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Volume 13 Issue 342 Shawaal *2, 1434 AH / August 9, 2013 - $1
Happy Eid ul Fitr to all our readers from the Miracle team and Advertisers. May Allah (SWT) accept our fasting and good deeds during the month of Ramadan and shower. His blessings on all. (Ameen)
from the Miracle team, advertisers to all Pakistani & Indo Canadians on August 14 and 15
MIRACLE’S EID & INDEPENDENCE DAY EDITION
Hon. Tom Muclair MP (Leader of the NDP Party of Canada) MP Jinny and MP Jasbir attended Iftar and met with Muslim Scholars and Community at the BCMA Surrey Jamea Masjid in Surrey, BC on August 3.
THE PENSION DOWNSIDE OF LIVING LONGER Canadians are living longer than ever before. Most of us would consider that good news. But longer lives could pose new funding risks for many pension plans and their members. The Canadian Institute of Actuaries has just released a new draft set of mortality tables that suggests that the average Canadian wom-
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an at age 60 can now look forward to another 29.4 years of life — an increase of 2.7 years over the old mortality tables. The average 60-year-old man can now expect an additional 2.9 years of life — up to an extra 27.3 years. According to Towers Watson, a major pension consulting firm, that creates a potential prob-
lem for the sponsors of defined benefit pension plans, which guarantee predetermined pension benefits for their members. If their plan members are now living longer, as the new mortality study suggests, then pension accounting liabilities could grow, forcing existing members to come up with
larger pension contributions. Towers Watson estimates that if the proposed new mortality tables are widely adopted, pension accounting liabilities for many plans could jump “immediately’ by five to 10 per cent. “This study highlights the risk that increasing life expectancy
Continued on pg 4
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A D V E R T I S E R
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P A K I S T A N
EID MUBARAK TO ALL MUSLIM UMMAH
Canada bans adoption of Pakistani children
TORONTO: Canada has stopped adoptions from Pakistan, citing a conflict with the Islamic law over adoption and guardianship.The abrupt move, which took effect in July, has left Canadian adoptive parents heartsick and religious leaders baffled. “I was shocked, upset and depressed,” says GTA resident Shafiq Rehman, who had been hoping with his wife to adopt a child from Pakistan. At issue, according to Citizenship and Immigration Canada, is the Islamic practice of kafala, or guardianship, which is common in most of the world’s 49 Muslim-majority countries like Pakistan. Shafiq Rehman and his wife, Rehmat Jahan, started the adoption process in 2011. A week after they got an approval letter this June from the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services confirming them as suitable candidates, Ottawa announced that it had stop accepting adoptions from Pakistan, as of July 2. Many other countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have raised no issue about kafala and are still open to adoptions from Pakistan. Canada has, in some or all provinces, suspended adoptions from Cambodia, Georgia, Guatemala, Liberia, Nepal and Haiti for various reasons. However, Pakistan is the only country banned due to kafala. Immigration spokesman Glenn Johnson said Canadian families seeking to adopt Pakistani children are required to obtain guardianship certificates from a Pakistani court and then subsequently formalize an adoption in Canadian courts. “However, legal and procedural requirements to obtain a guardianship certificate under Pakistan’s Guardians and Wards Act do not allow for subsequent adoption in the guardian’s country of residence,” Johnson explained in an email. “Pakistan applies the Islamic system of kafala, or guardianship, which neither terminates the birth parent-child relationship nor grants full parental rights to the new
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guardian. This means that there are further legal incompatibilities in accepting Canadian applications for adoption.” Michael Blugerman, one of the three licensed adoption agents in Ontario specializing in Pakistani adoptions, said the sudden move has caught parents off guard, some of whom were already halfway through the long process. “There are all kinds of families trapped along the path. Immigration’s explanation is inaccurate and misleading,” said Blugerman, who has been an adoption agent for 33 years and does about eight Pakistani cases a year. “Some of these parents have given up jobs, taken leave of absence to start the process abroad. It’s not the money, but their emotional investment into the process.” To qualify to adopt, a prospective parent must undergo a minimum 10-week home study, during which the applicant is assessed by a registered adoption practitioner if considered is a suitable candidate. The parent must complete a training course called PRIDE (Parental Resources for Information Development and Education) before the provincial children and youth services can issue an approval letter to a foreign adoption authority. With that letter in hand, a prospective parent must find a match, have it approved by the foreign authority and obtain a “letter of no objection” from the province of residence before Ottawa issues an immigration visa to the adopted child. Blugerman said an adoption from Pakistan typically takes three years from start to finish. Imam Yusuf Badat of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto said adoption is not only allowed but encouraged, as reflected in Prophet Muhammad’s well-known adoption of Zayd, an orphan boy. While kafala does create confusion in a few areas — such as inheritance and naming of the adopted child — Badat said those concerns can be easily addressed. Adoptive parents, for example, can write a bequest for the adopted child, who would otherwise not have inheritance rights, unlike biological children. And Badat said an adopted child can certainly take the adoptive parents’ last name as long as they do not “falsify or lie” about the adoption. “Adoption from Pakistan has been going on for decades. There has been no issue. I don’t see why it matters now. Why do they have to make it so complicated and deprive the children from the process?” asked Badat. “All these guidelines are not written in stone. Canada should make it easier, not more difficult, to adopt.” Source: Thestar.com
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
I N T E R N A T I O N A L
Western embassies shut amid security alert
The United States has temporarily closed 21 embassies and consulates in mostly Muslim countries, and several European states have shut embassies in Yemen over fears al-Qaeda was planning to launch attacks. The US closed its facilities on Sunday, after saying it had information that al-Qaeda and its allies may increase efforts to attack Western interests this month. The closures came as Interpol issued a global security alert after hundreds of inmates were set free in prison breaks linked to al-Qaeda, and suicide bombers killed nine near the Indian consulate in the Afghan city of Jalalabad. Lawmakers briefed on the intelligence called the threat reporting among the most serious they had seen in recent years. General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, said the specific locations and targets were not known, but “the intent is to attack Western, not just US interests”. Britain, Germany, France and the Netherlands said they would close their embassies in Yemen on Sunday and Monday for similar security reasons. Yemeni authorities said they were on a state of high alert. Canada also announced that it would close its mission in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka. The US has also issued a global travel alert to warn its citizens of potential “terrorist attacks”.
A heavy military presence was reported around the US and British embassies in Yemen’s capital Sanaa on Saturday, with numerous checkpoints. In London, the Foreign Office said that a number of staff at the British embassy had been withdrawn from Sanaa, particularly because of increased concerns in “the final days of Ramadan and into Eid”. France and Germany cited instability for their decisions in Yemen. In Washington DC, meanwhile, top US officials met to review the threat, with President Barack Obama briefed following the session. Interpol, in issuing its alert, said it suspected al-Qaeda was involved in recent jailbreaks across nine countries, including Iraq, Libya and Pakistan. The global police agency said the jailbreaks had “led to the escape of hundreds of terrorists and other criminals” in the past month alone. The alert calls on Interpol’s 190 member countries to help determine whether these events are coordinated or linked, the organisation said in a statement on Saturday. In Yemen, at least one person died and six others were wounded in clashes on Friday between soldiers once loyal to Ali Abdullah Saleh, Yemen’s toppled president, and a rival army faction in Sanaa, police and medical sources said. The friction added to rising tension in Yemen, which is increasing because of renewed drone attacks and security concerns. Hakim Almasmari, editor of the Yemen Post, told Al Jazeera that the country is at its most tense for a year. “[This is] mostly due to the lack of security presence in the government and because of drone strikes taking place this week,” he said. At least three have struck Yemen in the past seven days, killing 13 people including civilians, he said. “The timing of the strikes was very unfortunate” further compounding the impact on Yemeni people, Almasmari said, because they fell in the month of Ramadan and as President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi was on a trip to the US. “The threat of al-Qaeda is very strong right now,” he said. Source: Al-Jazeera
Rouhani urges West to abandon Iran sanctions
Iran’s new President Hassan Rouhani has told Western nations that the only way to interact with Iran is through dialogue and called on them to abandon the “language of sanctions” in dealing with the country’s uranium enrichment programme. Rouhani, a moderate cleric who won a landslide victory in the June 14 presidential elections, spoke after being sworn in as president in an open session of parliament on Sunday. “If you seek a suitable answer, speak to Iran through the language of respect, not through the language of sanctions,” the president said in a speech broadcast live by Iranian state television. After his inaugural address, the US said it was ready to cooperate with Rouhani’s government if it were serious about engagement. “The inauguration of President Rouhani presents an opportunity for Iran to act quickly to resolve the international community’s deep concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said in a statement. The statement added that if the new government would engage in serious discussions to find a peaceful solution to this issue, “it will find a willing partner in the US”. The West is hoping that Rouhani will take a more constructive approach in long-running talks on Tehran’s controversial nuclear drive, which despite Iranian denials is suspected by world powers of having military objectives. In Tehran,
Rouhani said his goal was to improve the livelihood of ordinary Iranians whom he acknowledged were under “a lot of economic pressure” because of tough US and EU sanctions over Iran’s refusal to stop uranium enrichment. “The people want to live better, to have dignity and to enjoy a stable life. They want to regain their deserved position among nations,” said Rouhani, who has promised above all else to stick to the path of moderation. Rouhani, who formally took office on Saturday, presented parliament with his male-dominated cabinet line-up after his address the next day, choosing mostly experienced technocrats. Officially, he had two weeks from Sunday to name his cabinet, the political breadth of which is seen as a testament to his priorities. The conservative-dominated parliament now has 10 days to review the nominations, but media reports say MPs are keen to start voting within a week or less. Rouhani has appointed Mohammad Nahavandian, a US-educated Green Card residency holder, as his chief of staff. He is expected to play a leading role in coordinating Rouhani’s economic policies. Other key nominees were veteran retired diplomat Mohammad Javad Zarif as foreign minister and ex-oil minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh, for the same portfolio again. Source: Al-Jazeera
PENSION : Continued from pg 1 can pose for [defined benefit] plan sponsors,” said Gavin Benjamin, a senior retirement consultant at Towers Watson. “Just as sponsors were beginning to see a reduction in their pension deficits due to improvements in the global equity markets and rising interest rates this year, the increase in life expectancy suggested by the [Canadian Institute of Actuaries] study could reverse much of this gain.” It’s not just defined benefit plans that are affected by longer lifespans, Towers Watson warns. Employees who are members of defined contribution (DC) pension plans may need to save more or work longer if they expect to live an extra two or three years more. Life
annuity payouts, for instance, depend on prevailing long-term interest rates, age, gender, as well as longevity expectations. Longer expected lives mean a smaller monthly payout, all other things being equal. The actuarial study also found that workers in the public sector generally enjoyed a higher overall life expectancy than workers in the private sector. “While this may be good news for public sector employees and pensioners who are largely covered by [defined benefit] plans, there will be financial implications to consider,” said Benjamin. Source: CBC News
Egypt ends jail terms for insulting president A decree issued by Egypt’s interim head of state means people no longer face jail for insulting the president, after a surge in such cases under deposed leader Mohamed Morsi. The legal change by interim president Adly Mansour was welcomed by activists, who had voiced concern over the high number of investigations during Morsi’s one-year rule, which ended when he was toppled by the military on July 3. But Human Rights Watch said the Monday decree did not go far enough, arguing that insulting the president “should not be an offence in the first place”. Several Egyptians were investigated for insulting Morsi during his brief term in office, fuelling fears that he was trying to crush freedoms won in the 2011 uprising that ousted veteran autocrat Hosni Mubarak. The most high-profile case was that of Bassem Youssef, a popular comedian, who regularly poked fun at Morsi. The prosecutor general ordered Youssef’s arrest in March, drawing criticism from Washington, but he was eventually released on bail. The army removed Morsi from power following mass protests against his rule and replaced him with Mansour, the head of the Supreme Constitutional Court. Under the decree, those found guilty of insulting the president face a fine of up to 30,000 Egyptian pounds ($4,300). Under the previous law, they could be jailed for up to three years. “We were hoping [such cases could be dealt with] through civil litigation and compensation, not fines, but it is still a good step,” said Gamal Eid, a veteran human rights lawyer. “We are against imprisonment and we prefer no criminal courts for publishing crimes.” He added the 28 cases of “insulting the president” brought during Morsi’s year in office compared with a total of 24 cases over the 115 years that preceded his election win last June. Many of the cases were brought by private citizens sympathetic to Morsi and his Muslim Brotherhood. The Egypt director at Human Rights Watch, Heba Morayef, called on the interim leadership to go further. “This amendment, while a general step in the right direction, doesn’t go anywhere near far enough, because it doesn’t address the multiple provisions in the penal code that limit freedom of expression,” she told the Reuters news agency. Source: Al-Jazeera
Syrian coalition urges UN to probe mass abuse
Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad has described the main opposition National Coalition as a “failure”, adding that it can have no role in ending the country’s war. Syria’s crisis will only be solved by stamping out “terror”, Assad said on Sunday, in reference to rebels fighting his regime. “This opposition is not reliable, it is a failure at the popular and moral levels, and it has no role in solving the crisis, because it only seeks to make gains,” Assad said in a rare speech televised on Syrian state TV. In the remarks given after a dinner marking the holiest day in the month of Ramadan, Assad said any efforts towards a political solution should be combined with continued military operations. “There cannot be any political efforts or political progress if terror is striking everywhere. Therefore terror must be struck in order to get the political process moving on the right track,” the president said. “That does not mean that there cannot be parallel tracks. There is no reason why we shouldn’t strike terror while at the same time working politically,” he added. “I don’t think that any sane human being would think that terrorism can be dealt with via politics.” In March 2011, a widespread peaceful protest movement calling for political change in Syria emerged. In response, the government attempted to crush the dissent by force. The movement later turned violent with armed rebels fighting Syrian government troops. More than 100,000 people on both sides have been killed, according to the UN. The war has also forced millions to flee their homes, while plunging Syria into an unprecedented economic crisis. In his latest speech, Assad also said Syria’s economic woes “are linked to the security situation, and they can only be solved by striking terror”. Meanwhile, the president stressed the need for the army to fight on against the rebellion. “It is true that there is a battle being fought in the media and on [the internet], but the crisis will only be solved on the battlefield,” Assad said in his 45-minute address. Assad’s comments come amid faltering efforts to push forward a US-Russian proposal for peace talks dubbed Geneva 2, which would see regime representatives and the opposition gathering for negotiations. The Syrian president accused the Coalition of “being on the payroll of more than one Gulf country”, and of “blaming the [Syrian] state for terrorism rather than blaming the armed men”, or rebels. Source: Al-Jazeera
5 I N T E R N A T I O N A L Israel expands West Bank settlement subsidies Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
The Israeli cabinet has voted to expand the list of illegal West Bank settlements eligible for government subsidies, just days after the resumption of talks with the Palestinian Authority in which settlements are a major issue. Ministers on Sunday approved a new “national priority map,” a list of poor communities earmarked for housing subsidies and other benefits. Included on the list are 91 settlements in the occupied West Bank, up from 85 on the previous version. Many of them are in areas which would almost certainly be evacuated by Israel in a deal with the Palestinians. Three of the newlyadded settlements - Rehelim, Sansana and Bruchin - were until recently considered “illegal outposts,” which means they were
built without government approval. Their status was normalised last year by a cabinet vote. Israeli settlements are illegal under international law, and the United Nations and much of the world treats them as such. The vote comes just days after Palestinian and Israeli negotiators flew to Washington for their first face-to-face meeting in three years. Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, said the cabinet vote affirmed Palestinian suspicions about Israel’s motivations. “This is exactly what Israel wants, have a process for its own sake, and at the same time have a free hand to destroy the objective of the process,” she said. “This will have a destructive impact [on the talks].” Mark Regev, spokesman for the
Israeli government, said the government would have to grant additional approval for any subsidies to the settlements. Four Israeli ministers abstained from the vote, including Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, who is also the lead negotiator with the Palestinian Authority. “I don’t think it is the time diplomatically, or from a socioeconomic point of view,to include new settlements that until recently were illegal,” said environment minister Amir Peretz, who also abstained. Some of the newly-listed settlements are political strongholds of the Jewish Home party, a member of the governing coalition which is opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state. Source: Al-Jazeera
Afghan civilian casualty numbers jump by quarter in first half of 2013
The number of civilians killed and injured in Afghanistan rose by a quarter in the first six months of this year, with a sharp rise in the toll on women and children, according to a UN report published as NATO troops continue their departure from the country. Homemade Taliban landmines are still the deadliest threat to ordinary Afghans, and the insurgents caused around three-quarters of all recorded civilian losses and injuries, said the UN in a report that charts rising violence in the wake of NATO troops’ accelerating departure from the country. But there was a sharp increase in civilians harmed in ground battles between Afghan government troops and insurgents, the second leading cause of casualties and a worrying new trend as fighting intensifies and insecurity spreads. “Civilians again increasingly bore the brunt of the armed conflict in Afghanistan in early 2013,” the report warned. “[They] experienced the grim reality of rising civilian deaths and injuries coupled with pervasive violence which threatened the lives, livelihood and wellbeing of thousands of Afghans. “More armed groups, roads blocked
by checkpoints or lined with IEDs [improvised explosive devices], increased harassment and intimidation and not enough protection from Afghan National Security Forces in some areas led to increasing harm to civilians. Anti-government elements [insurgents] continued to deliberately kill, injure, threaten and intimidate civilians with impunity.” Overall, 1,319 civilians were killed and a further 2,533 injured between January and June – numbers close to a record casualties in the same period in 2011, and reversing a decline last year. The conflict increasingly harmed women and children. In the first six months of 2013, conflict related violence killed 106 women and injured 241 (347 casualties), a 61% increase from the same period in 2012. Between 1 January and 30 June, UNAMA documented 760 (231 deaths and 529 injuries) child casualties, representing a 30% increase from 2012. Targeted killings by insurgents increased by around a third, with more than 400 people killed and injured, and assaults on government workers and buildings also rose fast. “Deliberate attacks on civilians including civilian government officials are prohibited at all times and may amount to war crimes,” the UN report said, highlighting assaults on courtrooms and mullahs carrying out funeral services for members of the security forces killed in action among several potential violations. The departure
of NATO combat troops, who are all due home by the end of 2014, appears to have prompted heavy fighting in some of the areas they have left as insurgents and government forces push “to secure or regain territory” for the long term, the UN said. “The increase in civilian casualties from ground engagements may also be linked to the escalated pace of transition or closure of military bases in 2013, combined with the scaling back of international military operations,” the report said. The subsequent fighting, often after Taliban attacks on government forces or outposts, was responsible for a quarter of all recorded deaths and injuries. Civilian deaths directly at the hands of government forces and their foreign backers fell slightly. But a big increase in injuries meant that overall civilian casualties by progovernment troops also rose in the first half of the year, the UN said. One concern is an increase in deaths and injuries of Afghans from unexploded weapons at former NATO bases and firing ranges that have been closed but not fully cleared, or sites where there have been ground fighting in the past. More than 40 people have been killed and the UN warned it may be under-reporting these casualties. “The need to clear ERW [explosive remains of war] from firing ranges prior to base closure is of particular urgency,” the report said. “Considering that Afghan children tend to collect scrap metal for money,
any scrap metal remaining in these areas poses a high risk.” Deaths and injuries caused by Afghan local police, and foreignfunded militia groups – formed to protect their home areas against the Taliban – also rose by nearly two-thirds from 2012 levels. Human rights activists have long called for greater government controls on the semiinformal but locally powerful groups, and the UN report documented crimes including “murder, torture, rape, threats, intimidation, harassment, forced labour, extortion and illegal taxation”. The bleak outlook for Afghan civilians is made worse by the lack of an official body to investigate allegations of casualties, said the report. “Despite Afghan forces leading almost all military operations countrywide, a permanent structure does not exist in relevant ANSF [Afghan National Security Forces] bodies to systematically investigate allegations of civilian casualties, initiate remedial measures and take follow-up action.” The report called on the Kabul government to set one up immediately, and also warned that NATO needs to keep a mechanism for investigating civilian casualties after 2014. Foreign forces are expected to stay on under a NATO mission to train and advise Afghan forces, and the UN also called on them to boost Afghan abilities to detect and destroy the Taliban’s deadly landmines. Source: The Guardian
If demands met, India could have over 50 states Indian federalism could take a shape unparalleled in the world if all demands for separate statehood are conceded. The country could well have 50 states in place of the current 28 given the number of representations made to the home ministry for separate statehood. The ministry of home affairs (MHA) has received representations from different political groups across the country for creation of more than 20 states. Most of these demands, including one from the BSP-led UP government, had come to the ministry before the announcement on the creation of a separate Telangana state. The announcement has given a new lease of life to these demands as is visible in Assam and West Bengal where riots have broken out over the issue. The demands for separate states have come from across the country — for Kukiland in Manipur to Kongu Nadu in Tamil Nadu, for Kamatapur in North Bengal to Tulu Nadu in Karnataka. However, except Uttar Pradesh, where the previous Mayawati-led BSP government had proposed to create four states dividing
the country’s most populous state, no state government has given any recommendation for carving out a new state. But the demands continue to pour in. “The demands for creation of separate states were received by the home ministry through representations from various organizations or individuals over the years,” a ministry official said. In Uttar Pradesh, there have been demands for Awadh Pradesh, Poorvanchal, Bundelkhand and Pachimanchal or Harit Pradesh. There is also demand for creation of a Braj Pradesh, consisting of Agra division and Aligarh division of Uttar Pradesh and districts of Bharatpur and Gwalior from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. A demand for creation of Bhojpur comprising areas of eastern UP, Bihar and Chhattisgarh has also been received by the home ministry. There has been an old demand for creation of a separate Vidarbha by carving out the Vidarbha region from Maharashtra. A violent movement in Bengal and Assam has been simmering for long for Kamtapur. The Separate State Demands Committee for Kamta-
pur demands Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur and Malda districts of Bengal and 11 districts of Assam, including Dhubri, Bongaigaon and Kokrajhar for their new state. Problems would aggravate in Assam where several groups are likely to step up their statehood demand. The armed agitation for Bodoland that petered out after an agreement for Bodoland Territorial Council between the Centre, Assam and Bodo Liberation Tigers
is already showing signs of revival with demands for a separate state of Bodoland gaining ground. The demand for an autonomous state in Karbi Anglong including tribal areas in the hills of Assam has already seen widespread violence in the state. The Dimasa people of Assam, too, have been demanding a state including Dima Hasao, Cachar, parts of Nagaon and Karbi Anglong of Assam and part of Dimapur in Nagaland. Source: Times of India
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E D I T O R I A L
WHAT DOES EID UL FITR TEACH US?
