#heritage walk karachi

[mariammagsi]

Preserving the past...

Heritage is a human right. ~ Marvi Mazhar, founder of Heritage Walk Karachi.

Karachi, once known as the City of Lights, harbours a mosaic of historical and cultural heritage within its bustling streets, especially in the Old Town area of Sardar. While visiting family this winter, I had the opportunity to participate in a guided walk organized by Heritage Walk Karachi, an initiative dedicated to unveiling the history and culture embedded in the city's stunning, yet decaying architecture and communal spaces. Last year, I had the privilege of taking this illuminating walk through the heart of Old Karachi alongside Shaheen Nauman, a guardian of the city's heritage and a passionate advocate for its preservation. This year, as we embarked on a similar journey, Shaheen’s forewarning resonated with an eerie prescience: “you will be heartbroken, and sad.” Her words, heavy with the weight of inevitable truth, prepared us for the disheartening changes that lay ahead. As we entered the neglected buildings, the palpable sense of loss and deterioration was overwhelming. The transformation witnessed over merely one year was stark, underscoring the rapid pace at which neglect and decay can erase the physical markers of our shared history. This guided walk showcased the tragically deteriorating architectural marvels and cultural vibrancy of Karachi’s past and highlighted a crucial aspect of our collective human rights – which includes the right to heritage.

The concept of heritage as a human right is anchored in the belief that every individual is entitled to access, engage with, and reflect on our cultural heritage. This access enables us to connect with our identity, history, and the legacies, ways of living and migratory patterns of our ancestors. Unfortunately, as we meandered through the narrow lanes of Old Karachi, the stark contrast between the past's grandeur and the present's neglect was heart-wrenching. The dilapidation of historic buildings, lack of governmental maintenance, rampant, intolerable pollution, and a visible lack of empathy and tolerance for Karachi’s pluralistic past, are not just aesthetic issues but indicative of a deeper, more systemic disregard for our cultural heritage. A few steps into the alleys and we were dodging used diapers, drug paraphernalia, sharp, injurious objects, bodily waste, and large infestations of flies and mosquitos swarming over puddles of filthy, stagnant water.

As someone visiting from the diaspora, the experience of walking through Old Karachi evoked a profound sense of concern and heartache. The neglect, pollution, and apparent lack of governmental maintenance not only tarnish the physical beauty of this historic area but also signify a deeper abandonment of our cultural patrimony. This disrepair is especially disheartening to witness for those of us who, despite having lived away, maintain a deep attachment to our city of birth. The emotional and intellectual dissonance experienced during this visit underscores an urgent need for collective and governmental action toward the preservation of our heritage. Honouring our history and heritage connects us with our past, guiding our future actions, trajectories and policies.

Karachi's rich and pluralistic past is etched into the very fabric of its urban landscape. On the intricate balcony railings of colonial, pre-colonial and pre-partition buildings, one can trace the outlines of a city that once thrived on diversity and multicultural coexistence. These delicate ironworks and carved balustrades serve as silent witnesses to the times when Karachi was a bustling port, welcoming traders from across the globe. As the city expanded, the relentless push of concrete and modern infrastructure has overshadowed these historical markers, yet they persist, stubbornly holding onto the stories of a bygone era. In the soul-filled nooks and crannies of Saddar, layers of history are revealed in the narrow lanes and ancient structures, where every brick and cobblestone has a story to tell, from centuries-old mosques and temples standing shoulder to shoulder, to the faded frescoes that peek out from under layers of paint, hinting at the city’s vibrant past. These remnants of Karachi's pluralistic past continue to offer a glimpse into a time when the city was a melting pot of cultures, religions, and languages.

The guided walk with Heritage Walk Karachi served as an ominous warning, of what is at stake. The architectural decay and environmental neglect witnessed along the way are not isolated issues but are symptomatic of a broader societal malaise – a disconnect from our historical roots and a disregard for the importance of conservation, both environmental and cultural. The degradation of these sites and streets erases the physical structures, as well as the intangible heritage that these buildings and spaces represent – the stories, traditions, and shared memories of a pluralistic community that once comprised of many Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, Sufis and religious, spiritual and secular people that lived side by side, in harmony. This historical diversity is a cultural treasure that ought to be celebrated, preserved, and passed down to future generations. Yet, the devastating signs of neglect, illegal encroachments and destruction by the city’s intimidating land mafia paint a grim picture of indifference and a loss of communal memory.

The importance of conservation cannot be overstated. Conservation is not merely about preserving bricks and mortar but about maintaining a tangible connection to our past, which in turn informs our present and future. Conservation efforts serve to remind us of the diverse narratives that have shaped our societies and the importance of inclusivity and tolerance in a society that is rapidly falling prey to intolerance, military industrialism, religious extremism, fascism and right-wing ideology.

As residents, whether former or current, of Karachi and stewards of its rich history, we have a collective responsibility to advocate for the preservation of our heritage. It is imperative that we recognize heritage conservation as a matter of cultural pride, and as a fundamental human right. This requires a concerted effort from government bodies, local communities, and civil society organizations to enact policies and initiatives that prioritize heritage preservation. Moreover, fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community can galvanize grassroots efforts to protect and celebrate our shared history.

The journey with Heritage Walk Karachi is a clarion call to all stakeholders to awaken to the importance of our cultural heritage. In preserving the physical and intangible legacies of our past, we safeguard the essence of our identity and ensure that future generations can enjoy and learn from the richness of our shared heritage. From an intellectual standpoint, the visible deterioration of Old Karachi's heritage sites challenges us to reflect on the broader implications of such neglect. It raises pertinent questions about the values we, as a society, and our governmental bodies prioritize and the legacy we choose to leave for future generations. Heritage is not a relic of the past to be passively observed; it is an active, living testament to our collective history, achievements, and failures. The current state of Old Karachi serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sidelining cultural heritage in favour of short-term gains.

The ongoing genocide in Palestine, which includes a cultural genocide, and the systematic obliteration of heritage, culture, intellect, and history, serves as a critical warning of the importance of preserving our own heritage and history. Such events underscore the vulnerability of cultural identity in the face of occupation, colonialism and violent erasure and highlight the essential role that heritage plays in the collective memory and identity of a community. In conclusion, as we reflect on the guided walk through Old Town, Karachi, let us not see it merely as a nostalgic tour through a bygone era but as a mission to rekindle our connection with our heritage. Heritage is indeed a human right, one that we must all strive to protect and cherish.

CALLS TO ACTION:

Raise Awareness: Share the rich history and significance of Karachi, through educational campaigns, social media, and community events. Encourage local schools, colleges, and universities to include the study Karachi’s heritage in their curriculum. Organize guided tours and heritage walks like Heritage Walk Karachi, to showcase the cultural and architectural gems of the area.

Advocate for Protection: Petition local authorities and government bodies to enforce strict regulations for the preservation of historical buildings and sites. Collaborate with heritage preservation organizations and activists to lobby for legal protection and funding for restoration projects. Work with city planners and policymakers to integrate heritage conservation into urban development plans.

Community Engagement: Foster a sense of pride and communal ownership among residents by involving them in preservation initiatives. Organize volunteer clean-up drives and maintenance efforts to keep historical sites and streets clean and well-maintained. Establish community forums and workshops to encourage dialogue and participation in decision-making processes related to heritage conservation.

Support Restoration Projects: Partner with private businesses, philanthropists, and cultural institutions to fund restoration efforts for endangered buildings and landmarks. Launch crowdfunding campaigns and seek donations from individuals passionate about preserving Karachi’s heritage. Encourage corporate social responsibility by inviting businesses to sponsor specific restoration projects in exchange for recognition and branding opportunities.

Promote Sustainable Tourism: Develop responsible tourism initiatives that highlight the unique cultural and architectural heritage of Karachi while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Create tourism packages that include visits to historical sites, traditional markets, and cultural performances, benefiting local businesses and artisans. Train local guides and hospitality staff to provide informative and respectful experiences for visitors, emphasizing the importance of preserving heritage sites for future generations.

Document and Digitize: Establish archives and digital repositories to document oral histories, photographs, and other ephemera related to Karachi’s heritage. Collaborate with universities and research institutions to conduct studies and publish scholarly works on the history and architecture of the area. Develop virtual tours and interactive exhibits to make Karachi’s heritage accessible to a wider audience, including those unable to visit in person.

By promoting these calls to action, we can work together to safeguard the cultural, historical, and architectural legacy of Old Town, Karachi, for generations to come.

Photos + Text © Mariam Magsi 2024

[fashionholic98]

Women’s Shoes

Finding the perfect pair of women’s shoes can be a delightful but challenging experience. In Karachi, where fashion and style are ever-evolving, women’s shoes are more than just an accessory; they are a statement of personality, elegance, and comfort. If you’re searching for women’s shoes in Karachi and want to buy them online, this guide is here to help you navigate through the variety of styles, brands, and options available.

Why Women’s Shoes Matter

Women’s shoes are an essential part of any wardrobe. They can complete an outfit, reflect your personal style, and even impact your confidence. With a wide range of options available, it’s important to choose shoes that not only look great but also feel comfortable. In Karachi, where you might be walking through busy streets or attending social events, your shoes need to offer both style and durability.

Women’s Shoes in Karachi

You’ll find a broad selection of women’s shoes in Karachi, from traditional styles to the latest fashion trends. Here are some popular types of women’s shoes you can buy online:

Heels Heels are a classic choice for women looking to add a touch of elegance to their attire. Available in a variety of styles, including stilettos, block heels, and kitten heels, they can instantly elevate any outfit. In Karachi, heels are particularly popular for formal events, weddings, and parties.

Flats Comfortable and versatile, flats are a staple in every woman’s shoe collection. They’re perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re going to work, running errands, or meeting friends. In Karachi, where walking is a big part of daily life, flats offer a stylish yet practical solution.

Sandals Given Karachi’s warm climate, sandals are a must-have for many women. They provide breathability and comfort, ideal for casual outings. From embellished sandals to simple strappy designs, you can find a wide range of options when you buy women’s sandals online in Karachi.

Sneakers Sneakers have become increasingly popular among women in Karachi. They offer a blend of comfort and style that is perfect for both casual and semi-formal settings. Many online stores offer a variety of sneakers, from classic white pairs to trendy designs, making it easy to find something that matches your style.

