Published Monthly in Chicago, USA and distributed simultaneously to major cities of USA, Canada, UK and Pakistan
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ontents
E D ITO R IA L
4. President Zardari 5. High hopes: PPP will sweep 6. 35pc young candidates riding
PTI’s polls tsunami 7. Musharraf, PPP govt pushed country decades back: Shahbaz 8. MQM will not boycott elections: Farooq Sattar 9. Does Article 6 apply to Musharraf 10. Musharraf shifted to police headquarters 11. Overseas Pakistanis to vote 12. APPNA St. Louis Community Health Clinic 13. Dr. Naseem Shekhani, of St. Louis, Missouri, organized a gathering 14. Aamir Khan, Malal Yousafzai 15. Britain’s ‘Iron Lady’ Margaret Thatcher dies 16. Sports 17. Short films don’t work in India: Zoya Akhtar 18. Adnan sami concert (chicago)
19. Nitin mukesh concert(chicago) 20. Health 21. Fashion 23. Mehfil - e - Mushaira
EDITORIAL BOARD
Jawaid Riaz, Editor
Armughan Asar, Queens, NY Mashood Ahsan, Saint Louis, MO Najeeb Ali Kidwai, Canada Rashid khan, Springfield, MA Shahid Alam, Dallas, TX Shahid Khan, London, UK Suhail Ahmed, Houston, TX Zafar Khursheed, Denville, NJ Zulikha Wahid Washington, DC
We have to strengthen the institutions not simply the heads of the institutions
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s per the statement of former PM Nawaz Sharif the day of accountability has come for Pervez Musharraf and he is now on his way to meet his fate. However, personally I feel this “statement” is more of a wish, made by Nawaz Sharif while poisoned with personal courage, nothing more. After his return from self exile, Pervez Musharraf is facing two separate cases from his time in office. The first is that his regime did not do enough to protect the life of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, the first woman prime minister of Pakistan and in the Islamic world before her assassination in 2007. Musharraf is also accused of ordering the army in 2006, as COAS to assassinate Nawab Akbar Bugti, a tribal leader in the unstable province of Balochistan, in 2006. Though the PPP led government that succeeded Musharraf became the second democratically elected government to serve a full term during the country’s 65-year history, Pakistan is still overwhelmed with problems; a crippled economy, food shortages, inflation, unemployment and frequent power break downs as well as a bloody insurgency. Now is a big test for the leadership of APML to safe guard the Musharraf and penetrate, mobilize the masses to find out that how many Pakistanis would be happy to see the return of Musharraf to politics, hoping his leadership could help restore order to a country riddled with political division and beset by extremist violence. As the former army chief, Musharraf will have retained support and influence within Pakistan’s powerful military?. “Most people think that the army won’t let him go to jail and won’t tolerate him being under house arrest for long. Nevertheless they will not do anything rash. They’ll exert their influence behind the scenes to secure a favorable outcome. Now the question arises about the role of judiciary, because the Islamabad High Court judge who ordered Musharraf’s arrest is one of the judges whom Musharraf is alleged to have had detained in 2007 and therefore should have refused himself from the case, as it presents a clear conflict of interests. The role of Pakistan’s judiciary has never been without problems. The uses of suo moto actions by present courts are very alarming. There has to be accountability and the culprits need to be brought to justice. Nobody wants nor likes for dictators or the army to come and rule, but we have to find out who created the situations and scenarios for them to come and take over. Who provided them the legal shelters and issued them the licenses so that they may rule under the defamed umbrella of the idea of ‘necessity’. We must decide from where and whom do we begin the accountability. Do we want accountability for ourselves on our own agendas or do we want justice for our people, so they may rebuild a healthy, strong and educated Pakistan. We have to strengthen the institutions not simply the heads of the institutions. Jawaid riaz
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President Zardari has urged people of tribal areas to participate in the elections.
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has urged people of tribal areas to enthusiastically participate in the general elections and elect representatives who can bring about a positive change in their lives.
He assured construction of schools, colleges and academic He stressed the need for stepping institutions in the tribal areas. up efforts for setting up the Fata He said efforts were being made Information Technology Univer- for enhanced access of Pakistani goods to international market sity and Fata Medical College. which would promote industrial He said the appointment of the He mentioned a new model for development and create jobs for KP governor from Fata was a step development wherein tribal peothe youth. in the right direction and it would ple would be partners in projects go a long way in bringing the area and industries that would be set Senate Chairman Nayyar Husto the national mainstream and up under the concept of Recon- sain Bokhari, Khyber Pakhacknowledge it as an important struction Opportunity Zones tunkhawa Governor Shaukatulpart of the country and to recog- (ROZs) in tribal areas. lah, federal ministers, elders nise sacrifices of its people. from different agencies of Fata, Mr Zardari said the problems beACS Fata Dr Tashfeen Khan and The president called the valiant ing faced by internally displaced senior officials of the Fata secreand courageous people of Fata persons in Fata would be seritariat attended the jirga. “defenders of the frontiers”. He ously addressed. acknowledged their sacrifices and struggle along with the armed forces to make Pakistan a safe place to live.
He said the PPP-led government had taken a number of measures ddressing a grand jirga of el- over the past five years for uplift ders from the Federally Ad- of tribal people and had opened ministered Tribal Areas (Fata) for the first time an opportunity at the President House here on for reforms in Fata which had Monday, he said the country was been denied for over a century. undergoing a democratic transition for the first time in its his- Besides getting a new judicial system, he said people of tribal tory. areas had been allowed for the He said security concerns and the first time to freely participate in fragile law and order situation political activities. should not obstruct the electoral process. He said he himself had Mr Zardari said the new judicial suffered and rendered sacrifices system in Fata ensured due proin the war against militancy and cess and right to appeal and bail. mentioned the assassination of It was, he added, a leap forward for the people of Fata towards Benazir Bhutto. freedom, liberty, human rights President Zardari said a nation and political participation. itself should change its circumstances and should not expect He said that those considering reforms in Fata as too little too anyone else to do it for them. late should realise that the door “You have skilled manpower, high- had finally opened and all should ly qualified engineers, doctors work together to open up further and other professionals who can the window of opportunity. play an active role in bringing about a socio-economic change in But he stressed that the drive for change in Fata must come from their respective areas.” within because it could not be imThe president said that after an posed from outside. He said changinitial resistance in some parts es and reforms must respect tribal of Fata, the Benazir Income Sup- customs and traditions without port Programme had now started which any reforms would fail.The receiving attention. A number of president stressed the need for features might be added to the devising a monitoring mechanism programme which could cater to to oversee implementation of rehealth, education and stipends for forms on the ground. He said it tribal people through its social was important that reforms were safety net, he added. fully implemented, and it must be ensured that people actually benThe president said the PPP-led efited from them. government from day one had been doing a lot to develop the He assured that along with the area and bring it on a par with Gomal Zam project, Bara dam would also be constructed to other parts of the country.
meet water and energy needs of the area.
2013 general elections: Task force to select PPP candidates for Punjab
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ISLAMABAD:
ings through noisy protests.
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Briefing the media, presidential spokesperson Farhatullah Babar said
resident Asif Ali Zardari has announced that a task force will be set up to pick candidates for his ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to contest the next general elections in Punjab. Presiding over a meeting of PPP lawmakers from Punjab here on Wednesday night, President Zardari, who is also co-chairperson of the PPP, said that his move was aimed at preparing the party for the next elections scheduled for 2013.
A handout statement issued by the president’s media office did not mention when the task force will be set up or who will be its members. Punjab is thought to be the most important political battleground and whosoever rules the province will dominate the country.
that Zardari told the lawmakers that the party had a long history of fighting dictatorship and democracy had been restored after huge sacrifices. He said the PPP lawmakers in the Punjab Assembly must maintain decorum in the house as it is a symbol of democracy and should not do anything which may undermine its spirit. The president’s directives come after a month of noisy protests in the Punjab Assembly both by PPP and PML-Q members, often hindering the proceedings and embarrassing the government.
President Zardari said he was aware of the difficulties faced by the PPP lawmakers in Punjab Insiders in the PPP said that Pres- in respect of their development ident Zardari appears to be aware funds after their ouster from the of this fact and is vetting his plans provincial government. to outsmart the rival Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz in Punjab. The president said he had already discussed with the prime minister to constitute a committee of the According to the statement, Zardari also directed the PPP law- party lawmakers to look into their makers from Punjab to play the problems and suggest measures role of a constructive opposition for the continuation of their dein the provincial assembly and velopment projects with the help stop blocking the house proceed- of federal government, if needed.