The end of Ramadan is followed by the month of Shawaal which gives the gift of Eid ul Fitr to the Muslims. Having attained the wealth of Taqwa and spiritual correctness during the daily dawn to dusk “Fasting Work Out” of Ramadan, many practising Muslims fortunately manage to be successful in becoming self disciplined. The positive change makes them feel at peace; immediately next thing for them happens to be the most exciting festivity of Eid-ul-Fitr. In other words, upon successful completion of the month of Ramadan, the Eid day, in fact is a ‘Thanksgiving Day’ for having gone through a tough exercise towards “self-purification.” Allah o Akber. The noble Qur’an has clearly expressed the act of Fasting as a blessing and not a calamity: “Allah desires ease for you, not your discomfort. He desires you to fast the entire month, and that you may magnify Him for giving you His guidance, and that you may give thanks.” (Al-Baqarah 2:185). Among other essential elements is paying Zakat (wealth tax) and Fitra to minimize the harsh impact of any prevailing misfortune, hunger or widespread poverty. Therefore, when it comes to this religious obligation, the Muslims are duty bound to help out the needy people before the Eid Prayer. Charity: The Muslims are required to pay Zakat based on their wealth and financial ability. It consists of spending 2.5% of one’s wealth for the benefit of the needy people. The
good thing is paying Zakat is considered to be the personal responsibility of all Muslims to eliminate inequality and ease economic hardship of others for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa taalaa. Charity in the form of fitra (fitrana) is obligatory at the end of the Fasting month before the Eid prayer. This again means the real happiness of “EID” lies in sharing our happiness with “the have nots.” Furthermore, while meditating and prostrating in congregation to God Almighty, the Muslim Ummah actually displays its real spirit of brotherhood and equality. So, on this happy occasion, we should always remember those who are afflicted with poverty, ignorance, disease, or are otherwise less fortunate. The other beauty is Muslims on this very day are encouraged to erase their grudges or differences if any with others that might have occurred during the year. Eid day schedule: After offering the regular Salat ul Fajr (the pre-sunrise prayer), the Muslims head out shortly after the sun-rise to perform the obligatory prayer in congregation (slaat ul Eid) in open areas, community centres, or at masajid in some cases. However, the important thing is Eid prayer is followed by special Khutba (Sermon) and supplication asking for God’s forgiveness, mercy, peace and blessings for all living beings across the world. The Imam delivers khutba explaining to the Muslims about performing
rituals of Eid, such as the compulsory Zakat or Sadaqat ul Fitr. It’s extremely important to listen to the obligatory Eid Khutba as well. The Muslims are encouraged to stay away from worldly desires; they are advised to focus entirely on pleasing and thanking Allah for His merciful blessings. Indeed, it is a rejuvenation of the Deen of Islam, which creates stronger bonds between the Muslim person and his/ her Lord. Right after the Khutba is over, Muslims hug each other wishing Eid Mubarak, and then they visit their relatives and friends. Also, The Eid gifts, known as Eidie, are frequently given on this precious occasion to children and immediate relatives. Children receive gifts in cash or kind; sweets and tasty dishes are served throughout the day. Altogether, the caring Muslims donate money generously; they contribute to their local food banks for the less fortunate. Beyond doubt, Eid is an opportunity for Muslims of different ethnic or cultural background to share together for prayers and celebrations. Usually, the Canadian Muslims take time off from work to join prayers held in big-city mosques or Islamic centres, convention centres or sport grounds. In the larger cities of Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa, congregational prayers may be offered at multiple times to accommodate the large number of worshipers.
In many Canadian communities, Muslim organizations and mosques also hold large Eid parties that are open to the entire Muslim community. Smaller Muslim communities, particularly in the rural areas, hold other communal gatherings in masajid or rented community halls. Some groups reserve other activity centres for the full day of fun and celebration, while others may hold public Eid parties in mosques as a means of OUTREACH to the nonMuslim society. After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually make long distance phone calls to greet dear ones. The festival is aimed at promoting peace, strengthening the feeling of brotherhood and enabling the Muslims to move on with their lives normally as a refined Umma in the eyes of our Creator. Hence, the Eid and its celebration in Islam carry a distinctive meaning and spirit as they are totally different from the celebrations in non Muslim communities. It’s commonly seen that holiday for non Muslims is a chance to indulge in worldly pleasures, or involve oneself sinfully or immorally and unlawfully. But for Muslims, there is zero tolerance in the eyes of Allah subhanahu wa talaa for committing forbidden acts, In nutshell, the `EID’ is an occasion to increasingly go for good deeds only. The ‘EID’ doesn’t give an automatic ticket to take a vacation from Islamic responsibilities, and no wasting of time and money is permitted either, simply because
Letters & Opinions
Iftar is a time for family and community
Canadians from all backgrounds and faiths. As I have said before, Canada is great not in spite of its diversity, but because of its diversity. I wish you all much peace and happiness during this Justin Trudeau, M.P. (Leader of the Liberal Party of holy month of Ramadan. Canada) Last week, I travelled through British Columbia with my family. During our visit, I was honoured to attend Iftar – a breaking of the fast meal during the holy month of Ramadan – in Surrey. Iftar is a time for family and community. Ramadan By: Bilal Cheema Surrey too, though, is a special occasion July 24th marked a historic day for loved ones and friends, and in the story of Muslims in British teaches us to give thanks for our Columbia; Surrey in particular. many blessings. Here in Canada, MP Justin Trudeau, Leader of the we are able to share these ex- Liberal Party of Canada (LPC) periences by coming together visited the Surrey Jamea Mosque in the sharing of a wonderful to breakfast and have dinner with meal. The sense of togetherness the Muslim congregation. Surwas truly uplifting, and I was prisingly, to everyone’s delight, so happy to break Iftar with the he joined the congregation for Muslim community in B.C. As Maghrib salah. He may not be a we gathered to break the fast of Muslim, but his respect for our Ramadan, it was comforting to Deen and Iman was very well know that Muslims all around apparent. Following the kind inthe world were joined in deep troduction, he spoke eloquently spiritual reflection. Underlying about the similarities between Ramadan are the values of em- principles espoused by Islam and pathy, generosity and discipline. the ideals and true characteristics These are principles upon which of Canada as a nation. Through Canada is founded. During my his words, Justin reiterated his travels across this beautiful believe and those of his late facountry, I am so proud to meet ther, Prime Minister Pierre El-
MP Justin Trudeau visits in Surrey Masjid
liott Trudeau that immigrants, Muslims included are true nation builders that have much to contribute to Canada; they are not just units of production, a reference to the current Conservative government’s approach to immigration. The love for Justin’s late father was well on display, as references to brothers and sisters having the opportunity to meet the former late Prime Minister at some point in the past were heard through the evening. Justin engaged in conversation where he could, all the while being called out for pictures from the packed house. He kindly posed for every last picture asked of him. Justin Trudeau, through his actions, proved he is different than other political leaders. He chose the Surrey Mosque, the heartbeat of the Muslim community in Surrey and the Fraser Valley as his first place of worship to visit. That speaks volumes of his sincerity. This follows an event the week before where he attended an Iftar with Muslims in Ontario under ISNA Canada’s umbrella. I have heard from Muslims across the country who have witnessed Justin visiting with Muslims and showing up at Mosques to connect with Muslims. We, as Muslims, usually have to wait
until the writ period to hear from our political leaders. It was refreshing to see a politician of his level breaking fast and engaging with brothers and sisters two years out from the next election and during our Mubarak month. A huge thank you to the Surrey Jamea Masjid Committee (including our Imams) and the leadership of the British Columbia Muslim Association for considering, accepting and dedicating their efforts to every last detail. The event was an enormous success. We have an opportunity to define ourselves as Muslims, not simply through words, but by our actions. We accomplished that and may this event represent the beginning (and to some the continued evolution) of our collective political engagement. IMPORTANT NOTE: Letters to the editor do not reflect the opinion of the Miracle media group. We do not publish anonymous letters or the letters of the people who do not disclose their identity to ‘The Miracle.’ A writer can use a pen name or request ‘The Miracle’ to withhold his / her identity. Please include your daytime telephone number for the confirmation of your letter. We regret the inconvenience.
our obedience and submission to the will of Allah cannot be compromised under any circumstance. Furthermore, the ‘EID’ is a chance to multiply good deeds by bringing happiness and pleasure to the hearts of other Muslims, by devoting for the sake of Allah SWT. Most importantly, it’s the spirit of thanksgiving that make the Muslim Umma stronger all over the globe for the accomplishment of an act of dedication and submission to the total will of Allah, the Almighty. Waan laysa lil insani illa ma’ sa’aa That man can have nothing but what he strives for.
Meralce Media Group Inc.
Contact Info Mailing and O ce Address 9160-136A Street Surrey BC. V3V 7Z8 Canada Fax: 604-582-7809 Founder: Nusrat Hussain Managing Editor: M. Naseer Pirzada Sub- Editors: Khadija, Misbah & Sabeeh Hon. Chief Editor & Urdu Editor Mohammad Rafiq Advertising: info@miraclenews.com Ph: 604-690-0400 Email: naseer@telus.net Editorial Board: Mr, Shums Jillani, Mr aslam Hayat, Mr.Azhar Syed, Mr. Shams Siddiqui, M.A.L. Naumani, Mr Tariq Mian Graphic Design: Design Team Copyright: 2001 Miracle Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in Canada Attention: The opinions express herein contain positions and view points that are not necessary those of The M iracle . These are o ered as a means for The M iracle to stimulate dialogue and discussion in our continuing mission of Bringing Harmony To All The Communities.
CONTENTS Editorial & Letters Int. News Local Politics Faith Articles Special Special Lifestyle Health Sports Urdu
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F A I T H Narrated Sahl: The Prophet said, “There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe fasts will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who used to observe fasts?’ They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it.”
End of Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr
The end of Ramadan is marked by all Muslims going to Morning Prayer services and then the Islamic Holiday Eid Al-Fitr begins. The Night Preceding Eid Al-Fitr The night before Eid al-Fitr is regarded as a very blessed night and Muslims believe that it should be spent in nafl (voluntary) salat (prayers) and worship. There will be no taraweeh prayers on this last night of Ramadan, but a devout Muslim will spend the night in prayer, remembrance of Allah and reading the Quran. Before the Eid al-Fitr salat, Mulsims will be sure to pay the “Sadakah Al-Fitr.” This is money due to the poor and the needy. Every Muslim must pay this, even the poor. Sadakah al-Fitr is a fairly small amount of money equal to 1.75 kilograms of wheat for every person in the family. On this topic, Ibn ‘Umar said, “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, made zakat al-Fitr obligatory for the Muslims - slave and free, male and female, young and old, being a sa’ of dates or a sa’ of barley. He commanded that it be paid before people went out to the prayer.” (Muwatta, Book 17, 52) Preparing to go to Eid Al Fitr Salat The morning of Eid al-Fitr, it is considered sunnah (consistent with the ways of the prophet) to perform certain acts in preparation of thanking Allah for a blessed Ramadan. These acts include:
•Wake up early in the morning and take a bath. •Brush the teeth with a Miswak or a toothbrush. •Wear the best available clothes. •Wear perfume (men only.) •Eat a few dates before the Eid prayer. •Recite the following Takbir in the low voice while going to the ‘Eid prayer: “Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar La Ilaha Ila Allah Wa Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar Wa Lillahi Alhamd.” Eid Al-Fitr Salat (Prayers) In Islam, the Eid prayers should be performed in an open field or area if possible. It is not recommended to conduct Eid prayers in every single mosque. It is said to be a time for Muslims to celebrate Eid together in large gatherings. If a large field or park is not available, then a large mosque will suffice. The Eid prayer is mandatory for every male Muslim. Muslim women must attend Eid prayers if there are no emergency situations in the home, such as issues involving small children or sick and elderly parents that require assistance or tending. The Eid prayer should be attended and prior to the prayer takbir should be recited:”Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar La Ilaha Ila Allah Wa Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar Wa Lillahi Alhamd.” When not reciting the takbir (above), saying zikr (remembrance of Allah) is recommended. No nafl salat (voluntary prayers) are recited in the home prior to or after the salat; Muslims may recite nafl salat in the home after returning from the Eid prayers. The Eid prayer is distinct from other Muslim prayers. The Imam will lead the salat
(prayers) and there will be six sets of takbirs (Allah Akbar). Three of the takbirs will be in the beginning of the salat. After each takbir, the hands are raised to the ears. At the beginning of the second rakat, after the Imam or sheik recites the Fatiha and something from the Quran, an additional three takbirs are recited. Some mosques will do all six takbirs at once at the beginning of the salat and then proceed with the prayer. The Eid Prayer Khutbah (Sermon) The Khutbah itself is regarded as an inspirational event and it involves praising Allah. Muslims should listen intensely and reverently to what the Imam has to say. It is regarded as a time to remember Allah’s blessings and to be thankful to be present in such an assembly. Muslims should not leave the Eid prayer early hoping to avoid the crowds; they should stay until after the final dua is said; then, it’s customary to greet everyone in the room with a congratulations or “Ramadan Mubarak.” Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations Begin at the End of Ramadan Islamic holidays and celebrations are unlike Christian or Jew celebrations. In a non-Islamic situation, there may be partying, dancing, music and singing – this is not so in a Muslim community. Muslims will visit friends and relatives, drink Arabic coffee, chat, hug each other, and then praise Allah for His bounty at the end of Ramadan. It is normal for Muslim families to make the rounds, visiting each home for a brief period of time. It is considered inappropriate to refuse Arabic coffee when offered. Wishing a blessed Eid Ul Fitr to the whole Islamic Ummah.