Wedges For those who want the height of heels without compromising on comfort, wedges are a great option. They provide stability and are easier to walk in than traditional heels. You’ll find plenty of fashionable wedges available online in Karachi.

Traditional Shoes (Khussa, Peshawari Chappal) Karachi’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in the traditional footwear options available. Khussa and Peshawari chappals are popular choices for festive occasions and add a unique touch to your outfit. Many online stores offer a variety of these traditional styles with modern twists.

Buy Online Women’s Shoes in Karachi

With the rise of e-commerce, buy online women’s shoes in Karachi has never been easier. Here are some popular online stores that offer a wide selection of women’s shoes:

Fashionholic

Fashionholic is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms in Pakistan, offering a vast selection of women’s shoes. From local brands to international names, you can find a variety of options at different price points. Fashionholic also frequently offers discounts and sales, making it a great place to find deals.

How to Choose the Right Women’s Shoes Online

Buying shoes online can be a bit tricky, as you can’t try them on before making a purchase. Here are some tips to help you choose the right women’s shoes online in Karachi:

Know Your Size One of the most important factors when buying shoes online is knowing your exact size. Measure your feet and refer to the size chart provided by the online store. Remember that different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s essential to check the size guide for each brand.

Check Customer Reviews Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the fit, comfort, and quality of the shoes you’re considering. Look for reviews that mention similar foot sizes or shapes to get an idea of how the shoes might fit.

Consider the Material The material of the shoes can impact both comfort and durability. Leather shoes, for example, are known for their durability but may require some breaking in. Synthetic materials are often more affordable but may not be as breathable as natural materials.

Look for Return Policies Before making a purchase, check the return policy of the online store. Some stores offer free returns, while others may have specific conditions. Knowing the return policy can give you peace of mind in case the shoes don’t fit or meet your expectations.

Compare Prices Prices can vary between different online stores, so it’s a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase. Many stores offer discounts and promotions, especially during sales seasons like Eid, New Year, and Independence Day.

Check Delivery Options Ensure that the online store delivers to your location in Karachi and check the estimated delivery time. Some stores offer express delivery options, which can be convenient if you need the shoes quickly.

Benefits of Buying Women’s Shoes Online in Karachi

Buying women’s shoes online offers numerous benefits, especially in a bustling city like Karachi. Here are some advantages of shopping online:

Convenience Shopping online allows you to browse a wide range of options from the comfort of your home. You can easily compare different styles, prices, and brands without having to visit multiple stores.

Access to a Wider Range of Styles Online stores often have a more extensive selection than physical stores. You can find a variety of styles, colors, and sizes that may not be available in local stores.

Time-Saving With the traffic and busy lifestyle in Karachi, shopping online can save you a lot of time. You can quickly find what you’re looking for and have it delivered to your doorstep.

Discounts and Deals Many online stores offer exclusive discounts and deals that you may not find in physical stores. Signing up for newsletters or following your favorite brands on social media can help you stay updated on the latest promotions.

Easy Price Comparison Online shopping makes it easy to compare prices across different stores, ensuring that you get the best deal. Many e-commerce platforms also offer price comparison tools to make the process even simpler.

Trending Women’s Shoes in Karachi for 2024

As fashion trends evolve, so do the styles of women’s shoes available in Karachi. Here are some trends to watch for in 2024:

Bold Colors and Patterns Vibrant colors and unique patterns are set to be a major trend in 2024. From bright reds to animal prints, these shoes can add a pop of color to your outfit and make a statement.

Chunky Sneakers Chunky sneakers continue to be popular, offering both style and comfort. They’re perfect for a casual look and can be paired with jeans, dresses, or skirts.

Square-Toed Heels Square-toed heels are making a comeback, offering a modern twist on a classic style. These shoes are comfortable and stylish, making them perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Eco-Friendly Options With a growing focus on sustainability, many brands are offering eco-friendly shoe options. Look for shoes made from recycled materials or brands that use sustainable practices.

Traditional with a Modern Twist Traditional styles like khussas and Peshawari chappals are being reinvented with modern designs and embellishments. These shoes are perfect for adding a cultural touch to your outfit.

different styles, preferences, and budgets. By considering factors like size, material, and customer reviews, you can ensure a successful online shopping experience. So go ahead and explore the world of women’s shoes online in Karachi – you’re sure to find the perfect pair to complete your look.

[gmqazi19739]

Ali Muhammad Taji - Bio, Top 20 Best Pakistani Qawwali Music

Ali Muhammad Taji is synonymous with Pakistan’s rich and soulful tradition of Qawwali music. His deep, rich voice and innovative interpretations of ghazals and qawwalis have earned him a place among South Asia’s greatest musicals. This article explores the life, music, and enduring legacy of a man who turned qawwali into a global phenomenon.

Best Ali Muhammad Taji Pakistani Qawwali Music Download

Early life is the beginning of music Born in Karachi, Pakistan in 1954, Ali Muhammad Taji grew up in an environment steeped in musical tradition. His father Ustad Fateh Muhammad Khan Sahib and grandfather Ustad Mehtab Khan were respected musicians at the court of the Maharaja and Taji was destined to follow in their footsteps from an early age. The rise of a Qawwali legend Taji's early performances quickly established him as a formidable talent in the folk music scene. His big break was performing in South Africa in 1974, the show that led to his international success. The overwhelming response to his performance opened the doors to many international tours including famous venues in London and other parts of the world Taji Qawwali performances are unique and reflect the perfect blend of tradition and innovation revealed, and provide unforgettable experiences for its audience Singing musical style Ali Muhammad Taji’s career is full of timeless songs that have become an integral part of Pakistan’s musical heritage. His popular songs include "Hummen Tu Loot Liya Hussain Waloon Ne" and "Yaaro Mujhe Muaf Rakho Main Nashe Main Hoon". Worldwide President of Qawwali He became an international ambassador for qawwali, taking this traditional music to audiences around the world. His performances are in cities like Dubai, Sharjah, Kuwait, Cairo, Tehran, Berlin, Paris, London, Oslo, Copenhagen, Sydney, and Toronto. New family heirloom Taji’s three sons-Saqib Ali Taji, Ahsan Ali Taji, and Asim Ali Taji are all prominent figures in qawwali and semi-classical music. Raised by their father, they have inherited his unique style and perform with the same passion and dedication. Cultural and spiritual significance of Qawwali Qawwali is not just about playing music; It is a profound spiritual experience. Mahfils or informal qawwali gatherings are intimate spaces where people come together to experience Pakistani music and connect with the divine. The lasting influence of Ali Muhammad Taji Ali Muhammad Taji's influence remained intact when he died on May 11, 2012, at the age of 55. His music inspired and moved audiences around the world and his legacy is celebrated by his family and fans alike Taji’s contribution to Qawwali transcends human boundaries from all walks of life It is a testimony to the touching power of the genre. Today, his sons carry on his musical legacy, ensuring that Taji’s name remains synonymous with qawwali excellence. Conclusion The life and work of Ali Muhammad Taji is a celebration of the rich tradition of Qawwali and classical music. His ability to blend the old with the new, the classic with the modern, made his music timeless. Today, his legacy lives on through his sons and countless followers who appreciate and celebrate his work. FAQs What made Ali Muhammad Taji’s style of Qawwali stand out? Ali Muhammad Taji Qawwali's style was unique in blending classical elements with contemporary music to create a sound that resonates with traditional and modern audiences. Who are the musical heirs of Ali Muhammad Taji? The three sons of Ali Muhammad Taji-Saqib Ali Taji, Ahsan Ali Taji, and Asim Ali Taji are both prominent figures in Qawwali and semi-classical music, continuing their father’s legacy. What is the importance of Mahfils in Qawwali music? Mahfils are informal events that include qawwali performances that emphasize the spiritual connection between music and the divine, allowing attendees to experience music on a deeply personal level. How has the family of Ali Muhammad Taji contributed to the emergence of the Qawwali tradition? Coming from a family of renowned musicians, the Taji family has played an important role in preserving and promoting the Qawwali tradition, with each generation passing on their knowledge and skills. Read the full article

[rentpropertyinmultan]

Rent property in Multan

Title: A Comprehensive Guide to Renting Property in Multan: Your Gateway to Comfortable Living

Multan, often referred to as the "City of Saints" and "Mango Capital of Pakistan," is not only rich in culture and history but also offers a vibrant lifestyle and diverse opportunities. As one of the oldest cities in South Asia, Multan attracts people from all walks of life, including students, professionals, and families, who seek to immerse themselves in its unique charm and warmth. If you're considering relocating to this beautiful city or simply looking for a new place to call home, renting property in Multan can be a promising venture. In this guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about renting property in Multan, from popular neighborhoods to rental trends and tips for a smooth renting experience.

Understanding Multan's Neighborhoods Before diving into the rental market, it's essential to familiarize yourself with Multan's diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and amenities. Here are some of the most sought-after areas for renting property in Multan:

Gulgasht Colony: Known for its peaceful environment and proximity to educational institutions, Gulgasht Colony is a preferred choice for families and students alike. Bosan Road: This area is popular among those seeking modern amenities and convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Cantt: Multan Cantonment, or Cantt, is renowned for its well-planned layout, green spaces, and upscale housing options, making it ideal for those looking for a premium living experience. Shah Rukn-e-Alam Colony: Named after the famous Sufi saint, this neighborhood offers a blend of residential and commercial properties, along with a rich cultural heritage. Wapda Town: With its well-developed infrastructure and family-friendly environment, Wapda Town is a favorite among middle to upper-income households. Rental Trends in Multan Multan's rental market is dynamic, with a wide range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. Here are some key trends to keep in mind:

Affordability: Compared to major cities like Lahore and Karachi, rental rates in Multan are relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for those seeking quality accommodation without breaking the bank. Property Types: From apartments and houses to commercial spaces and farmhouses, Multan offers a diverse range of rental properties to cater to different needs and lifestyles. Demand: The demand for rental properties in Multan remains steady, driven by factors such as urbanization, migration, and the city's growing reputation as a commercial and educational hub. Seasonal Variations: Like many cities, rental rates in Multan may fluctuate seasonally, with prices typically rising during peak moving seasons and major events. Tips for Renting Property in Multan Navigating the rental market can be daunting, especially for first-time renters. Here are some tips to help streamline the process and ensure a successful renting experience:

Define Your Requirements: Before you start your search, clearly outline your priorities, such as budget, location, amenities, and desired property type. This will help narrow down your options and save time. Research Extensively: Take the time to research different neighborhoods, property listings, and rental prices to get a comprehensive understanding of the market dynamics. Inspect the Property: Always conduct a thorough inspection of the property before signing any lease agreements. Look for any signs of damage or maintenance issues and discuss them with the landlord or property manager. Understand the Lease Terms: Carefully review the lease agreement, paying attention to clauses related to rent, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and termination conditions. Seek clarification on any terms that are unclear or concerning. Negotiate Wisely: Don't hesitate to negotiate the rent or lease terms, especially if you believe they are not favorable or in line with market standards. Be respectful but assertive in expressing your concerns and preferences. Seek Legal Assistance if Necessary: If you're unsure about any aspect of the rental process or lease agreement, consider seeking advice from a legal professional specializing in property law to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Final Thoughts Renting property in Multan offers a gateway to comfortable living amidst a city steeped in history, culture, and modern amenities. By understanding the local market trends, exploring different neighborhoods, and following best practices for renting, you can find the perfect place to call home in this vibrant city. Whether you're a student, professional, or family, Multan welcomes you with open arms, promising an enriching and fulfilling living experience.