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High hopes: PPP will sweep the upcoming polls says Bilawal ISLAMABAD:
double the monthly BISP stipend akistan Peoples Party Chair- to Rs2,000 per month. The PPP man Bilawal Bhutto Zardari chairman added that under the said on Sunday that his party second phase of BISP, more lowill sweep the upcoming general cal and international institutions elections with the support of the including banks will be taken on people of Pakistan and go on to board as partners and scope of the form the next government to take programme would be widened. the country “forward in the com- He stated that the Waseela-e-Haq, munity of nations, in accordance Waseela-e-Rozgar and Waseela-ewith the vision of Shaheed Bena- Taleem initiatives are the part of zir Bhutto and Shaheed Zulfikar BISP’s long-term strategy to help out the poorest of the poor in the Ali Bhutto.” country. In a statement on Sunday, Bilawal said his mother Benazir had Bilawal counted the 18th Amendlaid down her life for the cause ment and the restoration of the of democracy and for the people 1973 Constitution among the of Pakistan. “PPP will continue landmark achievements of the to make sacrifices for preserving PPP government. He also praised democracy and the betterment of his father, President Zardari, for surrendering his powers and authe masses,” he added. thority to the elected parliament He said the PPP government and further strengthening democsuccessfully completed its five- racy in the country. year term under the courageous “PPP is the real heir to the legacy leadership of President Asif Ali of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and Zardari and expressed the hope Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. My that the party would win the 2013 mother gave the best years of her polls with a thumping major- life while protecting her father’s ity. “The products of Ziaul Haq’s legacy. She confronted the worst martial law who dream of victory at the hands of General Ziaul Haq shall have to bite the dust once who had sent my grandfather to again because the masses have not the gallows. She kept her father’s forgotten their murky past,” said party and his mission alive with the PPP chairman. great steadfastness. She gave her
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life for the preservation of democracy and the people of this country acknowledge her great sacrifice. Let me assure the followers of Shaheed Bhuttos that I will protect their legacy till my last breath while carrying forward their mission, vision and philosophy being the leader of the largest Upon returning to power, Bi- and most popular political party lawal said, the PPP will expand of the country, which has roots the Benazir Income Support in all provinces. We shall live and Programme (BISP) to complete die for the cause of Pakistan as its second phase during the next done by my mother Benazir Bhutfive years. He announced that the to and my grandfather Zulfikar new PPP government would also Ali Bhutto.” Bilawal said his mother always stood like a rock in the face of successive dictatorships and went to the extent of laying down her life for the cause of democracy. He said the PPP would continue to serve the downtrodden sections of society.
“We will soon start public meetings and rallies at a massive level,” said Faryal Talpur. ISLAMABAD: he general elections are just a month away and the country’s largest political party — the PPP — still seems undecided about its campaign strategy.
it has always done politics for the masses,” she said when a questioner asked wasn’t today’s PPP different from the PPP that was once headed by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.
The dilemma being faced by the party that remained active in all the previous general elections was evident from the replies given by its leaders at a news conference at Zardari House here on Wednesday.
When asked about the decision of the Sheerazis of Thatta to part ways with the PPP, Ms Talpur said the party could not force anyone to stay in its fold. “This is democracy.
Faryal Talpur, who is believed to be the de facto head of the party, and Manzoor Wattoo, the president of the PPP’s Punjab chapter, gave ambiguous replies when they were asked who would lead the party’s campaign and when the party would announce its schedule for public meetings.
Every individual or group has the right to choose his own path in politics,” she said.
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“He will definitely speak,” said Ms Talpur when asked if young Bilawal Bhutto Zardari would lead the PPP’s election campaign. Both the party’s former prime ministers, Yousuf Raza Gilani and Raja Pervez Ashraf, had already started addressing the public meetings, she said, but at the same time added, “in their constituencies”.
Similarly, she said, the PPP differed from the thinking of nationalist parties. “We believe in federation and a united Pakistan. The nationalists have their own thinking,” she added. Responding to a question, Mr Wattoo claimed a 95 per cent success in the talks with the PML-Q on the issue of seat adjustment. He said the PPP would announce its candidates for Punjab on Thursday.
Earlier, the reporters and cameramen protested over the humiliating treatment meted out to them “We will soon start public meet- by the police and security personings and rallies at a massive nel deputed outside the Zardari level and the party has already House. launched its election campaign Interestingly, the news conferat the local level,” she said when ence had been arranged on a short asked why the PPP had so far not notice of only two hours to anarranged any big show. nounce that the caretaker of the
Ms Talpur took no time in “disagreeing” with a journalist who said the PPP had now been reduced to a “drawing room party” and the leadership was afraid of going to the masses due to “security fears”. “I totally disagree with you. The PPP has never done drawing room politics and
Hazrat Baba Fareed Ganj Shakar shrine Pir Sahab Deewan Ahmed Masood had announced his support for the PPP. Speaking on the occasion, Deewan Masood said he had decided to revive now defunct Jamiat Mashaikh Pakistan that had been formed by his grandfather some 30 years ago.
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misers and don’t want to spend money on their security, he alleged. These two parties have been power since 1980s, but the masses problems continued to reserved seats for women, no rela- compound and access of justice tive of the party leader would be given preference and noted that even if any link was traced afterwards, such name would be struck off the list.
35pc young candidates riding PTI’s polls tsunami
ISLAMABAD:
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akistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Monday claimed over 35 per cent of candidates of his party for the general elections are young (below 40) and 80 per cent of all candidates have never been elected to the assemblies before. He said 60 per cent of the party candidates are new faces.
Imran said old faces could never bring about a change the masses desperately looked for. He asserted that the PTI had changed the culture of what he called musical chairs between the PPP and PML-N. He challenged both parties to name a single state entity that they had been pulled out of crisis during their repeated tenures in power. The PTI chief said it was high time for the masses to vote for a change. Speaking at a news conference here, Imran, clad in white shalwar qameez and flanked by some young nervous-looking faces, said the nation was going for the most interesting ‘match’ of its history on May 11. Using cricket terms, the former skipper of the national team, which won the World Cup in 1992, claimed to be the best at team selection and that he was fielding a blend of experienced and young candidates in the upcoming elections. Imran asserted PTI had smashed the PPP-PML-N policy of mukmuka (deal), adding 80 tickets for the assemblies were being given as per the recommendations of the elected district chapters of the party. He also made it clear that on the
to them had been a dream, he said. A senior PTI leader Dr Shireen Mazari has been made the party’s information secretary in place of former senator Shafqat Mehmood.
Promising ‘change’: Only PML-N can steer the country out of crises, says Nawaz
He maintained that no defaulter was given the party ticket and if anyone found out later on, he would have to give it back. At one point, a few party activists shouted slogans against the award of some tickets. Imran retorted that such tactics could not blackmail him.
He said he believed that some 40 million youth voters would play a decisive role in the electoral per- FAISALABAD: formance of a political party and ML-N Nawaz Sharif has laclaimed 90 per cent young voters mented the nose-diving econwere PTI supporters. omy, rampant unemployment, The PTI chairman maintained burgeoning energy crisis and slidthat before the elections, his par- ing living standards in Pakistan, ty had changed the direction of saying that only his party could Pakistani politics by holding in- guide the country through these tra-party polls in the election year dire straits. and putting assets of party leaders “People have confidence in me. on the website. They voted me to power twice. “No political party ever declared On both occasions, however, antiassets of its leaders and lawmak- democracy forces did not allow ers. Had they done so, 70 per cent me to complete my constitutional tax defaulters had not reached tenure,” Nawaz told journalists on the assemblies,” asserted the Monday. He was in Sammundri PTI chairman.Imran has fielded to offer condolences to the fam30-year-old Muhammad Madni ily of PML-N leader Chaudhry against former prime minister Sharif Gujjar. and President of PML-N Mian Nawaz Sharif from NA-119, Lahore. He hit out at former military ruler Pervez Musharraf who had The ticket was given to the toppled his second government pharmacist Monday afternoon in October 1999. “Musharraf deand he was present in the news railed democracy while the counbriefing.“I am confident of win- try was on the road to prosperity ning maximum support of my and development,” he said. “Today, people against Nawaz Sharif be- the entire nation is paying the cause they have made up their price for his adventurism”. mind for a change,” he claimed when The News asked him about The PML-N chief also criticised his chances in the upcoming polls the PPP-led coalition government for ‘bad governance, nepotism against the PML-N leader. and corruption.’ He added that He claimed the rival party leader- the previous government added ship seemed nervous.Madni, who to the problems of people instead is one of the founding workers of of resolving them. PTI, and had been twice behind bars for supporting the move- “During the PPP government, ment for the independence of ju- poverty went up to an all-time diciary, said that the rotten politi- high. Economically, the country cal system stood exposed before has been ruined, and the law and order situation has worsened, esthe nation. pecially in Karachi and Quetta,” He said Sharifs are billioners but he added.
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Nawaz said that key state-run organisations like PIA, Pakistan Railways and Pakistan Steel Mill were at the brink of collapse due to the ill-conceived policies of the previous government. “If voted to power, the PML-N will change the destiny of Pakistan and bring qualitative change in the lives of people,” he added.
No polls for Musharraf
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ormer president Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf, who had returned to Pakistan after years of self-imposed exile to contest the May 11 polls, has been thrown out of the election race.
The former military strongman’s nomination papers were rejected on Tuesday from NA-32 Chitral, after him being earlier disqualified from three other constituencies. Appeals against the acceptance of Pervez Musharraf’s nomination papers for NA-32 (Chitral) were approved by the Election Tribunal in Peshawar. Musharraf’s lawyer said they would contest the decision in a high court. Earlier in the day, an election tribunal had decided against an appeal filed by Musharraf challenging the returning officer’s rejection of his nomination papers for NA-48 (Islamabad-I). The returning officer had rejected Musharraf’s nomination after objections, saying the retired gener-
continued...