Letters & Opinions ‘JOB WELL DONE’
‘EID MUBARAK HAPPY EID’. By: Gulshan Alani The celebration of EID following the Ramadaan fasting of 29/30 days, is the feast of the ‘job well done’, celebrated and enjoyed with the family, friends, and the community sharing delicious food and gifts. Most deserved by the fasting people the believers and the worshipers of One Creator GOD. Fasting has the health and spiritual benefits, obviously as it is prescribed by the Creator of the mankind and knower of all that is hidden and open (Q39.46). It purifies physically and mentally and is one of the instruments of purification of the mind body and soul as well as it expiates the sins of the Believers by the powerful Creator GOD, and not the human gods who themselves are created by HIM, born from the wombs of the Mothers and possess no power of forgiving sins or giving the permit to enter any of the
7 Gates of Paradise. Any man who is born from the womb of HIS Mother cannot be GOD, confirmed by the Holy Scriptures. Quran: 35: 31- “-We have revealed to thee of the Book is the Truth, confirming what was revealed before it-”. 39: 23- “--God has revealed from time to time--repeating its teaching in various aspects--”. Obeying HIS commands, is proving to be an obedient, faithful servant of GOD, whose faith is in ‘One’ and only One the Creator who created the whole Universe, including the Angels, man and Jinn: who has no partner in HIS business, and no man is in between man and HIM, as HE has a direct connecting line to approach HIM, and so the most important aspect is praying to HIM only and becoming a worthy of HIS mercy. HIS mercy is apparent in giving the stamina and courage to fast for 29/30 days, which miraculously becomes easiest and bearable that one doesn’t even feel hungry or thirsty, which is the ‘sign’ of ‘Faith’ in HIM. Full faith in HIM can even move
the Mountains. So it is not wise to waste the precious time but to believe in HIM the true GOD our Owner and savior who is invisible and has no gender ID. Quran: 29: 43- “What! Do they take for intercessors others besides GOD? Even if they have no power whatsoever and no intelligence?” 29: 41- “The parable of those who take protectors other than GOD is that of the Spider, who builds (to itself) a house; but truly the flimsiest of houses is the Spider’s house---”. Consequently, prayers, and any kind of supplications, bowing and prostrating should be made to HIM only and not to any human gods, pictures, books, statues, or Darghas/Graves of dead Saints etc, which is made forbidden by HIM (Ref. Bible and Quran), as such practices leads to the void of prayers and religion: also leads to the unethical and violent actions. One of the most forbidden action is to kill the innocents or destroy the properties of others, especially by the socalled (fake) Muslims who are antiIslam and not following the Sharia/Divine law..
Congratulating One Another People may exchange congratulations and good greetings on Eid, no matter what form the words take. For example they may say to one another, “Taqabbal Allaahu minnaa wa minkum (May Allaah accept [the fast and worship] from us and from you” or “Eid mubarak’ ‘ and other similar permissible greetings. Jubayr ibn Nufayr said: “At the time of the Prophet (££), when people met one another on the day of Eid , they would say, ‘Taqabbal Allaahu minnaa wa minka (May Allaah accept from us and from you).’ “ (Ibn Hajar. Its isnaad is hasan. Fath, 2/446) The practice of exchanging greetings was well-known at the time of the Sahaabah and scholars such as Imaam Ahmad and others allowed it. There are reports which indicate that it is permissible to congratulate people on special occasions. The Sahaabah used to congratulate one another when something good happened, such as when Allaah accepted a person’s repentance and so on. There is no doubt that congratulating others in this way is one of the noblest kinds of good manners and one of the highest social qualities among Muslims. At the very least, one can return Eid greetings when they are given to you, and remain silent if nothing is said, as Imaam Ahmad (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: “If someone congratulates me, I return the greeting, but I do not initiate it.’ ‘
Zakat al Fitr Zakat al Fitr is an obligatory charity on every Muslim at the end of the month of Ramadan. Ibn `Umar said: “The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, enjoined the payment of one Sa’a of dates or one Sa’a of barley as Zakat al-Fitr on every Muslim, young and old, male and female, free and slave.” (Related by al-Bukhari and Muslim) The purpose of Zakat al-Fitr is to purify the one who has fasted from any type of indecent act or speech he might have committed while fasting. It also helps the poor and the needy. Ibn Abbas said: “The Messanger of Allah, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, enjoined Zakat alFitr on the one who fasts to shield him from any indecent act or speech and for the purpose of providing food for the needy.” (Related by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah.) The Amount of Zakat al-Fitr As the first hadeeth indicated, the amout of Zakat al-Fitr is one Sa’a. Sa’a is a volume measure correspoding approximately to the volume of 5 lb of good wheat. The material of the Zakat can be either dates, barley, wheat, rice, corn or similar items considered as basic foods. Abu Saeed said: “We used to give for Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of every child, aged person, free man or slave during the lifetime of the Messanger of Allah,sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, one Sa’a of food, or one Sa’a of dried yogurt, or one Sa’a of barley, or one Sa’a of dates, or one Sa’a of raisins.” (Related by al-Bukhari and Muslim.) The Time for Zakat al-Fitr Zakat al-Fitr has to be paid by the end of Ramadhan. There are two times to pay Zakat al-Fitr. Either one or two days before Eid as ‘Umar used to do, or the day of Eid before the Eid prayer. Ibn `Umar reported that the Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, ordered them to pay Zakat al-Fitr before they go out to perform the Eid prayer. If Zakat al-Fitr is paid after the Eid prayer, it will only be considered as regular charity. The Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, said: “If one pays Zakat al-Fitr before the Salat, it is considered an accepted Zakat, if he pays it after the Salat, it is considered an ordinary charity.” (Related by Abu Dawud.) Zakat al-Fitr is to be given to the same eight categories or people as in the other types of Zakat. Some scholars say that the poor and the nedy are the most deserving ones since the Prophet, sallaallahu `alayhe wa sallam, said that it had “...the purpose of providing food for the needy.”
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Eid k a r a b u M
Your New Democrat Official Opposition MLAs and MPs invite you and your family to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr at our
Eid Open House Wednesday, August 14th5R5j7m*' Strawberry Hill Hall 12252 75A Ave, Surrey Light Halal snacks & refreshments will be served.
MLA
Harry Bains
Surrey-Newton 604-597-8248 harry.bains.mla@leg.bc.ca
MLA
MLA
MP
MP
Sue Bruce Hammell Ralston Surrey-Green Timbers
Surrey-Whalley
Jasbir Sandhu
Jinny Sims
Surrey-North
Newton-North Delta
604-590-5868 sue.hammell.mla@leg.bc.ca
604-586-2740 bruce.ralston.mla@leg.bc.ca
604-589-2441 jasbir.sandhu@parl.gc.ca
604-598-2200 jinny.sims@parl.gc.ca
The BC Muslim Association In the Name of Allah the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful. Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatahu. Alhamdulillah, once again This blessed month offers the blessed month of Rama- all of us the greatest oppor- Ensure you and all your dan has arrived providing us tunity to do righteous acts family join in the Iftaars with another opportunity to and deeds that will lead us being served at your local better ourselves as Muslims. on the path to Paradise. The Masjid. You can contribute This is a month full of bless- goal is to purify our souls to the Iftaar program by ings, mercy and forgiveness. and to cultivate healthy hab- contacting your local MasRamadan is the perfect time its which, Insha Allah, will jid representative. If you to renew our faith, cleanse make us better Muslims. It are planning to do Ittikaaf our hearts and come clos- provides us with the oppor- during the last 10 days of er to Allah Subhanhu wa tunity to advocate peace, Ramadan, please reserve a Ta’ala. unity and understanding of spot at your local Masjid.. “O you who believe! Fast- not only our fellow Mus- I also humbly request all ing is prescribed for you as lims but fellow Canadians parents to encourage their it was prescribed for those as well. children to come to the Masbefore you, that you may We at BCMA recognize that jid during this month to join become Al-Muttaqun (the it is only through your kind in the Taraweeh prayers as pious).” [2:183] generosity that we can pro- they are on school holidays. “The night of Al-Qadr is bet- vide help to our poor and On behalf of the Executive ter than a thousand months.” needy locally and disaster Council, Women’s Council, [97:3] relief support wherever it Branch and Chapter DirecOne of the greatest institu- occurs each year. My dear tors, Committee members tions of Ramadan is fast- brothers and sisters, as you and all officials of BCMA, I ing. Fasting is a wonderful know Zakat al-Fitr is a fard would like to welcome and course in self-discipline, a ayn on every Muslim and thank both the local and vistime for patience, compas- should be given on behalf iting Imams and Huffaz who sion, generosity, and taqwa of oneself and each one of are at our Masajid to lead (consciousness of Allah). his dependents. Zakat al- the Taraweeh prayers. May Ramadan is not just about Fitr for one person is $10. Allah SWT reward you and fasting but it is also the Please pay your Zakat al- bestow his choicest of blessmonth of dhikr (remem- Fitr in advance of Eid so that ings upon all of you. brance of Allah) and reci- it can be distributed on time. We wish each and every one tation of the Qur’an. This We must also ensure we pay of you a very rewarding and month is a celebration and Zakat al-Maal each year on peaceful Ramadan giving thanks to Allah for our total income. It is most Ramadan Mubarak His most wonderful gift to rewarding to give Zakat al Your Brother in Islam, humanity, namely the rev- Maal in the month of Rama- Musa Ismail, President. elation of the Qur’an. dan since its rewards are B.C. Muslim Association multiplied many folds.
Eid ul Fitr & 67th Independence Day Mubarak
With continuous support and encouragement from both within and outside of Canada, The Miracle team feels proud to launch another special colourful edition on the occasion of Eid ul Fitr and 67th Independence Day of Pakistan and India. As the Holy Month of Ramadan draws to close, let us remember the Ummah while we do Ibadah and Eid prayers for all Muslim Ummah across the globe, whether they are victims of natural or man-made disasters. When this issue reaches your hands, everyone will be busy in preparing for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Be it shopping for new clothes or buying groceries for the big Eid feast, Eid brings with itself a busy and enjoyable schedule for everyone. Also, I will encourage everyone to give as much as they can in charity to worthwhile causes whether locally or internationally. Let us all capitalize on the blessings day of Eid ul Fitr. I would take the opportunity to thank the supporters and well wishers of ‘The Miracle’ for providing continuous support through advertisements of their businesses, sharing their thoughts in writing with our readers, especially Mr. Shams Jilani, Mr. Aslam Hayat, Mr. Azhar Syed, Maulana A.L.Naumani, Mr. Tariq Mian(Toronto), Mr. Ayub Hamid(Toronto), Mr. Imran Tipu, Mr. Kazim Jafary, Mr. Mohammad Ali Wahla and Ms. Shamim Karim, Ms. Aalam Ara, Ms. Shabnam Khan, Ms. Nada Adams, Dr. Mee, Ms. Maheen Nusrat, Ms. Mashaal Malik and many others. I am also grateful to Hon. Chief and Urdu editor Mr. Mohammad Rafiq, Khadija, Misbah, Sabeeh, and the remarkable day and night efforts of our graphic designer. Keep up the good work not only for the Miracle, but for all. We are proudly continuing our six year old tradition of Eid and Azadi editions, this time combined in one due to the overlap of the two events. This Miracle special edition provides you special features on Eid ul Fitr around the world. From the independence day aspect, a broad overview of Pakistan has been published for all our readers, through articles as well as images. We have also included information about sub continent as a display of peace and harmony wished by both communities. Pakistan as a nation has been going through some serious crises in the past few years, ranging from unrest in Northern Areas, natural disasters across the country and energy crisis. Mainstream media and foreign governments have often been critical and unkind to the country. As Pakistani Canadians, we not only have to the responsibility of being faithful and loyal to Canada but also represent our distinct cultural identity in a positive manner. I am very proud that I am a Muslim and Pakistani Canadian, and it is my duty to promote not only the Canadian values but also our Pakistani businessmen community, that is serving Canadians day and night. I have high respect for these people who contribute to the economic prosperity of Canada and are also equipping their future generations with high education and skills to serve this country and making it stronger and more prosperous. At the end, I once again request to all Pakistani Canadians that be proud of your Pakistani origin, and live here with peace and dignity as ambassadors. Promote Pakistani businesses and their products and make your contribution in benefiting both Canadian and Pakistani economies. Feel free to comment on this colourful issue as your concerns and suggestions are highly appreciated for improving our quality in future. United we stand, divided we fall. Long Live Pakistan and Long Live Canada. Jazakum Allah khair M. Naseer Pirzada (Managing Editor Miracle Media)
9 L O C A L Hon. Tom Mulcair (Leader of the NDP Party of Canada) Visits Surrey Jameah Masjid at Iftr Party Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
Hon. Thomas Mulcair NDP leader , MP Jasbir Sandhu and MP Jinny Sims joined at Ramadan 25th Iftari with the Surrey Jamea Masjid Committee and community members on August 3. NDP Leaders visit was just one week of Justin Trudeau tour in this Surrey Masjid . All NDP political party guests received a very warm welcome by the Masjid committee where a large number of Muslim community members were gathered for Iftr and Dinner. Mr. Adam Buksh, President of
Surrey branch of BCMA, gave the welcome speech before the Maghrib prayer and Mufti Asim Rashid briefly introduced Hon. Tom Mulcair among the people. Hon Thomas Muclair thanked Surrey Jameah Masjid committee and everyone , and started his speech with Ramadan Mubarak to you all. He said “ May this Holy month of Ramadan be a blessed one on you, your loved ones, and to Muslims in Canada and around the world., it is a time of calmness, tranquility and awareness, a time
to think about the needs of others.” Further he said “ It is a time when Muslims show personal sacrifice to affirm their faith, while forging stronger ties to their community. I have had the good fortune of visiting with many Muslim communities in big cities and small towns.” He said “ brothers and sister, these values are NDP values, too, May Allah accept your prayers, your fasting, your scarifies and good deeds during the holy month of Ramadan Saalm Elikum.’’ Mr. Mulcair joined the congrega-
tion in the breaking of the fast in the Masjid basement , with Qari Abdul Wahab , Mufti Asim Rashid, Br, Musa Ismail , Br. Adam Buksh and many others. In ladies section MP Jinny Sims also addressed with them in basement parking lot, she thanked everyone to provide this opportunity with MP Jasbir Sandhu and NDP Federal leader Hon. Tom Mulcair to meet the Muslim community at this your holy month of Ramadan in this beautiful mosque, which is fortunately in her ridings. She said
I often visit at this Mosque to meet the Muslim community at their religious occasions like Friday prayer, Eid for wish them and listen them before and after you elected me as a Member of Parliament. She said that she is the voice of you in Ottawa, who try to fight for immigration policy. She said Muslim community should be unite at their common issues and let me know, what I can do for your rights, at the end she finished with Ramadan Mubark and Salama Alaik kum.
Congratulations on the joyful occasion of Eid ul Fitr
DON DAVIES, MP
PETER JULIAN, MP
JINNY SIMS, MP
JASBIR SANDHU, MP
FIN DONNELLY, MP
Vancouver Kingsway
Burnaby-New Westminster
Newton-North Delta
Surrey North
2951 Kingsway, Vancouver BC, V5R 5J4, 604-775-6263, Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca DonDavies.ca
7615 Sixth Street, Burnaby BC, V3N 3M6, 604-775-5707, Peter.Julian.c1@parl.gc.ca PeterJulian.ca
8532 - 120th Street, Surrey BC, V3W 3N5 604-598-2200 Jinny.Sims@parl.gc.ca JinnySims.ndp.ca
107 - 13979 104th Ave, Surrey BC, V5T 1X1 604-589-2441 Jasbir.Sandhu@parl.gc.ca JasbirSandhu.ca
New Westminster Coquitlam and Port Moody
1116 Austin Avenue, Coquitlam BC, V3K 3P5 604-664-9229 Fin.Donnelly@parl.gc.ca FinDonnelly.ca
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
The Birth of a Nation
Price of the Freedom On 14 August 1947, just 10 minutes before midnight, All India Radio (AIR) broadcast its last programme and thereafter, a song composed by Khawaja Khurshid Anwar was aired by the Lahore radio station. Then a minute before midnight a broadcast (in English by Mr Zahoor Ahmed and in Urdu by Mustapha ali Hamadani) informed the awaiting listeners that exactly at midnight Pakistan will emerge as an independent state on the world map. Then at exactly at midnight 14-15 August 1947, a broadcast in English,
Road
to Independence
This part has been divided into various segments to conform to the developments that gradually took place between 1857 to1947 - the last century foothold of the British in the British India.
“Jange-e-Azadi” (War of Independence) Although the British Empire expanded, the native Indians never accepted their dominance. On May 10, 1857, Indian soldiers of the British Indian Army, drawn mostly from Muslim units from Bengal, rose against the British in the Meerut garrison some 80 km from Delhi and marched to Delhi. The rising was mainly to protest against the use of the newly issued rifle bullets, alleged to have a wax sealing made of the fats of pigs that was to be removed from the teeth before use. Since pigs are forbidden in the Islam, the Muslim soldiers resented its use and took up arms against their British masters. At Delhi, they captured the famous “Lal Qila” (Red Fort) and reinstated Bahadar Shah Zafar (the last Mughul monarch) to throne. Soldiers in other garrisons also followed the suit and soon much of north and central India was plunged into a yearlong insurrection against the British. The British reacted and laid a siege of the Fort, which continued for a while but finally the British owing to their access to artillery and large number of forces stormed the Fort. Bahadur Shah Zafar fled to Humayun’s tomb. The British plundered Delhi and killed many Indian soldiers (and civilians) and artillery was set up in the main mosque in the city to bombard suspected localities, specially the homes of the Muslim nobility. The British forces also arrested Bahadur Shah and days after the arrest, a British officer William Hodson shot Shah’s sons Mirza Moghul, Mirza Khizr Sultan, and Mirza Abu Bakr and shamefully presented their heads to the Shah.
Ali Garh to Muslim League As a consequence to 1857 events, the British government brought India under the direct control of Crown and a Viceroy was appointed to represent the Crown. They also increased the number of British soldiers in relation to native and allowed only British soldiers to handle artillery. In 1877 Queen Victoria took the title of Empress of India. Bahadur Shah was exiled to Rangoon, in Burma where he died in 1862, finally bringing the Mughal dynasty to an end. Although the “Jange-e-Azadi” (Liberation War) was brutally quelched, the spark for independence and throwing away the yoke of slavery at the hands of the British had been ignited.
While the War of Independence had many repercussions, the intolerance towards the Muslims by the British increased manifold and the Muslims felt deprived and left out in fields of education and representation in government service. Attacks by Hindu fundamentalists against religious conver-
sion, cow killing, and the preservation of Urdu in Arabic script deepened their fears of minority status. In order to keep the Muslims in the mainstream, rose Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and launched a movement for Muslim regeneration that culminated in the founding of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College at Aligarh in 1875 (later renamed Aligarh Muslim University in 1921). Its objective was to educate Muslims by emphasizing the compatibility of Islam with western knowledge. On 30 December 1906 the All-India Muslim League was founded to safeguard the interests of the Muslims. A delegation also met with the viceroy, Gilbert John Elliot, seeking special considerations in government service and electorates. This had positive effect and in 1911 When King-Emperor George V visited India, he announced the reversal of the partition of Bengal and the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to present day New Delhi.