[idealinnguesthouse]

+92 312 4333355 | Ideal inn Guest House | Guest house in Karachi

5 Ideal inn Guest House in Karachi

Close, to Mazat-E-Raz and (2.8 miles), a well-loved Karachi landmark Ideal inn Guest House offers excellent guest accommodation. Hotels in the area are not to be missed, with some excellent discounts on popular hotels like the Four Seasons and the Taj Mahal. Ideal inn Guest House offers a wide range of guest houses and apartments, from small family-run accommodations to larger complexes. All are fully furnished with basic amenities. A relatively small and quiet place, this Guest House in Karachi makes an ideal Inn for a small family.

From the moment you step out of your Karachi guest house, you are transported into another world. Welcome, the beautiful white picket fence surrounded by lush greenery makes this the perfect starting point for exploring the many attractions of this city. Directly on the border of Pakistan and India, it is quite possible that your stay in Pakistan may extend beyond those two countries, since there are direct flights from Islamabad and New Delhi to Karachi every day. From here, there are a number of sightseeing tours to include in your itinerary. Or if you wish, after enjoying your stay at the guest house and exploring the surrounding areas, you can make arrangements to travel to the Agra Fort and the World Heritage Site at the heart of the city.

There are no special prerequisites to stay at Ideal inn Guest House in Karachi; anyone staying at an Inn or a hotel will find all of the modern comforts available. The lovely swimming pools, a lounge and a restaurant provide entertainment after a long day of shopping or sightseeing. To make your stay even more comfortable, arrange for a driver to drop you to and from the airport as well as pick you up at the guest house.

In addition to the swimming pools and a restaurant, the hotel boasts two fitness centers. One is just outside of the front door and the other is located within walking distance. Both offer great workouts and a nice change of pace for those who are a bit more adventurous. You can choose between one of the facilities each day or take advantage of the others, as the case may be.

At this establishment, there are ample opportunities for meeting and greeting new guests as well as enjoying quality time with your immediate family. You may want to start the day with a welcome drink at the bar and then enjoy a round of bowling, snooker or billiards. Once the night winds down, kick back and relax with an assortment of wines and cocktails.

The kitchen at Ideal inn Guest House in Karachi offers modern appliances and cutting-edge recipes, inviting you to try some of their special dishes. If you are feeling hungry, stop into the diner section and check out the local favorites. You might want to try kebabs, Pakistani specialties, Indian samosas and other traditional favorites. Or head over to the buffet for some American dishes or European fare. If it's pizza you crave, it's close by as well.

This five-star hotel boasts two restaurants on its premises. The Hyatt Regency southwest downtown and the Fairfield Inn & Suites north of Lahore can entice you with their enticing dining options. Both feature award-winning chefs and boast entrees that will have your taste buds begging for more. On occasion, these restaurants will open their doors to the public for special events and parties. Check in to stay one step away from the action.

At the hotel itself, you will be treated to elegant dining options including an award-winning wine cellar and an upscale lobby bar. For convenience, the guest house has a supermarket nearby. If you feel like shopping, stop in to the Samsara Plaza Mall in Islamabad West. Your kids will enjoy the pedicure, manicure and day care services that await you at this international standard hotel. You won't have to worry about where to eat after you're done with the city, since your room provides you with a free WIFI internet connection so you can stay connected to the rest of the world.

[aftaabmagazine]

The Life of a 102-year-old Afghan Entrepreneur: An Economic Perspective

By Mir Hekmatullah Sadat

From the January - March 1999 issue of Afghan Magazine | Lemar-Aftaab

[caption: Abdul Majid Zabuli عبدالمجید زابلی, late 1940s.]

To the majority, we recognize the word "entrepreneur." Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines "entrepreneur" as one who organizes, manages, and assumes the risks of a business or enterprise. This definition is quite good but needs some elaboration. An entrepreneur undertakes a new and untried business possibility producing a new commodity or producing "an old one in a new way," reorganizing an industry, opening up a new market, developing a new source of supply, or exploiting an invention (Schumpeter, 1950).

The achievement of an entrepreneur lies in his or her ability to judge the most opportune time for introducing an available technology. When talking about entrepreneurs, we think of Andrew Carnegie, John Rockefeller, Henry Ford, Donald Trump, or Bill Gates. As part of Afghanistan's heritage, Afghans must not forget their share of entrepreneurs such as Loe Sher Khan Nashir Ghilzai, Abdul Aziz Londoni, and Abdul Majid Zabuliعبدالمجید زابلی. Although Afghanistan's economy has been essentially agrarian until the present time, these entrepreneurs were able to bring together the means of production and profit from the product.

This article will describe Afghanistan's economic system from the 1920s to the 1970s. For this purpose, we will focus on the role of the most influential Afghan entrepreneur, Abdul Majid Zabuli. Adamec (1991) informs us he was born in 1896 in Herat, where he also got his education. Later at Tashkent. In 1917, he headed his father's export-import company in Herat, trading with Iran and Russia. In 1922, he moved the firm's headquarters to Tashkent and from there to Moscow, to operate a textile mill under the Soviet "New Economic Policy" (242).

Under these policies, Zabuli attained numerous loans and subsidies from the Soviet Union. Until World War II, he had the largest trade relations among Afghans with the USSR. While in Moscow, he met Shah Amanullah, who was winding down his European tour. According to Stewart (1973), Zabuli, the Afghan representative of the Hakimof Company, decided to replicate an event from the memoirs of Tsar Nicholas II for Shah Amanullah in Moscow:

For eight days, he pre-empted the section of the Grand Hotel which led to the dining room on the second floor [Shah Amanullah] walked over [flowers], just as Nicholas had done. Of this $14, 600 party, the New York Times wrote, "It may open a new vista to the Soviet Treasury Department in the treatment of private businessmen" (361).

After Shah Amanullah's return, the Afghan government made efforts to expand trade, begin manufacture, and improve transportation. However, the high cost of such projects forced the government to generate revenue by excising taxes on feudal landlords and animal ranchers. These policies created unhappiness among landlords and ranchers who began supporting anti-government uprising by the well-armed tribal militia. Fearing the loss of many lives, Shah Amanullah left Afghanistan as the rebellion grew stronger. From the time Shah Amanullah left until General Nadir Khan returned, there existed no substantial economic activities.

Mohammad Nadir Khan learned from his predecessor and did not excise taxes on landlords or ranchers but instead generated government revenue through tariffs. During his tenure and for the most of Zahir Shah's administration, the economic modernization initiated by Shah Amanullah led to effective industrial developments. This was a result of pursuing economic laissez-faire policies, that is, no government interference.

Nadir Khan's Prime Minister, Mohammad Hashim Khan, developed a close friendship with Zabuli while he was the Afghan Minister in Moscow.

Utilizing this friendship, Zabuli received a government loan and permission to create the first bank in Afghanistan. Until this time, the government had no central bank but only a public treasury that could not determine fiscal policy. In the first year of operations, the government was a partner in the bank. Later on, the government withdrew most of its holdings from the bank and created the first central bank (Da Afghanistan Bank).

Zabuli established the Ashami Company, which developed into Afghan National Bank (Bank-i-Melli Afghan) by private interests. John Griffiths (1981) explains, In 1933, Zabuli, surely one of the most remarkable entrepreneurs of this century, founded the Bank Melli [sic] and through it a whole range of new industrial enterprises. His greatest stroke of genius lay in circumventing the Koranic prohibition against the charging of interest by inventing the "money ticket." By this means, the bank took a fixed "profit" on its money, and thus caustically avoided the prohibition. Zabuli thus released the capital needed for development, and the bank itself provided the funds for more than thirty enterprises from vehicle imports to hire purchase, electricity generation to cotton processing (141).

The National Bank financed the construction of facilities for new industries. Some of the ventures included cotton processing plants in the north, a cotton textile mill at Pol-i-Khomri, a sugar factory at Baghlan, and a woolen textile mill at Kandahar.

"The government left the [National Bank] in charge of the private sector of the Afghan economy" (Gregorian, 362). Thus, the government gave a monopolistic right in exporting karakul skins and carpets and the right to import petroleum products and sugar to Zabuli's National Bank. Any businessman wanting to export or import goods needed the prior approval of the National Bank.

With Nadir Khan's laissez-faire economic policy, businesspeople successfully took the reins of commerce from British Indian merchants. Afghan businesspeople envisioned becoming more self-reliant, independent, and promoting Afghanistan's economic growth. They had no interest in commerce with Great Britain, albeit Hashim Khan had great relations with its government. Instead, the businessmen preferred nations such as Germany and Japan. This ideology stemmed from Amanullah Shah's(the 1920s) era when it was believed that Germany and Japan posed no threat to Afghanistan's borders.

The German government displayed mutual military interests with Afghanistan, which neighbors the USSR in the north and British India in the south. This military strategy further increased Germany's economic stakes in Afghanistan. The National Bank capitalized on this German interest. During World War II, the Soviets foreign trade with Afghanistan plummeted from 24% to 0%. In contrast, Afghanistan's balance-of-trade with Germany increased to 65%.