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al had subverted the constitution as the army chief and had illegally placed judges under house arrest. Musharraf’s appeal for NA-139 (Kasur-II) was also rejected by an election tribunal in Lahore. The tribunal said the former president had abrogated the constitution thrice and therefore, did not qualify to contest the coming general election. An election tribunal in Rawalpindi also rejected Musharraf’s nomination papers on Tuesday. The nomination papers of Pervez Musharraf for NA-250 (Karachi) have already been rejected
Musharraf, PPP govt pushed country decades back: Shahbaz
NEWS
situation by taking political parties‚ law-enforcing agencies and the Election Commission. He said this is necessary to give conThe former Punjab chief min- fidence to masses otherwise they ister said the PPP was using the would get disappointed. tax payers’ money it had amassed The JI Amir said no political party while in power on extravagant alone can face the threat of terrorelection campaign. He assured ism and should build consensus to the people that all these efforts tackle the challenge. will go in vain. He said if the caretaker Prime “Had Zardari and Co not shame- Minister showed resolve then the lessly looted the national exche- situation can improve and the quer, Pakistan would not have next Government should review been facing the darkness of load the existing policies to improve shedding. In the coming elections, image of the country. these unable rulers will have to be answerable to the people of Paki- Asked why JI has adopted antistan.” establishment posture when in the past it was pampered by inShahbaz said the responsibility of telligence agencies‚ Amir of the load shedding lay with the PPP Jamaat said why no one is asking government’s rental power proj- which party the ISI is supporting ects which were solely launched now. to fill the party’s corrupt leaders’ own pockets. To a question he said like PML(N) and PTI‚ JI too is going into elections alone but possibility of coalition could be explored if there is going to be hung parliament as most of the analysts predict.
Syed Waseem Hussain from NA220; while, Ghazi Salahuddin will be on field on MQM’s ticket from NA221.
He categorically rejected the impression that talks between JI and PML(N); and JI and PTI for seat adjustment could not succeed because Jamaat was demanding more than its due share. He said no such thing was discussed in the talks with the two parties.
HYDERABAD: A Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) candidate of provincial assembly from PS-47, Fakhrul Islam was assassinated near Halanaka in Hyderabad, weeks before the forthcoming general elections.
About differences with JUI(F)‚ he said differences among political or religious parties are not permanent in nature. He said there were differences with JUI(F) over restoration of MMA but Maulana Fazlur Rehman went ahead with the decision without taking Jamaat on board. He said Maulana believed that Jamaat can join later but we have conveyed to them that there is no such possibility.
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accountability and check corruption, have been transformed into bodies that protect these governments.”
JI fears terrorist attacks on political leaders during elections
LAHORE:
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ormer president Pervez Musharraf’s dictatorial regime and the corrupt PPP government have pushed Pakistan back decades, former Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif said on Tuesday.
“The extremely difficult times that Pakistan is facing now requires that the PML-N come in power and that too with a majority,” Shahbaz said, adding that in 1998, when Nawaz Sharif had won by two-thirds majority, the PML-N government had carried out nuclear explosions.
JI Ameer calls for comprehensive measures to hold elections in a peaceful environment.
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mir Jamaat-e-Islami Syed Munawar Hasan has urged the Interim Prime Minister Mir Hazar Khan Khoso to convene a meeting of all political parties and law-enforcing agencies to firm up strategy to hold elections timely “Now the party will ensure mas- and in a peaceful environment. sive growth in Pakistan’s economy to bring prosperity back to He said Referring to recent terPakistan.” rorist attacks on candidates of ANP and PML(N)‚ Syed Munawar Addressing PML-N workers at Hasan feared that problems the party’s secretariat, Shahbaz would increase if acts of violence said the PPP government had de- continued in the remaining days stroyed all national institutions. upto elections. “Steel Mills, PIA and Railway are a few examples. Even worse is He said it is the responsibility of the fact that NAB and other in- the interim government to take stitutions that hold these people steps for improvement of the
MQM finalizes candidates from Hyderabad
Dilawar Qureshi has been fielded from provincial constituency PS45, Rashid Khilji from PS46 and Ali Ahmed Brohi will contest polls for provincial assembly’s PS47 seat. Meantime, Zubair Ahmed Khan eyes provincial assembly seat from PS48 and Sabir Qaimkhani is the Muttahida’s candidate from PS50.
MQM candidate Fakhrul Islam assassinated in Hyderabad
s per details, The MQM candidate for PS-47 Qasimabad was gunned down by unknown armed bikers at Halla Naka in the limits of Hatri police. He received bullets in chest and abdomen and died on the spot. The attackers fled, leaving their motorcycle at the site of crime.
Hatri police rushed there and began search of the culprits. The body of the slain politician was brought to Civil Hospital Hyderabad where a large number of MQM workers and sympathizers gathered and raised slogans.
Armed men opened indiscriminate aerial firing in different areas including Market Tower, Liaquat Colony, Shahi Bazaar, Resham Gali and Gari Khatta went closed. Angry mobs also blocked roads by burning tires and putting hurdles. According to details, Dr. Khalid The slain, Fakhurul Islam, left beMaqbool Siddiqui will vie for Na- hind a widow, two sons and three tional Assembly seat from NA219, daughters. HYDERABAD: Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) announced the names of finalized candidates to contest from Hyderabad constituencies for seats in national and provincial assemblies.
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MQM will not boycott elections: Farooq Sattar
CM Najam Sethi ensures Imran Khan for fair elections
He further said that he would reshuffle the administration all over the province within a week, and added that he would try his best to come up to the expectations of the people of the Punjab. He said it was difficult to follow the Election Commission’s code of conduct but he would assist the ECP in implementing the main articles of the Constitution, sections and clauses of relevant rules. Added that, JI leadership had giv-
KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi checking in the name of search Movement (MQM) leader operations are being conducted Farooq Sattar has said that in 30 localities of Karachi. conspiracies are being hatched All political parties are workin a bid to keep his party out of ing on their election campaigns, electoral process. while MQM is lifting the coffins Addressing a press conference here on Friday, the MQM leader said that his party is being forced to boycott elections while the mandate of MQM is being snatched under a planned conspiracy.
LAHORE: The caretaker Chief en him certain proposals in conMinister of Punjab, Najam nection with holding transparent Sethi met chairman Pakistan elections by following the articles Tehrik e Insaf, Imran Khan on 62 and 63 and other election-reFriday (today) to discuss the lated rules. issues related to the fair and About his visit to JI headquarters, of the party workers prior to the free elections.
polls, he lamented.
The caretaker CM ensured PTI “Killings of the workers and sup- chief for free and fair elections as porters have become a daily routine.” the top priority.
Condemning killings of the activists, Sattar said that funeral prayer of our political worker Dr Farooq Sattar said that delimi- was offered today in the morning tation of constituencies in Ka- and in the meanwhile four more rachi was also a part of the con- supporters were killed when the spiracy, however, he added that preparations of the worker’s burithe MQM would not boycott the al were in progress. forthcoming elections. Armed terrorists kidnapped the The party’s candidates, activists party’s supporters and tortured and supporters are also being them to death, while their bodkilled under a planned script and ies were thrown to Mewah Shah its purpose is to compel MQM Graveyard, Sattar added. for boycotting the upcoming elecFarooq Sattar told that MQM tions, Sattar claimed. would issue its final list of candiHe further said that door-to-door dates for polls tomorrow.
Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Najam Sethi and Chairman Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Imran Khan had a meeting in Islamabad today and discussed current situation of province in upcoming elections. Sethi thanked PTI Chairman for his support and trust in him. Najam Sethi said he will take all necessary steps to ensure free and fair elections in the province. Chairman PTI said that future of Pakistan depends on fairness and transparency of elections.
he said it was part of his plan of consulting political leaders for holding transparent elections and making a neutral administration.
Raja Ashraf allowed to contest elections on NA-123
The court declared Raja Ashraf eligible and allowed him to run for the elections on NA-123.
PTI leaders Javed Hashmi‚ Shah Mehmood Qureshi‚ Naeem-ul- LAHORE: The sword of disqualiHaq and Jahangir Khan Tareen fication hanging over the head were also present in the meeting. of former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Asharf has finally been On Thursday, Sethi called on the removed as a Lahore High Court Ameer Jamaat e Islami, Syed Mu- (LHC) full bench on Monday This he said during meeting with the seven member delegation of nawar Hasan at Mansoora and gave him a clean chit to contest Alliance of Market Association discussed matters of the next gen- the upcoming elections. Sadr and Sindh Sarafa and Jewel- eral elections. The full bench of LHC on Moners Association in Karachi. Mr Sethi also visited PML-N lead- day heard appeal against rejection Traders delegation apprised Traders delegation apprised the ers Nawaz Sharif and Shahbaz of nomination papers of Raja Perthe Chief Minister about Chief Minister about their prob- Sharif in Model Town and PML- vez Ashraf on NA-123. Farooq H their problems with especial lems with especial reference of Q leaders Chaudhry Shujaat and Naek and Latif Khosa representreference of law and order. Pervaiz Elahi in Gulberg.Talk- ed former prime minister in the law and order. ing to the media persons, Najam court. Caretaker Chief Minister Sindh Caretaker Chief Minister said Sethi said that his first priority Justice (Retd) Zahid Kurban Alavi provincial government has taken to conduct impartial elections in The same bench on Monday had has said that present interim pro- effective and prompt measures to accordance with the directives of conditionally allowed Ashraf to contest the election after susvincial government is well aware maintain law and order. the Election Commission. pending tribunal and RO’s deciof the problems being faced by small businessmen and shopkeep- These comprehensive measures The caretaker Chief Minister said sions and directed the Election ers and it is striving hard to resolve will restore peace in Karachi to that his cabinet would be small Commission of Pakistan (ECP) the problems faced by business provide conducive atmosphere for and have only five or six people to include his name in the list of general elections. candidates for NA-51. community. who have no political affiliation.