Jinnah and Pakistan Movement Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who had initially joined the Congress was grossly dissatisfied with the Congress attitude towards Muslims and thus joined the Muslim League in 1913. It was with his efforts that Congress recognized the separate position of the Muslims and the Muslims’ demand for a separate electorate as a part of the Lucknow Pact. However the Hindu prejudice against the Muslims could not be hidden for long and the publication of Nehru Report (1928) was a great setback to Lucknow Pact, since the Nehru Report negated all its clauses. It became evident that Congress and Hindus wanted to
followed by in Urdu reached the listeners “ This is Pakistan Broadcasting Service”. This broadcast was followed by recitation of Holy Quran (Surah Al Fatah 1-4) by Maulana Zahir al Qasmi. This was followed by a “na’at” by Muhammad Azam Chishti, a “qaseeda” by Hafeez Jalandhari (later the architect of Pakistan National Anthem), an orchestra composed by Khawaja Khurshid Anwar and a “qawwali” by Santoo Khan and others.14 August 1947, a day in the history when a new nation was carved out of the British India after a long and tiring struggle of Muslims of India. For
become the ruler of India on the basis of numerical strength and make Muslims their subjects. This was not acceptable to Muslims since they had ruled India for centuries and after British subjugation, they were again to fall under the Hindus as their subjects. Jinnah therefore refused to accept the report and presented his famous 14 Points to solve the political problems in India. The Muslims wished that their separate identity should be recognized and provided constitutional safeguards to protect their rights. It was then that the first proponents of independent Muslim nation began to appear. Among the first of these was writer/philosopher Allama Iqbal, who felt that a separate nation for Muslims was essential in an otherwise Hindu-dominated subcontinent. The cause found a leader in Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who became known as Father of the Nation and eventually persuaded the British to partition the region into Muslim-majority Pakistan, and Hindu-majority India. In the meantime Choudhary Rahmat Ali a ambridge student coined the word “PAKISTAN” for a would-be Muslim country, which was published on 28th January 1933 in the pamphlet “Now or Never.” He made the name an acronym of the different states/homelands/regions, which broke down into: P(Punjab), A(Afghania - a reference to the North West Frontier Province), K(Kashmir), S(Sindh) and TAN(BalochisTAN), thus forming “’PAK - STAN’”. An “i”’ was later added to the the name to ease pronunciation, producing “PAKISTAN.”
The Lahore Resolution The British Government under the new constitution held the elections in 1937, in which Congress gained majority and formed government in six large provinces. In connivance with the government, Hindus started persecuting the Muslims and Hindi was introduced instead of Urdu. The introduction of “Bande Matram”, the Hindus’ national anthem did the rest. Therefore, the Muslim League decided to ask for a separate homeland for themselves as by now it was clear that both Hindus and Muslims could not co-exist under one flag. In the 27th annual session on 23 March 1940 at Lahore, the Muslim League under Jinnah demanded a separate homeland for the Muslims of Indian sub-continent. Thereafter, Muslims all over India were asked to join Muslims League to safe guard their identity. In the meantime the 2nd world War had already started and the British government wanted whole hearted Indian support, therefore the Viceroy promised that the constitution would be framed in consultation with representatives of the people after the war. In 1942 Sir Stafford Cripps proposed dominion status to India under British Crown. While Congress rejected the proposal since it wanted full control over the affairs of the government, Muslim League rejected it since it didn’t promise a sepa-
years since 711 AD, when Muhammad Bin Qasim invaded the Indian sub-continent, Muslims had been the rulers till subjugated by the British in 1857. Therefore, the independence in 1947 from the British yoke was a God-given opportunity to live as per the aspirations of Islamic values. From 1947 till date, Pakistan’s history has seen many ups and downs, finally losing half of it in 1971. The history of Pakistan can easily be divided into roughly 10-years brackets, each having own peculiarities and repercussions on its future.
rate homeland for them. Thereafter between 1942-45 many attempts were made to break the deadlock, but the Congress refused to accept the separate identity for the Muslims. This further united the Muslims, which resulted into land slide victory for Muslims in 1945-46 elections. It clearly showed that Muslims were a separate entity and that their demand for a separate homeland was just.
The Final Days The one year period between 1946 till partition of India was very confusing, disturbing and crucial for the future of the Muslims. The British now realized that Muslims were a powerful entity and could not be ignored. But at the same time they never wanted to annoy the Hindus who were in majority. Therefore in 1946, a delegation from England arrived with three suggestions: (1) The Constituent Assembly should prepare the constitution, (2) Adoption of federal form of government and (3) British India to be divided in three groups: (a) First Group - Muslim majority provinces of Bengal and Asam, (b) Second Group - Punjab, NWFP, Sind and Balochistan and (c) the Hindu majority Third Group. All groups should compulsorily remain in the Federation for TEN YEARS, after which they had the choice to get separated and become independent. Congress obviously rejected the proposal since it saw creation of Pakistan after ten years while Muslims rejected it since they could not wait for ten years. Therefore Muslim League started a country wide campaign to expose the covert collaboration between the Congress and the government. After the failure of a provisional government in 1946, where Congress and League members could not sit together, on 20 February 1947 the British Prime Minister Lord Attlee declared that British government would transfer power to people of subcontinent by June 1947. However the new Viceroy Lord Mountbatten assessed that there was no hope for a political reconciliation and only solution was division of British India into two independent states; Bharat (India) for Hindus and Pakistan for Muslims. On June3, 1947, the partition of British India and establishment of Pakistan on 14th August 1947 was announced.
End of an Empire With the creation of Pakistan on 14 August 1947, the British Indian Empire faded into the history. But left behind many scars that still haunt peace and stability in the region. Kashmir being the major dispute because of which not only peace in the region is unattainable but has brought India and Pakistan face to face on a number of occasions. The latest escalation in year 2002 almost brought the two nations at brink of war and at a nuclear flash point. So long the dispute remains unresolved, no worthwhile peace can be ensured in the region and people of both countries would continue to suffer. Source: http://www.pakistanpaedia.com/ hist/hist3.html
11
Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
EID PRAYER LOCATIONS & TIME Prayer 7:30 AM
Prayer 8:00 AM
Az-Zahraa Islamic Center 8580 No. 5 Rd. , Richmond 604-274-7869
Surrey/ East Crystal at York #202-12888-80th Ave. Surrey (604)-597-7863 Bring your own Prayer Mats
Surrey Jamia Masjid 12407 72nd Ave. Surrey 604 596-7834 1st Prayer 7:00 AM 2nd Prayer 8:45 AM Prayer 9:00 AM
MAC Downtown Westin Bayshore Hotel, 1601 Bayshore Dr, Vancouver First Khutaba 8:30 am Second: 9:30 am mac.centre.vancouver@ gmail.com Masjid Omar Al Farooq Vancouver has arranged Eid Prayer in
Fairmont Waterfront Hotel ballroom, The hotel is located at 900-Canada Place Vancouver 604-873-8580
Islamic Fleetwood 209 8468-167th St, Surrey 604-617-7488 Az Zawiyah Foundation Vancouver info@zawiyah.ca Darul Quraan Academy of Canada At Afghan Chopan #104- 12888-80th Ave Surrey 604-767-3527
Prayer 8:30 AM Richmond Jamia Mosque 12300 Blundell Road 604-233-7006 Bring your own Prayer Mats Jamia Masjid Vancouver 655 West 8th Ave. 604-874-0160
Date of Eid subject to Moonsighting. Please call your local mosque to confirm.
Masjid Anwar-e-Madina 13560 105 A Ave.Surrey 604 583-9786
The Fiji Islamic Centre #17&18-12988 84th Ave. Masjid al-Noor Surrey 13526 98A Ave. Surrey 604-572-7823 604 930-9742 Masjid Al-Huda Abbotsford Islamic Centre 14136 Grosvernor Rd, Surrey 1980 Salton Ave 604-585-4832 778 549 2258 The Masjid Haq has arranged Eid Prayer in Guildford Musallah Fraser View Hall
EID MUBARAK
Masid As-Salaam 5060 Canada Way, Burnaby 604 524-4499 1st Prayer 8:30 AM 2nd Prayer 10:00 AM
8240 Fraser St., Vancouver 604-873-1787 Bring your own Prayer Mats Amir-e-Hamza (Delta Mussallah ) Surrey 205-9250-120th St. 604-590-1487
has arranged Eid Prayer in
Erma Stephenson Elementary School 10929 160 street, Surrey. 778- 883-5491
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13
Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
Selected by: Nasser Pirzada Pakistan’s Independence Day, which is annually held on August 14, celebrates the country’s independence from the British rule on that date in 1947. This day is an occasion to promote patriotism and national unity
What Do People Do?
S P E C I A L
time to meet relatives, exchange gifts and visit recreational spots. Pakistan’s national flag is hoisted on public, private buildings, residences and monuments at dawn. Official buildings, including Parliament House, are decorated and colorfully lit. The prime minister and president address and congratulate the nation and talk about
sacrifices to attain Pakistan’s independence. A change of guard takes place at national monuments, including the mausoleums of Muhammad Iqbal, who was a poet, philosopher, and politician, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who is considered by many as Pakistan’s founder and Quaid-i-Azam (supreme leader). Events held during the day include special theatre shows, national song competitions, concerts, and Independence Day pageants. Radio and television stations broadcast national songs and specially prepared Independence Day programs.
Public Life
People all over Pakistan celebrate Independence Day with patriotic zest. Many people who attend the Independence Day parades dress up in green and white, which are the Pakistani flag’s colors. People visit national monuments and places of national significance to celebrate Independence Day. This is also a
the day’s significance. Streets and houses are decorated with candles, oil lamps and pennants. Firework shows are put together on the eve of Independence Day. Pakistan’s Independence Day also pays homage to people who devoted their lives for Pakistan’s freedom movement and made
Independence Day is an official holiday in Pakistan on August 14. All governmental, non-governmental offices, organizations, educational institutions, post offices, and major markets are closed. Public transport remains unavailable on all major routes. Traffic congestion is common due to Independence Day parades.
Background The Indo-Pak subcontinent remained a British colony from
1849–1947. The subcontinent’s inhabitants did not approve of the British rule in united India. An uprising that occurred in 1857 eventually formed the shape of a freedom movement, which exemplifies the efforts of the people of British India in gaining their independence. Muslims ruled the subcontinent before the British incursion and suffered due to the 1857 uprising against the British East India Company. Leaders such as Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Syed Ameer Ali worked diligently for the Muslim people’s political advancement. The Indian National Congress was formed in 1885, which later on became British India’s largest political party. Major Muslim political leaders, including Muhammad Ali Jinnah, were members of the Indian National Congress and worked towards Hindu-Muslim unity and India’s independence. The All India Muslim League was founded on December 30, 1906. There was growing demand for an independent Muslim state in India. In 1930 Muhammad Iqbal presented the idea of a separate Muslim state
that would geographically consist of the Muslim majority areas in the subcontinent. The word Pakistan is a conjunction of two words Pak meaning Pure and Stan meaning Land, a name coined by Choudhary Rahmat Ali.Strong Hindu nationalism gave birth to the Two Nation Theory, an ideology that is accredited as being the basis for Pakistan’s creation. In 1940 the Pakistan Resolution was passed in Lahore demanding greater Muslim autonomy in British India. After World War II, it was expected that the British colonies would soon disintegrate. The Pakistan Movement, spearheaded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, resulted in creating a Muslim state. Pakistan gained independence from the British rule on August 14, 1947. At its birth, Pakistan had two parts commonly referred to as East and West Pakistan. In 1971 East Pakistan parted from West Pakistan and became Bangladesh.
Symbols Green and white are Pakistan’s official colors. White represents peace while green symbolizes prosperity and good fortune.
Adrian Dix and the
New Democrat Official Opposition
Harry Bains, MLA Surrey-Newton 604-597-8248 harry.bains.mla@leg.bc.ca
Raj Chouhan, MLA Burnaby-Edmonds 604-660-7301 raj.chouhan.mla@leg.bc.ca
Kathy Corrigan, MLA Burnaby-Deer Lake 604-775-2414 kathy.corrigan.mla@leg.bc.ca
Mable Elmore, MLA Vancouver-Kensington 604-775-1033 mable.elmore.mla@leg.bc.ca
Jennifer Rice, MLA North Coast 250-624-7734 jennifer.rice.mla@leg.bc.ca
Jane Shin, MLA Burnaby-Lougheed 250-387-3655 jane.shin.mla@leg.bc.ca
wish you a happy
67th Independence Day to
India and Pakistan
Mike Farnworth, MLA Port Coquitlam 604-927-2088 mike.farnworth.mla@leg.bc.ca
Sue Hammell, MLA Surrey-Green Timbers 604-590-5868 sue.hammell.mla@leg.bc.ca
Gary Holman, MLA Saanich North & the Islands 250-387-3655 gary.holman.mla@leg.bc.ca
Bruce Ralston, MLA Surrey-Whalley 604-586-2740 bruce.ralston.mla@leg.bc.ca
14 S P E C I A L Important Events of Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
By: Naseer Pirzada • 14 August ‘47: Pakistan attends 6th Universal Scouts Jamboree in France • 15 August ‘47: Royal Pakistan Air Force’s HQ established at Peshawar • 15 August ‘47: First cabinet formed - Liaquat Ali Khan appointed first PM • 18 September ‘47: Karachi Stock Exchange established - with 5 companies value Rs. 371 million • 30 September ‘47: Pakistan becomes member of UNO - Afghanistan voted against • 23 January ‘48: Fisrt navel vessel “Dilawar” joins Pakistan Shipping Corporation • 9 June ‘48: Pakistan attends London Olympics - Hockey team under Colonel Dara lost to UK in semis • 26 November ‘48: First air crash of Pakistan - Pak Airways aircraft crashes near Vihari - 21 die • 12 February ‘50: Foundation stone of Kotri Barrage by Khawaja Nazim-ud-Din • 21 July ‘50: Trich Mir (41st highest peak) scaled by Norwegian Team, including one Pakistani • 30 October ‘50: Peshawar University inaugurated by Liaquat Ali Khan • 28 February ‘51: First population census total population = 78,742,000 • 10 October ‘51: Natural gas found at Sui, Balochistan • 28 December ‘51: Inauguration of Pakistan Ordnance Factories,Wah • 1951: Completion of 107 miles long famous BRB (Banmban Wala Ravia Bedian) Link canal • 2 October ‘52: Foundation stone of TIP laid at Haripur • 31 January ‘53: Commodore Hafiz Muhammad Siddique appointed first native navel chief • 4 June ‘53: 8125 Meters high Nanga Parbat scaled by a German for the first time • 31 July ‘54: K-2 scaled by Italian expedition • 13 August ‘54: Hafeez Jalandhari sings his own written National Anthem on Radio Pakistan • 8 September ‘54: Pakistan joins SEATO • 7 October ‘54: Chaudhry Zafar Ali appointed first judge of International Court of Justice • 22 November ‘54: Prime Minister M Ali Bogra announces formation of ONE UNIT • 1954 - Manila Olympics Pakistan’s Muhammad Din wins first gold for Pakistan • March ‘55: Hollywood MGM’s film “Bhawani Junction” shot at Lahore Railway station • 18 April ‘55: Pakistan attends Bandung Conference (Indonesia) • July ‘55: First devaluation of Pak rupee: Re’s value dropped from Rs. 3.30 per US $ to Rs.4.76 • 26 February ‘56: First constitution of Pakistan approved • 9 January ‘57: Singing of National Anthem in schools made mandatory • 15 January ‘57: Silver jubilee celebration of opening of Sukkur (Lloyd’s) Barrage • 2 February ‘57: Foundation stone of GUDDU barrage laid by President Sikander Mirza • 22 April ‘57: Air Vice Marshal Asghar Khan becomes first native Chief of Air Staff • 24 December ‘57: Photograph of Quaid -e-azam appears on the first Rs.100 currency note • 5 March ‘58: First Dry Port of Pakistan inaugurated at Karachi by the President Sikander Mirza • 24 April ‘58: WAPDA established •May’58: Pakistan wins 13 medals,
from Aug 1947-Aug 2013
(5gold,5 silver 4 bronze) at Tokyo Asian games • 22 August ‘58: Subedar M Iqbal of Pakistan army breaks world record in Hammer Throw (209.5 ft) • 23 August ‘58: Pakistani swimmer Brojan Das sets world record of 10 Hours 35 Minutes of crossing the English Channel • 7 September ‘58: Gwader port town purchased from Oman for 4 million British Pounds • 7 October ‘58: President Sikander Mirza imposes Martial Law, appoints General M Ayub Khan as MLA • 27 October ‘58: President Sikander Mirza removed and General M Ayub Khan becomes President • 1965 Second war between India and Pakistan over Kashmir • 1969: Martial law declared; Ayub Khan resigns; General Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan assumes presidency • 1970 First general elections; Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League secures absolute majority in new National Assembly; West Pakistan-dominated government declines to convene assembly • 1971 East Pakistan attempts to secede; civil war begins; Bangladesh declares itself independent issued; India intervenes on behalf of Bengali separatists; Pakistani military surrenders to Indian armed forces; Yahya Khan resigns; Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto becomes president of Pakistan • 1972: Bhutto and India’s Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sign Simla agreement which adjusts cease-fire line between the two countries and creates new Line of Control • 1973: New constitution goes into effect; Bhutto becomes prime minister 1976: Diplomatic ties established between Pakistan and Bangladesh • 1977: General Mohammad Zia ul-Haq proclaims martial law • 1978: Zia becomes Pakistan’s sixth president • 1979 Islamic penal code introduced; Bhutto hanged • 1983: Zia announces that martial law will be lifted, says army will retain key role in future governments • 1985: General elections held • 1988: Zia dismisses Prime Minister Mohammmad Khan Junejo’s government, orders new elections; Zia killed in mysterious place crash; investigation concludes that his death was caused by “criminal act of sabotage;” elections held; Benazir Bhutto sworn in as first woman prime minister of a Muslim nation • 1990: National elections see Benazir Bhutto’s PPP losing to coalition of rightist parties; Nawaz Sharif elected prime minister • 1993: President Ishaq Khan dismisses Sharif’s government, citing corruption; elections held; Benazir Bhutto’s government wins slim margin; Benazir becomes prime minister • 1996: President Farooq Leghari dismisses Benazir Bhutto; accuses her government of corruption and nepotism • 1997: National elections held; Sharif comes to power again • 1999: Army citing corruption arrests Sharif and takes over. General Pervaiz Musharraf becomes chief executive of Pakistan. • 2000: April 6, Nawaz Sharif sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of hijacking and terrorism.May 12: Supreme Court validated the October 1999 coup and granted General Pervez Musharraf executive and legislative authority for three years. December 10: Nawaz Sharif along with family, went into exile in Saudi Arabia.