Consequently, the National Bank opened an overseas branch office in Berlin. Gregorian (1969) details the profound relationship between Zabuli and the German government:

[Zabuli] and some Afghan envoys kept in close touch with the German government. According to Nazi documents, in a series of meetings with the German government from March to June 1941, Zabuli offered to discuss "the possible territorial changes resulting for Afghanistan from the war." What the Afghans had in mind, wrote Weizsaecker, State Secretary of the German Foreign Office, were "the British possessions in the southeast and south, to Karachi, and the Indus as the new Afghan border" (387).

Zabuli supported the Hitlerian plan to stir up uprising among Afghan tribes trapped in British India. Afghan merchants were also against the nominal Durand Line because this arrangement blocked their exit to international seas. It was these beliefs of Zabuli that drew him and others closer to patriotic and anti-colonial movements such as the Awakened Youth (Wikh-i-Zalmayan). According to Klass (1990), Zabuli was among the founding members of the Awakened Youth (138). However, he left the group after the government repressed opposition groups. Zabuli still maintained his friendship with many members of the movement. He even recruited some of the individuals to the National Bank and its joint-stock companies.

In 1948, Zabuli became Minister of National Economy in Shah Mahmud Khan's Cabinet. According to Bradsher (1985), Zabuli, on behalf of the Afghan government, visited Washington D.C. seeking a $118 million loan and weapons for national security: "The Truman administration was not impressed [and] paid little attention to Afghanistan" (19). Ma'aroof (1987) further explains that the United States only agreed to provide $21million: "Seeing that we were not meeting Afghan expectations, Zabuli recommends refusing the loan but 'his Afghan superiors overruled him'" (46). According to Klass (1990), during a conversation with Truman, Shah Mahmud noted: "The Afghan government tends to think of the loan as of political so in the light of Soviet interest and offers of assistance to Afghanistan" (41).

Soon after the rejection of economic and military aid by the United States, channels for Soviet economic offenses were opened. In the 1950s, the USSR became Afghanistan's major purchaser and supplier. Besides economic exchanges, the two countries had cultural and military exchanges, all of which paved the way for the Soviet invasion of 1979.

In 1951, Zabuli resigned from Shah Mahmud's Cabinet because of disagreements and pressure from the royal family. According to analysts, Zabuli was grooming himself for the Prime Minister position in the event it broke free from the royal family. As a form of lobbying, the National Bank also gave favorable loans to government officials and military officers for constructing new homes. Although Zabuli was very close to the royal family, a major hindrance in his quest was none other than Prince Mohammad Daoud Khan, Minister of War. This rivalry with Daoud Khan was a major factor for his resignation.

Another reason was pressure applied by the Finance Ministry headed by Mohammad Nowroz Khan. The Finance Ministry wanted to nationalize the exclusive commerce rights once bestowed on the National Bank. The government also wanted to regain the monopoly rights of sugar, tobacco, and petroleum.

The Finance Ministry, furthermore, wanted a differentiation between luxury and necessity import duties. The government made spending on essential goods a priority by raising the import duty on luxury goods, thus, making them less attractive. Another area of dissension with the Finance Ministry concerned the audit right of Zabuli's National Bank by the government.

The initiatives begun in Shah Mahmud's Cabinet bore its fruits for the government in Daoud Khan's Cabinet. Finally, Abdul Malik Abdul-Rahimzai, Minister of Finance, was given authority to audit the National Bank. In 1953, when Daoud Khan became Prime Minister, the belts of Zabuli and the National Bank were tightened. Dupree (1981) believes General Daoud Khan's rise to power in 1953 brought an end to the pioneering free enterprise system developed by Londoni, Zabuli, and Khan Nashir. One of Zabuli's enterprises that came under scrutiny was the Kunduz Cotton Company (474).

Between 1951 and 1953, Zabuli left the country for Switzerland and then for his final destination, New York; however, his enterprises still operated under the National Bank's supervision. Daoud Khan went after the National Bank because he felt the economic laissez-faire policies had started to promote monopoly and contributing to boom-and-bust economic cycles. Hence, his administration discarded the principle of state noninterference in economic affairs and laid the groundwork for a "planned economy."

Daoud Khan's "planned economy" approach lasted even after his resignation in 1963. During the "New Constitution," Zabuli was invited to the 1964 Grand Assembly (Loya Jirga). Although Zabuli was abroad, he participated in the political environment of Afghanistan. Zabuli supported a free enterprise movement (Dupree, 1981). Kushkaki (1985) adds that his newspaper. Zabuli financially supported Caravan. Zabuli wrote articles about economics in the Caravan.

The brief decade of the "New Constitution" ended in 1973 when Daoud Khan executed a coup d'etat and declared Afghanistan a republic. In 1975, Daoud Khan nationalized all banks, including the National Bank. The republic lasted only five years until Nur Mohammad Taraki took power. According to The Kabul Times, in a letter dated June 19, 1978, addressed to President Taraki, Zabuli presented all his property assets to the government.

In 1988, a conference of business people and factory owners invited Zabuli to Kabul. Although he was unable to attend due to medical reasons, he sent a message of confidence and optimism. The same year in New York, Dr. Najibullah met with Zabuli as part of the national reconciliation campaign. Although Zabuli left Afghanistan in the 1950s, he kept in touch with the political atmosphere of Afghanistan until his death in the Fall of 1998. This sentiment resonated throughout his life and even though his last will in testament. According to a copy of his will attained from Mr. Nour Delawari, Zabuli wanted his entire estate placed in a trust fund. His assets are then to be transferred to the Kabul University after a representative government capable of being accepted by everyone takes power.

Unfortunately, Afghanistan has still a long way to go before it meets the conditions mentioned by Zabuli. One person, one group, or one tribe by itself will not be able to solve Afghanistan's dilemmas. Reconstruction depends on the human and physical capital of Afghans.

The best situated Afghans for relief are people living abroad, excluding those struggling to place food on their table (for example, Afghans living in refugee camps). Many Afghans are still waiting for foreign countries and the United Nations to aid Afghanistan politically and economically. This is great if aid is given without any strings attached; however, this process will take a very long time. So, in the meantime, Afghans must ask themselves: "What can we do for Afghans and our homeland?" There are a few measures Afghans can take on their own:

1. Initiate unbiased research regarding the current problems of Afghanistan. The establishment of a national perspective based on facts.

2. The eradication of discrimination and schisms, as well as the creation of a generally accepted belief and idea aimed at unifying Afghans.

3. Instilling the previous two items to Afghan youths living abroad.

4. Providing knowledge and financial support in Afghanistan and to Afghans living in refugee camps devastated by warfare. (For example, doctors, nurses, teachers, etc. can donate their expertise during Summer vacation.)

Although these steps are just a starting point, they are human duties for every Afghan. Afghans must not wait for a conference, some group, or someone else to take the lead on this matter. Instead, Afghans must become their own avant-guard.

About Mir Hekmatullah Sadat

Mir Hekmatullah Sadat has a BA from the University of California, Irvine and an MA the California State University, Fullerton, and a Ph.D. at Claremont Graduate University.

[architectnews]

Yasmeen Lari works with impoverished villagers to re-pave Karachi's old town

Architect Yasmeen Lari and Heritage Foundation of Pakistan have worked with disadvantaged communities to craft terracotta tiling for a pedestrianised street in the historic heart of Karachi.

The terracotta tiles appear along Rahguzar Walking Street, an "eco-enclave," which sits close to Denso Hall library in Karachi's old town.

The project is being published as part of Lari's contribution to the Dezeen 15 festival, alongside a manifesto she has written that calls for a new form of social architecture that benefits disadvantaged people. Lari will speak about her manifesto and her work in a live interview with Dezeen editor-in-chief Marcus Fairs.

Heritage Foundation of Pakistan, which was co-founded by Lari, has been working on conserving the 19th-century Denso Hall building and its surrounding area since 2010, in collaboration with Karachi Electric Supply Company and the city government.

The tiles feature on a pedestrianised street in Karachi's old town

Each tile was made and sold by people hailing from a cluster of deprived villages near the city of Thatta, a couple of hours drive east of Karachi. Many of them previously lived in basic shelters and relied on resources that were donated by visitors or staff from Makli Necropolis, a huge UNESCO-listed cemetery located nearby.

However, before initiating the tile-making scheme, the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan and Lari set about improving the villages' living conditions, helping them erect their own zero-carbon homes from non-engineered prefabricated parts.

Support was also provided in constructing toilets, installing manual water pumps, and creating earthen cooking stoves called chulahs.

Lari has built thousands of eco-conscious dwellings like these since 2005, as part of her Barefoot Social Architecture programme. It seeks to provide impoverished groups in Pakistan's Sindh province with affordable housing, sanitation, food and water solutions that don't come at a cost to the environment.

Residents from deprived villages were taught how to make the tiles

After work on the village homes was complete, over 100 residents were given two months of tile-making training at Thatta's Zero Carbon Cultural Centre, which was set up by Lari.

"It starts with cleaning the clay and removing all impurities through a series of screenings," explained Lari of the lengthy production process. "The clay goes through a laborious process of kneading, balls are prepared, and then pressed into Plaster of Paris moulds by women artisans."

"After they're taken out the moulds, they are cleaned with fine sandpaper," she continued. "They are stacked and left to dry in the sun – once dried they are closely packed in a traditional field kiln made with sawdust and straw and fired for 24 hours."

"The second firing is in a wood kiln for another 24 hours; after cooling the tiles are removed and packed in boxes for transit," she added.

Villages can continue to produce and sell terracotta tiles for their livelihoods

The hope is the villagers will continue making and selling tiles in order to make a profitable livelihood, eventually becoming what Lari has monikered "barefoot entrepreneurs" – the architect said those involved with this particular scheme have increased their original incomes five times over.

Yasmeen Lari was the first woman to qualify as an architect in Pakistan. She ran her own practice up until the year 2000 when she pivoted to focus on more socially conscious projects.

Lari is one of 15 creatives presenting a manifesto for a better world at Dezeen 15, a digital festival celebrating Dezeen's 15th birthday. Others participating include Winy Maas, Es Devlin and Neri Oxman. Read Lari's manifesto here and see details of all the participants here.

The post Yasmeen Lari works with impoverished villagers to re-pave Karachi's old town appeared first on Dezeen.

