A MODERN MUSLIM WOMEN MAGAZINE by tooba shah

A MODERN MUSLIM WOMAN MAGAZINE

PROUD 1st edition, June 2011

SANA BUCHA; AN ANCHOR, JOURNALIST, COLUMNIST, SOCIAL ACTIVIST

S T O R Y OF SHABNAM

YOUNG TALENT IN PAKISTAN FAIZA BHATTI

THIS EDITION INCLUDES:

INTERVEIW

FAIZA BHATTI: an enthusiastic artist

WOMANLY SUBJECT

8 FROM DEPRESSION TO TREATMENT

SPORTS

11 MUSLIM WOMEN IN SPORTS SOCIAL ISSUE

14 A STORY OF SHABNAM COVER STORY

18 A FEATURE ON SANA BUCHA MEDIA REVIEW

23 IS MEDIA FOLLOWING ETHICS? HEALTH 27 IS YOUR FOOD HEALTHY? CLICKS

30 SOME CLICKS BY YUSRA AND MARYAM FASHION

MODERN EASTERN

SUMMER TRENDS

ISLAM & MODERN SOCIETY

A FEATURE ON AN EVOLUTION OF LIBERAL ISLAMIC SOCIETIES Proud, edition 1, June 2011

TOOBA SHAH writes blogs, and EDITOR IN CHIEF AZFAR RIZVI

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

articles, she has done an enormous research on Christianity and Hinduism, her heart lies in Shahdadpur Sindh from where she originally belongs, but she is born and lives in Karachi. She sees herself as a passionate journalist after 5 years.

SYEDA TOOBA SHAH KAZMI

MALEEHA SÁMI is a loving writer, she has written an article on sports (p.11), and she loves to write stories. She is an excellent sketch creator.

SALIMAH SHAH belongs from UROOJ KHAN is

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTORS

interested in making documentaries on social issues; she is she editor of her own fashion magazine. She belongs to Karachi.

one of the most beautiful places of Pakistan Gilgit Baltistan. She is interested in blogging and is an administrator of a forum “pakistanstudentsforum.blogspot.com” She is very much keen towards working for the “special people”.

PHOTOGRAPHERS YUSRA MAJEED MARYAM MASOOD SYEDA TOOBA SHAH KAZMI

PROUD 1ST EDITION JUNE 2011

EMAIL ADDRESS tubzk@hotmail.com

*All rights are reserved to the publisher, the content published is the thinking of the writer and it should not be taken on any one,

proud holds the right to replicate the content .

WASHAL KHAN wants

ANUM NAZAR is very

to make immense contribution in the field of media by becoming a gleaming journalist; she has a critical approach on media which reflects in her piece (p.23)

enthused individual, she is interested in advertising field, and she wants to make some gigantic changes in advertising world.

MAVIA UMER wants to be a victorious person and currently doing bachelors. Done extensive research on interfaith, made documentaries, designed a magazine on individual basis and acted as marketing head of university magazine, she belongs to Karachi.

GHAUSIA RASHID SALAM is a BSS student

YUSRA MAJEED is doing her graduation in architecture engineering but she is a devoted photographer. She is interested in technical + creative things.

Proud, edition 1, June 2011

majoring in journalism at Bahria University. She enjoys writing about anything that matters, is an avid reader, She is interested in activism, politics and culture

MARYAM MASOOD is a passionate photographer for her photography is about bringing the extraordinary out of the ordinary. She has not taken any classes for photography and has only learnt by taking pictures by her.

EDITOR’S NOTE Coming up with an individual magazine is really a tough job, where you are the executive editor of the magazine; you have to design layouts, architectures, folio, deck and a lot more. You have to tackle with your writers and to tell them what actually you want in your articles is like climbing a mountain because sometimes they don’t understand your thoughts, then you are left alone in your room with your laptop thinking about what to do with the piece to make it the way you wanted it for your readers. It was a challenging, innovative, new, difficult task for me. It was like a journey in which you have to go through plain deserts with no water and then you have to climb stony mountains but when your journey is finished you reached a place more or less like heaven where you have valleys of flowers and rivers. The PROUD is like a flower valley for me, it is like a dream come true. Whatever I thought about it is finally I have achieved. It is really a victory for me which will always remind me about my journey to success which was full of failures too. PROUD is the magazine which shows the world that how a modern Muslim woman is, how she manages her life as she might be different from modern western woman but she can’t be behind from the woman of west. The name proud was given to the magazine because I being an editor of my magazine and being a Modern Muslim Woman thinks that the word Proud portrays the true feelings of a modern Muslim women and I know my readers would who can be anyone from anywhere would think the same way as I do after reading my magazine. Hope you will have fun while reading proud! Thank you, Editor, Syeda Tooba Shah Kazmi.

Proud, edition 1, June 2011

INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW By Syeda Tooba Shah Kazmi

Pakistan is the land full of talent, this month’s interview is not of any actress, sports person or a celebrity but it is of a girl who has recently started her own brand, she is very inventive and make homemade goodies which is her passion, the girl is totally in love with her work, she is young and very optimistic. This is an interview of Faiza Bhati who is extremely creative, innovative, loving, caring, artistic, wonderful person. Her brand name is “FizY's Art” and she takes online orders at fizyart@gmail.com she also calls her clients at her home for bulk orders, her goodies are available at Buds N Blossoms Shop 2, 32 C Main 26th Street Off Tauheed Commercial, Next to Life Style Gym, Phase 5, DHA, Karachi, Pakistan-75600. The questions asked from her were very simple but the way she has answered all of them has made this interview lovable. Enjoy reading! When did you find out this creative

For how long have you been making

individual in yourself?

handmade goodies?

I got this from my family; I grew

It has been around 12 years since I

up seeing my MOM & elder sisters

started taking it seriously. I started

doing various types of craft. So, I

with greeting cards only. 4 years back

don't know when I started

I moved towards other paper crafts.

following them. I've been drawing

Recently, my sisters also joined in to

and doodling since I was kid, I

help me and we started making

started making cards when I was

clutches/handbags too. I have started

14 years old. When I finished my

Online Business 3 months back and

school I got some time to find my

Masha'Allah FizY's Art got great

interests and passions and I started

response in quite a short period of

working towards them.

time. 3 months and we are already crossing 1300+ fans! I am truly Thankful to Allah. *Alhumdullilah*

What did you first make? A greeting card! I painted with water colors on a white card sheet. it wasn't pretty but it was precious for me!! =D I used to make smileys everywhere at that time, though i still do it a lot....so the idea was sharing happiness and smiles right from the start. What was the reaction of your family when you told them that you want to start your own brand?