Provincial govt is well aware of problems faced by traders: Kurban Alavi
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Does Article 6 apply to Musharraf, SC asks AG verting and abrogating the Constitution. A two-member bench of the apex court, comprising Justice Jawwad S Khawaja and Justice Khilji Arif Hussain, heard identical petitions, seeking prosecution of former president Pervez Musharraf for abrogating the Constitution. In its order, the court ruled that under Section 15 of the High Treason (Punishment) Act 1973, read with Criminal Law Special Court Act 1976, it was for the Federation to establish a special court and to prosecute a person for violation of Article 6 of the Constitution.
ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Attorney General (AGP) of Pakistan Irfan Qadir to explain if the Article 6 of the Constitution applied to former President General (retd) Pervez Musharraf for high treason and come up with a reply of the federal government in writing in the instant matter through a concise statement by April 17.
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“It is evident from the hearing so far that the federal government has not taken any action either in pursuance of the court’s July 31, 2009 judgment or in pursuance of the Senate’s unanimous resolution passed for prosecuting a person,” the court ruled in its order. The court directed the federal government to submit its reply by April 17 in writing through a concise statement, supplied by relevant documents regarding any action taken by it. At the outset of the hearing, the Attorney General of Pakistan, Irfan Qadir, submitted that he had a number of preliminary objections to the proceedings of the court but not against the petitions.
he directive came during the hearing of identical petitions by a two-member bench, seeking prosecution of former president Pervez Musharraf for abrogating the Constitution. The bench com- Referring to the court’s earlier obprised Justice Jawwad S. Khawaja servation in the instant case that ‘justice not only be done but seems and Justice Khilji Arif Hussain. to be done’, the attorney general During the hearing, the apex court said he was of opinion that justice observed that it was for the Fed- does not seem to be done. eration to prosecute a person and said that the federal government Irfan Qadir contended that there had not taken any action either were judges sitting in the court in pursuance of its July 31, 2009 who had taken oath under the judgment or in accordance with a Provisional Constitution Order unanimous resolution passed by (PCO), therefore, how could the the Senate for prosecuting a per- court proceed in a matter which son under high treason for sub- revolved round the unconstitu-
tional acts of the respondent (Per- vez Musharraf on March 24, 2013. vez Musharraf). The acting secretary law, howThe court, however, asked the at- ever, told the court that the said torney general to inform it about post fell vacant on March 15, 2013 the stance of the government if it while he took over as acting sechad taken any step after the July retary on March 18, saying that 31, 2009 judgment of the court although he was a law graduate, and in pursuance of the Senate he did not have a judicial backresolution passed unanimously ground and discharge administraand after the return of the re- tive matters. spondent, Pervez Musharraf, on Later, the court directed him to March 24, 2013. provide details by 11.30am as to Justice Khilji Arif Hussain asked what steps had been taken by the the attorney general to state if federal government in pursuance Musharraf’s act of November 3, of the court’s judgment of July 31, 2007 by imposing emergency in 2009 and the Senate resolution, etc. the country was constitutional or unconstitutional. He further The acting secretary was later on asked him whether or not the for- given time till 1pm after he failed mer military ruler should be tried to give a satisfactory reply. Later, under the Article 6 of the Consti- the attorney general appeared before the court and said he had no tution. instructions from the Federation Irfan Qadir, however, replied that on which the court sought a reply at present while representing the from the federal government in Federation, he was under no in- writing with concise statement structions but could give an oral supported by relevant documents statement before the court. The by April 17 and adjourned the court, however, sought the reply hearing. of the federal government in writing through a concise statement, Ahmed Raza Kasuri contended supplied by relevant documents that before entering into any conin the instant matter by April 17. troversy, his prayer be considered for constituting a larger bench Justice Jawwad S Khawaja re- minus the Chief Justice of Pakimarked that for the last 65 years, stan. The court however told the the nation faced many problems, learned counsel that it would be adding that many commissions considered after the reply of the had been constituted in differ- federal government. ent matters including the Asghar Khan Case but the Federation The court also ordered that aneven had no record of that com- other identical petition, filed by mission. Justice Khawaja said the Engineer Jameel Ahmed, would court wanted to block the way of also be taken up with the instant abrogators of the Constitution petitions from April 17.Maulvi once and for all and punish the Iqbal Haider, advocate, Ahsan-udDin Sheikh, former President Laguilty. hore High Court Bar Association, He recalled that even Ahmed Raza Rawalpindi Bench, Taufiq Asif, Kasuri, learned counsel for former President Lahore High Court Bar president, during the preliminary Association, Amjad Malik, Presiarguments had contended that dent Pakistani Lawyers Assomany unhidden faces would come ciation, UK, and Abdul Hakeem to the fore in the instant case. “It Khan, former vice chairman, Pakimay but it’s time now that noth- stan Bar Council, had filed idening should be concealed from the tical petitions in the apex court, nation,” Justice Jawwad S Khawa- making the Federation and Perja remarked. vez Musharraf as respondents. Earlier, during the hearing, the court repeatedly asked the acting Secretary Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Sohail Qadeer Qureshi about the steps taken by the Law Ministry after the court’s July 31, 2009 judgment, the Senate unanimous resolution as well as after the return of Per-
The petitioners prayed to the apex court to direct the Federation to take Pervez Musharraf into custody immediately awaiting his investigation and prosecution under the High Treason (punishment) Act 1973.
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that the United States reaffirms it is backing democracy in Pakistan, and does not support any particular political party or individual candidate.
decide where he can get the best security while in custody”, he added.
happens to be delayed, then it will continue to be delayed for long adding that in Multan there would be much more heat in the Security and protests coming months and people would not be able to go out to polling INVESTIGATION OFFICER Musharraf had to wait nearly 45 stations. minutes in his car on court premISLAMABAD: Former Presi- REPLACED ises, waiting on a security clear- Responding to a question about dent General (retd) Pervez ance. There was tight security Pervez Musharraf, he said that he The officer investigating the Musharraf has been shifted to present for both his arrival and also remained in jail during Mushthe police headquarters here Pervez Musharraf case, Sultan from his farmhouse in Chak Mehmood, has been removed. departure due to the angered law- arraf regime. Law and courts exist Rana Mubarak has been appoint- yers present. in the country, Pervez Musharraf Shahzad. ed as the new investigation officer. There were attempts made to is not above law, he added. According to the law anyone block lawyers from coming close Giving his reaction on the scrugranted a transit remand must be to Musharraf’s way of entrance, tiny of the candidates, Maulana kept within police jurisdiction. with the rangers cordoning the Fazlur Rahman said that the scruMusharraf is expected to remain area. tiny process was stunning, while at the police headquarters until he is presented before an AntiLawyers shouted anti-Musharraf the returning officers made themTerrorism Court. slogans as he entered the court selves and others also a laughing premises. The protests intensified stock.He said even ulema were Earlier on Friday, the former as the former dictator got in to his disqualified from contesting elecpresident was arrested and pretions. car to leave. sented before Judicial Magistrate Muhammad Abbas. After a brief The police was unsuccessful in Maulana Fazlur Rehman stronghearing the court issued a writstopping protesters as they broke ly opposed the use of bullets in ten order to grant him two-day barriers. Rangers and the anti-riot politics and blamed the ANP and transit remand. He was shifted to force were called in to help con- MQM for use of force. He said had the ANP not called in the his farmhouse in Chak Shahzad trol the situation. army, the situation would have which was declared sub-jail Former army chief Musharraf fac- been different. He said the JUI(F) The judicial magistrate further es allegations that he ordered the formed a tribal Jirga to negotiate said that the police should abide illegal detention of judges during peace with the Taliban and the by the Islamabad High Court’s ora showdown with the judiciary political parties supported it. der and include Section 7 of the in 2007. Musharraf, who seized anti-terrorism law in the charges Former dictator Pervez Mush- power in a coup in 1999, resigned He expressed the hope that after elections, the government would against the former president and arraf was presented in an anti- in 2008. take forward the peace process submit a report. terrorism court in connection
Musharraf shifted to police headquarters
Judges arrest case: Musharraf sent on 14-day judicial remand
Speaking to Geo News after the hearing, Musharraf said he returned to Pakistan out of his own will and respects the courts. He expressed his determination to face the consequences.
ISLAMABAD HIGH COURT ORDER In its order the Islamabad High Court has held Inspector General Police Islamabad responsible for Pervez Musharraf fleeing from the premises of the court on Thursday. The court has directed the Defence Secretary to take action against those responsible.
US REACTION According to a press release by the US Embassy, the United States takes no position on the return of former President Pervez Musharraf or the legal proceedings against him. This is an issue to be resolved solely in accordance with Pakistan’s Constitution and laws. The press release further states
with the judges’ arrests case and was sent on 14-day judicial remand, on Saturday.
After 14 days he will be presented in the same court, on May 4. He was taken to the police headquarters immediately after the case was heard. According to news source former dictator will further be sent to Adiala jail where a special cell has been made for him.
