVEMUSLIM.COM