Oh they have always been VERY supportive. As soon as I planned to start FizY's Art online store they helped me in every possible way. Specially my Dad and Sisters. They are always there to listen to me and to offer advices whenever i need them. How you got the idea to come up with a brand ? It did happen over-night! I've been doing this on and off from so many years but 3 months back I just

Proud, edition 1, June 2011

woke up one morning and decided I'll set up the brand, seriously Now! and here I am! XD. The brand became a reality because I was always encouraged by my family and friends that I should take it further. I am obsessed with art and craft and I keep doing what I love the most. I wanted to spread love and happiness, that's the reason most of my work is on lovely dovely theme. I love making hearts, flowers, and spirals with glittery effects! *shiny, funky and basically happy stuff* I just can't stop myself from making cute and adorable things! =D What were the hurdles faced by you initially? There weren't too many, i think! It has always been smooth for me. *Masha'Allah* with the help of my supporting family and creative sisters at home I always get through all the hurdles! I don't believe in stressing myself by doing too many things at once. How you did then arranged the finance to start your brand? Girls love to save money! *I didn’t* ha-ha but my sisters did, so they helped me on this TOO! =) Were you that much creative from

big HIT as well, they are not the usual

school days?

boring and clumsy clutches. They

A little bit =) I used to participate in almost all extracurricular activities. According to my teachers I was one of the bright and active students.

have very different patterns and funky colors too. I design them and my sister does all the embroidery work *yes! Remember, it's handmade!*. Also, starting from June I'm making personalized scrapbooks, so a lot of

How people responded?

happy souls are already ordering their

It was Fabulous, Right from the start. Especially the greetings cards have made a comeback! We almost forgot this beautiful tradition of presenting cards to our loved ones! I see a lot of new people starting their greeting cards business now, feels so good! Clutches has been a

first scrapbooks to present their fiancé’s, friends and families! So far, we've got orders from many cities in Pakistan as well as U.A.E and U.S.A too. What was your first income? It was 600 PKR, and I was so happppay! ehhh! *it was back in 1998* Were you ever disheartened and thought to windup everything?

6 Proud, edition 1, June 2011

Not really, mainly because I

Do you have your own outlet

Tell one thing about yourself

always work under my

or you have asked someone

which people even your

conditions. I take breaks

for this service?

closed ones doesn’t know?

Not yet, but I'm stocking up

I'm afraid of expectations. I

my handmade goodies at few

get very nervous when my

local shops in Karachi.

family/friends trusts and

when I feel the work is getting over my life and I need some rest to become sane. There has been tough times too when people used

What do you see yourself

to tell me nobody is into

after 5 years?

greeting cards these days as we have e-cards/sms now. But I somehow managed to stick to the work I love doing. In hopes of reviving the beautiful tradition of greeting cards in Pakistan! How do you arrange your exhibition? I've recently started exhibiting my work with a group of entrepreneur friends. We are holding collaborative exhibitions once a month. It has been a great experience so far *MashaAllah*. I am looking

I see myself reaching towards my dream of becoming a successful Entrepreneur… to share the happiness and warmth with

believes in me too much! Though, I always tend to live up to their expectations. Give a message to those young people who have talent but they don’t find a right direction.

everyone through my

The ability to concentrate

creativity.

and to use your time well is

Tell us about our basic education, hobbies, date of birth and zodiac sign? I was born on 25th October 1982, my zodiac sign is

everything if you want to succeed in business--or almost anywhere else for that matter. =) Contact details of faiza Bhatti

Scorpio. I've done Master in

*~FizY's Art~*

International Relations. My

Handmade Goodies | made

hobbies are scrapbooking,

with love, care, and thought!

doodling and photography.

Email: fizyart@gmail.com www.facebook.com/fizyart

forward to exhibit in bigger events in near future.

7 Proud, edition 1, June 2011

WOMANLY SUBJECT

Women and depression By Salemah shah

Depression is a serious state that

gender;

only

can affect every area of our life.

affect someone. Depression is a

severity of the disorder. Depression

Further focusing to our social

"whole-body" illness, involving your

causes modifications in the ways of

life, family relationships, career,

body,

thinking, perceiving anything, the

and our sense of self-worth and

affects the way you eat and sleep,

behavior and physical well-being.

purpose. It is common in women.

the way you feel about yourself,

It is also researched that women

Nothing happens without any

and

are more affected by depression

reason; if anyone is feeling guilty

things. It is not a symbol

or sad then it means that the

special weak point or a state that

greater of women. Most depression

individual is suffering from a

can be determined. People with

causes comes when females are a

major depression. But now

depression

cannot

part of any patriarchal society,

depression is treatable, the more

themselves

together

we will know about the effects

better. It takes time to recover

what her male tell her to. This

and symptoms of depression,

from trauma. Without treatment,

type of situation leads to severe

particularly in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, the

symptoms

depression which may be fatal.

better will be the result.

months,

mood,

the

Depression does not see any

how

thoughts.

you

can

treatment, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

and

way

knows

think

last

years. however,

just and

for

about of

make get

weeks,

Appropriate can

help

most people who have depression. The

symptoms

may

vary

strength of it depends on the

than men and the ration is also

where she is pressurized to obey

Many aspects have been concerned, including biological, psychological, and social factors.

from

person to person, and the

Today, my life is full and happy. I am an active participant in my recovery. My doctor has a plan for me and I work hard to stay healthy. Biological causesPregnancy and sterility: During pregnancy many hormonal changes may lead to severe depression. Other problems like unwanted pregnancy, infertility and miscarriage can be a part of high depression. Social causes-

Sexual and physical abuse: Physical abuse is seen more in women than males, which is the main cause of depression in women. Physically abused or sexually harassed in childhood portrays heavy results in adulthood. These results negatively affect womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personality and lead her to death.

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Role of women: Women often

those are chosen who have fit body

How could such a merciless mental

suffer

over

and are graceful. In this run, women

illness show me the purpose of my

diverting

forget about their health and think

life?

responsibilities. The main roles a

so fame which may cause depression.

going in my life and I keep fighting

woman

Body image is closely linked to self-

my way back with strength and

mother, wife, working lady. With

esteem

courage.

no support from her family, she

esteem

thinks of herself in a big risk.

depression.

ones. The right diagnosis, the right

Research

The following psychological problems

medications, the right doctor, the

are summarized: Depression Anxiety Disorders Schizophrenia Childhood Disorders Impulse Control Disorders Personality Disorders Adjustment Disorders Family Problems

right

from

conflicting

role

and

has

strains

mind

play

indicates

are

that

single

mothers are three times more likely than married mothers to experience an incident of major depression.

Power and status: Women need power and status and are not given their rights on an equal platform.

This

helplessness

puts

sense women

feeling of discrimination whether at workplace or at home which leads to unemployment is also a major cause. Scarcity

common among women than men. Single mothers have the highest rates

poverty

across

women,

and

risk

low

self-

factor

for

all

demographic groups. Scarcity is a severe, persistent stressor which

Even severe depression can be highly responsive to treatment. The earlier the

treatment

effective should

will be

begins, be

the

noted

the

results.

that

treatment

though will not remove every stress but it can be effective. There are many ways to treat a depressive.