Fazal opposes delay in elections; says Musharraf not above law
Blast near MQM office in North Nazimabad, 2 killed MQM to observe Wednesday as day of mourning KARACHI: At least two people were killed and 12 others injured in a bombing near an election office of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) located at People’s Chowrangi in North Nazimabad area of the city late Tuesday night.
The All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) General Secretary Dr Amjad, spoke to the media after the verdict was announced and maintained Musharraf’s “morale was high” and that he was preJamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUIpared to present himself in all reF) chief Maulana Fazlur Rah- Bodies of the deceased and the quired courts. man Monday said that elec- injured have been shifted to AbAnswering questions related to tions should be held on time basi Shaheed Hospital. According Musharraf’s judicial remand pe- and added if once delayed it to police sources, the attack was riod, the general secretary said “It would continue to be deferred.. meant to target the Muttahida’s office. isn’t necessary to be sent to Adiala Talking to media here in Muljail, if security is at risk, any place tan, Maulana Fazlur Rahman ex- Soon after the blast, police and can be declared a sub-jail.” pressed the hope that elections the Rangers approached the mis“This is the administrations job to would be held on time, but if it hap site only to meet infuriated
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people with ensuing clash followed by aerial firing. Members of Muttahida’s Coordination Committee also visited the injured people at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital. Talking to media, the MQM leader Raza Haroon said the attack is an attempt to marginalize the party. After the blast in Karachi, MQM Chief Altaf Hussain directed its party to temporarily shut down all of its election offices.
NEWS
New bionic hand is controlled by mobile app
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SCOTTISH company has unveiled a new prosthetic hand that can be controlled by a mobile phone Hussain, app.
MQM Chief Altaf whose, party faces direct threats from the Pakistani Taliban, said that as to how voters could come out of their houses to cast their ballots in a situation like this.
he Election Commission of Pakistan’s indication of allowing the overseas Pakistanis - 4.5 million – to vote in the general elections through e-voting would lead towards the kind of participatory electoral process that the country needs badly. This would be made possible through a presidential ordinance expected within a day.
There is hardly any doubt that given their number and because of their world outlook, which is progressive and moderate, they will have a profound impact so far as the election results are concerned. Being done first time ever in the history of the country, it reflects the winds of change blowing away the cobwebs of rather anachronistic electoral trends. That overseas Pakistanis can do a lot for their country and for the growth of democracy is self-evident. Factors such as their education, orientation and living experience in foreign lands can naturally make them choose better candidates to lead their country. Some of these expats include students and professionals; others are blue collar workers, yet seen as a whole, they can turn out to
The new ‘quick grips’ option from the Biosim mobile control app allows the user to automatically activate 24 different grip patterns and gestures with a single tap of the screen.
sensitive electrodes. It’s the first upper-limb prosthesis that can be controlled via an app compatible with the latest Apple products.
It means users can adjust their prosthetic hand for different tasks, such writing, typing, gripping small objects - or even tying shoe laces
Wearer Bertolt Meyer said: “Powered thumb rotation, combined The powered rotation of the with the mobile app and quick Touch Bionics’ i-limb ultra revo- thumb can be controlled either access to all these new grips, lution features a powered rotat- directly by the wearer’s muscle gives me natural hand function ing thumb to enhance dexter- signals, or can move automatical- that I never imagined would be ity, 24 grip options and extra ly into position as part of a pre-set possible.”
Overseas Pakistanis to vote
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grip pattern or gesture.
be a positive influence on the polls. As of now, their contribution to the national economy is great; the money they send helps their families back at home and that sustains the economy by boosting up the foreign exchange remittances. The issue is not to be confused with the debate over dual nationals in seats of power. The same logic cannot be applied for the reason that there is a world of a difference between letting a dual national vote and letting him run for Parliament, or worse become a ‘suitcase prime minister’ which as we have seen has had a detrimental effect on the nascent growth of democracy. It is no wonder the Supreme Court kept calling for according the grant of such a status to all Pakistanis in foreign nations. In the wake of the recent cyber attack on the ECP’s website, there lurks the danger of the Nadra’s e-voting software being hacked, which calls for greater oversight of the entire electronic data. These risks were earlier brought to the Supreme Court’s notice by the ECP reasons why it was reluctant to giving the green signal. One hopes once these procedural pitfalls are sorted out there would be no hurdle to a wakeful mass of expats to exercise their right of vote.
Postcard arrives at house after 45 years
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POSTCARD has arrived at a Leicestershire home 45 years late. De Montfort University lecturer Martin MorganTaylor received the letter at his home, as it was addressed to the former occupant of the Glenfield property.
the Isle of Wight. You occasionally read about things like this happening but it’s very odd.”
The postcard simply read “From Margaret and Ron”, which MorHe told This Is Leicestershire: gan-Taylor found rather disap“I’d just got back from a trip to pointing. He said: “It would have India and I was feeling very jet- been nice if it said something lagged. I’d just woken up from a like, ‘We just saw one of those nine-hour sleep and I wasn’t en- new-fangled television sets’ or tirely sure what day it was. But something, but disappointingly when I saw this old postcard in it just said ‘from Margaret and my letterbox I was pretty sure it Ron’.” wasn’t 1968. Royal Mail spokesperson Valer“The first thing I noticed was the ie Antoine explained that sortstamp, which was in old money, ing offices are often checked to and the postmark said ‘1 July make sure post is never delayed 1968, Ryde’. There was also an- for such a long time. other postmark from Peterborough in April of this year. I’ve She said: “It is extremely unlikely that this item of mail was no idea what happened.” in our system all this time. “It is He continued: “The postcard difficult to speculate what may was for the man who lived here have happened, but almost cerback then, but he died in the tainly it was put back in a post mid-1990s and I never knew him. box very recently, as we regular“It’s a lovely old vintage colour ly check all our sorting offices photo of Carisbrooke Castle on and machines are cleared.”
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Jawaid Riaz, Bureau Chief,
Pakistan Abroad News Paper visited APPNA St. Louis Community
Health Clinic,
on Sunday, April 14, 2013.
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alking to the news paper Dr. Noor Ahmed discussed the aims and objectives, back ground and the development of APPNA ST. Louis Community Health Clinic. The clinic was established in September 2011 under the leadership of Dr. Manzoor Tariq and with the help of a team of dedicated volunteers. The primary aim and objective of the clinic was to provide medical services to those in need. The clinic also intended to provide foster health awareness, medical education and preventive health care information. Furthermore the clinic was seen as an ideal venture as it offered our Muslims physicians and non physicians the opportunity to volunteer and take part in serving their community. The seven founding members of the board and supporting staff were Dr. Manzoor Tariq(President), Dr. Shazia Malik, Dr. Naseem Shekhani( Secretary), Dr. Noor Ahmed, Dr. Ishaq Chishti, Dr. Mujtaba Qazi(Treasurer), Dr. Mohammad Haseeb and br. Adil Imdad
University of Karachi Alumni Association organized a fund raiser to support and help in sponsoring Mid wifery School at Koohi Goth Hospital Karachi, Pakistan
Free of cost laboratory services were provided by Clin Lab. Since the opening of the clinic its volunteer physicians have served almost a thousand patients.
Tariq Shahab, Secretary of UKAA
Naseem Shekhani
The clinic is open every Saturday from 10 to 1 pm, under the leadership of Dr. Noor Ahmed Shahid Hashmi, President of UKAA (President), Dr. Danish Hassan (Secretary), Dr. Mujtaba Qazi (Treasurer) and Hafiz Waqas (Admin) and other volunteers from a Washington Bureau Report: variety of walks of life. niversity of Karachi AlumPakistan Abroad St. Louis Bureau ni Association organized a congratulates Dr. Noor Ahmed fund raiser to support and help and his team for their noble work in sponsoring Mid wifery School and appeal to the St. Louis Mus- at Koohi Goth Hospital Karalim community for their support chi, Pakistan. A large number and donations. Long may your of the Pakistani community g o o d members and non members w o r k (UKAA) attended this colorc o n t i n ful and well organized event. The clinic was gifted/donated eye ue. It was a memorable and one room equipment from St. Mary’s of its kind evenings in the hisHospital and Dr. M Ishaq Chishti, tory of UKAA. dental room equipment was gifted /donated by Dr. Abid, Dr. TaPlease enjoy the pictures. hira Bhaiji and Dr. Noor Ahmed. Prominent and well known Dr.Shershah Syed (Pakistan), President of NHF, Drs. Naseem Shekhani & Farhat Shekhani St. Louis), Shahid Hashmi, President UKAA, Shahab Qarni, GS, UKAA, addressed the audience and discussed the project of Mid wifery School at Koohi Goth Hospital Karachi. They further request and thanked for their continuous patronage and support for the good causes in future. A delicious dinner was also served. Zulikha Yousuf and Hassan Jalil were the MC of the program
Shershah Syed
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MC, Zulekha Yusuf & JAMAL
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Report by Jawaid Riaz
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unaid Fahmi, Central Organizer MQM USA, Wakeel Jamali, Member COC, Sohail Shams, Member Helping Committee, office bearers and volunteers of Pakistan Club, Jawaid Riaz, Jameel Khan, Mohammad Tahir, Shehzad Aman, Nihal Akhtar,
Tariq Mehmood, Rizwan Qureshi, Kafeel Jamali,Rashid Mushtaq, visited Robin Kelly at her office upon her victory, and congratulated her on her success. Robin Kelly thanked all the members for their support, and appreciated all their efforts.