[infozonepk]

Tecno explores the Heritage of the City of Lights, Karachi, through #TECNOPhotoWalk

Tecno explores the Heritage of the City of Lights, Karachi, through #TECNOPhotoWalk

The renowned smartphone brand, TECNO recently started the #TECNOPhotoWalk that has been covering major cities in Pakistan. After the success of the first destination, Islamabad, TECNO has now reached the city of lights, Karachi. The brand has given a tough competition to its competitors by doing such a successful Photowalk in both cities. The walk received huge engagement and overwhelming…

[fursid]

Narrowing down... Captured during the Heritage Walk Karachi. Organized by Pakistan Chowk Community Centre. #heritagewalkkhi @heritagewalkkhi @pakistanchowkcc #enrouteKHI

[painterlegendx]

You Will Never Believe These Bizarre Truth Behind Sea Turtle Painting Images - Sea Turtle Painting Images

Discover concealed moments apparent through the lens of our photographers.

Sea Turtle Realistic Acrylic Painting Tutorial Ocean Nautical Step by Step Lesson - sea turtle painting images | sea turtle painting images Photograph by Brent StirtonRead CaptionEaster agency a day of blow and anniversary for the families of accomplished rangers and agents in Garamba Civic Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The park, in the war-torn northeastern allotment of the DRC, attracts rebels agog to appropriate elephants because tusks can pay for munitions. The rangers are accomplished and directed by the nonprofit attention accumulation African Parks to assure the continent’s wildlife, and restore and run civic parks.Photograph by Brent StirtonDiscover concealed moments apparent through the lens of our photographers.PUBLISHED December 19, 2019And the runners-up: The best abstruse photos of 2019.

Green Sea Turtle Painting, Ocean Paintings, Sea Life Painting, Original Acrylic Painting on Canvas Canvas Print by mae10designs - sea turtle painting images | sea turtle painting images What’s bigger than actuality able to accept the best photographs of the year? Getting to accept 19 added that flash a ablaze on the year’s best important and annoying stories.Putting calm a beheld adventure requires not aloof a columnist and writer, but the abounding editors who assignment abaft the scenes. These assorted players accomplish endless decisions forth the way—from which ablaze to abduction at which second, to which photos will fit into the beyond anecdotal of a story. So abounding capacity are advised in presenting the across and abyss of a Civic Geographic feature.But this additionally agency that abounding of our favorites acreage on the acid allowance floor.There’s the bobcat bottomward through sunbeams in Mozambique’s Gorongosa Civic Park, a agitate of sea turtles that looks about like abstruse art, and those bare-chested men on a Pakistani beach.Then of advance there’s that rat diving headfirst into some New York Burghal abyss of abandoned its knowing, and with such aplomb.So we’re abduction this moment to allotment the photos that still stick in our minds—and that we can’t abide administration afore the year is out. Enjoy.A adolescent lioness greets the morning in Gorongosa Civic Esplanade in Mozambique. The park’s wildlife was decimated during the country’s 1977-1992 civilian war and the atrocious years that followed. Now Mozambican and all-embracing conservationists are bringing the esplanade aback to activity by bolstering the beastly population, convalescent animal lives by aperture schools and clinics, and announcement acceptable agriculture in adjacent communities. In 2018 there were 30 bobcat cubs built-in in the park, a key assurance of revitalization.

Peaceful Sea Turtle - sea turtle painting images | sea turtle painting images Arctic wolves strategize and beleaguer aback they appear aloft a assemblage of muskoxen, afterward a baton to adapt an attack. Muskoxen are one of the few casualty animals that assignment calm to anatomy a defensive, back-to-back huddle. The wolves booty positions and try to abstracted one of the animals, which can counterbalance up to 650 pounds, from the aegis of the herd.Three Afghan men affectation on Clifton Bank in Karachi, Pakistan. The burghal has been congenital on endless after-effects of migrants and has been alleged the better refugee affected in the world. There are added than a actor Afghan refugees there now. High-rises angle abreast barrio forth Clifton Beach, breadth basic carrion flows into the Arabian Sea and the abuse commonly has led to bloom warnings. Even so, the bank charcoal a accepted amusement atom in Karachi, and visitors can hire horses and band for photos. Read our Cities of the Future advantage to see the appear images.The Empress bazaar in Karachi, Pakistan, traces its origins to the British Raj era. Today, backed up adjoin aeriform rises, the bazaar offers aggregate from spices and condiments to fruits, textiles, and pets. Artificial appurtenances accept fabricated an actualization too, and they accord to a growing all-around decay crisis. The phenomenon actual has fabricated avant-garde activity possible, but added than 40 percent of it is acclimated aloof once, and it’s asthmatic our waterways. Read our Cities of the Future advantage to see the appear images.Ramanzana, about bristles years old, plays, with one of her six brothers. She and her ancestors of nine are internally displaced—forced to abscond their home, but actual in a adjustment wihin their own country. UNICEF letters that some 40 percent of Pakistani accouchement beneath bristles are underweight, and abounding alive afterwards domiciliary sanitation, abnormally in rural areas. Furthermore, girls such as Ramanzana are acceptable to accept beneath aliment than brothers and added macho ancestors members.Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) agitate in the sea at Little Farmer’s Cay in the Bahamas. Already admired for their meat, blooming sea turtles are now admired added as a day-tripper attraction. Sea turtles accept roamed the oceans for 100 actor years, but animal activity—namely in the anatomy of poaching, artificial bits and added ocean pollution, and distance change—are putting the airy reptiles at risk. “People are accomplishing this,” says abyssal biologist David Robinson, speaking about the abounding injuries all seven breed of sea turtles ache about the world. “Everything—every aspect, every blackmail that they face—is anthropogenic.” The acceptable account is that with a little aegis they appearance their resilience. Hawaii’s blooming turtles, adequate by the U.S. Endangered Breed Act, are airy faster than anyone expected.A rat dives for awning in Manhattan’s Tribeca adjacency in New York City. Brown rats, which accomplish up best of the city’s rodent population, are burrowing animals that are widest at the skull, so they can blooper into any amplitude hardly added than that (including the aqueduct arch to a toilet bowl). Rats advance in big cities: The added comestible debris bodies bung out, the added rats there will be to eat it. Researchers appraisal that a clutter of nine pups in a archetypal burghal rat antecedents would abound to 270 pups afterwards 30 weeks—and become a whopping 11,907 rats by year’s end.Torrential rain sends waterfalls bottomward bottomward the walls of the Gua Nasib Bagus—Good Luck Cave—as spelunkers analyze in Gunung Mulu Civic Park. The park, a UNESCO Apple Heritage Site, is in Malaysia’s Sarawak accompaniment on the island of Borneo. Below a rolling blooming carpeting of rainforest, its limestone is riddled with some of the planet’s best all-encompassing cavern systems.

Pin by Michelle DeLong on art | Turtle painting, Sea turtle .. | sea turtle painting images Archival 70-mm blur recorded the 1969 Apollo 11 mission in 1969, aback bodies aboriginal set bottom on the moon. The film, including this iconic angel of Neil Armstrong, resides today in the Johnson Amplitude Center in Houston, Texas. See added artifacts in Countdown to a new era in space.An aeriform appearance shows gold miners at assignment on La Bella Durmiente, a berg that tumbles bottomward the flanks of Mount Ananea in the Peruvian Andes. A circuitous web of hoses delivers baptize from the berg to the makeshift boondocks accepted as La Rinconada, breadth miners accident their bloom and sometimes their lives in the following of fortune. There are no paved roads, no active water, no carrion system, and—at an distance of over 17,000 feet—50 percent beneath oxygen than at sea level. To absolve gold, workers calefaction a mercury-gold admixture with blowtorches; the baneful mercury abasement abbreviate in the perpetually algid air and aggregate on roofs and on the glacier—both sources of bubbler water.Laurance Doyle of Principia College and the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) Institute studies the advice systems of dolphins, which could advice scientists break patterns in conflicting languages. New discoveries acknowledge it’s about assertive we’re not abandoned in the universe: We now accept acceptance of some 4,000 exoplanets—those alfresco our own solar arrangement that amphitheater stars like our sun. With a minimum of 100 billion stars in the Milky Way, there are at atomic 25 billion places breadth activity could conceivably booty authority in our galaxy alone.Russian circuses are acclaimed for their dancing bears, like this one that performed for a sold-out army at the Bolshoi Accompaniment St. Petersburg show, breadth tickets go for about $30 each. To accomplish buck cubs able abundant to walk—even jump—on two legs, trainers may force them to advance a continuing position by tethering them by their necks to a wall. See the appear images in The aphotic accuracy abaft wildlife tourism.Nahomy Mendoza, a transgender woman in San Salvador, El Salvador’s capital, was baffled and gang-raped by associates of the MS-13 gang, a accumulation spawned in the United States. Assemblage warfare and abjection are fracturing the country; in 2017 there were 3,962 homicides reported. Assemblage violence, biologic trafficking, and extrajudicial killings by badge and aggressive armament are key factors in the violence. See what its like walking with the casual band in Central America.Adriana Portillo lives with her mother and brother in a one-room home in the Italia commune of Apopa in San Salvador, an breadth accepted to be beneath the ascendancy of MS-13; Adriana’s brother is a affiliate of the gang. Criminal gangs in El Salvador command tens of bags of members. Abounding Salvadorans accept fled against to the U.S., but changes in U.S. action could accelerate bags aback into the chaos. Continue Reading

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[apexart-journal]

Day 05 - Sunday, July 07, 2019

My mind is shifting between loud thoughts and complete silence. Walking two blocks away from where I am staying to Meeting for Worship with Fifteenth Street Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). At the meeting for worship we sat together in silence, and began to draw our minds and hearts away from daily preoccupations, to better hear the “still, small voice of God”. I was told that on some days, the meeting remains entirely silent, but usually the spirit will move someone to speak. Lucky enough the woman sitting next to me, got up during the meeting and spoke, she said that, “on my way here I was reading a book on “practice”, I am a performer and unlike performance, practice is so much more difficult, to calm the anger within, I tell myself that we must set goals that are small, goals that can be achieved.” I found my mind settling down, from the anxiousness I had been feeling earlier, the process of “centering down”, moving my mind from busy-ness to openness - hoping that the silence finds a way to heal that rift. 

After the meeting was over, a designated person signalled the end of the meeting by shaking hands with the people sitting in close proximity and the ones around. Visitors and newcomers, as myself introduced ourselves, announcements followed and everyone adjourned for fellowship and refreshments in the common room. 