The

commonly

used

treatment is the psychotherapy and through medication. Medications are

treatment,

and researched that women as

physical

compare to men fall in depression

psychotherapy allows learning more

under lower levels of stress. Both

effective

ways

have

problems.

Counseling

produce

stress

hormones

than men do and it is because women are more into depression phase than men.

Body images: With the pace of

the

right

money, and most of all, my family. Treatment

Reaction to stress: It is observed

Women

and

home, my car, my insurance, my

high and when it cannot be treated

stress.

therapist

esteem, my career, my sanity, my

through

I believe that I am one of the lucky

I cared about. My dignity, my self-

Psychological causes

responses

and

Depression robbed me of everything

can lead to depression.

psychological

coming

the right time to save me.

given when the depression level is

different

keep

treatment plan came together at

greater risk for depression. The

Scarcity:

Challenges

therapies. medication

symptoms

important

part

of in

combined can

relieve

quickly,

while

handling may

the

play

slowing

down

depression. True Life Story: Strength and Courage by Alice Davidson Clark How could I know that major

time where everyone is running

depressive disorder would change the

after fame and fortune, so

course of my life? Proud, edition 1, June 2011

I lost hope and felt worthless. It was

impossible

smile

feel

happy about anything. The rest of the world seemed very far away, and I did not want to be a part of it anymore. Finally, a doctor listened to me and my pain. She made an appointment with a psychiatrist for me and my life started to change. I started taking medication that day and about eight weeks later I started therapy. Today, my life is full and happy. I am

active

participant

recovery. My doctor has a plan for me and I work hard to stay healthy. I found my purpose in life and I am sharing my story and volunteering to help others with their struggle. Major my

depressive

life's

disorder

direction,

but

changed I

have

decided the course I will take to win the

fight

against

mental

illness.

Treatment works!

SPORTS

MUSLIM WOMEN IN SPORTS By Maleeha Sami Men and women have more or less same similar physical

The everyday dull routines must also be broken

way. Both genders equally need physical fitness, balanced

well as her relationship with her husband and family.

and internal structure of the body that works in a same

otherwise it could affect a women's input into society, as

diet and prohibition from harmful substances. Exercise is

Historically, women are often portrayed as suffering

also advantageous to a more balanced emotional state, as

from distress and depression. To break this stereotype,

it aids in the release of harmful free radicals and excess

the modern Muslim women have proven themselves in

hormones.

many other fields, and sports are one of them. We have

As compare to western women, Muslim women do not

in tennis and is one of the renowned and best players of

great example of Sania Mirza who have proven herself

have common practice of exercise or taking part in sports

tennis. Sara Khoshjamal Fekri, is the other Muslim name

events while most of the men got the opportunity to

participating in taekwondo for Iran. Other example is of

participate in extracurricular activities. This is mainly

Pakistani athlete women Naseem Hamid and Sara Nasir.

due some stereotype thoughts and beliefs that take place

Naseem Hamid became South Asia’s fastest woman by

under a name of religious restrictions. However, Islam

winning the 100-metre in the South Asian Federation

has not restricted women to do certain activities but yes

Games (SAF) in Dhaka, while Sara Nasir returned with a

there are certain limitations regarding clothing and

gold medal in Karate.

mixes of sexes. According to resources we came to know

that even our beloved apostle of Allah, Muhammad (S.A.W.W) advised his followers to engage in many forms

Those days are gone when Pakistani women’s lives were used to stick with the premises of home. Now women

form of exercise.

national cricket team of women that represents them in

The Prophet (S.A.W.W) himself would engage in

Women's Team won the gold medal at the Asian Games

of sport, which even today are considered of the best

are in cricket too. Pakistan has got a professional

International women’s cricket matches. The Pakistan

wrestling, racing, archery and horse races. Once when

2010. The Tournament history tells that they were

Aisha (R.R.R) was on a journey along with the Apostle of

placed at 11th place in world cup of 1997 and 6th place

Allah (S.A.W.W), she had a race with him and outpaced

in world cup of 2009. They were placed at 3rd in Asia

him. As time passed, the Prophet (S.A.W.W) wished to

Cup in 2005 and 1st in 2010.

avenge for his loss, so he raced her again, in which case he outpaced her, and remarked: "This is for that

Some issues regarding to women clothing for sports has

outpacing."

been lately taken place. The Badminton World

Sara Nasir

Sara Khoshjamal Fekri

Naseem Hamid Proud, edition 1, June 2011

Sania Mirza

Federation (BWF), proposed to raise the profile of women and the sport, has decided

to make the skirt-rule compulsory for all female players from June 1. However, the

decision met with criticism from Muslim

countries and Naqi Mohsin, senior vicepresident of PBF who is also the vice-

president, Badminton Asia Confederation said that the rule is discriminatory. Mohsin, said that players have been wearing

trousers for some time and that attire was approved.

“Pakistan players have been playing in

international tournaments in trousers,” said Mohsin. “They even participated in the

Asian Games in the same attire as they were

Pakistan’s women cricket team in the

exempted keeping in view their religion.

match of Asian Games

The Iranians used to play in trousers with a

head scarf as well and there was no issue then.”

Muslim women playing rugby

The BWF last month suspended the

Pakistan’s Badminton Federation (PBF) over the controversy of parallel bodies running

in the country. The world body demanded

an election be held before Pakistan could become a member again and is therefore in no position to take up the matter of the new rule

just

yet.

However,

the

Punjab

Badminton Secretary Tayyab Sohail said the

matter would be discussed as soon as The Prophet (S.A.W.W)

Pakistan regains its status.

himself would engage in wrestling, racing, archery and horse races. When five young Muslim women were thrown out of a Montreal taekwondo tournament because their headscarves were deemed by the sports federation to be dangerous, an idea came to the young designer. Seyed Javad, who was studying industrial

design at the University of Montreal at the time, was outraged but instead of protesting decided to find a solution. Iranian-born Canadian designer Elham Seyed Javad came up with an idea to marry the two worlds of traditional Muslims and western

society, and allow young girls and women to take part in physical activities while also adhering to strict Islamic rules. At school, she designed a slip-on hooded t-shirt made of stretch fabric that moves perspiration away from the body, the garment slips on

like a balaclava and is tied at the back. "It's much less hot, and it stays in place," says trainer Gaelle Texier. And, she adds, it doesn't mess up your hair.

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"It's a compromise," said taekwondo student

The saying goes by Elizabeth Blackwell,

sports we enjoy, that we were doing but were

physician;

Asmaa Ibnouzahir. "It allows us to play the forced to quit."

the first woman in the U.S. to become a

The university's commercial unit, Univalor,

"For what is done or learned by one class

"Of course we looked to market it to young

common womanhood, the property of all

said it has even greater potential.

of women becomes, by virtue of their

Muslim women in sports, but also for F1

women."

racing, go-carting, and hospital operating rooms," said Univalor's Thomas Martinuzzo.