• 2001: June 20: General Pervez Musharraf assumes office of president while remaining Chief of Army Staff.September 16: US Secretary of State Powell told that Pakistan’s President Musharraf had agreed to support the U.S. anti-terrorist campaign. • 2002: April 30: Musharraf wins in a referendum.October 10: General election held in the country.November 23: Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali sworn in as Prime Minister. • 2003: June 24: President Pervez Musharraf meets G.W. Bush in Camp David. US announces $3-billion five-year economic assistance package for Pakistan. July 11: Lahore-Delhi bus service resumed after suspension of 18 months. December 14: General Musharraf survived an assassination attempt in Rawalpindi. • 2004: January 1: General Musharraf won a vote of confidence in the Senate, National Assembly, and provincial assemblies. August 28: Shaukat Aziz becomes Prime Minister. •2005: July 19: Government of Pakistan launches country-wide crackdown against extremist elements. October 8: A devastating earthquake in Kashmir and NWFP kills over 80,000 people. • 2006: January 2: Dr. Shamshad Akhtar assumes office of State Bank Governor having the first woman Governor of SBP. May 14: Charter of democracy (COD) is signed by two former prime ministers of Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto in London. August 26: Akbar Bugti killed by military • 2007: March 9: President Musharraf dismissed Chief Justice of Pakistan, Iftikhar. July 20: Iftikhar restored as Chief Justice of Pakistan. October 18: Bhutto, Benazir returned to Pakistan, after exile of about 8 years. November 3: Pervez Musharraf imposed emergency, most of the senior judges of Supreme Court ousted. November 16: After completion of 5 years, National Assembly dissolved; Catetaker government of Muhammad Mian Soomro took oath. November 25: Nawaz Sharif returned Pakistan after 7 years of forced exile. December 16: Emergency lifted, banned civil rights and suspended constitution restored. December 27: Bhutto, Benazir assassinated in a blast/ bullet attack in Rawalpindi. • 2008: January 2: The Election Commission announces elections will now be held on February 18.Yusuf Raza Gilani is elected as the new Prime Minister. August 18: Pervaiz Musharraf steps down as President of Pakistan. Mohammadmian Soomro takes over as President. Asif Zardari wins presidential election with 481 votes. September 9: Asif Zardari takes oath as President of Pakistan. • 2009: February 16: Pakistan government announces a truce with Taliban, accepting a system of Islamic law in the Swat valley, March 9: Militants attack bus with the touring Sri Lankan cricket team. All international cricket matches in Pakistan are suspended. Pakistan also loses its status as hosts for the cricket World Cup 2011. • 2010: July Extensive flooding after monsoon rains. At least 1,600 people were killed. 1 October - Pervez Musharraf launches his new political party, the All Pakistan Muslim League, at a club in London. At the launch Musharraf apologies for the “negative actions” he took whilst in power. • 2011: January - Salmaan Taseer, the governor of Punjab, is shot by one of his bodyguards near his home. 27 January- A US diplomat,0 Raymond Davis, kills two men on a motorbike in Lahore allegedly in self defence while a companion of the diplomat, who is also an American citizen, crushed to death a bike rider in a hit-and-run incident, following the shooting.
May 1: Death of Osama Bin Laden: A US air strike killed Osama bin Laden in Abbotabad. August, 2011• Pakistan Floods, One Year Later • One year ago, record-breaking floods submerged one fifth of Pakistan’s total land area for months, affecting some 20 million residents and causing some $10 billion in damage. Eleven million Pakistanis were left homeless, and the aid organization Oxfam estimates that more than 800,000 remain without permanent shelter to this day. • November 22: Husain Haqqani resigned as Pakistan Ambassador to the United States following claims of his alleged affiliation with the Memogate controversy. • November 26: A NATO attack on two Pakistani border checkposts in Salala in the Baizai subdivision of Mohmand Agency in FATA kill 24 soldiers of the Pakistan Army. 2012 January • 2 January: India-Pakistan exchange a list of their nuclear installations. • The death toll of a fake medicine crisis at a cardiology hospital in Lahore reaches 112 • Raja Pervaiz Ashraf is elected as Prime Minister of Pakistan, following the disqualification of Yousaf Raza Gillani over a contempt of court conviction by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. • Mehdi Hassan, 84, Pakistani ghazal singer. • SC summons Raja Court issues show-cause notice to PM for not writing Swiss letter Summons him on 27th August to explain why contempt proceedings should not be started against him. • NATO containers cross Chaman border the supply to US-led NATO forces stationed in Afghanistan via Chaman border was restored after a suspension of 18 days. • November - Taliban suicide bomber kills at least 23 people at a Shia Muslim procession in the Rawalpindi. 2013 January - Supreme Court orders the arrest of Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf over corruption allegations dating back to his time as a minister in 2010. He denies wrongdoing.The government sacks Balochistan chief minister over bomb blasts in the provincial capital Quetta that kill at least • 92 Shia Muslims. Sunni extremist group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi claims responsibility. • Populist cleric and anti-corruption campaigner Tahirul Qadri leads a nationwide march on Islamabad. The government responds by agreeing to dissolve parliament early and to consult Mr Qadri over the formation of a caretaker government. • February -Bomb attack targeting Shia Muslims in Quetta kills 89 people. Police detain Lashkar-e-Jhangvi militant group founder Malik Ishaq after the group claims responsibility. •March- Caretaker government appointed to oversee parliamentary elections. • April - A court orders the arrest of Gen Pervez Musharraf over his attempt to impose house arrest on judges during his military rule in March 2007. Gen Musharraf returned from British exile in March to contest parliamentary elections. • May General Election in Pakistan and PML got heavy mandate , PPP and PTI were at second and third party positions in Federal and Provincial. • June - Parliament approves Nawaz Sharif as prime minister after his Muslim LeagueN wins parliamentary elections in May. Taliban conduct systematic campaign of attacks and intimidation, but fail to deter largest turnout of voters since 1970. • July - Mamnoon Hussain elected president by parliament. • August- Heavy rain fall in southern area of Pakistan displacing thousands.
15
Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
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16 L O C A L Each year 5000 Families only can apply from the world MP Jinny Sims, Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
An Interview with
Time to time the Miracle Media gets a chance to speak with federal and provincial politicians to get an update on the news in Ottawa and Victoria. Recently the Miracle Managing Editor met with MP Jinny Sims to discuss Immigration policies. The Miracle (TM): Can you tell Miracle readers about the Immigration policy`s current situation in Ottawa? MP Jinny Sims: The biggest thing right now is that there has been a cabinet change. This change has been done for two reasons, one that the Conservatives are trying to take away everyone’s attention from all the scandals from the prime minister’s office and secondly it’s to fool people that something new is going to happen, so we have a new immigration minister, named Chris Alexander, who has a diplomatic background, so I am looking forward to working with him. People tell me how can I say that, whomever is minister, we will work with them, agree with them when they do good things, and our job as opposition is to point out the wrong things as well. I have also been asked that do you think a lot is going to change I don’t think so. I think everything the Conservatives wanted to do with the immigration files, Jason Kenny has done. They have radically changed the skilled worker class, it will take even longer getting the residence and insurance will take 2 years. They opened the doors of family unification to put a glass door instead on every kind of immigration. They have done the changes they wanted to make it more difficult. For example, the family class you would be responsible for them for 10 years, now it’s going to be 20. They have increased the income requirement by 30%. If your siblings were studying they
Official Opposition critic for Immigration, Citizenship & Multiculturalism
could come up to age 26, now it’s 18. Each year 5000 only can apply from the world, first come first serve basis. Changes will be put in place by January 1st 2014. Jason Kenney said in a press release that we are taking no new applications for two years and the waiting period should be reduced. The website says they increased the waiting period, immigration centres being shut down and staff being reduced. When the Conservatives say we are fixing something, it sounds good, but when you look, it’s not good for community or Canadians. They don’t want skilled workers, they want the youngest brightest people, who don’t fall from sky. They have parents. Why would they come to Canada when they know it’s impossible for their parents to come, and visas are hard to get. A lot of people come in my office crying that this doesn’t feel like home anymore. TM: There are so many associations in the community, how can we raise our voice to fix immigration problems? J. Sims: We know there are many things that people might not agree on, but you can own two or three things to make it better for everyone else, doesn’t matter if you are Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, or part of any organization or association like in Pakistani community PCA & PCCA. They should all focus on 2 to 3 issues and work together, with representatives from each. People used to tell their problems to the minister. Jason Kenny was good with that. He went to houses and ate meals with them, hugged you and stabbed you in the back at the same time. Don’t do that, stop trying to get him to fix your problems. Polices need to be fixed for the future of our children. We need open
transparent policies. Do you know how many hours I put into the filibuster at the end of the year, days and nights, in order to avoid rescinding citizenship if someone gets a jail sentence of more than 5 years. Citizenship has to mean something, before you take it away without due process but I was also worried the new Shory’s bill was going to establish different levels of citizenship. TM: After the incident in Victoria at the Canada Day this year of Pressure Cooker case and that person was at once related as a worshiper of Surrey Mosque by local mainstream media. Why is this only done when any Muslim is involved? Why his/ her religion is discussed rather than his/ her crime. In daily crimes no religion has been highlighted by any media or anyone? J. Sims: You and I both know
Islamophobia is alive. We all have to work together to counter that. That was my first reaction when I heard that. They said it has Islamist tendencies. What are tendencies? It’s a crazy world. We are to blame too, because everybody keeps quiet. Even put a statement out on facebook that violence is violence no matter who commits it, and we have to stop profiling but it’s not just here, it’s international. Any time there is violence they try to find a Muslim connection, part of it is our government of the day, to create fear in people, divide and conquer. Fear is real in the Muslim community. They are worried about their children and their future, so I think we do have a responsibility that violence is not acceptable in any circumstances. With the filbuster they called me a
Continued on pg 18
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A D V E R T I S E R
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L O C A L
Ramadan Spirit 2013 hosted by Pakistan Canada Association
Pakistan Canada Association - Al Jamia Masjid’s seventh annual Ramadan Spirit Food drive took place on August 3rd outside the historic Carnegie Center at Main and Hastings Street Vancouver. A tremendous volunteer turnout of youngsters and community members made the event a memorable and rewarding one for all involved. A multitude of Fresh and hot meals were served to the needy and hungry on the street with additional food donations made to the First United Church and the Union Gospel Mission. We would like to acknowledge the generosity of our donors including Mr. Shamim Akbar of Pak National Foods,
Br. Saboor of Downtown Mussallah, PakUrban Masala Grill, Lahore Halal Meats, Crystal at York and Zako’s Deli for their donations of delicious food on behalf of our community. Consul General Shuja Alam, and Vancouver City Councillor Geoff Meggs rolled up their sleeves and worked shoulder to shoulder with PCA board/trust members and volunteers to serve meals to the homeless and hungry during this blessed month of Ramadan. Iftari dinner held at Al Jamia Masjid Vancouver sponsored by the Khan family and dua made in memory of Pakistan Canada Association - Al Jamia Masjid Founder Riasat Ali Khan.
MP : Continued from pg 16 terrorist lover. I have always been a peace activist. I am trying to protect citizenship, so people try to put words in your mouth. TM: What to say about the safety and security of different faiths in Canada? J. Sims: We live in a country that is secular and we have amazing freedom with religion. If only one is targeted, not their behavior or people, but the religion as a whole, it’s a problem. Even for the bill, when they wanted to take away citizenship. Air India people were brought as witnesses. It won’t solve the problem. Terrorism is an international fight to be fought in that arena. We have a government with a divide and conquer policy; refugees against immigrants. They think they take away their benefits. They don’t want any parents here as it will burden the economy, but it will actually benefits. We fight for equality, justice and rights. It’s very easy for people to say that we need that bill to keep Muslim terrorists out, but how would they feel if their own child is born in Canada. When 9/11 happened everyone was quiet. Standing up for injustice does not make us a terrorist, fear is being used to silence our voice.
TM: If you weren’t a politician or MP, would your feelings for Islam be any different than now? J. Simms: Exactly the same. I have been MP for two and a half years, not even that. If you ever heard me speak in previous life, I said the same. If you put blame down on one religion as the whole, you do a great disservice. You can have somebody from the catholic church, do all kind of bad, but does that mean that Catholicism is bad, or the church as a whole is bad? I think that there are some people who use religion and their beliefs to misuse them in the world, and in my world there is no excuse for violence. TM: Thanks MP Jinny Sims for your time. We will keep in touch about the Ottawa news in future. Any message for Eid and as well as Independence day of Pakistan? J. Sims: Thanks for the Miracle who provided me this platform to say something about immigration matters. Also I would love to delivered my message of Happy Eid Mubarak to all Muslim Communities and happy 67th Independence Day of Pakistan to all Pakistanis community.
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A D V E R T I S E R
Eid Mubarak from Mahmood Awan and staff of Premier Transmissions
Mahmood Awan
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
EID MENU FROM AROUND THE WORLD
The menu is as much an integral part of Eid celebrations as the ritual and customs. It’s very much an integral part of the Eid-ul-Fitar
celebrations. Every Muslim family takes great care to prepare the exclusive dishes on Eid. The idea is to make the menu over-the-top
Shish Kabob (Lahem Mishwi) Ingredients: Serves: 4-6 2 pounds Tender lamb (best from the leg) 1/2 c. olive oil 6 cloves garlic, crushed 1 teaspoon of mixed spices 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon of salt 6 small onions, peeled and cut into quarters 2 green peppers, cut into 1 inch pieces Method: Cut the lamb into 1 inch cubes. In a medium bowl combine the meat, olive oil, garlic, spices, salt and pepper. Refrigerate 3-4 hours. Remove from refrigerator . 1 hour prior to cooking. On skewers thread alternately meat, green pepper and onion. Cook on hot grill or under the hot broiler. Bast occasionally with the remaining garlic mixture. Best way to eat: Serve wrapped in fresh pita bread . Some serve it with tahini sauce.
and include food which are not regularly eaten . But it must not be forgotten that before indulging in the delicacies, one needs to say
his prayers before the Eid feast. It is customary to begin eating in the name of Allah, the One God, and thank Him for all His grace
MURGH MUSSALLAM from South Asia
SHEER KHURMA (Vermicelli Pudding)
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cleaned and washed thoroughly 2 tbs ghee 2 cups water Half kg yoghurt, beaten to a creamy consistency 4 large onions, sliced and fried, golden brown for garnish To make the paste you will need: 1 tbsp poppy seeds or khus khus for paste 8 sticks of cinnamon 1 tbsp cumin seeds or jeera 1 tbsp shah jeera or black cumin seeds 10 black peppercorns 2 large black cardamom 7 green cardamoms 7 cloves A 4 inch piece fresh ginger 1 whole garlic 6-8 whole red chillies Salt to taste Method: Grind the spices into a paste. Chop up the heart, liver, into small pieces. Marinate the whole chicken by smearing the ground masala, both inside, as well as outside the chicken as well as on the chopped up heart, liver for at least an hour. In a large vessel heat the ghee. Pour in the marinade and chicken, and fry till well browned. Add water and cook covered till tender. Add the yogurt, salt and golden fried onions. Simmer for 10 minutes. Serve hot with naan.
Ingredients: 1 packet Vermicelli 1 gallon fresh whole milk 1 cup sugar 20 cloves whole cardamom pods 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1 cup slivered almond, cashews and pistachios 1/2 cup fresh cream 1/2 teaspoon saffron strands 3 tablespoons charoli nuts 1/2 cup light brown raisins 1/2 teaspoon rose water 1 tablespoon butter Method: Fry the vermicelli in the butter until well browned but not burnt. Fry on low heat until all the butter is dried. Add in 1/4 cup sugar and fry again. Add in the whole milk cup by cup, stirring constantly, and bring to boil. Add in the raisins, whole cardamon, and 1/2 cup slivered almonds, cashews and pistachios, and the remaining sugar. Reduce the heat and thicken the sheer khurma to three-strand consistency, letting the milk boil until it is halved. The vermicilli must be very soft by now. Quickly add in the rose water, charoli and fresh cream and let simmer covered for 10 minutes. Garnish with the saffron strands and powdered cardamom, and serve immediately.
and kindness. Here are some recipes from around the world for you to try this Eid and earn some praise from the guests.
Salad-e Shirazi Ingredients: 4 servings) medium tomatoes, 4 small cucumbers, 2 medium onion, one fresh lime juice, 3-4 spoonfuls virgin olive oil, 2-3 spoonfuls fresh mint, 200 grams (optional) salt black pepper Method: Wash and peel cucumbers. Wash tomatoes and mint. Peel onion. Chop cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion very finely, and mix. Chop mint very finely and add. Add fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and serve.
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L O C A L
Mega Eid Bazaar celebrated at Pak Urban Masala Grill Parking On July 28, a Mega Eid Bazaar event was held successfully by Pak Urban Masala Grill in their parking lot at Surrey from 6 pm to Iftar time. A number of families visited and did the some shopping a week before Eid. Many stalls were organized including clothing, jewellery, colorful bangles and Henna (Mehndi). The mega bazaar was sponsored by Pak Urban Masala Grill and Ammarah Boutique. Sr. Naiyer, Sr. Rizawana and Sr. Asma made great effort to organize this event. At the time of Iftar people enjoyed the variety of Iftar items and delicious dinner at the Urban Masala Grill.
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Bengal Grill Hosts the Eid Bazaar
On August 3 a Mega Eid Bazaar event was celebrated 3 day before Eid. Many clothing, and jewellery stalls were organized under many tents. Women and children, mostly from Bangladeshi Canadian community, frequented the stalls particularly those of colorful bangles and Henna (Mehndi). This mega bazaar was sponsored by Bengal Grill owner Mr. Dedar who is the owner and chef and was jointly sponsored by Ammarah Boutique. At Iftar all visitors had the opportunity to enjoy delicious Iftar with special Bengal Grill fish in dinner.