Community gardening at the Elizabeth Street Garden was next. It is a 1-acre community sculpture garden in the Nolita neighbourhood of Manhattan, located on Elizabeth Street between Prince and Spring Streets and established in 1991. The site has nearly a 200 year history as a public space, from the 1800′s to the present, it has been an outdoor recreational and educational space for the people of the community. 

The Elizabeth Street Garden is an independent, community lead, non-profit organisation. They are committed to preserve and protect the garden, which h is a much needed green space in Little Italy. Currently the garden is under threat due to the increasing developments in the city. A lawsuit against the city of New York has been filed challenging their actions regarding the environmental quality review of the proposal to destroy and develop Elizabeth Street Garden, on March 5, 2019. The community works together to encourage visitors to take action and support to help save the garden by donating and volunteering to own and protect this green patch and the magic it holds, for generations to come. 

We are having similar conversations back home in Karachi. An initiative known as the “City Collective - Public and Heritage Space Association”, they discuss ideas for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation & accessibility of heritage sites & public spaces. These conversations around community, community gardens, city development and urban spaces had been haunting me, as I went over to the ‘Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space Tour’.  

The Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space (MoRUS), a living archive of urban activism, celebrates local activists who transformed abandoned building with vacant lots into vibrant community spaces and community gardens, in East Village.  The walking tour was led by Bill Weinberg, a journalist, activist and community member. It highlighted the legendary squats and how dedicated community members turned abandoned buildings into incredible shared spaces and the various sustainable efforts put together by the community of East Village. If you are ever in New York, you must explore with MoRUS, the tour was amazing and gave great insights into the history that surrounded the area with context to the political and urban development over the years. 

[gmqazi19739]

Sarmad Sindhi - Top 25 Best Sindhi Classical Music

This article delves into the life, career, and legacy of Sarmad Sindhi, a beloved figure in the world of Sindhi music. The rich history of Sindhi folk music is full of talented artists, who have contributed immensely to the cultural heritage. Among these legendary characters, the name Sarmad Sindhi is popular among lovers of Sindhi music and classical music.

Best Sarmad Sindhi Classical Music Download

Sarmad Sindhi Biography and Early Life Birth and Family Originally named Abdul Rahman Mughal, he was born on July 7, 1961, at Piriyaloi in the Khairpur district of Sindh. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in classical music, which would later define his career and legacy. Musical Influences Growing up, Sarmad was deeply influenced by the rich musical traditions of Sindh. He was fond of Ustad Bukhari, Hazrat Sachal Sermat R.A., Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai R.A. about the main. and so on, poems he would later bring to life through his performances Rise and make a name for yourself The initial success Sarmad Sindhi's star walk began with his first songs "Maroo Loli" and "Tuhinji Yaad Ji Wari Aa", aired on Radio Pakistan Hyderabad. These songs became instant hits and marked the beginning of his successful career. The method of signing Sarmad was known for his unique way of blending traditional Sindhi music with modern elements. His songs often emphasized the struggle and resilience of Sindhis, which resonated deeply with his listeners. Major contributions to Sindhi music Popular Songs Sarmad Sindhi has many hits in his discography that have become timeless classics. Songs like "Sindh Uchi Aa, Sindhi Uchi Aa" and "Tuhiji Yaad Ji Wari Aa Veer" are celebrated for their strong lyrics and stunning melodies. Cultural influences Through his music, he brought global attention to Sindhi culture and music. His performance not only entertained the audience but also educated the rich heritage of Sindh. Sarmad Sindhi Legacy and Influence Memorial service In 2017, the Sindhi Adabi Sangat organized a memorial service in Piryaloi to honor Saramad Sindhi’s contribution to Sindhi songs and society. Respected poets and writers like Sajjad Mirani, Roshan Sheikh, and Saeed Sindhi spoke at the event to celebrate his legacy. Social Contributions In addition to his musical achievements, Saramad was also known for his social activism. He supported many charitable causes, including the education of underprivileged children and helping families in need. The Tragic End Accident and Death On December 27, 1996, he tragically died in a car accident while traveling from Badin to Karachi. His untimely death left a void in the world of Sindhi folk songs, but his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Conclusion The contribution of Saramad Sindhi to Sindhi folk and classical music is immeasurable. Through his music, he immortalized the spirit and culture of Sindh, ensuring that his legacy survives for generations to come. FAQs Who was Sarmad Sindhi? Originally named Abdul Rahman Mughal, Sarmad Sindhi was a legendary Sindhi folk and classical music singer who contributed to Sindhi culture through his music. What are some of Sarmad’s famous Sindhi songs? His popular songs include "Sindh Uchi Aa, Sindhi Uchi Aa" and "Tuhiji Yaad Ji Wari Aa Veer". What was the significance of Saramad Sindhi songs? Sarmad Sindhi's songs highlighted Sindhi's struggle and resilience, bringing global attention to Sindhi culture. How did Sarmad Sindhi get to the top? Sarmad Sindhi died in a car accident on December 27, 1996, while traveling from Badin to Karachi. What impact did Sarmad Sindhi have on society? In addition to his musical career, Saramad Sindhi was known for his social activism, supporting the education of underprivileged children and helping families in need. Read the full article

[caveartfair]

Unpacking Fashion’s Love Affair with Artists

Dusan Reljin, Marina Abramović and Crystal Renn for Vogue Ukraine, 2014, from “Legendary Artists and the Clothes They Wore,” 2019. Courtesy of Harper Collins.

Why do we care what famous artists wear? It might seem silly to look back to the Old Masters to appreciate their outfits, but 20th- and 21st-century artists have often found themselves the muses of major fashion houses—and, more recently, fodder for Pinterest inspiration boards. Artists, after all, are keenly considerate of color and form; how they dress can be a telling sign of their creative innerworkings.

“The job of artists is to critique culture, unload their psyches into their work, and make edifying masterpieces the rest of us can revere,” wrote Terry Newman, author of Legendary Artists and the Clothes They Wore (2019). “What they wear while doing these things is interesting, too.” Newman’s book dissects the fashion choices of major artists and traces how their art and personal style has been appropriated or emulated on runways and in wider visual culture.

Self-Portrait, 1980. Robert Mapplethorpe "Robert Mapplethorpe: The Perfect Medium" at Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles

A model is seen ahead of the Raf Simons fashion show during Pitti 90, Florence, Italy, 2016. Photo by Antonello Trio via Getty Images.

Fashion houses often pay homage to famous artworks and movements—Moschino under Jeremy Scott’s direction heavily references Pop Art—but they’ve also tried to capture that ineffable je ne sais quois of the artists behind the works. Raf Simons did both in his 2017 spring menswear collection, a collaboration with the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation. The male models wore billowing button-down shirts printed with Mapplethorpe’s black-and-white photographs. They were also styled to look like the late artist, with soft, curly hair and leather muir caps—an ode to Mapplethorpe’s personal and artistic interest in S&M. The looks bring to mind former Interview editor Bob Colacello’s recollection of the photographer when they met in 1971: “He was pretty but tough, androgynous and butch,” Colacello told Vanity Fair in 2016.

The inspiration for the autumn 2014 Céline show was more precise: the muddy, masculine boots of war photographer Lee Miller, from the famous image of her sitting defiantly in Adolf Hitler’s bathtub just hours before his death. Miller’s streamlined, “utility chic” wardrobe, as Newman called it, which she wore while on assignment for Vogue during World War II, has been referenced in fashion multiple times. But designer Phoebe Philo specifically named Miller’s boots as the starting point for the collection. “[Miller was] doing things which were quite radical at the time, like wearing men’s clothes, but which today seem quite normal,” Philo said after the show.

Lee Miller with the essentials of Life, cigarette , wine and petrol , Weimar, by David Sherman, 1945. Lee Miller °CLAIR Galerie

A model walks the runway at the Celine Autumn Winter fashion show during Paris Fashion Week, 2014. Photo by Catwalking/Getty Images.

Artists’ personal style, intentionally or not, often becomes part of their brand. Some artists channel their visual aesthetic into their looks. Jean-Michel Basquiat paired designer suit jackets with worn-in streetwear, Frida Kahlo wore traditional Mexican garb rife with symbolism, and Georgia O’Keeffe opted for minimal silhouettes with Southwestern accessories. Likewise, David Hockney is known to sport vivid, color-blocked outfits. Designer Christopher Bailey, formerly of Burberry, is a self-professed fan: “I love the way Hockney wears color,” he has said, “so that you’re never completely sure how deliberately the look is put together.”

Others resist fashion trends, a statement in itself. Today, Marina Abramović outfits herself in haute couture but as a young artist, she carefully crafted her image as “very radical, no make-up, tough, spiritual,” as she told Vogue in 2005. In the 1970s, she explained, being fashionable as an artist could be construed as overcompensating for a lack of talent.

Portrait of Pablo Picasso in a winter coat, scarf, and beret, ca. 1950s. Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images.

Basquiat 8, 1983. Yutaka Sakano Galerie Patrick Gutknecht

Over time, and with the repetition of a look, some artists have successfully whittled down their personal style into a single icon. Think of Rene Magritte’s bowler hat or Yayoi Kusama’s bright red bob. Although Pablo Picasso was known to wear various types of hats—“Peruvian knitted hats with pom-poms, sun-shielding straw toppers, and stiff, classy homburgs,” Newman noted—it was his beret, frequently featured in his paintings, that stuck. His status as a style influencer was made clear during two of his exhibitions at London’s Institute of Contemporary Art in the 1950s: “Employees found lost berets more than any other personal item,” Newman wrote.

Some artists have influenced contemporary fashion more directly, lending their expertise to fashion houses and retail lines. In 1983, Malcolm McClaren and Vivienne Westwood tapped Keith Haring to translate his street art into fluorescent streetwear for the runway. Kusama produced a collection for Bloomingdales in the 1980s and has more recently collaborated with Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs. Jeff Koons has also collaborated with Louis Vuitton, as well as H&M and Stella McCartney.

Wax figure of Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama at the Louis Vuitton and Yayoi Kusama Collaboration Unveiling at Louis Vuitton Maison on Fifth Avenue, New York, 2012. Photo by Rob Kim/FilmMagic.

