Contents
All that glitters - Events & more
6
Interview: Meher Bokhari
12
Interview: Nayyar Ali Dada
16
Book Review: ‘Pastoral’
20
Gadgetry 22 Massarat’s Makeovers
23
Fashion 25 Travel 30 Photo Feature
34
Music: ‘Sab Doob Gaya Hai’
37
Recipes 40 Food, Hangouts and More
41
Movies 42 Stars & starlets
44
Glamstock: Perfumes for him & her
46
Taroscope 48 Aunty Athena
50
Editor Injila Baqir Zeeshan Sub Editors Fatima Zehra Naqvi Bushra Shahzad Sahar Iqbal Creative Head Babur Saghir Graphic Designer Javeria Mirza Photographer Mohammad Amir Baba
25
Sparkle all the way
Mina Hasan launches flagship store Mina Hasan, famous designer and daughter of Malika-e-Tarannum Noor Jehan, launched her flagship store on October 10 amid much excitement. Organised by Qasim Yar Tiwana, the event saw many celebrities and friends come in to congratulate Mina and wish her good luck. -Fatima Zehra
Mina, QYT, Zille Huma and Resham
Anushay Asad with a guest
Ahmed Ali Butt with a guest Natasha and Fariha
Hamza and Hafsa
06 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Zille Huma and Mina with Mina’s daughter
Stars set ramp ablaze at HDIL Couture Week
Priyanka looks ravishing in a net outfit
Katrina looks royal in red
Kareena gets naughty
Amitabh, SRK and Hrithik break into a jig on the ramp
Karisma looks perfect in pink
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Sonakshi Sinha looks stunning in Maheep Kapoor’s jewellery
HDIL Couture Week 2010 saw the who’s who of Bollywood sashay down the ramp for various designers. Perhaps the most prominent highlight of the entire event was Salman Khan’s Being Human show that saw eight leading ladies of Bollywood, who have worked with Salman at one point or another, walk the ramp.
Bipasha sizzles in figure-hugging black Rani lives up to her name in this regal number
Ash is showstopper for Manish Malhotra’s bridal collection
Malaika Arora Khan shimmers in Queeny Dhody’s jewellery
It’s bubbly out, bewitching in for Preity
Sushmita carries off this flamboyant outfit with flair Salman with his gorgeous leading ladies
October 17 - 23, 2010 I 09
Consul General celebrates Day of German Unity The Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Dr Christian Brecht, hosted a dinner reception at the German Consulate in Karachi to celebrate the 20th year of German Unity.
AR Sattar, Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Dr Christian Brecht, Samina Seitler and Nisar Khuhro
Nasir Khuhro, Shujat Ali Baig and Yasmin with Junaid and Samina Seitler
Shirin Shaikhzadeh, fashion designer Kiran Khan and a friend
Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah and Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany Dr Christian Brecht, Mr Farooq Sattar (MQM), Nasir Ahmed Khuhro and Iqbal Haider cutting the cake
Businessman Hashim Khan hosts dinner Prominent businessman and Chairman Port World Shipping, Mr Hashim Khan and his wife along with Mr and Mrs Junaid Wolfgang Seilder hosted a dinner at Mr Hashim’s residence. Salma Murad, Mr and Mrs Hashim Khan, Mr and Mrs Kamal Khan, Mr and Mrs Seilter, Christian Hasenstab, Adil Murad and friends
Christian Hasenstab with Hashim Khan and his wife Ayesha Hashim a friend
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Hashim, Ayesha, Mrs Kamal and guests
Interview
Meher Bokhari:
Fearlessly ambitious By Bushra Shehzad
“T
wo roads diverged in a wood, and I… I took the one less travelled by… and that has made all the difference.” Robert Frost penned it but it is this proud 26-year-old who has lived her life this way. She is none other than Meher Bokhari, anchor and producer at Samaa TV. An athlete, with a double major in mathematics and business studies from the University of Waterloo, Meher had never planned on pursuing a career in journalism. She only had a secret desire to be on stage, to act. She started off with hosting ‘Nai Raahein’, a morning show on Samaa. Its soaring ratings soon took her to soaring heights and made her a name well recognised in every household. Lounge caught up with Meher to get to know this young journalist: Q: You were an athlete majoring in mathematics. How did you land yourself into the field of journalism and why? A: I have always been very enthusiastic about dramatics and had acted in various plays in school. When I returned from Canada, I was looking at a variety of careers to choose from and decided it was journalism. Soon, with ‘Nai Raahein’, I realised that this journey was meant to be. But trust me, this was not planned!
‘I didn’t want to restrict myself to merely social and women’s issues when there were things to be discussed, questions to be raised and where I felt I could make a difference’
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‘I don’t have any personal relations with any politicians. You have to be on cordial terms with them if you are to interview them and move in their circles’ Q: Not many young people return to Pakistan once they go to the land of dreams, North America. What made you return? A: I remember the anxiety bubbling inside me, the many questions with no answers, the all-consuming fear of the unknown, all this marked my final days in North America. I didn’t know what I was returning for. I knew it was what needed to be done though. My love for the indomitable mother, unconditionally loving father, selfless uncle; need for their parental guidance and warmth helped with the final decision to return, not I. Q: You are known as a super girl in your family who can achieve anything. How do your parents feel? A: That’s what my friends used to call me. Today when they see me, they say, “We told you, you were meant to be here.” And of course, my family feels really proud. They feel scared sometimes especially with the kind of threats that my work entails to my life and to my family as well, but they are proud nonetheless. Q: How did you manage to get your first break? A: The man who introduced me to the Samaa is none other than Mr Sarwer Moosavee. The moment he saw me, he said he was sure of me, that I would bring that “much wanted” something to a new channel. He told the management that this girl has a certain spark in her. For me, it was a huge thing and I will forever be indebted to him. I knew nothing about politics, had no family background in the field and moreover, my grasp over Urdu language was nil. Today, with the blessings of Allah, I am here and I strongly believe it’s just the will to do something, to be somewhere, and then “the whole universe conspires in helping you achieve that”. Q: ‘Nai Raahein’ was a morning
show; what was the reason to make it an evening show and that too a controversial political programme? A: With God’s grace, ‘Nai Raahein’ was getting very high ratings and that is when the decision to shift it to prime time was taken. It was a difficult decision to give prime time to a 24-year-old kid like me. And many people objected. But it’s only very natural that people who had worked all their lives in this field would have objected. However, I proved myself in no time. At this point in time, I am the youngest journalist doing prime time and that too a female, so of course people are meant to have issues. The youngest people they have on prime time right now are in their thirties. And as far as the decision to shift from social and women issues to hardcore politics is concerned, that was
my own decision. I had told the management that I was ready for it. I told them that I could no longer work within the mandate dictated by them to me, because I wanted to grow. I didn’t want to restrict myself to merely social and women’s issues, when there were things to be discussed, questions to be raised and where I felt I could make a difference. And if not a difference, at least I could bring it on the table. Q: ‘Mulakatein’ was also one of your toprated programmes where you interviewed top politicians. How did you manage to arrange for them to come over so easily? And why did you decide to discontinue the programme? A: Obviously politicians come on political talk shows. The channel arranges for them. As to why October 17 -23, 2010 I 13