Ameen Ceremony of Ayesha Kazmi, Umar Kazmi and Ali Kazmi, Children of Mr. and Mrs. Rashid Kazmi.
Dr. Nadeem Ahmed, Jawaid Riaz and Dr. Sajid Zafar
meeting they discussed how vital print media is for our upcomr. Naseem Shekhani, of St. ing generation, so that they can Louis, Missouri, organized maintain and bridge a civic relaa gathering of his friends to help tionship with their culture and and support community newspa- legacy. Among the attendees, Dr. pers and magazines, Urdu Times, Tariq Manzoor, Dr. Javed Qasim, Pakistan Abroad, and Bridge Dr. Nadeem Ahmed, Dr. Sajid Mag International. During this Zafar, Dr. Umair Ali, Adil Rajput Jawaid Riaz, Dr. Naseem Shekhani
D Jawaid Riaz - Dr.Tariq Manzoor, Taqueer Haider and Dr. Naseem Shekhani
of Alrajput Inc, Umair Iqbal, CPA, and Haris of Aftab Designs, pledged to help the abovementioned publications financially, which are free distributions, and rely on donations and advertisements.
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Aamir Khan, Malala Yousafzai land on Time’s 100 most influential people list Bollywood star Aamir Khan has been featured on one of seven special covers of Time magazine listing the world’s 100 most influential people.
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he list also includes India’s Finance Minister P. Chidambaram, Delhi lawyer Vrinda Grover and California’s Indian-American attorney general Kamala Harris besides teenaged Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai and U.S. President Barack Obama.
NEWS
Malala Yousafzai to give speech in New York
Malala Yousafzai, the teenage girl shot by the Taliban for promoting girls’ education, will make her first public speech on her 16th birthday in New York, Gordon Brown announced on Friday.
“Malala is a true inspiration and a shining beacon for girls education around the world,” said Mr Brown.
“I am full of admiration for her courage and determination in the journey she is on, and am sure he will speak at the United that she can become a real leader Nations on July 12, said Mr in the campaign for a school place Brown, speaking in his capacity as for every girl - and every boy.” the UN Special Envoy for Global Malala has become a global symEducation. bol of the campaign for girls’ right Malala was shot at point-blank to an education and has been range by a Taliban gunman as her nominated for this year’s Nobel school bus travelled through Pak- Peace Prize. istan’s Swat Valley on October 9 Some 4,000 young people are exlast year, pected to be in attendance for her She was flown to Britain for sur- debut speech. experience is unsurpassed,” writes gery on her head injuries and, Her self-penned life story is due Ruchir Sharma, head of emerging once she had recovered sufficient- out later this year in a deal reportmarkets at Morgan Stanley, as- ly, returned to school in Birming- edly worth around $3 million. signed to describe the man with ham last month. the keys to the treasury in India.
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Playing “an important role as India opened its economy” in the 1990s, “his reform record has been spotty,” Sharma says, before suggesting: “To land India’s top job, he needs to revive his country’s economic fortunes. He may also need to adopt a more Indian style.”
US Ambassador calls on President Zardari
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari said on Thursday that Pakistan greatly values its relations with America in a meeting with the US AmbassaLike Aamir Khan, Malala Delhi lawyer Vrinda Grover’s dor Richard Olson in Yousafzai, “the Pakistani school- “work as a human-rights lawyer Islamabad. and advocate for women’s rights
girl whose advocacy for girls’ rights is just beginning” is also has meant that she presses down During the US ambassador’s visit, featured on one of the special pretty hard,” writes author Nilan- Pak-US relations and the security jana Roy. situation in Afghanistan were discovers. cussed in detail. Aamir Khan, 48, is described by “Her determination to force an ofcomposer A.R. Rahman on behalf ten recalcitrant political and legal The US ambassador said that biof Time as having “been chosen system to change was evident in for using his influence to raise so- these past few heated months, as a particularly tragic rape in Delhi cial awareness in India.” brought women’s rights center “In a world of false diplomacy and stage,” Roy notes. ISLAMABAD: Presievasiveness, Aamir is a straightforward man,” writes Rahman, Kamala Harris, 48, is described as dent Asif Ali Zardari said noting, “He uses his gifts as a a jurist to watch by Nancy Pelosi, on Friday that Pakistan charmer to give his audience the the first woman to serve as U.S, greatly values its relations with China in a meeting most bitter medicine. Hypnotized, Speaker of the House. we take it without complaint.” “In 2010, after seven years as San with China’s Ambassador
lateral cooperation with Pakistan in various fields will continue as it is. He also briefed the president on the strategic dialogue to take place between the two countries in future.
Chinese ambassador calls on President Zardari
Francisco district attorney, she became the first African American, first South Asian and first woman to be elected California attorney general,” Pelosi writes, predicting: “As a new generation of women Described as “a trusted counsel- picks up the mantle of progress, lor to the ruling Congress Party’s she will always be among the first Gandhi family, Chidambaram’s to stand up and step forward.”
“Aamir has started a movement that will help change the world in which Indians live. Jai ho!” adds the Academy Award-winning composer.
Liu Jian in Islamabad.
During the meeting, Pak-China relations were discussed in detail.
communication. He also took up the matter of his upcoming visit to China.
President Zardari observed that the Gwadar Port between the two China’s Ambassador Liu Jian also countries would promote eco- briefed the president on the prognomic cooperation and enhance ress of the Gwadar port in the region.
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NEWS To those who opposed her she was blunt to a degree. “The lady’s not for turning”, she once famously informed members of her own Conservative Party who were urging her to moderate her policies. Others who crossed her path, particularly in Europe, were subjected to withering diatribes often referred to as “handbaggings”,
Britain’s ‘Iron Lady’ Margaret Thatcher dies
named after the black leather bag she invariably carried. Queen Elizabeth said she was sad to hear the news of Thatcher’s death and sent a message of sympathy to her family. “Her memory will live long after the world has forgotten the grey suits of today’s politics,” said London Mayor Boris Johnson. reuters
Anti-Thatcher song 2nd in UK charts
LONDON: A campaign by opponents of late Prime Minister Britain’s only woman prime minister Margaret Thatcher to get the served 1979-1990 song “Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead” to the top of the BritLONDON: Margaret Thatch- death was announced and British ish pop charts to celebrate er, the ‘Iron Lady’ who trans- flags at Cameron’s official resiher death failed on Sunday alformed Britain and inspired dence, 10 Downing Street, were though it did manage to reach conservatives around the lowered to half mast. second place. The top 40 best-selling singles are world by radically rolling back Mourners began to lay flowers played weekly on BBC Radio but the state during her 11 years outside her house in Belgravia, hatcher, who died aged 87 on the broadcaster said on Friday in power, died on Monday fol- one of London’s most exclusive Monday, deeply divided Brit- it would only pay a five-second lowing a stroke. She was 87. areas. One note said: “The great-
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ritain’s only woman prime minister, the unyielding, outspoken Thatcher led the Conservatives to three election victories, governing from 1979 to 1990, the longest continuous period in office by a British premier since the early 19th century.
A grocer’s daughter with a steely resolve, she was loved and loathed in equal measure as she crushed the unions, privatised vast swathes of British industry, clashed with the European Union and fought a war to recover the Falkland Islands from Argentine invaders. She struck up a close relationship with US President Ronald Reagan in the Cold War, backed the first President George Bush during the 1991 Gulf War, and declared that Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev was a man she could do business with. “We’ve lost a great leader, a great prime minister and a great Briton,” Prime Minister David Cameron said. “Her legacy will be the fact that she served her country so well, and she saved our country and she showed immense courage in doing so, and people will be learning about what she did and her achievements in decades, probably centuries to come.” Cameron cut short a visit to Europe to return to Britain after the
ons and while some have paid clip of the song as part of a news warm tributes to the achieve- item, leading to accusations it had ments of her right-wing Conser- caved into political pressure. Thatcher died peacefully on Monvative governments, others said day morning, said Lord Bell, a her privatization of swathes of “I understand the concerns about spokesman for the family. She had industry had destroyed communi- this campaign. I personally bebeen in poor health for months ties. That opposition was mani- lieve it is distasteful and inapproand had declined into dementia fested in a Facebook campaign to priate,” BBC Director-General in her final years. propel the witch song, from the Tony Hall said in a statement. “I think she will be remembered 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz”, to “However, I do believe it would be as one of the greatest prime min- number one in the charts, provok- wrong to ban the song outright isters this country has ever had,” ing anger from politicians of all as free speech is an important parties, right-leaning media, and principle.” Meanwhile, a rival Bell said. members of the public. campaign by the former premier’s “I’m sure she will be remembered in the context of other great men The Official Charts Company said supporters to promote the 1979 like Winston Churchill. She 52,605 copies of the song had been single “I’m In Love With Margamade a real difference to the way sold, but that was about 6,000 shy ret Thatcher” by punk band the we live our lives,” Bell said. of the chart-topping track “Need Notsensibles fared less well, deU” by British DJ Duke Dumont buting in 35th place after sales of 8,768. The British government said and singer A*M*E. Thatcher would have a ceremoniRunners start London Marathon with moment al funeral with military honours at London’s St Paul’s Cathedral, of silence for Boston victims which falls short of a full state edy in Boston.” funeral, in accordance with the London (CNN) -- Despite the spring sunshine, the start of the The runners, many also wearing wishes of her family. London Marathon on Sunday black ribbons as a Boston tribute, The abiding images of her prethen poured over the start line to was a somber occasion. miership will remain those of begin the 26.2-mile race. housands of runners joined in conflict: huge police confrontaBoston wheelchair champ racing in a 30-second silence on the start tions with the miners’ union, her London riding a tank in a white headscarf, line to remember those killed and and flames rising above Trafalgar injured by the blasts near the finish Open Mic: London Marathon Square in the riots over an unpop- of the Boston Marathon on Monday. Security increased for London ular local tax which ultimately Marathon Before the tribute, signaled by a led to her downfall. whistle blast, an announcer told Along the route, the mood became “It’s very sad to hear of her death the massed runners: “We will join more festive, with loud cheers and but her legacy and death are two together in silence to remember applause for the passing runners different things. Politically, she our friends and colleagues for from the spectators lining the bardid not leave a good legacy for the whom a day of joy turned into a day riers. working class,” Kevin Robertson, of sadness. Prince Harry also made an appeara 39-year-old garage manager, told “Let us now show our respect and ance, visiting the finish line to show Reuters in Edinburgh. support for the victims of the trag- his support for the race stewards. est British leader.”