It’s after artists’ deaths, however, when their style can be merchandised to such an extent that it becomes disconnected from the reality of their lives. Constructivist Alexander Rodchenko, who once designed utilitarian-wear for a utopian Russia, would have balked at Jerry Hall modeling high-end red garments for a 1975 British Vogue editorial inspired by his graphic, Communist-flavored works. Basquiat embraced the fashion world and was loved by designers, but he faced racial bias as a black man shopping for expensive clothes. He modeled for Comme des Garçons and favored Armani and Issey Miyake, but according to his late girlfriend Kelle Inman, he was often tailed in department stores, and once was denied entry to high-end boutique until he returned with Inman. Three decades later, Basquiat’s brand is packaged into lines from Forever 21, Sephora, and Douglas Hannant.

Norman Parkinson, Jerry Hall Rodchenko, from “Legendary Artists and the Clothes They Wore,” 2019. Courtesy of Harper Collins.

The commodification of Kahlo’s style is perhaps the most glaring example. She is revered for her fashion, which is intrinsic to her art—she appeared in her many self-portraits wearing embroidered huipil blouses, Juchiteca headdresses, and full skirts; and accessorized with flowers, gemstones, and plaited hair. Kahlo’s fashion choices were tied directly to her heritage and her disability; she hid her prosthetic leg in a red leather boot adorned with two bells. Art historian Hayden Herrera said when Kahlo “put on the Tehuana costume, she was choosing a new identity, and she did it with all the fervor of a nun taking the veil.”

Kahlo’s wardrobe and accessories, representing the deepest layers of her identity, have been translated again and again: by Christian Lacroix in 2002, Gaultier in 2004, Commes de Garçons in 2012, and even Barbie in 2018. You can find her face on nearly anything: There are Frida pins, Frida T-shirts, Frida nailpolish, Frida bracelets (like the one British Prime Minister Theresa May wore in 2017, sparking endless news analysis). Kahlo’s clothing, which was kept under lock and key for nearly 60 years at her husband Diego Rivera’s request, has now been the subject of blockbuster exhibitions.

Frida Kahlo On White Bench, New York (2nd Edition), , 1939. Nickolas Muray Matthew Liu Fine Arts

A Pakistani model presents a creation by Deepak Perwani on the second day of Fashion Pakistan Week, Karachi, 2013. Photo by Asif Hassan/AFP/Getty Images.

Perhaps fashion is more cyclical than art, or simply runs on a shorter cycle, repeatedly revisiting and retranslating trends. Artists, willingly or not, are pulled into that rotation, as inspiration. In 1967, photographer Cecil Beaton traveled to O’Keeffe’s home in New Mexico to capture her for a story in Vogue. The then 79-year-old artist had spent a lifetime carefully crafting her image, wearing elegant but simple silhouettes accented with turquoise and silver accessories. In 2009, actress Charlize Theron flew to the late artist’s home with photographer Mario Testino to recreate the shoot, marking another turn in the rotation of O’Keeffe’s influence.

Two years later, Abramović made the influence of fashion on art clear when she asked Italian designer Riccardo Tisci to suckle on her breast in another shoot with Testino, this time for Visionaire. The pair, who are friends and collaborators, commented on the images for the issue. “I said to him, this is the situation: Do you admit fashion is inspired by art?” Abramović recalled. “Well, I am the art, you are the fashion, now suck my tits!” The image of the performance artist feeding Tisci like a baby may be an odd—and oddly literal—visual metaphor, but when art nurtures fashion it trickles down to the rest of us, a small piece of an artist’s oeuvre hanging in our own closets.

from Artsy News

[idealinnguesthouse]

the best Guest House In Karachi For Dating by Guesthouseinkarachi.com

The Safe Guest House in Karachi for couples is the perfect place for your first date. It was the abode of the rich and famous in the city, which today is a haven for many singles looking to find love. Located in the northern part of the city, just opposite the Pir Sohawa bridge, it attracts all kinds of tourists who come to experience the beauty of Pakistan's heritage. Whether you are here on a business trip or just on a relaxing vacation with your family, the Guest House in Karachi will give you the best experience.

The place has a beautiful river view and is near the railway station. The architecture here is very majestic, with some old monuments on one side and modern establishments on the other. These establishments are very well furnished with a western style furniture. You can choose to have an Indian or Chinese restaurant during your stay here. There are many intimate eateries scattered around the place that serve traditional Pakistani and Indian cuisines.

Before you enter the establishment, there will be an assigned chauffeur who will take you to your private place in Karachi For Dating. There are televisions in each room so you can watch TV or enjoy the beautiful view from the window. The hotel offers two romantic guestrooms; a single and doubles. The single bedroom is located very close to the river, while the doubles have beautiful views of the city and the river. Both have single bathrooms so you can choose to have them with you or have a private bath.

As soon as you wake up, you can start exploring the romantic spots in the area, such as the Pir Sohawa Bridge, where you can walk under the reflecting pond and admire the lovely flowerbeds. On your way back, you can go to the Chorlala Garden and admire the hanging birdhouses. Once you explore all these places, you will be in the mood to start having your romantic evening.

Once you get to your destination, the staff will provide you with a taxi ride to your guesthouse in Karachi For Dating. However, before you leave, you have to check out the facilities provided at the guest house. They include a small refrigerator with two refrigerators, a microwave oven, a coffee maker, a tea maker, a coffee vending machine, a kettle, a mini-refrigerator, and a bottle of shampoo and soap. In addition to these, the house also provides you with a minibar with a refrigerator, a mini television set, a DVD player, and Internet access. This is a perfect place for a romantic date!

While on a visit to this house, you will find it to be located at a distance of only 30 minutes from the central business district of Islamabad. Therefore, you will have plenty of chances to meet other individuals, whom you may wish to date! Once you get to your destination, the chauffeur will drop you at the airport, where you can use the taxi to head towards the guest house. You will find that this is quite a comfortable place, where you can relax, especially if you have chatted with your near and dear ones in the local restaurants.

Once you arrive at the guest house in Karachi, you can start interacting with the other members present there. If you wish to look for a perfect place to dine, you can opt for the restaurants present there. These include a Mughal restaurant and Pakistani restaurant. Both of them offer delicious food, at affordable prices, and are ideal venues for romantic dates. If you wish to have a good night, you can even choose to dine at the pubs present there.

The other option available for you is to opt for a club, where you can mingle with other members. There are several clubs in the city, which boast of beautiful members and beautiful scenery. You can find many singles at these clubs and possibly find your soul mate! Once you get familiar with the people at the house, you can plan a romantic date there, without thinking much about how you would get back home! These are some of the best options available to you, if you wish to go to a Pakistani or a Karachi hotel for a romantic date!

[zuberisohail]

Old town/monochrome . . . . . . . #old #town #streets #buildings #architecture #archilovers #balcony #city #cityscape #heritage #walk #doors #windows #woodwork #stone #black&white #bnw #faded #decay #street #urbandecay #urbanphotography #photography #colonial #karachi #pakistan #iphone #oldtown #iphone7plus #iphoneonly #world_doorsandwindows (at Karachi, Pakistan) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bukn-LuHvrk/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=xayqyemoamg5

[urckhi]

Future of Karachi’s public spaces

THE FUTURE OF KARACHI’S ‘PUBLIC’ SPACES

Arif Hasan

September 08, 2019

A view of the Bin Qasim Park and the Jehangir Kothari Parade in Clifton | White Star

A view of the Bin Qasim Park and the Jehangir Kothari Parade in Clifton | White Star

‘Public space’ has recently become a buzzword in the world of urban planning. The term has also filtered into Pakistan although there have been individuals and organisations who have worked, against great odds, on the issue for decades without employing the term.

There are many types of urban space. One type is a part of a larger city or neighbourhood’s official plan, such as parks and playgrounds. In Karachi as a whole, much of this space has been illegally taken over for real estate development. Another type is acquired by communities for the purposes for recreation, entertainment and economic activity from ‘leftover’ spaces of official planning, such as wide pavements, around bus stops and formal markets. If such spaces survive long enough, they become an important part of community life. Yet another type evolves out of necessity and the absence of options, such as streets in katchi abadis where children play, women socialise and small neighbourhood businesses establish themselves. Very often, residents block through traffic from the lane, turning it into a protected public space.

This article is not specifically about these spaces or their origins. It is about how, in elite and middle-income areas, public space is being taken over from the public domain for the exclusive use of elite or middle-class functions. It is also about how, in the designing and redesigning of public space, government agencies ignore the functions for which the space was originally being used in order to reflect politicians’, architects’, or planners’ points of view of how such a space should be used. In the process, they invest in designs that are inappropriate for the public and which require huge maintenance costs, which are partly recovered by charging a fee from visitors. If this process continues, then very soon there will be no space for the poor in elite neighbourhoods, dividing the city further between rich and poor areas.

THE LOST STREET MARKET

Pavement market for clothes in Saddar | Arif Hasan

Pavement market for clothes in Saddar | Arif Hasan

For example, between Ghazi Abdullah Shah’s Mazaar and the Bahria Icon Tower, there is a lane that goes from the shrine to the sea. After visiting the shrine, people used to walk down this lane to the sea and, on the way, visit the aquarium and the Play Land, both of which had been in existence for more than 50 years but not anymore. Millions of Karachiites and visitors from other urban and rural areas of Pakistan have made this journey, because of which a well-organised market for food, seashell trinkets, art work and souvenirs developed along the lane. None of this now exists and you cannot get to the sea from this lane either. The lane now leads to the Beach View Park where you have to pay to get in. The exit from the mazaar to the lane has also been blocked.

As more and more spaces are lost to the public and are taken over for the exclusive use of elite and middle-class functions, what does it mean for the city? How can urban planners and policymakers avoid further dividing the rich and the poor?

With developments such as the Dolmen Mall, and related offices and car parking requirements, accessing the beach is becoming progressively difficult for low-income visitors. The hawkers of this lane have been scattered to different locations and they complain that their earnings have substantially reduced. Many of them have given up their traditional work and taken to selling food or getting jobs with contractors and as service staff to small businesses in the area. Apart from the economic loss, the death of the street market is also a huge cultural loss.

The Beach View Park obstructs access to the sea and is hardly used because of the fee that has to be paid for entering it and the fact that it does not open out on to the sea.

WHERE DO THE YOUTH GO?

Women enter Burnes Garden | Photo by Tahir Jamal White Star

Women enter Burnes Garden | Photo by Tahir Jamal White Star

Next to the lane, the Bin Qasim Park has been developed within which is the listed heritage site of the Jehangir Kothari Parade. When the park was inaugurated, my office made a small investigation as to what the visitors thought about the park. The survey results showed that the people who visited it and the people of the area in which it is located simply adored it. However, males without an accompanied female could not enter the park and this objection surfaced quite strongly. The other group that was unhappy were children and young men who used this space for playing cricket and football. As a result of the park, they were forced to play on the streets surrounding it and were often censured by government agencies for doing so. The park consists of 150 acres; the young men argued that 10 to 15 acres of it could have been set aside for sports activities and benefitted hundreds of children and young men.