‘The American Embassy party pictures have not affected my popularity. But that was a difficult time for me. A novice, a mere kid, it surely gave me a big shock and I could not recover for days to come’ I decided to discontinue the programme, I was already doing shows throughout the week, and that programme was something I wasn’t doing of my own will. Q: You were also asked to join Geo TV. Why did you reject the offer? A: I have grown with this organisation and I have a loyalty issue. Of course, Geo is a huge opportunity, but there is a right time for everything. It wasn’t the right time for me then, but now I think maybe it is time to move on. Q: We have heard that you have met General Kiyani as well. Why didn’t you interview him? A: He doesn’t give interviews. Besides he is a man of few words; very professional and believes that the army should stay away from politics especially when it is what is needed at this point in time. Q: You talk about corruption and poor masses of Pakistan. How does your role help them? A: I think that’s what the media is supposed to do. TV has a huge impact on people. We may not be able to resolve people’s problems, but at least they know about real issues, how they are affecting them and that they are being talked about – that somebody out there is standing up for them. It doesn’t solve their problems, but it gives them hope. Q: Has your popularity been affected by the American Embassy party pictures released online? A: The American Embassy party pictures have not affected my popularity. But that was a difficult time for me. A novice, a mere kid, it surely gave me a big shock and I could not recover for days to come. Had my family and my mother not stood by me, I would have broken down. Q: You have been blamed for having good relations with politicians whom you often criticise publicly. Is this true? A: How do you define ‘relations’? I don’t have any personal relations with any politicians. You have to be on cordial terms with them if you are to interview them and move in their circles. Q: Any public message? A: Speak the truth!
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Interview
Nayyar Ali Dada
The master
builder ‘We live in desperate times where we stand divided by extremists of all hue, who are inculcating hatred and intolerance in our youth. We suffer not only from economic but intellectual poverty’
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By Injila Baqir Zeeshan
W
hile the human race moves ever faster towards the environment al destruction of our planet, a conscientious person like Nayyar Ali Dada is striving to bring about a meaningful progressive change for the better. Be it art, culture, environment or architecture, Dada has been at the forefront of many innovative trends. He is primarily known as the pioneer of contemporary design in buildings, and also for using limited space to maximum effect. The issue of an ecological consciousness figures centre-stage in his philosophy of construction. The topic is closest to his heart as he explains, “Architecture is not the art of building but it goes far beyond construction. Issues of environment and transport must be dealt with consciously. The buildings must do justice to their existence.” All his projects contribute towards an environmentally friendly atmosphere, for he is a firm believer of the fact that no building can exist on its own accord, independent and oblivious of its surroundings as well as its users. Aesthetics feature second in his designs, which concentrate on the practicality of the construction, to ensure it serves the function for which it is built. When I asked him what occupies him presently, he told me about his efforts regarding the rehabilitation project for the flood affectees. “The most important
things we need to build on at the moment are the economic as well as speedy construction methods.” He narrated how he is helping out Malik Riaz, who is heading the project. It would not be wrong to say that Nayyar Ali Dada is not just an impeccably decent soul, but one with a heart of gold. Dada has to his credit the designing of buildings such as Alhamra Arts Complex and Open Air Theatre, Habib and MCB Banks’ headquarters and Serena Hotel, to name just a few. He was awarded Sitara-eImtiaz and the Agha Khan Award among many others. Born Nayyar Ali Zaidi, a teacher gave him the nick “Dada”, for his mental maturity. It is indeed a beautiful, cultured and highly refined mind that I discover, as we delve deeper into his life. Let’s turn some chapters back to the period when as a fresh NCA graduate, this brilliantly talented boy had won his teacher’s respect. So much so that Mr Shakir Ali refused to let go of him, and forced him to take up a teaching job at National College of Arts. “Since Shakir Ali was my inspiration and my mentor, I could not refuse.” The sixties were a thrilling time to be living in: an era of exploring new, bolder frontiers.
‘Lack of tolerance has led to lack of civility, which has resulted in turning us into an impoverished nation. It is such a nation that becomes breeding ground for crime, injustice and degeneration of the political system’
Then, art and literature were at their peak, and the human spirit experienced a free new world, unleashing creativity in myriad forms. Dada nostalgically recalls, “Even though the Arts Council building was an old and broken down one, it was the fountain-head of learning. Luminaries like Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Feroze Nizami, Nasir Kazmi, Kamal Rizvi, and many more leading literary personalities frequented this place.” I sat there mesmerised, feeling myself transported to an era where these exceptional intellectuals sat pouring their hearts out, in a decrepit old building,
October 17 -23, 2010 I 17
engaging in enthralling debate. He further goes on, “It was the decade when caste and creed were forgotten. Black mingled with white, tolerance and love ruled, and painting and poetry thrived”. I envied him to have been a part of a lost world, the likes of which my generation will never experience. “Though frightfully young, I was fortunate enough to have my chance of being around these fascinating figures. There ensued remarkable dialogue and riveting discourse. It enriched my soul, liberated my thinking and shaped my being,” he adds. He divulges how in the present day, we have lost the flavour of such rich cultural activity. We live in desperate times where we stand divided by extremists of all hue, who are inculcating hatred and intolerance in the youth. “We suffer not only from economic but intellectual poverty,” he declares. Dada laments the fact that the construction of the new Arts Council never accomplished the
‘People do not realise that they need consistency when reacting to serious matters. They rally together as if struck by a fit of mass hysteria, which dies almost as suddenly as it springs up’
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functions he expected of it, or captured that spirit of innovation and creative originality for which it was developed. “Lack of tolerance has led to lack of civility, which has resulted in turning us into an impoverished nation. It is such a nation that becomes the breeding ground for crime, injustice and degeneration of the political system.” Commenting on the current economic and political situation of our country, he said that we have been plagued far too long by the feudal mentality. If the middle class, which is the backbone of our society, continues in its indifferent, nonchalant state of being merely a spectator, we will continue to suffer and decline. Commenting on the role of the media, Nayyar Ali Dada had both positive and negative opinions: “It is admirable that we have so much information available today, to which a layman had no access in the past due to strict censorship, but I still
ABN-AMRO Lahore