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SPORTS
Wasim Akram urges Pakistan bowlers to be aggressive
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kram, a former captain, has started working with the country’s quicks after coming to a short-term agreement with the PCB. He commenced a 10-day training camp at the National Stadium in Karachi for 18 of Pakistan’s top fast bowlers, including members of the national team and some new, raw talent.
The camp was set up ahead of the Champions Trophy in June in England and Akram said that the change to regulations in one-day cricket were tough for bowlers. “You need to be aggressive and learn how to adapt to these rule changes. Pakistani bowlers have a lot of talent but they need to learn and adapt to the demands of international cricket. “With the change in ODI cricket, that you can’t keep more than four fielders outside the circle in a 50-over match at any time, and the rising popularity of T20 cricket means pace bowlers now need to be more adaptable.
“I will advise these bowlers that to be successful in this scenario, aggression is a must with top grade fitness, pace and the ability to have length variation. T20 cricket has changed the mentality of batsmen. The odds are stacked against the bowlers. First I will tell them how to swing the ball, then reverse swing and how to make use of the yorkers. “I am not a magician able to work wonders in ten days but I will try my level best to help them in phases and hope that the same training camp is staged after a
ITF to review decision in Board meeting
ISLAMABAD – Common sense finally prevails as International Tennis Federation (ITF) has accepted Pakistan Tennis Federation’s (PTF) written complaint against Australian-based Sri Lankan origin referee Ashita Ajigala, who without any concrete reasons, awarded the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II tie to New Zealand, which was held at the neutral venue of Myanmar.Pakistan ace tennis star Aisamul Haq personally met with the ITF officials at the ITF headquarters in London and pleaded Pakistan’s break of three to four months,” case. After haring the arguments, he added. “I will be there in the the ITF had accepted PTF’s plea camp and then at the Champions and the matter would be taken Trophy so will do my best to help before the ITF Board next week. them to learn and mature.” While talking exclusively with “I don’t think it’s a serious con- The Nation, Aisam said: “I had cern. The talent is definitely there very constructive and detailed but these kids need experience meeting with Justine Albert, head and must learn to adapt to the of Davis Cup & Fed Cup of ITF demands of international cricket and also with a member of the ITF where they are found wanting,” Board of Directors. I thoroughly he said.”It’s not easy to found told them my point of view and I someone with 145kph pace, you am quite satisfied with the develneed to do scouting and hunting opments. for fast bowlers and I am sure I am sure the ITF would not only there will be talent. consider our genuine request but “The grounds in South Africa also reverse the previous unjust were green but you need a certain and biased decision made by the strategy to bowl, so until and un- biased referee. less they learn it they will not be able to turn their potential into ”While talking to this scribe longest serving Pakistan number 1 performances.” tennis player Aqeel Khan was also full of confidence that the Pakistan’s pace pack at tie would start from the same Karachi camp position where the referee had Wahab Riaz (L), Zia-ul-Haq interfered and awarded to New Zealand.He further said: “I had (L), Mohamamd Aftab (L), detailed conversation with Aisam Rahat Ali (L), Mohamamd and I am pretty sure that Asiam Irfan (L), Junaid Khan (L), had conveyed the message very Sadaf Hussain (L), Hammad loud and clear. We are preparing Azam (R), Ahmad Jamal (R), very hard and eagerly looking forAsad Ali (R), Ehsan Adil (R), ward to play the tie from where Mohammad Talha (R), Bila- we had left. We are fully prepared to play the tie at any given neutral wal Bhatti (R), Imran Khan place on any grass court surface. (R), Tabish Khan (R), Anwar We would not disappoint the naAli (R), Aziz Ullah (RAF), tion and would win the tie for the country.” Atta Ullah (R)
Serena pulls US level with Sweden in Fed Cup
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ELRAY BEACH, Florida: World No. 1 Serena Williams cruised past Johanna Larson 6-2, 6-2 on Saturday to pull the United States level with Sweden at 1-1 in their Fed Cup World Group playoff.
The visitors had taken a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five match tie when Sofia Arvidsson downed Sloane Stephens 6-4, 4-6, 6-1 on the outdoor hardcourt at Delray Beach Tennis Center. Arvidsson blasted three aces, hammered 28 winners and won 63 percent of her first-serve points in the two-hour match. Stephens, who is ranked 16th in the world, had five double faults, won just 40 percent of her second serves and made 74 unforced errors. However, a rain delay before the second singles was the only thing that could slow Williams’ bid to get the tie back on level terms. The reigning Wimbledon and US Open champion subdued Larsson in 66 minutes, extending her perfect record in Fed Cup singles to 9-0. In Sunday’s reverse singles, Williams will play Arvidsson and Stephens will take on Larsson. The fifth rubber would be a doubles encounter with Arvidsson and Larsson teaming against the American tandem of Venus Williams and Varvara Lepchenko. Serena and her former top-ranked sister Venus are playing Fed Cup together for the first time in 14 months. The US team is trying to avoid relegation to World Group II after losing their 2013 first-round tie 3-2 to Italy in February. A victory over Sweden would keep the Americans back in the World Group for 2014. (AFP)
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APRIL - 2013
Bollywood
Short films don’t work in India: Zoya Akhtar
MUMBAI:
Director Zoya Akhtar believes
that short films that are shown standalone in theatres are unlikely to find takers in the country. Zoya has recently created a 25-minute movie, Bombay Talkies, which is a compilation of four short films that are different in content from each other, celebrating 100 years of Indian cinema. Zoya, who has previously directed movies like Luck By Chance and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, joined forces with Bollywood’s most popular directors including Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap and Dibaker Banerjee to put together Bombay Talkies.
The movie is all set to release on May 3. When asked if its release will open doors for a theatrical culture for short films in India, Zoya said, “I don’t think this will ever happen. There might have been three or four different filmmakers coming together, but as a theatrical concept, individual short films just don’t work [in India].” Bombay Talkies is a 25-minute short movie which is a compilation of four short films. PHOTO : FILE She further added, “You don’t need it [a theatrical release] now. With internet, digital platforms and film festivals, you have so much that you can do. But honestly, I don’t think short films will become a huge theatrical culture.” Zoya, however, is proud that she had the opportunity to collaborate with such experienced directors. “I am the youngest in this lot and I am proud to be sharing the credits
Dutt asks for more time before jail
with them. They are three amazing film-makers. I am actually the least experienced amongst them,” she said while maintaining that Bombay Talkies is a “good package.”
viction and said he must return to prison by April 18, but the 53-year-old has asked for another six months of freedom to complete his filming obligations.
For her part in the film, Zoya worked around a slim budget of INR15 million. Despite that, she managed to pull it off with an actor like Katrina Kaif, who did not charge anything for her role in the movie.
“Please defer my surrender by 180 days as I have work commitments,” his defence counsel Harish Salve, citing a petition filed on Monday, told AFP. The lawyer said the plea was likely to come up for hearing in the Supreme Court on Tuesday. The top court last month sentenced him to five years for possessing firearms supplied by gangland bosses who staged the string of bombings that killed 257 people. The muscular and tattooed Dutt had already served 18 months of his sentence but was released on bail while his case was appealed.
When asked if she had to make a lot of compromises, Zoya said, “Compromises here and there, but not really! I am lucky that I am with producers like Excel Entertainment. They were like, ‘Do whatever, just work within the budget.’ I liked it because it was great exercise [practice] for me.”