"My goal is to separate the religious

connotation from the sports connotation," said

Seyed Javad. "So when other organizations approach us, it's very positive because the religious aspect is not linked to the garment."

Hence being active in any sport is good. There are many benefits like better oxygen volume, toned muscles, maintenance or a better ideal weight, induce sleep, release of feel good

hormones, prevention of disease, better focus and vision. Being a woman is not anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fault but you should be proud of being a

woman of Muslim world who are not only

proving themselves in every field of life but also whatever they are doing they do

according to their perimeter which is more

Pakistani Women Cricket Team doing Sajda (act to surrender one GOD) before match starts

than enough to prove themselves as a proud Muslim woman of modern world. So

whatever you decide make play a part of your day.

Proud, edition 1, June 2011

SOCIAL ISSUE

A Story of Shabnam By Mavia Umer

Women are considered to

Shabnam’s case is one

demand for those Rs

be most oppressed human

of those incidents of

50000. Thus, cruel father

beings, not only in east but

violence which occurred

shot her daughter to get

as a result of vicious

rid of the problem.

in west as well. Though, west has realized women’s rights, status in society, and their independence but still they are being discriminated in different fields of life.

As far as east is concerned, women are leading lives of extreme misery and pain despite fulfilling their all responsibilities and playing their role in house hold as well as other affairs. There are many incidents of domestic violence against women which are reported in Pakistan, many incidents even remain un reported and justice is considered as a mere fantasy to those poor victims. Many events of violence with women were reported after flood which affected the land of Pakistan destructively.

flood. Shabnam was a 13-year old girl, whose family was immensely affected by flood, her father sold her to a man who lived in Karachi for Rs 50000 and pretended it as a marriage. Later in Karachi, she noticed that different men are coming to her and pretending to be her husbands, she got confused and called back her family. But her family didn’t take her serious and ignored her. Finally she escaped from her so called ‘in-laws’ house and came back to

Poor girl died and many other girls die like this and no one is accountable for the injustice done with them. Daughters feel safest when they are with their fathers but when their own fathers get so cold blooded and heartless then there is no place left for these poor women to seek shelter and feel safe. There are thousands of Shabnams out there who are victims of such brutal and inhumane acts.

her parents. But it was

Neither our religion, nor

discouraged by her

our society support such

father. Instead of giving

discrimination, injustice

his daughter support

and assault with women,

and shelter he asked her

but physical torture,

to go back, as he was

abuse, forced

afraid that if Shabnam’s

abductions, sexual

so called ‘in-laws’ find

harassments, forced

out that she is with his

marriages, and other

father, they would

inhumane acts are

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everyday activities in our society. All hardships are faced by females in our male dominated society; they are exploited and harassed by males. Although seemingly every other day the government announces plans to secure the rights of women — it has been of no use. Torture incidents are still the highlight of the media on a regular basis. Quran says:

whether male or female. You precede one from another ...‛ (Quran 3: 195) Not only Islam, but other religions also support women’s equity with men. But there are

Flood effectives moving from their residencies

some people in our society who do not respect women and recognize their rights and because of those few people whole society gets affected and demoralized. There are women who

Quran provides clear-cut

are living lives of dignity

evidence that woman is

and deference in the

completely equated with

same society where

man in the sight of God

many women are

in terms of her rights

oppressed and

and responsibilities:

discriminated. Women

Flood 2010

should know their own

"Every soul will be (held) in pledge for its deeds" (Quran 74:38)

rights and should have enough courage to defend them raise their voices against any

It also states: ‚...So their Lord accepted their prayers, (saying): I will not suffer to be lost the work of any of you

mistreatment.

People are migrating from affected areas

Proud, edition 1, June 2011

COVER STORY

A FEATURE ON MUSLIM JOURNALIST SANA BUCHA By Tooba Shah In Pakistan, television was firstly introduced in the Quaid-e-Azam mausoleum on 16 September, 1955. The first official television station was commenced transmission telecast form Lahore on 26th November 1964 and was followed by Dhaka, Rawalpindi and Islamabad in 1965, in Karachi, 1966 and 1974 in Peshawar and Quetta. PTV, ARY and GEO TV in Pakistan are major players, at least for now. News that the Pakistani government issued 22 new licenses for privat e stations, apparently an explosion may occur. PTV is a state runner, while ARY and GEO are privately owned and are based out of Dubai, UAE. Generally they are utilizing Dubai’s Media City facilities which are not yet available in Pakistan for now. Also it allows them as being non-biased and out of Pakistani Governments reach and influence. At the same time they are allowed to broadcast within Pakistan and worldwide without any censorship. ARY and GEO do have a physical presence within Pakistan in the form of procurement offices and news “She used to be 260 pounds” studios.

“Her most memorable encounter as a TV personality is when she was covering the IDPs during the Swat operation and most recently the floods, people kept asking her if she was Benazir Bhutto’s daughter”

the form of procurement offices and news studios. The media has the responsibility, as well as the opportunity, to provide society with objective, accurate, and timely information and thorough analysis of economic trends and events. Today, there is a growing demand in Pakistan for journalists with knowledge of their fields to present implications to the public through and various media outlets.

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Journalism is a field in which both men and women can succeed, but it is a profession that has traditionally been considered the domain of men. Many of the stereotypes and prejudices that initially made it difficult for women to break into this profession during the late 19th century are still causing difficulties for female journalists today, particularly in some fields of journalism and in certain countries and cultures. Male journalists have tended to be more likely to advance in their profession than female journalists. Journalism is one of the fields in which there is still a significant disparity between the career prospects of men and women, although this is changing. There are many female journalists in Pakistan like Asma Shirazi (ARY), Kiran Aftab (GEO), Nida Sameer (GEO), Jasmine Manzoor (SAMAA), Sana Bucha (GEO) and many more are working in the field of journalism, but there are very few who are not only limited to the studio, but they go in fields and cover the events live which is changing the perception that women cannot be field oriented journalist. Journalism requires very vast knowledge on current affairs, international relations, world politics and a journalist whether male or female should know about different cultures and ethnicities so that they may never hurt any one’s feelings. Journalists have to be very up to date with the happenings of the world, they should have a deep eye on the affairs which are of public interest as we being public rely on them; we trust them and believe that they will provide us the un biased news. Journalists should be objective because she/he is the opinion leader, whatever she/he may convey to the public should be true and there should not be personal interests in it. Journalism in also a very dangerous field, because when you bring truth in front of the public many things occur which may not be in your favor like if you have covered an institution which is corrupt in all ways, effectives may become against you, they might give you threats to leave that particular topic or may give you bribe and then a faithful journalists is seen who doesn’t care about all these matters and stick to the truth till the end. There is a non-political and intellectual-based forum for female journalists know as Women Journalists Pakistan and it aims to provide a platform to working women journalists in the print and electronic media. WJP believes that “It is an established fact that women are an integral part of the Pakistani media. Sana Bucha, who has been a working journalist for over six years. After a successful stint in print journalism she joined Geo News where

she made a unique place for herself, both behind and in front of the camera. She is one of leading host in geo news programs Sana is passionately dedicated to the stories she covers. She is especially interested in the dynamics of the Middle East, the USA's role in South Asia and the explosion of militant ideology in the frontier province. Sana Bucha joined GEO Television Network in 2003. Bucha started off as a production development associate and moved on to becoming producer for the first English Language Bulletin on GEO. Other than producing it, Bucha also hosted the bulletin frequently. After the English bulletin, Bucha hosted and produced the channel’s first ever English show, “News Day.” She worked as an executive producer for the channel, hiring, training, designing and managing a young team of enthusiasts who were nothing short of brilliant. Known for her great inter-personal skills, Bucha is quick to find support amongst people, from risking her life in flood struck areas, where there was no government, no