believe that the media is not truly free or independent. It is impeded in its task by many factors. One has to read between the lines and it becomes evident how many restraints it is functioning under.” I managed to ask him to give a definite piece of advice as to how each one of us can contribute to better our overall situation. It would do us all some good to bear his words in our minds, “I come across people who suffer from an utter lack of selfawareness, he began. “We need to realise that we must stop complaining about everything that is wrong and look into our own souls to see what it is that we can do to bring about a change. It is the ones who complain the most who contribute towards the collapse of the system, which they themselves incessantly badmouth.” He also criticized the fickleness of people, of how people lobby passionately for or against a certain issue, and then promptly forget all about it. “People do not realise that they need consistency when reacting to serious matters. They rally together as if struck by a fit of mass hysteria, which dies almost as suddenly as it springs up. There is no credibility left.” Coming to personal experience, the architect feels very disheartened by the maiming of his work: the Qaddafi Stadium has been plagued by the construction of so many dhabas and the Children’s Complex suffers because another building has been erected right front of it. “There’s just no sensitivity. It is so frustrating,” he blurts out. And the lack of maintenance of such important places as Alhamra Arts Council also bothers him no end. I checked if a man of his stature and talent feels regret for being stuck in a society where he encounters numerous frustrations in his field of work. To this Nayyar Ali Dada replied that he has been very lucky by the grace of God since the very beginning. Although his experience with the Sheikhdoms of the Gulf (who wanted nothing but gaudy architecture with shiny things), has not been aesthetically satisfying, he takes a great sense of pride in the number of good young architects he has churned out through his office. He
Serena Hotel, Islamabad
feels that his greatest contribution has been the role he has played in giving us meaningful architecture. His greatest success is the production of designs which are neither imitated nor inspired by other cultures. Very humbly he mentions, “I would not say I have covered milestones but I have tried to create architecture in which buildings belong to their place. They serve their function like machines, meaning thereby, that they are practical and are not just appealing to look at.” Café Nairang, located on Jail Road, was started by Nayyar Ali Dada in an effort to provide a platform for cultural activity. But he feels that he has not been able to give it as much time as he would have liked.
‘Architecture is not the art of building but it goes far beyond construction. Issues of environment and transport must be dealt with consciously. The buildings must do justice to their existence’
Yet the man has provided us with something: it has a music library, an art gallery, an Urdu library along with a café. As I was leaving his office, I couldn’t help but exult that the Gulf Sheikhs’ loss turned out to be our gain, and that this gem of a person, the epitomy of talent and wisdom, was among us today. It is up to each one of us to see the wisdom of this man’s words, both for our own sake and for the sake of our future generations.
October 17 -23, 2010 I 19
Books
Looking back at paradise lost
T
By Beenish Mahmood
erry Gifford’s ‘Pastoral’ is a short but well-researched work that looks at the pastoral tradition from all aspects. A research coordinator at the School of English, Bretton Hall College of Leeds University, England, Gifford offers a lucid and invaluable introduction to the term ‘pastoral’, making clear its uses and delving into its historical origins from its classical beginnings to contemporary writing. The writer offers a variety of definitions of the term and traces its evolution. The term ‘pastoral’ can be defined in three different manners. In the historical context, pastoral is a reference to the idyllic past or a form of idealised countryside. It focuses upon the life of the shepherd. Ideally the definition of pastoral according to Leo Marx is, “No shepherd no pastoral.” For the reader, this form of literature demanded some form of a retreat or return that provideds a significant insight into the countryside. The second form of pastoral provides a direct or indirect contrast of the country with the city or the urban landscape. For instance, if trees in a town are the focus of a text it is essentially a pastoral text. This attitude is celebratory in nature. But this simple celebration brings under examination the third form, where it brings in the presence and dangerous implications of pollution and threat to nature and the wilderness. For instance, a farmer maintains a farm but the toil and low income generated from the farm bring into play the economic and social contexts and realities. This depicts that the term pastoral is over simplified. An idealisation of the countryside or a willful retreat into the past is an escapist attitude. It will fail to address the problems of the urban landscape. The book beautifully sums up in Roger Sales’ words the definition of the term ‘pastoral’ in the five Rs: refuge, reflection, rescue, requiem and reconstruction. “His view is that pastoral is essentially escapist in seeking refuge in the country and often in the past, that it’s a selective reflection on the past country life in which old settled values are rescued by the text; and that all this function as a simplified reconstruction of what is in fact a more complex reality.” The pastoral with a focus on the sweet past, the paradise lost, served to escape the bitter reality of the present. In the book, according to John Bull and John Barell the distinction between the country and city has collapsed and hence, the historical form of pastoral has long been dead. The country and the city have merged. The countryside is in fact only an extension of the city. On the other hand a critic of the pastoral tradition says that the pastoral because of its various forms becomes a “contested” term. Therefore, the term pastoral according to Brian Loughery’s takes on any form of rural retreat, simplification or idealisation. But Lawrence Buell has pointed out that the pastoral is a set of “cultural equipment”, celebrating the philosophy of nature versus the ethos of city rather than the original conventions that deem it necessary to have a shepherd, poetry and such-like. Thus Barell, Buell and Bull all concur on the definition of the pastoral proving that environmental movement is playing a major role in the redefinition of the pastoral. Leo Marx again distinguishes between the complex and sentimental pastoral. Against the serene and tranquil pastoral of the countryside produced by the sentimental pastoral is the “pastoral of the mind and spirit” that circumscribes the pastoral ideal. In other words, the complex pastoral is a representative of implicit realism. The book concludes with an examination of the ‘anti pastoral’ tradition and provides a succinct discussion of the ‘post pastoral’ texts. ‘Pastoral’ is a concise and updated introduction to this tradition of history. Students of history and literature will find it an essential read.
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Terry Gifford looks into the pastoral as a tradition that has evolved in definition over the passage of time
For the reader, this form of literature demands some kind of a retreat or return that provides a significant insight into the countryside
Hottest new gadgets Capture a ‘Looxcie Moment’ This is not a Bluetooth headset but a camera. It is a wearable camcorder designed to fit on the ear, and it can continuously gather video footage. It is linked via Bluetooth to your smart phone. You can use your phone as a viewfinder. It allows you to capture a moment for 30 seconds; then you can save it. With your smart phone you can view, edit, and even share this moment on Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.
Talk about a handy cam! Benq amazes us once again with the launch of the new compact digital camera. The DC X725 is as small as 12.5 millimeters, and it is made of steel. It comes in four different colours: black, red, silver and pearl. It has a 1/2.5 CCD and can go up to 3x optical zoom. The ISO sensitivity can go up to 1,600 on photos and 4,000 on videos. You can also increase the memory as it has an SD/SDHC memory card support. The range of mega pixels is above 7.2.