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Pakistan’s Future is
PROMISING
Contributed by Kazim Jafary, Mortgage Consultant The global financial crisis which started in the US in 2008 has hit all the big economies with varying degrees. Most of the developed world is still struggling to be completely free from the grip of the recession caused by this crisis. But this tug-of-war is far from over. With North America under ever increasing national debts, with Greece’s repeated political and financial crisis pushing Germany to cough up massive bailout packages, with EU and Euro on the verge of collapse if Italy and Spain continue to follow footsteps of Greece, with China’s economy hitting on all cylinders leaving no margin for growth, consider for a moment, where the international investor has the option to go. My answer is the emerging economies and Pakistan is one of these. Pakistan is still a growing economy of around 180 million people. Potential for growth and expansion is huge and hugely untapped. Investors and corporations want to make money and they go anywhere in the world where the future is promising and they are sure to earn dividends.
Companies went to China to benefit from the abundantly available cheap labour and low production costs despite the capitalist world’s rhetoric against communism. Now the time has come when the world turns to Pakistan for investment. And already there are shining rays of hope on the horizon of trade and development.
50MW solar project in Pakistan
RenuEn Corporation of the United States is a growing renewable energy roll up company dealing in solar, wind and geothermal energy solutions. The Corporation has got a 50MW solar project in Pakistan through its pending acquisition of Team Energy Inc. The power purchase agreement (PPA) is guaranteed by the government of Pakistan for 25 years. The projected installed cost is $200 million and the company will be choosing its construction partner soon.
Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) joint venture in Pakistan Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) have finalised to establish oil infrastructure joint venture worth $350 million at Hub to enhance Pakistan’s oil storage capacity. Formal agreement between the two companies is expected to be signed in the near future. Sinopec China plans to invest in Pakistan’s oil & gas sector Vice President of Sinopec International Petroleum Service Corporation of China has recently visited Pakistan during this month and while meeting top government officials expressed his Corporation’s interest to invest in mega projects in Pakistan’s
oil and gas sector. It might prove to be a big step towards meeting the country’s growing energy needs. The abovementioned megaprojects mean FDI (foreign direct investment) in Pakistan which certainly mobilizes economy and brings employment opportunities for everyone including skilled labour and professionals. Effects are beginning to be recognized by the established international indicators. A case in point is the recent performance of Karachi stock market during the last month.
India and China left far behind – Pakistan is the best performing Asian stock market The Karachi stock market scored as the best performing Asian stock market in July 2012 based on the MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International) Indices. Improved foreign investments, better international relations and easing inflation helped Pakistan equities in July to outperform Asian Emerging and Frontier markets tracked by MSCI. Among 12 Asian countries tracked by MSCI, Pakistan posted highest US dollar return of 5.6 percent beating all other regional markets that posted a return ranging from negative 9.0 percent to 4.0 percent. India and China, the two leading markets posted negative returns of 1.1 percent and 4.4 percent, respectively.
More than enough power for 200 years for Pakistan Thar coal fields have estimated lignite reserves of 175 billion tons equivalent to total oil reserves of Iran and Saudi Arabia combined. Lignite is a kind of coal which is soft and brown in color and is primarily used as a fuel for steam-electric power generation. This large natural resource in Thar is enough to produce 100,000 MW of power for 200 years. Thar coal provides for the ideal means to meet the current and
future energy needs of the country. It has the potential to provide affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity to Pakistani consumers reducing the country’s need to rely on imported and expensive oil for power generation.
Pakistan’s growing mango exports The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) has started exporting mangoes to South Korea. It is definitely an important milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to increase exports of agricultural produce. Exporting mangoes is not only about bringing money it’s also about bringing good name to the country – it’s about exporting a taste of our culture and promoting Pakistan’s soft image. Efforts are also underway to open up newer markets like Australia. The option of sea route has also been explored recently and with the success of shipment to Netherlands exporting large quantities to other European countries is now a big export opportunity. Mango exports are already showing a gradual and steady growth as Pakistan exported 75,000 tons in the 2009 season, 85,000 tons in 2010 and 92,000 tons in 2011. This season, it is expected that the total mango exports should be more than 100,000 tons.
Continued on pg 31
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S P E C I A L
Keeping Ramadan Spirits Alive 9 tips to help you keep those Ramadan habits
Ramadan was great for Sarah. She actually started praying five times a day on time. But once the blessed month is over she fears the momentum, drive and motivation that kept her going will fade out. Sarah is worried that this good habit might not last. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, a number of psychologists agree that a person needs about three weeks to develop a good habit. If you’ve been praying regularly, fasting, controlling your temper, trying to be more patient, or keeping any other good habit during Ramadan, you’re almost sure, Insha Allah, to keep up with it afterwards. Nonetheless, we all slip up. As well, the drive that pushes us to do good in Ramadan is usually not as strong the rest of the year. Here are a few things you can do to maintain the good habits you picked during Ramadan:
1. Make Dua It was Allah who gave you the ability to keep the good habit in Ramadan, and only He can help you maintain it afterwards. Make Dua that Allah helps you not only keep the habit, but that He accepts it and makes it a way for you to grow in closeness to Him.
2. Make it a habit If you want to keep good habits, you’ve got to make sure they remain part of your daily schedule. For instance, fasting. Did you know that the Prophet (peace and bless-
ings be upon him) encouraged fasting on Mondays and Thursdays? He said: A man’s deeds are reported (to Allah) on Mondays and Thursdays and I prefer that I should be fasting when my deeds are reported (Tirmidhi). This is a great way of maintaining the habit so you’re not rusty by next Ramadan. Or for example, were you extra generous during Ramadan? Well, maybe you can portion out a set amount of your weekly or monthly paycheck to a charitable cause to maintain the habit of giving. Make the habit part of your daily and weekly schedule. The point is to keep the action in practice, and of course gain rewards from Allah.
3. Think about your day each night Evaluating ourselves, our intentions, words and actions, every night is a very good way to maintain good habits (see a sample selfevaluation form). Self-evaluation doesn’t only help you see where you are and where you’ve got to go. It’s also a great reminder of what you were supposed to do and didn’t. Add a question or two (or three or four) about your specific habit into a daily self-evaluation questionnaire. Ask yourself, for instance, how often did I pray today? What was the quality of my prayer? Did I pray on time? etc. These serve to remind you to keep up the habit and do bet-
ter next time. 4. Evaluate yourself weekly This helps you see the bigger picture. You’ll be able to evaluate on a more long-term level how well you’ve been keeping your habit in practice. You can do the same thing on a monthly and yearly basis. For those who are really into the technical aspect of self-evaluation, maybe you can make a graph to help you chart how well (or not so well) you’ve been keeping up with your good habit.
5. Get a friend to help
What are friends for anyway? If you’ve got a close friend you feel you can share your new habit with, let them join you in keeping up with it and keeping tabs on you while they’re at it. This will not only encourage you, but Insha Allah, it’ll deepen your brother/sisterhood as well. Alternatively, look for groups where you can maintain the habit. If, for instance, you memorized Quran regularly in Ramadan and want to keep the habit, join an Islamic study circle focused on memorization.
6. Don’t fall apart once you make one mistake
The beauty of Tawbah (repentance) in Islam, is that Allah blesses us with this opportunity to return back to Him after doing something wrong. We should remember that we are humans and that we will err. Only Allah is Perfect. This is why, for instance, if we were
Good News!
able to pray on time all through Ramadan, but become slack afterwards, we must realize it, seek Allah’s forgiveness sincerely, and try our best to get back on track, asking Allah to help us. We should not give up trying to pray on time just because we have missed doing so on a couple of occasions.
7. Ask yourself WHY you kept the habit Niyyah or intention is a key to Allah’s acceptance of our good deeds. If we developed a habit to impress others, for instance, we may be able to keep the momentum for a while, but most probably it’ll wear out afterwards. But if we maintained a habit sincerely for the sake of Allah, Insha Allah, not only will we be rewarded for it, but our intention will help us maintain the necessary motivation to continue to do good.
8. Don’t expect the same results If you were ready to spring out of bed in anticipation for Fajr during many of the days of Ramadan, but find yourself barely waking up for the prayer afterwards, don’t be surprised, but don’t become slack either. Good habits are often easy to maintain in Ramadan, the blessed month. The hard part is doing so after the “high” of Ramadan. This is where you’ll have to work hard to force yourself to maintain your habit, whether it’s waking up for Fajr, not
smoking, eating less, being more patient, etc. Be thankful when you’re able to maintain your habit and think about practical things you can do to keep it up on a regular basis.
9. Work your way up slowly Aisha reported that Rasulullah said: Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately, and remember that you shall enter Paradise only through Allah’s Mercy, and also remember that the most beloved deed to Allah is that which is regular and constant even if it is little (Bukhari). The wisdom in this Hadith is tremendous and it is one way of keeping up good habits you have picked up in Ramadan. For example, let’s say you were motivated to read Quran for halfan-hour on a daily basis in Ramadan. But now that it’s over, you feel sluggish, lazy and want to give it up. Yet, you had wanted to maintain this habit after the blessed month was over. Instead of trying to read Quran for the same amount of time, reduce the time period to as much as you are initially able to do, even if it’s just five minutes a day. If you keep up this ‘five minutes a day’ habit, Insha Allah, you will see the amount of Quran you read will increase slowly but
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Pak lone female fighter Famous Women of Pakistan pilot ready for combat
BATTLE READY Ayesha Farooq (26) in the cockpit of an F-7PG fighter jet at the Mushaf base in Sargodha, Pakistan. With an olive green headscarf poking out from her helmet, Ayesha Farooq flashes a cheeky grin when asked if it is lonely being the only war-ready female fighter pilot in the Islamic republic of Pakistan. Farooq (26), from Bahawalpur in Punjab province, is one of 19 women who have become pilots in the Pakistan Air Force over the past decade - there are five other female fighter pilots but they have yet to take the final tests to qualify for combat. “I don’t feel any different. We do the same activities, the same precision bombing,” the softspoken 26-year-old said of her male colleagues at Mushaf base in north Pakistan, where neatly piled warheads sit in sweltering 50 °C heat. A growing number of women have joined Pakistan’s defence forces in recent years as attitudes towards women change. “Because of terrorism and our geographical location it’s very important that we stay on our
toes,” says Farooq, referring to Taliban militancy and a sharp rise in sectarian violence. Deteriorating security in neighbouring Afghanistan, where US-led troops are preparing to leave by the end of next year, and an uneasy relationship with arch rival India to the east add to the mix. Farooq, whose slim frame offers a study in contrast with her burly male colleagues, was at loggerheads with her widowed and uneducated mother seven years ago when she said she wanted to join the air force. “In our society most girls don’t even think about doing such a thing as flying an aircraft,” she said. Family pressure against the traditionally male domain of the armed forces dissuaded other women from taking the next step to become combat ready, air force officials said. “They fly slower aircraft instead, ferrying troops and equipment around the nucleararmed country of 180 million. Women are becoming more aware of their rights and signing up with the air force is about as empowering as it gets. “More and more women are joining now,” says Nasim Abbas, Wing Commander of Squadron 20, made up of 25 pilots, including Farooq, who fly Chinese-made F-7PG fighter jets. “It’s seen as less of a taboo. There’s been a shift in the nation’s way of thinking,” Abbas says. There are now around 4,000 women in Pakistan’s armed forces, largely confined to desk jobs and medical work. But over the past decade, women have became sky marshals, defending Pakistan’s commercial liners against insurgent attacks, and a select few are serving in the elite anti-terrorist force. — Reuters
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S P E C I A L
Exports of Pakistan
Cuisine of PAKISTAN
Animal & Animal Products Live Animals, Meat and Edible Meat Offal , Fish and Crustaceans Chemicals & Allied Industries Tobacco & Manuf, Tobacco Substitutes, Inorganic Chemicals, Precious Metals, Organic Chemicals Foodstuffs Edible Prep. of Meat and Fish, Sugars, Sugar Confectionery, Cocoa & Cocoa Machinery / Electrical Machinery & Mechanical Appliances, Electrical Machinery Metals, Iron & Steel, Articles of Iron or Steel, Copper & Articles Mineral Products Salt, Sulphur, Lime & Cement, etc, ores Slag & Ash, Mineral Fuels, Oils, Waxes Miscellaneous Optical, Surgical Instruments, Clocks & Watches & Parts Musical Instruments Preparations, Footwear / Headgear , Footwear, Gaiters, etc, Headgear & Other Parts, Umbrellas, Walking-Sticks,
Plastics / Rubbers Plastics & Articles ;Rubbers & Articles; Raw Hides, Skins, Leather, & Furs, Raw Hides, Skins & Leather, Articles of Leather, Fur skins & Artificial Fur Services Engineering Services, Business Services, Stone / Glass, Articles of Stone, Plaster, Cement, Ceramic Products, Glass & Glassware Textiles Silk, Yarns & Woven Fabrics, Wool, Yarns & Woven Fabrics, Cotton, Yarns & Woven Fabrics Transportation Railway, Fixtures & Fittings, Vehicles Vegetable Products Live Trees & Other Plants, Edible Vegetables, Fruits & Nuts Wood and Wood Products Wood and Articles of wood, cork and articles, plating materials, basket ware
At its simplest, Pakistani cooking today consists of staple foods which are cheap and abundant. Wheat and other flour products is the mainstay of the diet, one familiar form being CHAPATI, unleavened bread akin to a Mexican tortilla. This is made with dough prepared from whole wheat flour. Another basic food is LASSI, milk from which curds and butterfat have been removed. Vegetables, usually seasonal, lentils are commonly used. Families with larger incomes eat more meat eggs, and fruits. And the more affluent cook with GHEE, which is clarified butter, instead of with vegetable oil. From the earliest times, the imaginative - and sometimes heavy - use of spices, herbs, seeds, and flavorings and seasonings have helped cooks transform rather ordinary staple foods into an exotic cuisine. Consider some of the most common of these in wide use in Pakistan today: chilli powder, turmeric, garlic, paprika, black pepper, red pepper, cumin seed, bay leaf, coriander, cardamom, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, saffron, mace, nutmeg, poppy seeds, aniseed, almonds, pistachios, and yogurt. Their use in a wide range of pickles, chutneys, preserves, and sauces, together with curries of all descriptions and special treatment for meats, sea, food, vegetables and lentils, gives Pakistani cooking much of its distinctive character. Cultural influences, whether religious precepts, practices, and ceremonies or local traditions, or even esthetic preferences, have made their contribution toward the evolution of Pakistani cuisine. The Influence of Islam The spread of Islam to what is now Pakistan, starting in the Eighth Century, has given a basic character to the food of the people. The Quranic injunctions against eating pork or drinking alcoholic beverages has channeled tastes and appetites
in other directions. Lamb, beef, chicken and fish are basic foods, although their consumption by persons of low income is modest and often ceremonial. Some of the Muslim feasts involve special dishes. Eid-ul-Adha, which commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to obey God even to the point of being willing to sacrifice his son, is observed by the sacrifice of a goat, a lamb, or a cow from which special dishes are made. On Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of RAMADAN, the month of fasting in the Islamic Calendar, the serving of a special dessert of vermicelli cooked in milk is a must. Almond and pistachios are added as decorations as is the silver foil. The latter is so thin that it will disintegrate unless it is immediately transferred from the protective layers of paper onto the dish. Food and The Moghul Emperors A style of cookery called Moghlai’ evolved at the Moghul court and even today it remains centered in Lahore. Some latterday and widely known survivors of court cookery are, for example, chicken tandoori, a dish in which chicken is cooked at low temperatures in special ovens called TANDOORS, and murgh musallum’ in which the whole chickens are roasted with special spices and ingredients. SHAHI TUKRA, a dessert of sliced bread, milk, cream, sugar and saffron, is another leftover from the days of the Moghuls. Fruit drinks, squeezed from pomegranates, apples, melons, and mangoes, and called SHARBAT, are an important part of the Moghlai cuisine and, indeed, the inspiration for American “sherberts.” Ceremonial occasions such as weddings have inspired a number of fancy dishes. A traditional dish at marriage feasts, for example, is chicken curry with either PILAU or Biryani. Firini, made from cream of rice and milk, is an equally traditional wedding dessert. It is served in clay saucers topped by silver foil.
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From the mighty stretches of the Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land of high adventure and nature. Trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, wild boar hunting, mountain and desert jeep safaris, camel and yak safaris, trout fishing and bird watching, are a few activities, which entice the adventure and nature lovers to Pakistan. Pakistan is endowed with a rich and varied flora and fauna. High Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges
with their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coast line and wetlands, all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and associated wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. Ten of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world’s smallest surviving mammals, the Mediterranean Pigmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known; the blue whale.