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army, no willing helicopters and no roads to the brutal killing of two teenage boys in Sialkot, Bucha has proven herself to be not just a TV face but an ethical journalist. What sets Bucha apart from the leading news anchors in Pakistan, is her eye for detail, unbiased approach and impeccable dress sense. Bucha knows how to fight the good fight but will not resort to the typical screaming; yelling female banshees Pakistanis have become used to on their TV screens. Along with her program, Bucha is dedicated to tackling core issues that plague the country. She is working on different projects that will instill a much needed changed in Pakistan in the years to come. While at GEO News, Bucha secured many interviews including US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Af-Pak envoy, Richard Holbrooke, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Wajid Shams-ul-Hasan, Former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, and asylum-seeking, Baloch nationalist, Harbiyar Marri. The issues that interest her most include terrorism, religion, women’s empowerment, the economy, foreign relations and Pakistan’s own checkered dictatorship history. Her independent, center-left views make her an anomaly at her field and her content promises to be an original, fearless, impartial and accurate. Bucha has written for various publications including The Wall Street Journal, News line and The News. She has produced documentaries in sync with foreign news agencies on domestic violence in Pakistan, the blasphemy law in Pakistan and most recently, the after effects of the worst floods the nation has ever seen. Sana Bucha is very dedicated, faithful and realistic journalist; she enjoys her work and always tries to improve herself. Her style of delivery is very fine and outstanding; her confidence is her strength which helps her to deal with arguments occurred in her show. She tackles with all situations which occur in her show LEKIN, which is a wellliked news show. She has worked a lot for the flood effectives, she went there and made live coverage by risking her own life and it proves that women can do anything which men can so they should be treated equally.

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Interesting facts about Sana Bucha: She used to be 260 pounds. Her most memorable encounter as a TV personality is when she was covering the IDPs during the Swat operation and most recently the floods, people kept asking her if she was Benazir Bhuttoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daughter. Her favorite book is Heartbreaking Work of a Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers. She loves reading and her childhood idol was pink panther because he was so thin. Her favorite movie is The Pianist. Problems faced by female journalists Less than a decade ago, there were very few women in journalism. But things have now changed and with the opening of a string of television channels, many new faces have joined in. These motivated girls have been a valuable addition to the Pakistani media. Viewers, readers and listeners, have all appreciated their work. However, unfortunately the working conditions in the media houses have remained unchanged. Low salaries, downsizing, lack of professionalism, nonexistence of basic facilities for employees like health, old age benefits etc, no job security and non-conducive work environment in majority of media organizations especially in the Urdu print media are indeed big hurdles.

The constraints they face due to overall environment in media industry become a hurdle in their way to assume journalism as a career but another dimension of this issue is the problems female journalists face within their community, the biggest is their continuing struggle to become registered journalists within media bodies. Unfortunately, majority of the women journalists have only been granted associate membership which is actually not regular membership. The condition is worst in under- developed areas where women, in most of the cases, do not apply for membership at all. This apparently small problem has long-lasting effects on the overall situation of female journalists and their growth in the media industry. Due to non-registration and inadequate data available of women journalists, they are almost always ignored in capacity-building initiatives. Apart from these problems media is an open forum where opportunities are available in a bundle, now it is seen that women are growing in every field though there are some hurdles but trends are changing with the time. Journalists like Sana Bucha should be called in educational institutes for the media workshops for the career building of the students who want to select Journalism as a career. Laws like sexual harassment should be executed to save the rights of female who are at work place. Women should be encouraged as they can play great role in the betterment of the society.

This has greatly affected women journalists because they are often the first ones to become victims of downsizing. Mainly due to social pressures, they cannot work in two or three places like their male colleagues women are reluctant to seek favors. Proud, edition 1, June 2011

MEDIA REVIEW

what if media itself violate the rules"

By Washal khan

IS MEDIA FOLLOWING ETHICS OR NOT?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Media is considered as a watch dog but

After nine years of military rule of Gen Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan finds itself to be a liberalized democratic country which further transits into newly liberalized media. This can be a positive factor but only if our media turns out to be shaping the ideologies of our people in a positive way. No doubt Pakistani media faces a lot of challenges; in spite of political pressure they also face other restrictions like prohibitions but the ethics remain the same at any point.

Musharraf, the media experienced a boom; they were free to do whatever they want, journalism becomes more sensationalized.

As recently we can see that our famous chain of channel that is GEO, a channel of it has been banned named AAG, which was basically a youth oriented channel and is only allowed to telecast entertainment and music programs but not sports events. Since it was the violation of the terms and conditions of the license, therefore transmission of the channel was off aired from the cable TV network. The point is; there are restrictions but if the ethics are not properly observe then the circumstances can be even worse. After the liberalization in the era of

In the past few years, after the arrival of new private channels, our media has become more glamorized. There are programs that are very much far from the reality of Pakistan and even if there is some reality in it, it shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be shown publically at least, rather to hide it or to promote good things instead of highlighting something negative.

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Although the situation here in Pakistan is not favorable for our journalists as they face many security issues on the other hand today the scope of media is at its peak. But the concern is, whether the liberalization of our media turned out to be good or worse for the public and future generations?

PEMRA; Pakistan electronic media regulatory authority is the renowned body of regulating the media, under which many laws exhibits like:

 No program shall be aired which Contains anything pornographic, obscene or indecent or is likely to deprave, corrupt 

   

or injure the public morality. It should not contains an abusive comment that, when taken in context, tends to or is likely to expose an individual or a group or class of individuals to hatred or contempt on the basis of race or caste, national, ethnic or linguistic origin, color or religion or sect, sex, sexual orientation, age or mental or physical disability. Contains material which is against ideology of Pakistan or Islamic values. Is against basic cultural values, morality and good manners. Is likely to encourage and incite violence or contains anything against maintenance of law and order or which promotes anti-national or anti-state attitudes. Contains anything defamatory or knowingly false.