Digital frames with iPod/iPhone docks Panasonic’s new digital photo frame has an iPod/iPhone dock. Not only can the 9-inch frame display pictures, but it also has an integrated iPod/iPhone dock. If you want to get all your photos from your favourite iDevice, it is as easy as docking it. You can even use the frame’s internal stereo speakers to play your favourite tunes.
Soup in a jiffy! The Personal Soup Chef is perfect for you to get your favourite soup prepared in no time at all. It is capable of chopping up vegetables automatically. It can simmer broth at the optimal temperature to make nearly two quarts of homemade soup with minimal human intervention. There is also a digital timer, which lets you set it up to 24 hours in advance so that the cooking process can begin even when you are not around. Depending on the soup that you’re cooking, the temperature can be automatically set from 104 degrees F to 248 degrees F. There is also a removable basket that keeps herbs, meat, or stock bones immersed in the soup as it cooks yet enables you to easily strain them from the finished dish.
Dangerous toys! Immortal Video Sunglasses are capable of recording high quality videos of whatever you look at when you are wearing them, courtesy a tiny pinhole camera that is located right out in front. Videos recorded are of 736 x 480 resolution, and can be transferred to your computer via USB. With 4 GB of internal memory, it can store lots before you need to perform a transfer. Each full battery charge offers up to 2.5 hours of recording capability.
Stand out in the crowd! We’ve grown used to our polished gadgets with plastic and metal casings. Yet, one man enjoys making his cameras out of something entirely different. Instead of hard metal pressed up against your eye, he’s making fully functioning cardboard cameras. These extremely detailed cameras are by Kiel Johnson. He makes all sorts, from incredibly ancient cams to brand new DSLR cameras.
Toothbrush the size of a mascara tube!
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Panasonic Pocket Doltz Sonic Toothbrush has solved a big problem. We are all attached to our whirring toothbrushes. They make sure that our teeth get cleaner without quite so much effort. The down side is that these sonic toothbrushes are so bulky that they won’t fit into any conventional toothbrush holder. The new Panasonic toothbrushes are actually made to be portable. These vibrate at over 16,000 strokes per minute or 267 every second. You could easily slip one of these tiny toothbrushes into your pocket or a purse. These come in many different colours and they are made to resemble tubes of mascara. To keep it up and running you’ll need just one AAA battery. With that single battery it’ll stay alive for 180 brushings.
Massarat’s makeovers
M
assarat Misbah is one of the most respected names of the fashion industry. Upon entering this field, she brought about a revolution in make-up. She completely changed the way make-up was being done before her time. She introduced the soft, subtle make-up philosophy, which made women look more natural and human, rather than the previously made-up, lifeless dolls. Lounge brings you some miraculously performed makeovers by this maestro!
First we clean the face with the help of a cleanser and moisturiser.
Then we apply different bases according to the skin complexion. The dark base gives a darker tone to the skin; the light base highlights bone structure.
We blend the eye colour well with the base.
Now we apply mascara and kajal to perfect the look.
Then we apply blush-on according to skin tone.
We select the lip colour lighter than the eyeshade to give prominence to the shape of the eyes.
We merge the bases and apply loose powder on the skin.
We apply base colour on eyes before applying eye make-up.
After makeover
You are invited!
Come and participate in an exciting venture! Want to be featured in our Makeovers column? You can be the next woman to get a free makeover from Massarat Misbah. If you are between 18-40, email us your photo with a brief introduction of yourself on lounge@pakistantoday.com.pk, and you could be the one!
October 17 -23, 2010 I 23
Sehar of Saai has rendered aesthetic innovations to her collection of formal wear. A wide range of colours from soft peaches to light golds and deep blues to darker pinks gives you plenty of options to choose from. The embroidery is intricate fused with sparkling touches of diamontes. Pick one of these attires and outshine everyone else!
Designer label Saai Makeup, styling & photography Deevees Model Nisha Butt Text Injila Baqir Zeeshan
Travel
Mystery of the monuments near Mianwali Years after Dr Dar retired from government service, the report, sadly, still languishes unpublished. Such are the ways of the bureaucracy By Salman Rashid
W
hen folks c a n n o t comprehend an ancient monument, they tell you it has always been there, since the time of their grandparents. That is a measure of a very long time for semiliterate people. And when my friend Kashif Noon called to tell me that he had found a pair of Sikh monuments not very far from Mianwali, it did not take me long to get there. We drove out of town on the highroad that connects Mianwali with Rawalpindi via Talagang, the scenic road that skirts the western edge of the blue spread of Nammal Lake and the dark loom of the Sakesar peak. En route we picked up an elderly local who claimed to be a great master of history. At the hamlet of Bun Hafiz Ji, we turned left (south-eastward) on the road that leads up to Sakesar. Just
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a few kilometres on, Kashif pointed out the two domes atop the low stony ridge running alongside the road to the left. They stood starkly grey against a brilliant blue sky. “Not Sikh, certainly not Sikh,” I said as we went hurrying up the ridge, “but early Muslim period buildings.” This was no off-the-cuff guess, for I had reason to be certain. Ten years ago while researching for my book, ‘The Salt Range and the Potohar Plateau’, I had checked out the unfinished structure at Maira Tharchak in the Salt Range heartland, and these buildings were laid out on the exact same plan. The only difference was that both these buildings were topped by domes while the one at Maira was roofless. In that case it was difficult to say if the top had never been completed or had collapsed many years ago. Dr Saifur Rahman Dar, the well-known archaeologist who had headed an investigative mission to the Salt Range in the early 1990s, had written that, judging from the architecture, the Maira building dated to the early Muslim period - that is, the 11th and 13th centuries. Years after Dr Dar retired from government service, the report, sadly, still languishes unpublished. Such are the
ways of the bureaucracy. So far as I remembered Dr Dar had not mentioned these two structures. Just below the ridge, runs one of the two rivers that feed the Nammal. All around were distant brown hills with the Sakesar peak towering to the east and immediately to the south were millet fields. Kashif’s friend, a historian, told us that the bottom of the ridge had remains of ancient structures and that the whole area was richly strewn with pottery shards. Close proximity to the freshwater river made some sense about this being a habitat. The two buildings were of different sizes. One was roughly 5.8 metres square with a height of 3.5 metres from the plinth to the base of the dome. Failing to climb up the building we could not measure the dome, but
Photos by the Author estimated it to be about three metres high. Inside, the corner squinches that render the square plan octagonal for the dome to spring up were of the corbelled type. The three walls (saving the side with the door) had mock mihrabs; the interior otherwise was bare. Each corbelling was reinforced with a timber beam. Timber lugs were also laid in transversely at intervals around the base of the dome. The most interesting feature was that one of the squinch reinforcement beams appeared to be new. It seems that the original beam having been lost (perhaps to vandalism), this one was inserted by some well-meaning person (bless his or her soul) in order to arrest the
collapse of the squinch – and with it the rest of the building. The other building was somewhat smaller at about 3.25 metres square. The height was just under three metres from the plinth to the base of the dome which was itself correspondingly smaller. But here the top had collapsed and part of the exterior of the dome as well. The corners repeated the same style of corbelled squinches, mock mihrabs and an empty interior. Here, the reinforcement beams were not used, but the transverse lugs were in place. Dr Dar had once pointed out that in the beginning (circa 10th century) Muslim builders were yet uncertain of the strength of the true dome and arch. To their minds the insert of a wooden beam was a reliable reinforcement. As time