Emicro Systems Ltd looking for Web designer urgently. You are welcome to apply, if you are university graduate, at least 2 years work experience as web developer, with good English written and communication skills. Job is full time and permanent and wage will be $28/ hr. Job duties: Develop and document web site requirement according to clients requirements, Develop web site architecture and determine hardware and software requirements, Source, select and organize information for inclusion and design the appearance, layout and flow of web site, Create and optomize content for website. Location Address: Mr. Adrian, EMicro Systems Ltd. 106 13030 76 Ave Surrey BC V3W 2V6 Email: 123billo@gmail.com
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Eid al-Fitr for Children
As many Muslims today say “Eid is like our Christmas”, and in a way, it is. It is one of the two celebrations that Muslims celebrate (Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha). With the busyness of Ramadhan or the fact that many want to remain focussed on the blessed month and not pre-occupied with many worldly things, it can be difficult to plan a massive shindig for Eid. But it need not be a hassle. With pre planning, internet shopping and things that you can make at home, your Eid celebration planning should be a doddle. Eid is a time for contemplation, celebration, gift giving and family and friends. It is especially important for children, especially young ones, as we should try and instil in them the importance of Eid from a young age. Children living in the west, because of a lack of understanding of Eid and usually due to the fact that some parents don’t make a big deal out of it, don’t feel Eid the way I think it should be felt. It becomes more like a “Yeh-lets-party-’cos-now-we-can-eat” type of day. Children often feel uncomfortable and bored on Eid (dressed up in scratchy clothes, masjid early in the morning, visiting endless family…) and so they can easily lose sight of the fun of Eid. So when Christmas comes around and they see the huge deal
it is, inevitably, to them, it holds more importance than Eid. Which is why they need to know that some people celebrate Christmas, and it is a special time for them, and we celebrate Eid, and it is a special time for us. So, how can we make Eid fun for the little ones? How can we make it a time they will remember? Here are some simple ideas to make planning Eid easier for you, and make it a fun time for the little ones. School If your child is at a mainstream school, the school may not be celebrating Eid, although many schools do acknowledge different religious festivals and teach the children about it. Encourage your child to write Eid cards for their friends. You can purchase Eid cards in most Islamic bookshops, but also from Amazon .You can also buy sweets and
EID MUBARAK
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER (2 POSITIONS) Emicro Systems Ltd looking for Graphic designer urgently, you are welcome to apply, if you are university graduate, at least 2 years work experience as Graphic Designer, with good English written and communication skills. Job is full time and permanent and wage will be $ 28/ hr. Job duties: • Consult with clients to establish the overall look, graphic elements and content of communications materials in order to meet their needs • Determine the medium best suited to produce the desired visual effect and the most appropriate vehicle for communication • Develop the graphic elements that meet the clients’ objectives • Prepare sketches, layouts and graphic elements of the subjects to be rendered using traditional tools, multimedia software and image processing, layout and design software • Estimate cost of materials and time to complete graphic design • Use existing photo and illustration banks and typography guides or hire an illustrator or photographer to produce images that meet clients’ communications needs • Work in a multidisciplinary environment Location Address: Mr. Adrian, EMicro Systems Ltd. 106 13030 76 Ave Surrey BC V3W 2V6 | Email: 123billo@gmail.com
send them into school for your child’s class, and maybe ask the teacher to put up an Eid information poster, you could encourage your child to make one. Presents You don’t need to spend hundreds of pounds on presents, but you can find some lovely children’s gifts on www.islam4kids.com. It might also be worth looking out for sales in mainstream stores for clothes and toys (Mothercare, Early Learning Centre ). You can find wonderful gifts for adults and children here www.sirat.com. You can even encourage your child to make their own Eid cards or even presents for family members, or let them help choose presents for others, while teaching them the importance of giving gifts in Islam, and that gifts don’t have to be big or expensive. Party If the weather is nice, why not have a barbecue for Eid. Either way, a gathering of family and friends is great for everyone, not just the kids. Remember to include non-Muslim friends/family, and invite your child’s friends also. It may be a nice touch to let your child choose a theme for the party “Eid Tea Party”, for example. With regards to food, you could help them to bake for the party, cupcakes, or a main cake. Decorations You can buy decorations- sure. But why
not let the kids to make their own? There are many websites that can give you ideas. Alternatively or together with homemade decorations, you can visit a party shop and get all of your decorations in one day. Get the kids to help decorate aswell. It will be a fun build up to the party! Party bags/party games If there will be afew children at your party, why not plan some party games and give party bags. You can tweak many traditional party games to suit your needs (ie- ‘pass the parcel’, a game in which the children pass a present to music, when the music stops the child who has the present opens one layer. There is usually a small gift between every layer. You can use children’s nasheeds for this game). You can buy anything to put in party bags or games. Things like these badges are really sweet. You can also get Islamic stickers and small books/toys for party pags. For any Londoners, there is a fabulous Islamic shop, Zam Zam, on Green Street, near Upton Park where you can purchase things like stickers and badges. Not losing sight of the reason for Eid Amongst the party games and food, we can easily lose sight of why we are celebrating Eid. In order to feel the true essence of Eid, it might be worth finding somewhere where Eid salaat is prayed outside, or where there is an Eid fair, so that the family can be part of a wider community Eid celebration. When it comes to your celebration at home, a good idea is to encourage the child- prior to Eid, to write a short story about their favourite time in Ramadhan, to read to family and friends at the Eid party. Or you can encourage them to write and perform a play about Ramadhan. Something as small as (for older children) learning a new surah during Ramadhan and reciting it as an opening for the Eid party can be a lovely touch. Maybe they can recite ahadith about Eid and what we are to do on Eid, and why. This can gradually become a yearly tradition. InshaAllah (God Willing), you found this short blog post useful! I do hope that you all have a blessed Ramadhan, and an Eid full of goodness, love, joy and lots of remembrance of Allah.
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
PAKISTAN’S 67th INDEPENDENCE DAY
By Tariq Mian ( Toronto) Millions of Muslim lives were lost while struggling for an independent homeland. As a result, Pakistan came into being on 14th August 1947 (27th of Ramadan). The word Pakistan is a conjunction of two words Pak meaning “Pure” and Stan meaning “Land,” a name suggested by Choudhry Rehmat Ali. For celebrating the independence, all the government & non-government offices, courts, post offices, banks, educational institutions, and major markets stay closed to facilitate the celebration of Pakistan Independence day. On this statutory national holiday, changing of sentinel occurs at the mausoleums of Dr. Allama Iqbal - the poet of the East, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah - the founding father of Pakistan. The public do enjoy cinema shows, music contests, special theatre shows, national song competitions, concerts, and fireworks. Radio and television stations broadcast national songs - specially prepared for Independence Day programs. The Pakistanis home and abroad celebrate the special occasion with patriotic zest. Many people dressed up in green and white (Pakistani flag’s colors) attend the Independence Day parades. Pakistan’s national flag is hoisted on public and private buildings, residences and monuments at dawn. Parliament House is colorfully illuminated. The prime minister and president address and congratulate the nation. Pakistan, a country of almost 190 million people is currently struggling to stay afloat politically and economically. and the proud nation is happy to have its own homeland after sacrificing millions of lives during the genuine freedom struggle. Historically speaking, the Mughal rule ended during ‘the 1857 uprising’ followed by the British Raj.
However, a large scale armed struggle against the British Raj eventually turned into a messy freedom movement leading to independence of India in the later years. Soon it was followed by another freedom struggle but in a peaceful manner by the Indian National Congress. Muslim leaders Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Syed Ameer Ali worked diligently for the Muslim people’s political advancement. Later on, the Muslim League, another political party, gained popularity, amid fears of ‘under representation’ and the ongoing neglect of Muslims in wider Indian politics. On 29th December 1930, Allama Iqbal presented the idea of a separate State that would geographically consist of the Muslim majority areas in the subcontinent. Hence, his presidential address called for a separate Muslim homeland in the North Western and North Eastern of South Asia. At the time, strong Hindu nationalists advocated the “Two Nation Theory,” an ideology that is accredited as being the basis for Pakistan’s creation. Mr. Jinnah supported the “Two Nation Theory” and led the Muslim League to adopt the Lahore Resolution of 1940 (Pakistan Resolution), which ultimately facilitated the birth of Pakistan. And, upon creation of Pakistan, the Muslims of India were able to have gained two independent wings (one thousand miles apart). Sadly, the unsupervised partition of British India resulted in deadly communal riots across India and Pakistan where millions of Muslims moved to Pakistan, and millions of Hindus and Sikhs moved to India. Post partition, certain disputes arose over several princely states between the two neighbours - including Jammu and Kashmir issue which remains responsible for all wars so far. India claims it as inseparable and Pakistan
claims it as a right. While on the contrary, the UN passed resolutions to grant right of plebiscite (self determination) to Kashmiris, India stubbornly manages to deny the right and the dispute lingers on as alive. Sadly, the ongoing negative socio economic and political environment was the major irritation for East Pakistanis which escalated to a civil war (the Bangladesh Liberation War) and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which lead to the fall of Dacca – and Pakistan lost its eastern wing which is now an independent state of Bangladesh. Pakistan is lucky to be blessed with natural resources/reserves and a significant amount of deposits of copper, gold, zinc and lead in the Pakistan province of Baluchistan. A new gas field in Nawabshah and coal in Tharparkar, Sindh have been confirmed in recent years by Geological Survey of Pakistan and Mineral Development Corporation of Pakistan in collaboration with Mining firms from Australia, China and other nations. Reko Diq alone has the reserves estimated at “two billion tons of copper” and “20 million ounces of gold.” Geographically and geopolitically, Pakistan enjoys an important position having deep seas, a long coastline, huge plains, many varying geographic regions, rivers, abundant rains and rich mineral resources. Located in South Asia, the country shares an eastern border with India and a north-eastern border with China. Iran makes up the country’s southwest border, and Afghanistan runs along its western and northern edge. Pakistan displays some of Asia’s most magnificent landscapes as it stretches from the Arabian Sea, in the south, to some of the world’s most spectacular mountain ranges, in the north. The Arabian Sea is Pakistan’s southern boundary with 1,064 km of coastline. The Country as a total area of 803,904 sq km with a land area of 778,720 sq km is nearly
Madina Restaurant
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four times the size of United Kingdom. From Gwadar Bay in its south-eastern corner, the country extends more than 1,800 km to the Khunjerab Pass on China’s border. Unfortunately, Karachi - the commercial hub is under constant threat of “guerilla attack,” and the criminals/terrorists, target killers, bhatta mafia (extortionists) are freely roaming around. The mushrooming growth of, dacoits, kidnappers, hoarders, and anti Pakistan elements poses danger to the general public and the merchants. Shamelessly, the ruling elite has broken all past records of corruption and has been defying and ridiculing the judicial verdicts. The jialas and the ruling mafia don’t hesitate to make derogatory remarks against the Supreme Judiciary, and they are blatantly flouting its decisions. State policy to ridicule and disobey judicial verdicts can’t be tolerated. On top of that, the unscheduled power outage, rampant corruption, inflation, unemployment, and the administrative paralysis are hurting the common man. Under the tough scenario, celebrating August 14th opens the window of opportunity to promote patriotism and national unity in the best interest of the country. Though, the media played its role nationwide against corruption, injustice, incompetence and negligence far and wide, yet a special “awareness campaign” needs to be launched for eliminating the hypocrites, hidden hands and the quagmire of feudal politics. Hopefully, the politically aware youth will make it to the polling stations this time. Indeed, if they vote in significant numbers at the upcoming election, the current unpleasant status quo will be replaced by the long awaited positive change. Putting aside linguistic, provincial and religious differences for sake of unity would save Pakistan.
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
LIFESTYLE
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EID MUBARAK
What is Happiness? Shabnam Khan M.P.C.P., R.P.C - Family Counsellor Happiness, many of us believe is linked to wealth and status. We have traditionally measured happiness through our accumulation of possessions: trendy clothes, fine jewelry, homes in the best neighborhoods and many more. These are the things we work for and there’s nothing wrong with that. It is the time to carefully examine the lifestyle we have accepted in the past, but are now questioning. It is time to ask why most of our population lives in the constant state of exhaustion. Is this “balance� ? Where has the vital energy in our bodies and souls gone? If we seek true happiness, we must first explore how our world has become victimized by fear. On some level, most people live in the constant state of anxiety and fear which affects their mental, physical and spiritual health. Individuals cannot experience true happiness without sense of personal power in their lives. How can we restore our own sense of authentic power within ourselves? Our challenge is to explore the concept of power as force (power over) and the power as strength (power with). It is important we make the distinctive between the self-serving, destructive power of domination and greed. Opportunities for true happiness, balance and strength exist in every minute of the day, but most of us have lost the ability
to recognize the happiness waiting to be discovered in the simple moments of our lives. Happiness is your natural gift. Life does gets busy and sooner or later our lives are out of balance. This is the time to stop being a victim of our lives and make choices that will create an intentional life of happiness. Happiness is living in a proactive way because you have made the decision to live every day of your life as if each experience is a class in the classroom called life. Choosing happiness is about being a hero of your life, not the victim. Happy people have an attitude of gratitude no matter what circumstances they face. Happiness is inextricably linked to gratitude and reverence for life. Happiness is the ability to receive love and to surrender to love. True happiness is an sustainable piece of art. Each day you discover happiness in any form, it will make your life precious and more sacred. Remember, being happy is an healthy choice, not only for yourself but also for people around you !! shabnam@skcounselling.ca
We would like to say Happy EID Mubarak to all Muslim Community
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
H E A L T H
Praying without knee strain A prayer mat that takes the strain of the knee could make praying even more enjoyable. A Turkish man living in Germany has invented a prayer mat that takes the strain off the knees which, he said Friday, he hoped to now sell worldwide. At first sight, the rug looks like other prayer mats, but it is designed with special cushioning for under the knees, feet and forehead, said Adnan Pirisan, 50, who himself suffered from painful joints. Apart from saying the padding is a special kind of foam that “doesn’t get damaged,” he refused during a telephone interview with AFP to
reveal its composition. “Production secret,” he said. “I registered my patent in 2009 and since, we’ve been producing in three towns in Turkey. We sell about 3,000 rugs a year,” Pirisan, who arrived in Germany at the age of 10, said. Sales of the orthopedic rug, which folds up into a cushion or small bag, are mostly made online but Pirisan’s company, Pirisec, also has sales points in Germany, Turkey, Kuwait and Dubai. But he said he had already sold his rugs, which come in standard (39.50 euros, $52), luxury and child categories, as far afield as Singapore and the US.
PAKISTAN FUTURE : Continued from pg 24 Open and progressive society – growth of Broadband Internet Pakistan’s impressive growth of broadband Internet is being recognized internationally. Broadband Internet has become a household product now. Despite the current global economic downturn, Pakistan’s amazing growth in the broadband Internet sector during the last ten years is an outstanding national success story. High-speed Internet is rapidly revolutionizing the way Pakistanis learn, communicate, work and do business. With over 70 times increase in Broadband proliferation in the last six years, broadband has become the backbone of corporate
services sector and even small businesses.
Pakistan and India moving in the right direction Recently India removed the ban on investments from Pakistan. This means a citizen of Pakistan or a business entity registered in Pakistan can now invest across the border in neighboring India. The Indian move has been welcomed by Pakistani businessmen, investors and industrialists alike. It is certainly intended to build goodwill amid a renewed push for a peace settlement between the two countries. Such a step taken with good intentions and pursued with open minds from both sides would undoubtedly bring prosperity to the people of South Asian region. The positive
results would be manifold when India takes the next step and lifts the ban on investments into Pakistan by Indian citizens. It has become all too common to predict doom and paint gloomy pictures of Pakistan’s future. Against this backdrop of prevalent pessimism, the above mentioned developments serve as some of the examples to highlight Pakistan’s immense potential for growth. Seeing the glass half full goes well with celebrating our country’s 65th Independence Day. It’s a day to rejoice, reflect as well as resolve to do our bit to contribute to this promising future. Happy Independence Day!
For comments and questions: kazim@kazimjafary.com
Trying to Have a Baby?
Long term use of coffee has been linked to lowering the risk of the Alzheimer’s disease. It stimulates the central nervous system, helps you stay awake, think quick, and be alert. So far so good, so what role does it play in infertility? More than 300 mg of caffeine daily has been associated with infertility in countless research studies including Government Health Organizations. Let’s take a closer look at some typical offenders: • 1 grande Brewed Coffee = 260 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Caffe, Skinny Latte or Macchiato = 150 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Caffe Mocha = 175 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Caffe Americano = 225 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Cappuccino or Doppio Espresso = 150 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Tazo Chai Tea Latte = 95 mg of caffeine. • 1 grande Tazo Green Tea Latte = 80 mg of caffeine. • Soda = 35 to 55 mg per can. • Energy and pre-workout drinks are the worst offenders of all. Reducing your caffeine intake isn’t the magical cure; it’s a step on your path to conceive. People often try all sorts of drugs but overlook the simple things. Check out Health Canada for more information on caffeine in drinks and food: http://www.hc-sc. gc.ca/fn-an/securit/addit/caf/food-caf-aliments-eng.php www.FoodAthlete.com
Eid Mubarak & Happy Independence Day • Fresh Fruits and Vegetables • Many Kinds of Dates & Juices
Delicious Pakistani Mangoes are also available
• All Masalas,Spices, Dalls & Rice brands • Paratha • Samosa • Gajar Halwa • Shermal • Taftan • Spring rolls • Sugar Free Jam e Shreen & Nurus Syrups • Clay (Matti) Handi & other Pots • Pressure Cooker • Ahmed Sweets and Much more for your daily needs
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Demographics of
INDIA
Country overview: Short name INDIA Languages Hindi (hi), English (en), etc. Time zone +5:30 Capital New Delhi President Pratibha Patil Prime minister Dr. Manmohan Singh
Census Total Population: 1,095,351,995 (July 2006 ; 1,027,000,000 (2001 Census) Rural Population: 742,617,747(72.2%) (Male: 381,668,992, Female: 360,948,755) (2001 Census) Urban: Age structure: 0–14 years: 30.8%(male 173,478,760/female 163,852,827) 15–64 years: 64.3% (male 363,876,219/ female 340,181,764) 65 years and over: 4.9% (male 27,258,020/ female 26,704,405) (2006 est.) The average age of Indians is 24.8 years. Population growth rate: 1.606%% (2007 est.) Birth rate: 22.69 births/1,000 population (2007 est.) Death rate: 6.58 deaths/1,000 population (2006 est.) Literacy rate: 65.38% (2001 est.) Percent of the population under the poverty line: 22%(2006 est.) Unemployment Rate: 7.8%
Total population: 1.064 male(s)/female (2006 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.81 children born/woman (2007 est.) The TFR (Total number of children born per women ) according to Religion in 2001 was : Hindus - 2.27, Muslims - 3.06, Sikhs - 1.86, Christians - 2.06, Buddhists - 2.29, Jains - 1.50 , Animists and Others - 2.99, Tribals - 3.16, Scheduled Castes - 2.89. Religions: Hindu 80.5%, Muslim 13.1%, Christian 2.31%, Buddhists 1.05%, Sikh 1.93%, Jains 0.41 %, Others or not stated 0.76% (2001 Census) Scheduled Castes and Tribes: Scheduled Castes: 16.2% (2001 Census) Scheduled Tribes: 8.2% (2001 Census) Languages: There are 216 languages with more than 10,000 native speakers in India. The largest of these by far is Hindi with some 337 million (the second largest being Bengali with some 207 million). 22 languages are recognized as “official languages”. In India, there are 1,652 languages and dialects in total. Road to Independence On 3 June 1947, Viscount Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last British GovernorGeneral of India, announced the partitioning of the British Indian Empire into an India and Pakistan, under the provisions of the Indian Independence Act 1947. At stroke of midnight, on 15 August 1947, India became an independent nation. This was preceded by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s famous speech titled Tryst with destiny. “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when
the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance..... We end today a period of ill fortune, and Rajendra Prasad as the first President of India discovers herself again. ” India, taking over from Governor General Prime Minister Nehru and Deputy Prime Rajgopalachari. Subsequently, a free and Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel invited sovereign India absorbed two other terLord Mountbatten to continue as Governor ritories: Goa (liberated from Portuguese General of India. He was replaced in June control in 1961) and Pondicherry (which 1948 by Chakravarti Rajagopalachari. the French ceded in 1954). In 1952, India Patel took on the responsibility of unifyheld its first general elections, with a voter ing 565 princely states, steering efforts by turnout exceeding 62%; in practice, this his “iron fist in a velvet glove” policies, made India the world’s largest democracy. exemplified by the use of military force to integrate Junagadh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Hyderabad state into India. The Constituent Assembly completed the work of drafting the constitution on 26 November 1949; on 26 January 1950 the Republic of India was officially proclaimed. The Indian President Indian Prime Minister Constituent AsPranab Mukherjee Manmohan Singh sembly elected Dr.