Are these laws being followed by our media? Moderately yes and partially no: Recently a drama named, Zip Bas Chup Raho; a production of 7th sky entertainment, writer: Irfan Ahmed Urfi, Director: Shaqeel Khan has been on air. The leading character is of Ayesha khan, who is playing the role of Parveen a mother of two teenage kids who are spoiled. Their father mysteriously disappeared so for the survival of the children, she (parveen) secretly works as a prostitute to maintain the rich lifestyle of her kids who demands for the latest and expensive things. The boss of parveen is a character named Gypsy, who arranges her client to earn money.

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Another drama which is on air now days, Aakhri Barish; a production of Mehroz Karim, writer: Seema Ghazal, director: Adnan Wai Qureshi. It displays the same sort of story which turns around a character of a prostitute which is played by Arjumand Raheem. The drama is full of abusive language and a negative portrayal of a specific lower sect of our society. It contains everything that is not allowed in the context of legal laws of PEMRA.

Do these dramas depict any decency in regard of women role in society? No, this is simply a negative portrayal of women, which is not ethical according the regulation bodies itself. How come these dramas are allowed to be on air if there is such law of not showing things that hurts the morality of a society? A Muslim women is not as same as our media is portraying in dramas and other programs, this is simply hurting the emotional state of a women. Pakistan is an ideological state based on the roots of religion. In this era of modernization, technological advancements have taken place and also globalization has intervened but this does not change the level of respect for women. At this point, everyone in Pakistan have access to TV and we all know that media is for masses, it reaches to billions and trillions of people, now the internet has made it more easy to get access to the programs. People watch our local private channels abroad, what do they think of Pakistani women after watching these so called â&#x20AC;&#x153;liberalâ&#x20AC;? dramas? Yes, of course theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll think negative, so why not stick to the idea of not displaying something negative which eventually helps a sinking nation like Pakistan to be recognized by the world in a respectable way. In these crucial times of Pakistan, media can make a positive difference in a society; it even can provide a possible better future for the citizens of Pakistan if it only focuses on the right and positive things. Proud, edition 1, June 2011

HEALTHY?

By Anum Nazar

IS YOUR FOOD

HEALTH

”Fitness - If it came in a bottle, everybody would have a great body. (Cher-1946)” For all the women, eating well is one of the best ways you can take care of yourself and your loved ones. What you eat makes a big difference in the way you look and feel. A healthy diet gives you energy to get through your busy day, supports your mood, helps you maintain your weight, and keeps you looking your finest Your eating habits can also be a huge support as you go through different stages in your life. Your food choices can help reduce PMS (Premenstrual syndrome), boost fertility, combat stress, make pregnancy easier, and ease the symptoms of menopause. No matter what your age is,

committing to a healthy diet will help you to look and feel you’re superlative so that you stay on top of your commitments and enjoy life. Good nutrition for women of all ages Good nutrition starts with the basics: a well-rounded diet consisting of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean sources of protein. These kinds of foods provide women with plenty of energy, the means for lifelong weight control, and the key ingredients for looking and feeling great at any age.

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Top diet and nutrition tips for women Focus on whole, plant-based foods. Fill most of your plate with fruits and leafy green vegetables. Also include a variety of whole grains, beans, and legumes to give you filling fiber and keep you going throughout the day. Try to find minimally-processed or locallygrown foods whenever possible and make these foods the mainstay of your diet. Bone up on calcium. Women are at a greater risk than men of developing osteoporosis, so it’s important to get plenty of calcium to support your bone health. While dairy products are high in calcium, their animal fat and protein can accelerate bone loss. So also consider plant-based sources of calcium like beans, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens. The recommended daily allowance varies from 400 to 1,200 mg/day. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, oatmeal and other grains, tofu, cabbage, summer squash, green beans, garlic, and sea vegetables. Calcium is absorbed slowly and your body cannot take in more than 500 mg at any one time. Don’t eat too much protein. Protein is an essential part of any healthy diet, but eating too much animal based protein is particularly dangerous for women. Eating lots of protein causes calcium loss.

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Over time, this could lead to a decrease in bone density and osteoporosis. Limit red meat and egg yolks as they can cause inflammation. You may want to try sticking to vegetable proteins like soy and nuts, to see if it helps with your symptoms. Make sure you get enough iron. Many women don’t get enough iron in their diet. On top of that, women lose a lot of this important mineral during menstruation. Boost your intake by eating ironrich foods such as lean red meat, dark poultry, lentils, spinach, almonds, and iron-fortified cereals. Cut back soft drinks and caffeine. Women who have more than two soft drinks a day are at higher risk of osteoporosis. Caffeine consumption interferes with hormone levels and also increases the loss of calcium. Try to limit alcohol consumption to one glass a day and caffeine to one cup a day. Don’t cut out the fat: Many women have been led to believe that dietary fat is unhealthy and will contribute to weight gain. But fats are a necessary part of a healthy diet. What really matters are the types of fat you eat. Make smart choices about the types of fat. Saturated fat and Trans fat— the “bad fats”—increase your risk for certain diseases, including heart disease and stroke. But polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats-the “good

fatsâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D;actually contribute to your health and vitality, support your mood, and help you maintain a healthy weight. Foods rich in healthy fats include: Olive and canola oil, olives, nuts, fish and seafood, peanut butter and avocados are healthy sources to get good fats. There are recipes of some fruit juices which can be made at home easily in summers to gain energy and freshness: Watermelon: Watermelon juice is best for summer. You can make watermelon juice by blending few pieces of watermelon (seedless), water, 1 tablespoon Rooh afza, salt and sugar. It helps to lose weight naturally and faster without starvation. Watermelon has over 91% water and about 8% sugar. It is good for digestion, prevents strokes and heart attacks, and decreases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, kidney stones, cancers, osteoarthritis, age-related muscular degeneration as well as asthma. Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is very refreshing in summer. You can make lemon juice by squeezing lemon in plain cold water. Add sugar and rock salt in it. Lemon juice helps to lose weight and has an effect on digestive system. It helps to lower the level of blood pressure, cholesterol, stress and depression. It also maintains the health of teeth and treats throat infections as well as urinary tract infections. It helps in gaining healthy skin. Strawberry Juice: Strawberry juice is an excellent body cleanser. To make strawberry juice, blend strawberries in blender and add water as well as lemon juice in it. Strawberry juice contains folic acid in high amount which helps to prevent birth defects. It also contains anti-aging properties. It helps to prevent rheumatoid arthritis, heart attack, osteoarthritis and stroke. It decreases the risk of cancer and protects against macular degeneration. It helps to remove tartar and stabilize the level of blood glucose. Pomegranate juice: Pomegranate juice contains vitamins B, C, E, A and antioxidants in high amount. To make juice, remove the seeds from the pomegranate and blend them with the help of blender. After that to remove the tiny pits, strain the juice with cheesecloth and add sugar. This juice will increase the blood circulation in brain and heart. It prevents cancers, osteoarthritis, dental plaque and atherosclerosis. It decreases the level of blood pressure & cholesterol and enhances the level of antioxidant in blood.