It was long believed that the ancient chert works in the hills near Rohri (Sindh) were the only such industry of prehistoric Pakistan that date back to more than a hundred thousand years
went by, however, they were quick to learn that this was an unnecessary accessory and was in due course dropped. Thankfully, the floors in both buildings were yet intact; they had not been upturned by mindless
October 17 -23, 2010 I 31
Many, many years ago, long before man had learned to make iron blades, chert blades were used for everything from dressing meats to trimming hides to making surgical incisions treasure seekers. Though there was no sign of a burial, in my estimation both were funerary buildings. I say this because while a mosque has an entrance in the east wall, it is funerary structures where the entrance is to the south – as in these cases. The fact that there are no graves inside could mean any number of things: that the person (or persons) supposed to be interred were buried away elsewhere after they died or that subsequent to the completion of these structures they no longer held sway in this area. Kashif’s friend said the buildings were simply known as gumbtaan – domes. He also insisted that the area below the ridge was once inhabited. I thought that improbable until we descended from the ridge and found the area actually littered with pottery shards. We made a surface collection in the course of which I found a piece of chert. This was a discard that was knocked off a nodule while producing a core tool or blade. Many, many years ago, long before man had learned to make iron blades, chert blades were used for everything from dressing meats to trimming hides to making surgical incisions and what have you. In fact, these blades are known to have been in production no less than a hundred thousand years ago. Back in Lahore I showed my photos and the collection of pottery shards to Dr Dar. The shards were nothing, he said. I suspected as much because long ago I had learned from none other than Dr Dar himself regarding the kind of shards that are good dating elements: painted pieces, or neck and lip pieces. Of these we had unfortunately found none. But the piece of chert was an interesting item, he said. It was long believed that the ancient chert works in the hills near Rohri (Sindh) were the only such industry of prehistoric Pakistan that date back to more than a hundred thousand years. The notion was that
32 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Nammal Lake as seen from near Sakesar Peak.
Corbelling inside the dome. This is an ancient architectural feature that pre-dates the squinch that later came into fashion. Rohri exported the blades to places as far as Taxila and other urban centres around the country. Some years ago Dr Dar’s research showed that here by the rivers that fed Nammal Lake and around the lake itself thrived an equally active stone tool industry that goes back to the same time as the one at Rohri. The discard that I had picked up was just one of those that would have fallen off the chert nodule that some ancient artisan was on working perhaps under the shade of a spreading pipal tree with golden orioles and mynas singing overhead on a balmy day in a rain-soaked August. We have no way of knowing when that would have happened. In Lahore I rechecked the district gazetteer and under the sub-heading of ‘‘Other antiquities’’ found mention of ‘‘two sentry-box like buildings’’. These structures ‘‘midway between Nammal and Sakesar’’ (our location) were, according to the book, ‘‘supposed to be dolmens’’. Though I did not check the early 20th century
Archaeological Survey Reports, I knew I would find no mention of these buildings in them. Had they been surveyed, Dr Dar would surely have known of them. As for the domes, the question is wide open. The parade of early Muslim conquerors into Punjab began with Mahmud, the Ghaznavide robber king, in the ultimate year of the 10th century. Thereafter it continued for well over two hundred years. Here, along this lonely, ancient byway leading into the Salt Range by way of the Soon Valley someone important tarried with an entourage. The stopover was evidently prolonged for the raising of such monuments would have taken a few months at the least. Was the important person ill or wounded in battle and did the entourage fear imminent death? Was he escaping from a defeat in battle or en route to the glory and riches of India? What happened thereafter? Why wasn’t the person eventually buried here? Why was no written record left of this transition? These and many more are the questions that cannot be answered just yet. We have to wait for the grand masters of archaeology to make their way to the Domes of Mianwali district. Salman Rashid is a travel writer and photographer who has travelled all around Pakistan and written about his journeys. He is rated as the best in the country.
A view of the mysterious building
Photo Feature
Spectacular Panoramas
Photography: Yasir Nisar
A 360 degree capture of Hazoori Bagh shows Lahore Fort in the background. Various entrances of the Fort can be seen along with Badshahi Mosque. It’s an image of some 36 frames.
A view from the top of Sheesh Mahal early in the morning. This panorama is the product of 14 stitched images. 34 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Lahore Fort’s Jehangiri Gate. A stitch of seven frames.
Satpara Lake in Skardu. This picture postcard image has been put together from nine frames.
October 17 -23, 2010 I 35
A panorama of Abbasi Graveyard in Cholistan desert near Derawar Fort. This image has nine frames.
This panorama of Akbari Gate in Lahore Fort comprises of eight shots.
A scenic view of Neelum Valley, Kel. With clouds hanging low, a sense of serenity wraps these picturesque houses, as the photographer took four images before stitching them together. 36 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Music
‘Sab Doob Gaya Hai’
Capturing the trauma of floods
By Bushra Shahzad
W
e might not have had eighty Hollywood stars coming together to sing ‘We Are The World’ to pay homage to the flood-stricken here in Pakistan. But our local musicians have made us no less proud - Josh, Salman Ahmad and Laal to name a few. Laal the band rose to instant fame with the release of its first song, ‘Umeed-e-Sahar’ in 2009. The band, whose name if translated into English means ‘Red’, very appropriately, links its philosophy to the communist ideology. Much like Pakistan’s iconic rock band Junoon, Laal’s music is not only an attempt at popularising
the lyrical compositions of socialist poets such as Habib Jalib, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Ahmad Faraz but it is also an effort towards creating a civic sense among the common Pakistani. ‘Umeed-e-Sahar’, a poem by Faiz, voices the oppressed man’s determination to live for a new tomorrow. ‘Kal Aaj Aur Kal’, a poem written by Aitezaz Ahsan, became the manifesto during the Lawyer’s Movement. ‘Jaag Punjab’, a Jalib poem was dedicated to highlight the struggle and division among the various ethnic groups of Pakistan. Today, Laal has risen yet again to perform a similar national/social duty, with its now much popular song, ‘Sab Doob Gaya Hai’. This song, the band’s original work, tells the tale of the helpless man who has lost his house, his sanctuary, his everything in the catastrophe: “mera ghar, mera baam o dar, Meri zindagi ka sahara, mera nagar”. He is living but at the mercy of whatever monetary or emotional support he can get from others. In times like these, he has no other option but to plead for help: “Gar tum meri jaga hotay, Haath phailanay par majboor hotay”. The song keeps a melancholic tone throughout. The vocals are beautiful, perfectly capturing the trauma of the affected man. The
The smooth rhythmic guitar, coupled with its simple lyrics is influential in emotionally moving the listener
smooth rhythmic guitar, coupled with its simple lyrics is influential in emotionally moving the listener. The video, on the other hand, is a slideshow of photographs taken from different areas affected by the flood, showing people being rescued or looking for shelters. This creates perfect unison between the content of the video and the composition itself. Today, ‘Sab Doob Gaya Hai’ reminds us of our national duty. All of us need to unite and help the millions of Pakistanis affected by the floods to the best of our abilities. And as Laal puts it, this flood is of historic proportions, so our relief efforts should equally be of historic proportions.