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L O C A L
Children’s Birthday Miracles organization being run by Sheliza Kassam
A sixteen year old Calgary teen, Sheliza Kassam, is not new to helping those in her community. For three years, she’s been dedicating her birthday (gifts and all) to helping the less fortunate. This past January, she even started her own organization, Children’s Birthday Miracles. Her charity hosts birthday parties to some very deserving Calgary youth. On July 31st at Calaway Park, with some special support from Coca-Cola Canada, Sheliza threw her biggest birthday bash yet for over 200 Calgary teens. Sheliza, who credits her passion for philanthropy to her faith and following the Qur’an. A Little Bit of Kindness Can Inspire Something More! Coca-Cola Canada opens the discussion on kindness and celebrates some special Canadians who go out of their way to make others happy. On July 24 in Toronto the Canadians have earned their reputation for being polite, but how do they rate in their kindness towards others? According to a national survey conducted by Environics Research for Coca-Cola Canada, Canadians have shown kindness to others through random actions an average of four times in the last four weeks.* This includes such things as opening a door, offering
to carry heavy items or giving up a seat on public transit. Yet, 70 per cent of us feel many of these acts don’t receive the recognition they deserve. That’s why Coca-Cola Canada is celebrating some very special individuals who make others happy with remarkable acts in their own communities across the country. The goal? Share their stories to help inspire others to give a little kindness too. “When it comes to kindness, seeing really is believing,” says Carolyn Harty, Senior Brand Manager, Coca-Cola. “More than half of Canadians are motivated to payit-forward themselves when they see others making a kind gesture. It is these small acts of kindness that make a larger difference and inspire and create happiness.” Where the Stories Begin… Coca-Cola Canada completed a cross-country search to find stories about Canadians who are on a personal mission to create more happiness in the world. Here are just a few of the special stories identified: • Make a Wish…Sixteen year old Sheliza Kassam, a native of Calgary, decided on her thirteenth birthday that instead of gifts, she and her family would help feed families in need. Her one small gesture ballooned into a non-profit organization that Sheliza now runs to throw birthday parties for children
2 Full-Time Arabic/Islamic Studies/ Quran Teachers Skills and Qualifications Requirements
• Possess or is Eligible for BC Teacher Certification • Degree or Post-Secondary Certificate from a recognized Islamic Institution for the subjects to be taught • Proven experience teaching Arabic, Islamic knowledge and Quran to children ages 5 – 12 • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Computer competence in English and Arabic • Ability to work within a team, with integrity, enthusiasm, initiative and confidence • Experience with children in an education setting is an asset
Please email your Cover Letter, Resume, BC Teacher Certificate, Transcript and 2 Letter of References to the attention of the Principal at vpeducation@thebcma.com
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest, but only those candidates who are short-listed will be contacted.
living in shelters who otherwise would not be able to celebrate their special day. Inspiring Random Acts of Happiness This summer, in an effort to inspire others and share happiness, Coca-Cola Canada will be giving Sheliza, Nathan, and Luke a help-
ing hand with additional support and resources to make their act of kindness even bigger. More acts of kindness have been documented by filmmakers from across the country and can be seen on www.youtube.com/openhappiness. “We’re very impressed by the actions of these teens and the stories that these filmmakers from across Canada have created and chosen to tell, They truly inspire us all to think about how we can look at the world a little differently,” says Harty. “This summer, we hope every Canadian can experience how a little bit of kindness can make others happy.” How Have Canadians Expressed Their Kindness In the Last Month? • Holding a door open for other people is the most common act reported amongst Canadians (92 per cent) • 41% of Canadian teens (15-17) have donated money to a stranger in need or offered up their seat on public transit • Approximately half of Canadians have helped someone lost find correct directions.
Students Seek Quality,
Accessible Path To The MD Degree
On July 27, More than 180 people participated in a presentation by Caribbean Medical University (CMU) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University Surrey Campus. Dr. Sunny Handa, Dean of Clinical Medicine in the CMU School of Medicine, and Mr. Johnny Kang, CMU’s Academic Advisor, spoke to students about their newly inaugurated local pre-med program. The first class of pre-med students will start in the fall of 2013 at CMU’s state-of-the-art campuses in Abbotsford and Surrey. “CMU is opening up options for future doctors. The pre-medical program will serve students who want a high quality, direct, accessible avenue to the MD de-
gree,” said Dr. Handa. CMU’s medical program accepts high school graduates. Students can complete their pre-med program in Canada, and then attend a 16-month program in Curacao, followed by 72 weeks of clinical rotations in Canada and the United States. Advantages to the CMU program include: No post secondary education or MCAT required; Financial aid and scholarships available; Friendly low tuition rates. For more information about studying medicine in the Caribbean to become a physician in Canada or the U.S.,please visit www.cmumed.org or call 1.877.517.8800.
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P O R T S
NHL finalizes sale of Phoenix Pakistan to host Sri Lanka in UAE Coyotes to new ownership group
Pakistan will host Sri Lanka in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) between December 2013 and January 2014 for a bilateral series that includes three Tests, five ODIs and two Twenty20s. The series, the second bilateral contest between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the UAE, will be played in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. The T20s and ODIs have been scheduled before the Tests. The T20s will be played on December 11 and 13 in Dubai, while Sharjah will host the first ODI on December 18. The last two ODIs will be played in Abu Dhabi. Pakistan will take on Afghanistan in a T20 match before the start of the Sri Lanka series, although the venue for the match has not yet been announced. The first Test has been scheduled for December 31 in Dubai, while Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will host the second and third Tests, from January 8 and January 16. “The tour itinerary has been approved after consultation between Pakistan Cricket Board and its counterpart Sri Lanka,” the PCB said in a statement Since the terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in March 2009, Pakistan have been forced to play their home series overseas, with UAE being the preferred venue. The last time the two sides played in the UAE in 2011, Pakistan won the ODIs 4-1 and won the Test and T20 series 1-0. Pakistan enjoyed little success on their tour of Sri Lanka in June and July 2012 - the last bilateral series between the teams - losing the Tests (1-0) and ODIs (3-1), while the T20 series was tied. Source: Cricinfo
The Phoenix Coyotes’ ownership saga is over. The NHL announced the sale of the team to Canadian-led owners was finalized after it was approved by the board of governors Monday. Once the board of governors voted to approve the sale to the IceArizona group led by Renaissance Sports & Entertainment’s Anthony LeBlanc and George Gosbee, that terminated the league’s ownership of the Coyotes. The NHL had owned the team for almost four years. “To our fans and partners in the Valley, thank you for your continued loyalty, commitment and patience for the Coyotes,” Gosbee said in a statement. “The future looks bright for our franchise.” The NHL sold the Coyotes to Renaissance for US$170 million, though there was no certainty about the deal until Glendale, Ariz., completed a lease agreement in early July. “If (the city council) voted it down, this was the end of the road,” LeBlanc said at the time. Instead, the Coyotes have a 15-year lease at Jobing.com Arena. “The National Hockey League believes in Arizona as an NHL market and that these new owners can provide the Coyotes the opportunity to secure a stable, long-term future in Glendale,” commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “We thank Mike Nealy, Don Maloney, Dave Tippett, team captain Shane Doan and all the players and staff for consistently going ‘above and beyond’ on behalf of the franchise during this long and complex process.” It was a long and complex process before Renaissance was formed to buy the Coyotes. In 2009, then-owner Jerry Moyes put the team into bankruptcy and then tried to sell it
to Jim Balsillie, who intended to relocate it to Hamilton. During the NHL’s stewardship of the franchise, Ice Edge Holdings led by White Sox and Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf and then Chicago investor Matt Hulsizer tried but failed to buy the Coyotes. LeBlanc and Gosbee teamed up, got financing, league approval and finally an arena lease to settle one of the NHL’s biggest questions. “We want to thank the dedicated fans for their ongoing support of the team and the city of Glendale,” the city said in a statement. “As the anchor tenant for Jobing.com Arena, the Coyotes play more than 40 home games in our city that annually attract more than 500,000 fans and we are looking forward to many successful years ahead.” In addition to LeBlanc and Gosbee, the ownership group includes Avik Dey, Gary J. Drummond, W. David Duckett, W.R. Dutton, Daryl Jones, Robert Gwin, Scott Saxberg, Craig Stewart and Richard Walter. “Tipp hasn’t confirmed whether I will get PP time yet, but the deal is closed,” Jones posted on Twitter. “Congrats Coyotes fans.” Source: Vancouver Sun
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Shawaal *2, 1434 H August 9, 2013
S P E C I A L
Celebrations of Pakistan Pakistan’s calendar features a great many festivals, both purely cultrual and also religious. Others are in memory of National Heroes or commemorate political events in the nation’s recent history. Muslim festivals are celebrated according to Muslim (Lunar) Calendar and may occur some 10 days earlier each successive Christian Year. There are several folk and festivals held regularly in every part of the country. Exact dates of such festivals are fixed annually by the District Administration of the respective area, at least a month in advance, according to the tradition. Pakistan’s main festivals are: 1 . Eid-ul-Fitr Religious festival celebrating end of fasting month on 1st of Shawwal, the 10th month of Islamic Calendar. Special prayer after sun-rise, exchange of sweet dishes, visits. 2. Eid-ul-Azha Religious festival commemorating the
great sacrifice offered by Prophet Abraham. Celebrated on 10 Zilhaj,12th month of Islamic Calendar. Collective prayers after sun set, sacrifice of goats, sheep, cows or camels and distribution of meat among
relatives, friends and poor. 3.Milad-un-Nabi (Birthday of Prophet Hazrat Mohammad, p.b.u.h. on 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal - the 3rd month of Islamic Calendar. 4. December 25 In Pakistan 25 December is a public holiday it is however in memory of Jinnah the founder of Pakistan. In Christian homes they celebrate christmas with the exchanging of gifts and cards, the wearing of new clothes and the visiting of houses of friends. They have a chruch service which is packed on Christmas day which is called
Bara Din the big day. 5. Independence Day, Aug 14th Meeting, processions, rallies, decorations and illustrations are held all over the country. 6. National Horse & Cattle Shows Held at Fortress Stadium, Lahore and in Jacobabad. Cattle races, cattle dances, tent-pegging, tattoo show, folk music, dances, bands, cultural floats and folk games. 7. Basant Mela (Spring festival of Colors and Kite-flying) The festival is held on the second week-
end of February. The skies over Lahore explode in a kaleidoscope of color. As the first kite rises over the horizon, a joust for supremacy begins that brings millions of kites of all shapes and sizes, soaring to challenge it. This is a time for festivities that reflect the true Lahori spirit of good-natured competition and appetite for celebration. For a visitor, Basant is the ideal time to appreciate the mood and magic of Lahore. From the floodlit skies, the manic beat of the ‘dhol’ and cries of ‘Bo kata!’ each time the opposition loses a kite, to a constant feast that lasts an entire week. Lahore displays a charm and hospitality unmatched and unrivalled by any other city in the world 8. Sufi Festivals The fairs held at the shrines of Sufi saints are called Urs. They generally mark the death anniversary of the saint. On these occasions devotees assemble in large numbers and pay homage to the memory of the saint. Soul inspiring music is played and devotees dance in ecstasy. The music on these occasions is essentially folk and appealing. It forms a part of the folk music through mystic messages. The most important Urs are: Urs of Data Ganj Bukhsh
at Lahore, Urs of Hazrat Mian Mir at Lahore, Urs of Baba Farid Ganj Shakar at Pakpattan, Urs of Hazrat Bahaudin Zakria at Multan, Urs of Sakhi Sarwar Sultan at Dera Ghazi Khan, Urs of Shah Hussain at Lahore, Urs of Hazrat Bullehe Shah at Kasur and Urs of Hazrat Imam Bari (Bari Shah Latif) at Rawalpindi-Islamabad. A big fair is organized at Jandiala Sher Khan in district Sheikhupura on the Mausoleum of Syed Waris Shah who is the most loved Sufi poet of Punjab due to his work known as Heer Ranjha.
Darul Quraan Academy Of Canada Is proudly inviting you to the Eid Ul Fitr salaat at Afghan chopan restaurant 12888 80th ave unit #104 Surrey B.C program will start at 8:00 and jamaat will be at 9:00am sharp (when eid ul fitr will be announced by the BCMA)
Full provision provided for sisters and refreshments will be served after namaaz For more info please contact : Maulana zafar : (604) 767-3527 Br. Haji Ali Buksh : (778) – 593-9259 Br. Haji Daud ( 604)-720-7945
Eid Mubarak
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S P E C I A L
Guinness World Records from Pakistan
• The most recent record set in Pakistan was the most people crammed into a Smart car at the end of 2011, when the Pakistan Crashers crammed 19 women
into a Smart car in Karachi. • Shahid Afridi, who has taken the most wickets in a Twenty20 cricket career (53), and Hanif Mohammad, who back in 1958 had the Longest individual cricket test innings, batting for 16hr 10mins and scoring 337 runs in the process playing against the West Indies. • The largest silver ring was created by master jewelers Amin and Company, weighed in at 71.68kg (158lbs), and had an inner diameter of 85cm (2ft 9in) - a fair bit larger than most people’s fingers
as you can see! • Tallest mountain face: The Rupal face of Nanga Parbat is a single rise of 5000m (16,000ft) from valley floor to the summit - with the mountain itself being the highest in Pakistan and the 8th highest in the world, with a summit at 8125m (26,656ft) above sea level. • The Largest flaming image using candles was created by 118 Sandoz employees in Faisalabad in 2009, consisting of 35,478 candles. • The heaviest weight lifted using only the ear is 73 kg (160 lb 15 oz) by Zafar Gill (Pakistan), who lifted gym weights hanging from a clamp attached to his right ear in Lahore, Pakistan, on 3 January 2009. • The highest electronically measured speed for a ball bowled by any bowler is 161.3 km/h (100.23 mph) by Shoaib Akhtar (Pakistan) against England on 22 February 2003 in a World Cup match
at Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa. • Since 1995, Dr. Muhammad Mustansar of the Children’s Hospital and Institute of Child Health in Lahore, Pakistan has been collecting pacifiers as an educational movement against them. The collection now amounts to 1,994 pacifiers of different colors and shapes, each obtained from individual mothers. • The largest tea bag was made by Lipton Yellow Label of Lever Brothers, Pakistan Ltd weighing 8.9 kg (19.62 lb) and was displayed at the Avari Towers Hotel, Karachi, Pakistan on 22 June 2002. • Network Television Marketing Ltd. created a cake measuring 32 m (105 ft) tall with 105 tiers in Faisalabad, Pakistan, on 16 August 1997. • Muhammad Ilyas passed the examination enabling him to become a Civil Judge in July 1952 at the age of 20 years 9 months, although formalities such as medicals meant that it was not until eight months later that he started work as a Civil Judge in Lahore, Pakistan. • Abdul Sattar Edhi (Pakistan) began his ambulance service in 1948, ferrying injured people to hospital. Today, his radio-linked network includes 500 ambulances all over Pakistan, and attracts
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funds of US$5 million a year. • The smallest published Koran book measures 1.7 cm x 1.28 cm x 0.72 cm (0.66 in x 0.50 in x 0.28 in). It is published in an unabridged, bound version, in fine print Arabic and is 571 pages long. • The largest victory margin is 233 runs by Pakistan against Bangladesh (320 for the loss of three wickets to 87 all out), at Dhaka, Bangladesh, on June 2, 2000. • The youngest Test player ever is Hasan Raza (Pakistan) who made his debut, aged 14 years 227 days, against Zimbabwe at Faisalabad, Pakistan on 24 October 1996. • A football made from artificial leather PV-PVC and hand-sewn by staff at Ihsan Sports of Hajipura, Sialkot, Pakistan, had a diameter of 4m (13ft 1in) when measured on 30 June 2002. • The super-sized soccer ball – an exact replica of the company’s standard football – was made from 32 separate panels that were laminated, printed then handstitched together. It was unveiled
at the Al Faysaliah shopping mall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by members of the Disabled Children’s Society. “I was amazed at the size of the football,” said one spectator, “and I imagine it would be really hard to actually play with.” • An appendix removed from a 55-year-old Pakistani man on June 11, 2003, at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan, measured 23.5 cm (9.2 in) in length. • Jahangir Khan is listed in Guinness Book of World Records as
having the most world championship squash titles. He was unbeaten in competitive play for five years. During that time he won 555 matches consecutively. This was not only the longest winning streak in squash history, but also one of longest unbeaten runs by any athlete in top-level professional sport. • Pakistani student Ali Moin Nawazish blazes his way into Guinness Book of World Record. Sitting seven A-levels might easily have done the trick, even though he had started to study some of the subjects only three days before the exam.
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Happy Independence Day of Pakistan May Allah bless you on this auspicious day of Eid, and May it be a new beginning of happiness.
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On the great occasion of Independence Day & Eid-ul-Fitr, I am pleased to extend the warmest greetings to all community on behalf of my family members.
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Public Service Announcement
Parking problems have been observed many times at many mosques. Please park your vehicles properly while you are entering in any Mosque for Jummah and Eid Prayer, don’t block any other car and anyone’s driveway.
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BULLAY SHAH ACADEMY OF CANADA
Happy Eid ul Fitar to all Muslim Ummah &
Congratulation to all Pakistani Community at 67th Independence Day of Pakistan August 14th
From: Mr. Ihsan Malik Family Richmond, BC
S.R. Pirzada Syed Wali Hussain Shah Astana-e-Alia Shahensha-e-Weelayat Hazrat Qibla-Sheikh-ul-Hadith Gujrat-Pakistan
From: Pir Afzal Ahmed Naqashbandi Eid Mubarak to all Muslim Brothers and Sisters. May Allah (SWT) shower His blessings upon you on this auspicious occasion. Ameen
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