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Performers in circus entertain us by risking their own lives

A man sleeping in Mosque

A mobile shop of spectacles

PHOTOGRAPHY BY A man whom we see usually when we travel on highways selling nimcos

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Common public who travels in local transport to reach on his/her future

Really! Childhood is free from all the worries no matter it is of a president’s son or of a poor baby

YUSRA MAJEED THEME (LIFE IN ITS ORIGINAL FORM) A “chotu” who works at a game shop when he is supposed to be at school

A young boy works with his father who is a buys and sells old things

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CLICKS BY

A very familiar way to cook chapatti in villages

Picture itself is a message Proud, edition 1, June 2011

MARYAM MASOOD

The village people use these pots to store coal and protect it from rain

What is to give light must endure burning. (Viktor Frankl)

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FASHION It's about time to dress up for summer and spring! It's the time to manage your wardrobe and get some fashionable pieces for refreshing spring weather and hot summer days. Let's take a look at hottest trends for spring and summer 2011. The trends for 2010 were very different from what is being planned to showcase by the designers in Pakistani fashion 2011. The designers are now bringing back the 1970’s look and cutting down on the 1980’s look of flare shirts which takes a cloth of more than two suits at a time. Elegance is the main theme for Pakistani Fashion 2011.

With the arrival of the new season Fashion designers have begun to drift towards designing lawn prints, since, according to them, it is lucrative and in demand all year round. Many fashion designers have attempted to bridge the gap between the masses and themselves by introducing lawns at various outlets. Due to our changing weather, we have a variety of material to choose from. Basically, lawn or chiffon is the material to wear in the hot weather other than we have the novelty of selecting a range of materials during the different seasons.

MODERN EASTERN If you are going to shop for new clothes this summer, make sure you know what style suits you. Buying clothes based on the main style themes helps you to get proper and gorgeous outfit matches. Have bold stands with your main style, rather than just simply buying cute pieces without thinking of the mix and matching possibilities. Floral designs are back and they don’t seem to be going anywhere. Just how you wear floral depends on what you prefer. You can either opt to use small, dainty ones or go for the eyepopping blossoms. Whatever you choose, you’re still sure to imbibe the spirit of summer .If you're looking for trendy patterns of springsummer 2011, reveal the blossom of your beauty with floral prints. Look for clothes with flower motives all over them. If you don't feel like wearing colorful floral patterns, there's another classic combination ready for spring and summer. Proud, edition 1, June 2011

It doesn't matter if you choose black on white or white on black - it will be the most fashionable pattern of the season. Color is the most important aspect of fashion everywhere especially in Pakistan, mainly because we just love to experiment with bold or pastel colors. And most of the times we opt for hues that do not complement our complexion and weather. We do not consider that whatever looks good on a catwalk model may not be meant for us at all. This is where our designers play a vital role and they need to carefully select shades that can be worn by a large section of the society, so that a fashion catastrophe does not occur.

A basic spectrum of a particular color should be selected per season, so that everyone can wear those colors which are in season. Designers often choose muted shades for autumn-winter collections, and springsummer often stuns with vivid colors. The trends of 2011 are no exceptional: We will see bright and bold colors on clothing, accessories and everything you can wear. Even "Technicolor bright" – neon pink, green, yellow and orange are fashionable once again this year. If clothing of such colors is too bright for you, pick several accessories to highlight your regular wear. Purple was the hit of the past season and it is still around for spring and summer 2011.

SUMMER TRENDS BY UROOJ KHAN

But the shade of colors has changed a lot: forget the deep purple and violet, meet lilac, subtle amethyst and lavender tones. The sweet lilac shade fits another hot trend of summer 2011. The other most important thing in our fashion world is embroidery. It is never outdated, and can be used again and again to give a statement to the outfit. Since we are blessed with a variety of patterns - cultural and regional - coupled with a huge variety of material to be used and a thousands of stitches to choose from, our outfits end up to be quite unique and eye catching. These save most of our outfits from looking the same, giving a large choice to the consumer to pick and choose. The embroidery can range from a full body pattern to small strategically placed motifs – and everything is acceptable. We have special material Proud, edition 1, June 2011

for different festivals and occasions, ranging from plain to heavy clothes, embroidered with stones and beads, in a variety of color. This helps us to delve according to our pleasure, and not be stuck with wearing a material that we can't carry. Along with embroidery block printing on plain or printed cotton dresses is very much in these days. It can is available in many shades, one can go only with full block print dupptta with plain dress it looks elegant and trendy. There is also a choice to make your shirt’s bottom block printed or only neck and sleeves; it’s up to you that how you carry yourself. Colors like shocking pink with greens, purples, turquoise are in fashion when you go for block printing. It can be done in contrast with your base color or you can just have lighter shades on darker or vice versa.

Block prints on black and camel base with white and pink contrast

Nothing beats oversized clothes when it comes to looking like a style diva during sizzling summers. The ultra large sized clothing trend was one of the hot style mantras of the 80s, and one of the rare good ones that the fashion disaster decade had to offer. Oversized tops or dresses are back again to give a new look to you with an old touch. However, it's not as easy as it seems to pull off oversized clothes with much style, whether it's the trendy oversized tops and dresses or the oversized ethnic Readymade Kurti. Ruffles are also in town. And just like a fashion accessory, ruffles can also be used to play up a body part to help divert attention away from a problem area. Need tummy coverage? Go for an empire-cut dress. Since they fall loosely, empire-cut dresses are ideal for hiding bulges. The best part is today Islamic fashion teamed with the modesty of the Abaya, Hijab and other Islamic clothing has defined the face of the Islamic fashion, which has been rightly realigned to meet the demand of the era. Without compromising the practical side of modest clothing, (which demands women to cover up more) Islamic clothing has now crossed the boundaries of all tradition. Abayas are in vogue. Abayas are used to cover everything below the shoulders, only oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palms and feet are left bare. Traditionally these were obtainable in dark colored, though with changing times even the Muslim community has lost several of its rigidity and hence, they are too obtainable towards vibrant colors these days. These have been accepted by female of different regions too, and you will find women wearing them even in western countries where these are known as kaftans. These are towards demand and are very comfortable too. We see that the world of fashion has open handedly accepted this ethnic Islamic wear. What originally started off as a common Muslim wear for ladies to cover themselves up completely into front of other men, is now been incorporated in to the style world as a new style.

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These days this garment has been stylized in a few ways by quite a few designers. Certain for the standard design are: They are commonly made of light materials, like Lexus crepe and satin. They might be open front throughout their entire length or they can be completely closed. Most of them come in trendy and intricate design varying shape geometric designs to floral ones. They may as well be designed with heavy embroidery into gold and silver. Several of these are also styled with beads, sequins, multi colored crystals, and Swarovski gems (for the high end designer ones).