October 17 -23, 2010 I 37
Recipe
Carrot & walnut cake
Celebrity’s favourite Massarat Misbah
By Fatima Zehra
Mussarat’s favourite food is chicken in White Sauce because its easy to cook and delicious to eat
Chicken in White Sauce Ingredients:
2. With an electric beater, beat egg yolks and brown sugar for 2-3 minutes. Then pour in the oil in a drizzle (it is normal for the mixture to get sticky at this stage). Keep aside.
1 cup chopped cold chicken ½ cup tomatoes, peeled and cut fine ½ teaspoon grated onion 1 small can button mushrooms sauted in butter ½ cup pecan pieces 1 cup butter 1 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste
3. Using a thoroughly clean beater beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
Instructions:
4. Fold in the egg whites into the yolk-sugar mixture.
Combine butter and heavy cream in a small saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, over low heat until butter is completely melted. Stir in parmesan cheese; add salt and pepper to taste. Place chicken, tomatoes, onion, mushrooms, and pecans in a casserole dish, mixing well. Pour white sauce over top. Bake at 350 degrees 20 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
Ingredients
Method
6 oz flour
1. Sift together flour, baking powder, soda and cinnamon powder.
1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 tsp cinnamon powder 3 eggs, separated 7 oz soft brown sugar 8 oz vegetable oil 3 oz walnuts 8 oz grated carrots, juice squeezed out
5. Fold in the sifted dry ingredients. 6. Fold in the walnuts and grated carrots. Pour in a greased baking tin. 7. Bake for 45-50 minutes in a preheated oven, 180 degrees C. 8. Let cool in the tin for 15-20 minutes then turn out.
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Food, hangouts & more
Craving for Chinese?
Head straight to Suzie Wong By Sumeha Khalid
E
very now and then I have a craving for Chinese cuisine, and eventually end up at some Chinese joint or the other. My latest tryst with Chinese fare was at Karachi Marriott Hotel’s Suzie Wong. I have never been pretty fond of specialised food at five star hotels but when it comes to Chinese food, nothing beats Suzie Wong. And so we found ourselves ensconced in the tastefully done restaurant with lanterns, dim lights and the works. When it comes to celebrating events like anniversaries and Valentine’s Day, Suzie Wong is the foremost choice with the denizens of Karachi. The interior is aesthetically done with utmost attention given to minute details like table linen and crockery.
The service is impeccable; it is a rare occurrence to have your orders carried out at the swift pace that is seen here. No wonder it’s the first choice for all those who wish to impress the love of their lives. As for the food, it is simply delicious. We started off with hot and sour soup and fish crackers. The soup, though steaming hot and strongly flavoured, could have been better had there been some chunks of chicken in it. This was followed by the main course which was a buffet presentation. The salad counter had quite a variety of salads to choose from as did the main course. Vegetable fried rice, kung pao chicken, beef mustard sauce, tempura prawns, prawn chowmein, stir fried vegetables, roast chicken with honey sauce and sweet and sour fish were some of the mouthwatering entrees being served. While most of it was good, it was the tempura prawns and sweet and sour fish that were delectable. The prawns were done to perfection with crispy golden coating that simply melted in the mouth. Dessert came as another tough decision as it became excessively difficult to choose from the
The prawns were done to perfection with a crispy golden coating that simply melted in the mouth
delicious varieties of cakes and ice creams topped with nuts and sauce. We were spoilt for choice as we experienced bliss in each bite. And to wash down such a hearty meal, what could have been better than ginseng, herb and lemon green tea. And so our rendezvous at Suzie Wong came to a gastronomically satisfying end. Karachi has a rich smattering of Chinese restaurants, but very few come up to the mark. Inflation seems to have affected the food business greatly as quality has plummeted while the prices have sky-rocketed. Fortunately, this is not the case at Suzie Wong. It’s here that you definitely get your money’s worth. Now the next time you have a craving for Chinese, how about you head straight to Suzie Wong!
October 17 - 23, 2010 I 41
Movies
In cinemas now
42 I October 17 - 23, 2010
October 17 - 23, 2010 I 43
Gossip & Entertainment
Stars & starlets Priyanka is most kissable ‘Desi girl’ Priyanka Chopra has beaten off competition from fellow Bollywood beauties Aishwarya Rai and Kareena Kapoor to bag the title of the most kissable star. The 28-year-old actress, who became an instant pin-up with her turn in a gold bikini for ‘Dostana’, topped the survey conducted by a men’s magazine. “It was a close run but Priyanka’s bee-stung lips made her a perfect candidate to top this list,” said the magazine. Aishwarya came second while Kareena grabbed the third spot. Bipasha Basu came fourth and Katrina Kaif rounded off the top five. Sonam Kapoor occupied the sixth spot and Mallika ‘Hiss’ Sherawat was the seventh entry on the list
Depp tops ‘Most Powerful Entertainers’ poll ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ star Johnny Depp has topped a new magazine poll to find the ‘Most Powerful Entertainers’. The actor topped the list with editors insisting the quirky actor is such a big star he can “do anything he wants”. The magazine estimates Depp’s films have chalked up $5.9 billion globally, excluding cameo and animated roles. Lady GaGa landed the second spot on the new list, Oprah Winfrey came third and Simon Cowell and Will Smith rounded off the top five. Robert Downey, Jr, Sandra Bullock, Leonardo DiCaprio and Eminem also made the top 10.