The trees in both the Beach View Park and the Bin Qasim Park had matured and by last year they were almost fully grown and they provided shade and a lush green environment. However, earlier this year, their size was reduced to about 12 feet and their stumps were pruned into a round shape. The shade they provided was eliminated. The reason given for this was that because of the trees, the visitors, especially young people engaging in ‘shameless acts’ could not be seen. There could not have been a more ridiculous reason. If authorities wanted to keep an eye on people under the trees, an appropriate lighting system could have been installed instead.

Not far from the Bin Qasim Park is Old Clifton. It got its name after the Jehangir Kothari Parade was built in 1919 and which came to be known as New Clifton. So Old Clifton is at least 100 years old. It was an open maidaan [ground] at a height and overlooked the sea and a part of Defence Housing Society. This was a place where young people played cricket and families and young couples came for an outing. Today, in the centre of this space, there is a concrete paved park with a steel fence around it. Its gates have been locked for the past many years. One reason is that someone in the neighbourhood has filed a petition saying that ‘anti-social’ people would come into this space in a ‘decent’ neighbourhood. According to another source, real estate development has been planned for this area. Whatever the reason, this space too in an elite neighbourhood, has been lost to the public. Fatima Jinnah’s house stands on the border of this space and legend has it that the Quaid used to sit at the edge of this ridge and watch the sunset.

With developments such as the Dolmen Mall, and related offices and car parking requirements, accessing the beach is becoming progressively difficult for low-income visitors.

DRIVING OUT THE POOR

Children locked out of the park in Old Clifton | Arif Hasan

Children locked out of the park in Old Clifton | Arif Hasan

Yet another case is Port Grand. It was developed on the first bridge that linked Keamari to mainland Karachi in 1854. It is a very positive addition as a place of recreation and food for the middle class. It is also beautifully designed. However, a very important activity on the bridge, before Port Grand was developed, was the performance of water-related traditional and religious rituals which consisted of feeding fish and birds, and depositing talismans into the sea. All this was accompanied by prayers and recitations from holy texts.

The activity also generated colourful economic activity apart from spiritual satisfaction and it brought people and groups from different classes and religions together. This activity — which according to Karachiites who are now 90 years old — has been going on for more than a hundred years and could have been easily integrated into the design of Port Grand in a way that did not adversely affect middle-class sensitivities. However, this activity is now performed in environmentally degraded conditions. Because of the unhygienic conditions under the bridge, the upper classes no longer visit the area. In addition, the eating space developed under the bridge which served the public was also demolished in the recent anti-encroachment drive. So, Port Grand has been developed to cater to the middle class at the expense of lower-income groups and communities.

FORGETTING HISTORY

Jehangir Park would have been a far more open space if it had been dissolved into neighbouring spaces | Arif Hasan

Jehangir Park would have been a far more open space if it had been dissolved into neighbouring spaces | Arif Hasan

The city also contains a number of heritage parks, of which at least nine have heritage buildings or built components in them. In many of them, children play cricket and football against park rules, and hawkers sell food and sports-related items. Their case is illustrated by the rehabilitation of Jehangir Park. Loved by everyone from hawkers to transporters, the park has brought relief to the area and completely alleviated the environmental suffocation that the people in the area felt earlier. From a few of them, there are still some complaints. One is that food in the park restaurant is far too expensive for them and the second, that a space in the park should have been left for children and young men to play cricket and football.

But there are other objections from conservationists. They feel that Jehangir Park is not only a historic park that has a close relationship with the political history of Karachi but it is also the first and only designed gravel park in the city. In addition, it is also the space where well-known pre-Partition cricketers played and, after Independence, many well-known Pakistani cricketers also practiced in this park. For these reasons, conservationists feel that the design of the park should have reflected its history and that the aviary and the dinosaur park that it houses today are inappropriate. Similar objections by conservationists have also been raised on the work carried out by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) in Burnes Garden which is listed as heritage site under the Sindh Conservation Act 1994.

The World Bank Neighbourhood Improvement Project is developing the space between D.J. College and S.M. Law College in Saddar. We do not know what the design of this space is since it has not been shared with the residents of Karachi. However, it has to be noted that, on Sundays and public holidays, this space was used by 10-15 cricket teams at one given time. If this space is lost to the young cricketers, they will have no option but to find other traffic-free streets to play on. Unfortunately, there are no traffic-free streets in the immediate area. I wonder if the planners of the space have thought of and catered to it by re-routing traffic on Sundays and holidays.

By re-routing traffic, such traffic-free streets can be created.

TOWARDS GENTRIFICATION?

Residents of Karachi beat the heat at Seaview | White Star

Residents of Karachi beat the heat at Seaview | White Star

The worst example of a takeover of public space from the people of Karachi is Empress Market, where over 1,000 shops of over 40 years old have been razed to the ground and about 4,500 hawkers have been displaced without being provided any alternative space for rehabilitating their businesses. Through a thorough reorganisation of space, these shops and hawkers could have been rehabilitated, overcoming the objections of their blocking vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In the process, Empress Market could have retained a number of markets that were closely linked to it economically, socially and culturally. The take-over of Empress Market and its adjoining areas has raised the cost of properties around it and the rents of shops as well. It has also raised bhatta (protection money) that hawkers pay to the authorities so that they can continue to occupy a small space on the streets around the markets. Since no project for the rehabilitation of the demolished shops and dislocated hawkers has so far been presented to them, there is a feeling of considerable uncertainty for the future.

The situation in Saddar seems to point to a beginning of gentrification of certain parts of Saddar which will drive the poor out of the area. Again, we do not know the future of Empress Market and its surrounding areas because this information has not been shared with the people of Karachi nor with the hawkers and the owners of the shops in the demolished markets.

Another manner of driving out the poor and lower-middle classes is by creating conditions which are inappropriate to their socio-economic conditions, such as the absence of affordable food, as was attempted by the Defence Housing Society when it removed all hawkers from Seaview and the only food available after this was in expensive kiosks and container outlets.

More recently, the shamianas (marquees) which accommodated the book market in Frere Hall were banned because their pegs damaged the tarmac on which they were installed. As a result, booksellers had to set up their shops under the sun. and due to the heat, booksellers and customers declined considerably. If this continues over time, it is possible that the book market at Frere Hall will disappear altogether. The proper solution would have been to create metal slots in the tarmac which could receive the marquee pegs. Similarly, the Sunday book market at Regal Chowk, which has a history of over 50 years, has periodically been disallowed instead of being promoted.

Parks and open spaces serve many other purposes which need to be understood. When there are power cuts in the summer, entire families come and sleep under the open sky in public spaces to keep cool. Also, after parks are closed as per regulations, homeless people, in large numbers, come and sleep in them. People living in the neighbourhood of such parks are not unsympathetic to the homeless; in fact, they feel that if the people are disallowed from sleeping in the parks, they would be forced to sleep on the streets in the neighbourhood and this would create greater social problems. How one deals with this is important. New public spaces are also developing under the flyovers that have been built. How does one make use of these spaces for public good, especially for the young, who desperately need space for sports and recreation?

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Port Grand | White Star

Port Grand | White Star

A few recommendations emerge from the discussions above. One, where informal development has created public space which has served socio-economic functions for a long period of time, it should be regularised and, if necessary, reorganised. Second, for the redesigning of existing public spaces, their existing functions need to be understood and catered to. Meanwhile, in the designing of new spaces, what people want should be understood through surveys and meetings of the stakeholders.

A very important aspect of design is related to the future administration and maintenance of space. It is necessary that the design remain minimalist and that maintenance costs are also reduced to the bare minimum. The designing or redesigning of public space should also accommodate hawkers and performers who, at present, usually hang around at the gates of parks and playgrounds by paying bhatta to the relevant authorities. Heritage parks should be designed by conservationists or at least their advice in the designing of such parks should be solicited.

But how can one do all this in the face of a strong anti-poor bias in planning and policy, the cultural insensitivity of politicians and the megalomania and unethical practices of architects and planners? That is the real question.

The writer is an architect and town planner

‘Fewer visitors at the Mazaar than there used to be’

Khurram, a seashell vendor at the gate of Beach View Park, says, “We sold seashells in the street market, we had a fixed space. It was like home. My father also sold seashells before me. I grew up here. Because of the street bazaar, business was good. It continued till two or three at night. Now at eight o’ clock, we are asked to leave the area. If we do not, then we are pressurised.” There is a marked change in business activity in the area. Khurram recalls, “Business continued till late because from the mazaar all the visitors used to go to the sea through the street. This is not possible anymore. Most of them came because they wanted to go to the sea. Some went to the Play Land, some went to the aquarium which is now a ruin. It has no fish and it has been crumbling for many years. They say that there is a budget of two crores for its maintenance and there are 45 employees. I do not know what they spend it on or what the employees do. Now it is difficult for us [to] walk from place to place looking for buyers. Before, [buyers] came to us. The end of the market and the inaccessibility of the sea have also affected visitors of the Urs. They are now much less [in number] than they used to be.”

‘All of the people who sleep in parks are not homeless’

Mohammad Ashraf, is a painter, about 35-40 year old, who lives in Aaram Bagh (previously Ram Bagh). He says, “Yes, people do come and sleep in the park at night but all of them are not homeless. Some of them work in this area but their home is far away – say in Malir. So they save on time and transport cost. The park darogha [caretaker], sometimes with the help of the police, throws them out of the park. In which case, they sleep on the pavements in our neighbourhood.

The presence of unknown people outside our houses has sometimes created serious social problems. This is a serious problem for we do not like the homeless people to be around in our neighbourhood. But they are also helpless, and some of them are quite mohazzab [civilised]. I feel bad but we cannot do anything about it, the government should tackle this problem. Maybe they could arrange for some space which is reserved for these people and which could be used for sports in the daytime. I must also tell you about the renovation work currently going on. It is normal, it happens every two years for no reason – maybe you understand the reason.”

https://www.dawn.com/news/1503854/the-future-of-karachis-public-spaces

Published in Dawn, EOS, September 8th, 2019