Scarves in different colors and embroidery

Nearly all women have always loved to dress themselves in a way that could make them appear really stylish and also in a way that they may be able to express themselves through their clothes. Even in many instances, women often overlook the practical side of things and just decide to wear stuff that is more known for their style instead of their actual benefits to the comfort to the person. With regards to accessories like scarves, women wear them not simply because they feel cold or want to cover head but most probably because they look great with the rest of their outfit. There are tons of different styles of fashion scarves. There are thin ones and there are those that are thick and are fantastic if you want to create volume in your outfit. If you are going to use thin scarves, all you can really do with them is to tie them the classic way or wear them like you would with a neck tie. With thick scarves, you may have more freedom with how you style them. You can make it look puffy and tie it as a bow around the center of your neck. You may also do a half bow tie and adjust it right at the side of your neck. You can also wear it for covering your head.

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Plain scarves are ok as long as you choose something that pops. Neutral colors may be acceptable depending on the occasion but when you are going for fashion and creating a statement, you ought to go for brightcolored ones. There are also scarves that have patterns and texture on them. One specific way of wearing a scarf in a unique way is by trying an infinity scarf. Women love fashion and when it comes to scarves, it is not always about the practical aspect of having one but simply the posh effect that it brings to all of your outfits.

In summers we have also seen that bright nail colors are in trend. Ladies who work In offices apply lighter shade but young ladies like funky colors like pink, green, red, purple, and many more. Nail art is very common these days; ladies love to do this because it enhances their look. When someone is dressed well she has to look other things too in herself which might be her hair, hands shoes, bag etc. We say no matter what you wear it may be very expensive or little cheap but the important thing is that how you carry yourself with it. Fashion now has smudged boundaries and it seems everyone is experimenting with everything in the fashion world. This has created comfortable fashion, allowing for many to design their own style without worrying about being 'in' and 'out' of the latest fashion. This is not only easy on the wallet but also on the mind, relieving most of us from fretting before every occasion.

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ISLAM & MODERN SOCIETY

AN EVOLUTION OF LIBERAL ISLAMIC SOCIETIES By Ghausia Rashid Salam

“Write me an article about Islamic society,” my editor kindly informed me. “You have the utmost freedom to angle it whichever way you want.” Staring at the burqa-clad girl who’s infamous for her extremely orthodox views on religion, I tried to imagine her reaction if I presented her a feministic, agnostic theist’s rant against organized religion, or a dissection of all the flaws I see in Islam. It wasn’t a pretty picture, and I explained to her politely that I was a liberal extremist in every sense of the word, and thus, she needed to give me proper guidance on the article. She insisted on making it liberal, on giving my own views, which brings us to this point. The thing about religion is that it isn’t set in stone. No, it really isn’t. Yes, there’s a book, but at the end of the day, it’s just a book. The Quran is meant to guide us on the path of overrated piety

and righteousness, nothing more, nothing less. This doesn’t mean that one must blindly follow whatever’s written without thinking or pondering over it. Humans were given free will for a reason, after all. How you follow religion depends on how you interpret its verses, not on the interpretation some Qadri-supporting mullah tells you. One of the biggest criticism Islamic society faces is over its apparently patriarchal nature. This is so far from the truth, it’s laughable. Are men tasked with the responsibility of protecting women? Yes. Does that mean women are born to just stay within the confines of their four walls, leaving only to marry into another “fortress” and start producing children? No. Think about it, why would God create a big world when almost half of its population isn’t even allowed to see it, or venture out and marvel at his splendor? The

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point is, women are not confined within their homes, not at all. Muhammad is quotes to have said, “You are allowed to leave your home when it is a necessity.” So what defines a necessity? In ancient Arab, it was going out to the market. But, again, as times change, so does the interpretation. Now, there a million needs and responsibilities. What about a woman whose husband cannot pick up the kids from school? A woman who needs to take her very sick husband to the hospital and there’s no one to help? A woman whose husband is too sick to work, and there’s no other source of income? So yes, women can venture out, women can work, women can drive, in short, women share equal responsibility with the husband. Rearing a family is not solely the woman’s responsibility, nor is providing for them solely a male responsibility.

The biggest virtue of Islamic society- pure Islamic society mind you, not the fascist regimes of Saudi Arabia or the hypocrisy of Pakistan- ensures a society free of dishonesty, inequality, and immorality. The basic injunctions of Islam is to be honest in all your dealings, be it in a social situation or in terms of business. Therefore, day to day interactions with people should be polite, respectful, and lacking anger in terms of disagreement. In terms of economics, every person is enjoined to earn a halal or lawful livelihood, ensuring a lack of corruption within the society. Secondly, Islamic society instructs that all humans be treated as equal. Our society today is torn between two extremes, a secularism borne of intolerant neo-conservatism, and an extremist mentality borne of inaccurate interpretations of orthodox teachings. On the former extreme, there is a lack of tolerance for any kind of religious expression even something as little as greeting someone with a salam; on the other point of the spectrum, we have an intolerance for anyone that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a specific kind of Muslim- so much so that there is support for the vastly un-Islamic, not to mention unjust Section 298-B and C of the constitution that denies the Qadyani sect of Islam its basic civil rights and liberties. More importantly, there is growing intolerance of other Islamic sects such as the Ismaili sect. Any person who can assert that Section 298-B and C are not unjust cannot call themselves a Muslim, nor can anyone denying any sect a simple right of their identity be on the the correct path of Islam, because they are negating the basic principle of equality that Islam teaches us. True Islamic society lives in peaceful co-existence with all people, be they People of the Book or not, and they all have the right to practice whichever religion they practice, and the state will ensure their rights, not just that of Muslims. More importantly, an Islamic society rejects theocracy and promotes secular concepts. A true Islamic society lives life according to Islamic injunctions, but there is a complete freedom of religion and beliefs for all people, Muslim or otherwise. But this does not mean that Islam has any place in politics. In fact, religion should be a private domain, practiced within the mosques and a Muslimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own home. Moreover, Islam supports freedom of speech and thought. Islam in fact, enjoins its followers to question religion, to

challenge its tenets, so that they can develop a better understanding of not just Islamic concepts, but also, enable them to find a solution to modern day problems through Islamic teachings. Islam does not restrict critical thinking in any way, but rather, encourages exploration of religious concepts. The problem is that since 9/11, Muslims have been under a global microscope of sorts and therefore, every move, every action, reaction of any Muslim anywhere is going to be dissected and criticized. Another problem is that nowhere in the world is there a proper Muslim society; if it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hypocritical corruption within Pakistan, its fascism in Saudi Arabia. Be that as it may, the fact still remains that Islamic society is an egalitarian, tolerant, and liberal society, with justice and civil liberties of all, regardless of their caste, colour, creed, or sexuality.

Proud, edition 1, June 2011