When Katrina slapped Imran sixteen times It seems newbie Imran Khan is highly inspired by his uncle – Mr Perfectionist Aamir Khan – for the actor recently took sixteen tight slaps from Katrina on his quest for perfect execution of a slap scene in ‘Mere Brother Ki Dulhan’. Filming for an emotionally charged scene in Yash Raj’s latest film, the shoot turned out into a slap fest as an innovative Imran chose realistic portrayal of a tight slap. Apparently, the script required only a single slap but it was Imran, who insisted Katrina to slap him for real, not once but sixteen times. Even though Katrina isn’t proud of the pain she gave to Imran, she’s quite happy about the authenticity of the slap as she said, “It’s the most authentic screen-slap audiences will ever see.”
Vidya says no to nudity Vidya Balan is a method actress and the beauty leaves no stone unturned to get into the skin of any character she plays. But even as the lissome lass accepted to play the role of Silk Smitha in Milan Luthria’s biopic ‘Dirty Picture’, she is making sure that her character in the film is not compromised. Vidya has laid down a series of rules for her portrayal of the sex siren: that there be no clear display of heaving breasts in songs, that going backless is fine but she would not encourage frontal exposure, that there be no camera close-ups of any of her assets and that she is not made to wear outfits that may be explicitly exposing parts of her body. Moreover, Vidya told them that the movements in songs could be suggestive, not vulgar. The choreographers too will be chosen only after Vidya has been consulted about them.
44 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Shah Rukh and Rani’s Khan-safe dosti So what if the Rani Mukherjee is spotted hobnobbing with the two Khans —Aamir and Salman — who make up B-town’s most-talked about new camp. About Aamir she’s always said, “He is my guru,” and Sallu, “The ultimate rockstar.” So where does that leave SRK? Well, apparently, he’s her friend, mentor and guide. With so many camp shifts happening in B-town, everyone wondered where Queen Bee would land up. After all, she was the only one who at least seemed to be the favourite of all the Khans. Recently, at an event, SRK and Rani met warmly. They chatted, posed for the photos, and then SRK walked Rani to her car, held the door till she stepped in and waved as she sped away. Looks like no other Khan can shake up this dosti.
‘Every actress out there is more beautiful than me’ She’s one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood, with a face and figure to die for. But Jessica Alba is far from happy with the way she looks, claiming to be amongst the least attractive actresses in the industry. The stunning 29-year-old told a British magazine that ever since she had daughter Honor Marie, her looks aren’t what they used to be. She says, “My breasts are saggy, I’ve got cellulite, my hips are bigger... every actress out there is more beautiful than me.’’ Despite this apparent self-criticism, the actress didn’t hesitate to model a variety of sexy outfits for the magazine. From the video accompanying the interview, it’s clear that rather than looking plain, Jessica is more gorgeous than ever.
Sonam peeved with mentor Bhansali Sonam Kapoor, who was launched by Sanjay Leela Bhansali in ‘Saawariya’, is peeved with her mentor. In fact the Kapoor lass is going around town talking about the reasons that make her so angry at Bhansali. Sonam said, “He hasn’t watched one of my films since ‘Saawariya’. Not ‘Delhi 6’, not ‘I Hate Luv Storys’, not even ‘Aisha’, my home production, which I’m especially proud of. I invited him for a private screening but you know how he is. He’s so consumed by his new film ‘Guzaarish’ he can’t think of anything else.” So now the actress has decided to take all the DVDs to his home. “His opinion of me as an actress is important to me. Unless he says I’ve evolved I won’t fully believe it. But first, let him be done with ‘Guzaarish’,” she said.
‘I am a man and a woman’ Begum Nawazish Ali aka Ali Saleem, Pakistan’s well-known, cross-dressing, saucy TV show host, says she can defend herself easily in the ‘Bigg Boss 4’ house. The channel usually looks for people with a ‘troublemaker image’ for the show. Does she think she has that kind of image? “Not a troublemaker image, exactly, but yes, a slightly controversial image, considering I’m two aatmas in one body. I am a man and I am a woman, and I can be this and I can be that. I think that will keep the fun alive, because even I don’t know when I’m going to want to be the man and when I’m going to want to be the woman; that will depend on the mood inside the house. But as they say, variety is the spice of life, so this I promise – that I’m going to offer the viewers a lot of variety.”
-Fatima Zehra October 17 - 23, 2010 I 45
Glamstock
10 perfect perfumes for him & her Fragrances for the confident man who knows his mind
46 I October 17 - 23, 2010
Perfumes for the woman who doesn’t compromise
October 17 - 23, 2010 I 47
October 17- 23, 2010
THE ZODIAC AND EASTERN TAROT By Mariam Aftab AFTAB/CAPRICORN
WISAAL/TAURUS
The ambition card Dec 22 - Jan 21
The physical change card Apr21 - May21
Your spread shows that it is a good time to give your natural curiosity the week off. Remember that digging often accomplishes little more than just making a mess. Unexpected events are in the air. It may be necessary to visit the doctor or hospital. Stay calm and focused. A sports-related trip may be in your plans for this week. Home or family issues may be absorbing much of your attention right now. The lucky number for this week is three and colour of the week is Green.
You may be thinking about some of your longheld thought and feelings and might decide to try to improve things in important areas, including your important relationships. Even if you’re feeling somewhat uncertain, don’t be afraid to try to make a fresh start and get anything you might be thinking out. Luck is with you regarding domestic interests. Others will be impressed by your ideas. You will focus on your future life.
DUA/AQUARIUS
ASHIQ/GEMINI
The self-card
Jan 21 - Feb 19
This week is likely to be a week when you will find yourself re-evaluating some of your most important goals and expectations. You might also have to defend some issues concerning your money or personal possessions. And you could end up spending your money unwisely if you are not careful. You should be in the mood to put a great deal of effort into whatever it is you’re dong this week. You are bound to be very focused on your goals and will want to do that you can to pursue them. Colour of the week is Red.
The love card May 22 - Jun 21 You’re likely to start feeling a little clearer about some of your financial and professional goals right now and are probably feeling quite confident about your ability to accomplish them. You should be moving closer to some of your objectives and are bound to be developing a greater sense of your inner strength and resolve right now. Any raise or promotion you might be seeking may be awarded. It is a good time for you to start taking a more disciplined approach to your daily life. Colour of the week is White.
JAL/PISCES
IRTIQA/CANCER
The sensitivity card Feb 20 - Mar 20
The growth card
Your spread indicates that you might feel that others have been taking advantage of you in some way. But even if you’re right, don’t put yourself at a disadvantage by reacting emotionally. It would probably be best to just sit back, remain calm and try to distance yourself a bit from any troubling situation. Don’t overdo exercise or think you can achieve feats you’ve never done before. The lucky number for this week is five and colour of the week is Sky Blue.
Jun 22 - Jul 23
You may think about whether or not it was worth it to spend some money on travel plans. And you might want to think about doing a little research on some of the areas that really interest you. Try to take the opportunity to relax a bit at the end of the week because things are likely to start getting a little more hectic in the coming days. You should avoid being careless with valuable papers. Success is in finding ways to improve property.
FIZA/ARIES
QUWAT/LEO
The aura card Mar 21 - Apr 20
The strength card Jul 24 - Aug 23
In your spread all things are clear; home, family and domestic issues will bring more happiness and be more interesting. Health is super all week. Your ability to heal others is also very strong – especially after the mid-week. Love is happy and exciting. Week is good for finishing up projects and tying up loose ends. Focus on career; it is more important than money and status. Finances will get easier after two days. The best day of the week is Wednesday.
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The spread shows new ideas and contacts lift your confidence. Some of your friends or a relative may come forward to help you out even without your asking. Romance is in the air, so make the best of it. Avoid over-eating to keep good health. Increase in pressure from seniors at workplace and some discord at home ruin your thinking ability. Property sale will bring you good profits. You may succeed by conserving strength and money. The stone of the week is Sapphire.
Tel: +92 (42) 35751231, 35710452 Websites: www.mariamhealingcenter.com, www.innerstrengthhome.org
THEHRAO/VIRGO The patience card Aug 24 - Sep 23
Celebrity Couples & Compatibility David and Victoria Beckham
Your spread shows that you ought to be able to attract whatever you want fairly easily if you just put your mind to it. The only problem is that you might be enjoying yourself so much that you don’t really feel like working too hard at anything. You might find yourself experiencing a number of different emotions, but you may feel the need to keep your feelings hidden for now. It is a great time to make new friends. Social work is the key of the week.
SAHIR/LIBRA The magician card Sep 24 - Oct 23 People will be inclined to want to see the best in you right now, but just be careful that you don’t get carried away and try to push them too far. If you just focus your energies on doing the right thing, then support and admiration should be yours for the asking. Don’t make the mistake of allowing old guilt or fear to weigh you down. The past is gone so try to keep your eyes firmly fixed on future. You ought to be able to make some real progress when it comes to clearing up some internal issues that may have been troubling you.
INTISHAR/SCORPIO The confusion card Oct 24 - Nov 22 This is a brilliant week for taking career related decisions. Businessmen can expect new contracts and alliances. Investment should be done with proper care. At office you would be appreciated and supported by your colleagues for your past achievements. Outings and entertaining parties are favourable. An unexpected achievement or news from overseas will bring in happiness for you and the entire family. Calm is the key of the week
KISMET/SAGITTARIUS The luck card Nov 23 - Dec 21 Your spread indicates that you may be tempted to over-do things a bit right now. But if you can just remember to exercise a little discipline and selfrestraint, you should be able to get a number of things wrapped up this week. Some personal matters could be a little hard to figure out. Any new contact that you make in this week will probably be able to help you pursue some of your dreams or desires. Lucky number for this week is five and colour of the week is Navy Blue.
Victoria Beckham April 17, 1974 Essex, England 2:00 pm Sun Sign: Aries Moon Sign: Aquarius Accuracy of Celebrity birth info David Beckham May 2, 1975 London, England 9:30 am Sun Sign: Taurus Moon Sign: Aquarius From an astrological viewpoint this is a very interesting couple. They have a shared Moon in Aquarius and some nice aspects with Sun and Venus. David’s Sun is in sextile to both Victoria’s Venus and Jupiter, great aspects for compatibility. Victoria’s Venus is in conjunct to David’s Mars and also trine his Ascendant; both showing attraction. However, David’s Moon is square Victoria’s Sun, one of the worst compatibility aspects to have. To form an overall judgment, I studied both their composite chart and wedding chart. A relating theme of both Mars and Saturn connections was shown throughout all their charts. Such a repeating and strong pattern throughout all their charts is rare and very magical.
Ask the Expert: Mariam Aftab is a renowned healer offerings self-help courses and counselling services. Readers can send in their questions regarding any life problems at mariamhealingcenter@gmail.com Q: My name is Hassan and my date of birth is 7th October, can you suggest me a profession which is best for me? A: Librans are good in communications so any PR or Human Resorse is recommended,, spell your name with single “S”. b Aftaa Mariam
October 17 - 23, 2010 I 49
Dear AA, I am a 17- year- old teenager. I am leading a very satisfactory life but a major problem that I am facing these days is depression. I am in a very difficult situation as I don’t know how to get rid of this phase. I become quite irritated, I often feel that my world would come to an end and my existence is useless. I really want to feel happy again. Please help me. Depressed Dear Depressed, It shows very clearly from your question that you don’t know what you want in your life. One way of first finding out and identifying the major reason of your depression is to get acquainted with yourself. What you basically need is to write down all your thoughts daily. Whatever comes into your mind, pour it down on a piece of paper. This will give you clarity about the problems that you are facing. This would help you identify the major causes behind your depressive phase. Secondly, ask yourself certain questions, like what do you want in your life? Keep on asking yourself this question and you will get a clear answer. Another thing you can do is that whenever you feel depressed, instantly change your state. Get yourself involved in some work that you like doing, like reading a book or watching a movie, or talking to a friend. Go for a walk or do any other physical activity. It will instantly bring you out of that phase. Best of luck. Dear AA, I am having issues with my mother. She is making me marry a guy I don’t want to marry. I am only 21. Although she is my mother, her attitude towards me is that of a step mom. I tried to make her understand 50 I October 17 - 23, 2010
but she always ends up criticising me. Now I am in a big mess; I don’t want to marry that guy and she is forcing me to do so. Please give me a suggestion. Between the devil and the deep blue sea Dear Between the devil and the deep blue sea, Your problem indicates that there is a large communication gap between you and your mother. Since there have been many differences, it is quite possible that you don’t like that person because your mother has selected him for you. You didn’t mention whether you like someone else. My advice to you is that if you like someone, sit with your mom and talk to her about him in a very polite way and relaxed mood, with the hope that your mom will listen to you. After all she is your mother and she might have decided what she feels is best for you. Parents believe that whatever they are doing is in the best interest of their children as they always take you as a child and think you can’t decide on your own. By putting yourself in your mother’s shoes, and thinking about it from a mother’s perspective, you will get a better picture. It’s quite likely that your mother criticises you, may be because she wants to improve your personality. So, always take criticism in a healthy and constructive way. My advice for you is to judge the situation from a different angle and you will certainly see a different picture. It’s just like changing the shades of your glasses. I hope you have understood what I am telling you. Secondly, if there is no one in your life then you must at least meet that person. Maybe you’ll also start liking him. So don’t worry and best of luck.