NEW DELHI:
Sanjay Dutt has asked India’s
top court for more time before going back to jail for possessing arms supplied by plotters of the deadly 1993 Mumbai blasts, his lawyer said Monday. India’s Supreme Court last month struck down Dutt’s appeal over his con-
Wasim Akram is a friend and will always be one: Sushmita Sen
he wants to devote himself to his children and is not planning to get married anytime soon. “I am really fed up
Psy’s ‘Gentleman’ video smashes YouTube records
with these rumors and speculations made in the media. I decided to take a year off from the Indian Premier League because I wanted to give time to my two sons who are growing up and need their father close to them.”Right now ctress Sushmita Sen and Paki- my entire focus is on spending stani cricketer Wasim Akram rub- quality time with them. There is bished reports suggesting that no plan in my life now to get marthey are planning to tie the knot ried,” Wasim a widower, whose and asked the media to respect wife Huma died in October, 2009 their privacy.Earlier some reports told PTI.”I want to devote my life SEOUL : had stated that the duo are plan- to my sons. ning to get married after seeing angnam Style” star Psy’s I think the media and people each other for a couple of years. new music video had received should not only respect my privaBut the 37-year-old actress took cy but also that of Sushmita who more than 50 million views on to micro-blogging site Twitter is a very graceful and decent lady YouTube by Monday, re-writing to clarify the news, saying she is and a fine human being,” he add- the video-sharing site’s records just good friends with 46-yeared. Sushmita and Akram met on for single-day hits. old Akram.”Hi guys! Been readthe sets of Indian television show The dance video to “Gentleman”, ing about my upcoming wedding ‘Aik Khiladi Aik Haseena’ in 2008. the South Korean singer’s longwith Wasim... Absolute Rubbish. The former Miss Universe, who awaited follow up to “Gangnam Goes to show just how irresponis a single parent to two adopted Style, was only posted on Yousible media can be sometimes. daughters Renee and Alisah, also said she will disclose when she Tube at 9:00 pm (1200 GMT) on Wasim Akram is a friend and will Saturday. always be one!! He has a wonder- gets married. ful lady in his life... Rumours like “My beautiful people... when I In the first 24 hours, it racked up these are uncalled for and disre- find ‘The One’... You’ll be the first around 20 million hits, destroying spectful,” Sushmita said.Akram to know. Benefits of being my the previous record for single-day also denied the rumours saying twitter family!!” views of 8.0 million, set by Cana-
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SHOWBIZ
dian heartthrob Justin Bieber’s “Boyfriend” video in May 2012. Now that record looks set to be stretched again, with the view count about 40 hours after release standing at 51 million. “51million views in 40hours!! My God~!!!” the 35-year-old star exclaimed on his Twitter account. The video shows Psy, wearing his signature sunglasses, dancing at various locations in and around Seoul including a high-end cloth- from classical to jazz to modern ing store, restaurant, swimming pop-rock. The first person to play pool and a library. Indian Classical music on the electric piano, Sami is featured in a documentary recently commissioned by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office amongst the ten most famous names from India and Pakistan, who have influenced Asian culture in the UK over the last fifty years. He is committed to experimenting with new styles and forms rather than be taken hostage by past successes.
Adnan Sami Spectacular Concert after 8 years with new look in Chicago
Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: Adnan Sami staged a live concert on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at Sears Center, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates, Ill. The multi-talented pianist, singer, composer, actor, and musician, also reputed to be the world’s fastest keyboardist, was back in Chicago after eight years with a spectacular new show presented by Combined Oil Company, Live 2U, and Desi Bazaar. Sami mesmerized an enthusiastic crowd of more than 3800 listeners for about 3 hours. British-born 39-year old Sami is of Pakistani origin, currently holds Canadian citizenship, and lives in Mumbai, India. His style merges Asian and Western music styles and instrumentation and ranges
“Punjabdiya Di Battery,” “Nagada,” “Sajh Dhaj Ke,” and “Desi Beat.” Nishma, Aashima, Bansari, and Viraj joined him on stage for their synchronized choreography of “Mauja Hi Mauja.” The four girls then danced to the 2013 favorite “Fevicol Se” (Dabbang 2) that culminated in “Desi Boyz”.
Coming onstage to “Don’s Dialogue” in the background, Kevin Tony made the first moves and froze. Anand Bhatt joined him to a dialogue from “Rowdy Rathod” and performed the second verse. Sami started by singing “Allahu Finally, Khan and Sharma joined Akbar” and showing his virtuos- in to “Race 2’s Dialogue” and all ity on the keyboard. He went on eight performers danced to “Desi to sing the following songs: Meh- Boyz” remixed by DJ Afridi in an booba mehbooba, Dil kya kare, Dil amazingly novel way, and transikeh raha hai, Chain mujhe ab aaye tioning seamlessly into “Gangam na, Sun zara, Roshni kahaan meri, Style” which drove the crowd Mere khuda, Ishq hota nahin, Ek crazy. ajnabee se, Meri baahon main, Kuch lafdaa hai, Udi udi, Ishkan Vandana Walia invited sponsors ishkan ho gaya, Naino se naino ko of the event Sunil Shah and Jasbir mila, Kabhi toh nazar milaao, Yeh Suga of Suga Builders onto the zamin ruk jaaye, Bheegee bheegee stage. A well-known Chicagoland raaton main, and finally brought personality and patron affiliated the curtain down with his famous with the Federation of Indian Associations and New York Life song Lift kara de. Insurance Company, Shah feliciThe evening began with a 13-min- tated the audience for this opporute nonstop performance by the tunity to experience a legend and new young talented group, Yeh credited Karl Kalra, young and Cheez. Guitar-playing Noman dynamic national promoter and Khan danced amidst the crowd CEO of Live 2 U Entertainment, to “Challa” (from movie Jab Tak who drew thunderous applause. Hai Jaan), transitioning to “Avi Avi” (Band Baaja Baraat) as Tanya Shah also recognized the MaySharma joined him on stage to ors of Schaumburg and of Hofffinish with “Second Hand Jawa- man Estates, Al Larson and Wilni” (Cocktail). Nishma Patel then liam McLeod respectively, who sang solo: “Sadi Gali” (Tanu Weds also came up on stage, for their Manu) and Aashima Ghai, closing unswerving support of the Desi with “Chikni Chameli” (Agnee- community in its various secular path). Anand Bhatt entertained and religious activities. Larson with dance moves, stunts, and appealed to residents of Hoffa mix of songs, such as “Pani Da man Estates to support and vote for William McLeod on April 9 as Rang” and “Race 2.” he stands for reelection as Mayor. Khan returned with a two minute Both mayors thanked Sunil Shah medley of “Shahid Kapoor with a and Karl Kalra for having invited hint of Punjabi Tadhka,” which them and expressed their delight started off with “Hadippa,” then at meeting Adnan Sami and lis-
tening to his music with such an enthusiastic crowd of music lovers from their respective townships. After the concert, Sami thanked his musicians: Pawankumar (guitar), Deepak and Vishal (keyboards), Shyamraaj (saxophone), Abdul (flute), Gaurav Chopra and Roosvelt (sound). Stage décor and lighting was managed by Vchilli. Launched in Chicago, the concert tour will take Sami to Houston, New Jersey, Washington DC, Boston, and the Bay Area.
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SHOWBIZ
Nitin Mukesh’s command performance in Dhrishti’s Remembering Mukesh Asian Media USA © Rolling Meadows, IL: A command performance by playback singer and illustrious son of a legendary father, Nitin Mukesh had a capacity crowd in raptures for over four and half hours on Sunday, April 21, 2013 at The Meadows Club, 2950 W Golf Rd Rolling Meadows, IL. The concert titled Remembering Mukesh and presented by Dhrishti at the Meadows Club here was a tribute to the legendary Indian playback singer Mukesh. Nitin Mukesh is his son and an accomplished playback singer himself having sung several very popular numbers in different languages. He was accompanied by singers Manasi Paranjape, Namrata Seth and young second generation local singer Sajni Ganger.
in the film industry and his later day hits from Kabhi Kabhi. Post interval he opened with some soft and soulful numbers Wo Teri Pyar ka Gham and Nayan Hamaare which backed by some incredible lighting and an international quality sound system brought the house down. Mukesh’s incredible association with India’s great showman Raj Kapoor was paid tribute through some magnificent renditions of ageless hits like Jeena yahan, Jaane Kahaan Gaye who Din from Mera Naam Joker and the duet Oh Mere Sanam and Dost Dost Na Raha from Sangam. Manasi Paranjape and young singer who has accompanied Nitin Mukesh on several ours excelled in both her solo numbers and duets with Nitin Mukesh. Namrata Seth, Nitin’s younger sister and the youngest sibling of the legendary Mukesh wooed the audience with her solos of Geeta Dutt and duets with Nitinji. Sajni the young second generation singer from Chicago introduced by Nitin Mukesh wowed the audience with her voice in a duet with Nitin Mukesh. She happens to be the daughter of the national promoter Mayur Ganger who was earlier introduced by Nitin Mukesh.
The program began with an introduction by host Shebani Kulkarni, the co-founder of Dhrishti and The Meadows Club in a beautifully lit and done up grand ballroom with soft lighting and multiple screens for the benefit of the viewers. She spoke about the legend of Mukesh and his journey for over five decades in the industry. She then introduced Nitin Mukesh and his band and the fireworks started immediately. The accompanying seven member Nitin Mukesh, a persona of great band put up a tremendous perforcharm and immense skill started mance and the sounds created by with a shloka and commenced them with limited instruments what can only be termed as a drew accolades by both the singcommand performance for over ers and the audience. The lights four and half hours. Whether ser- and sound extravaganza created enading the audience with Mera by the techs of the Meadows Club, Joota Hai Japani or serenading his Live Entertainment and Tantrixx wife with Chand Si Mehbooba created an ambience which was ho Meri Jaan, he was in his ele- mesmerizing and soothing. Nitin ments as he belted out hit after Mukesh repeatedly commended hit with breathtaking assurance, the local organizers Madan and poise and melody. His periodic Shebani Kulkarni for another forays into the audience during beautifully organized event which the performance gave the viewers Dhrishti is always known for. The a close glimpse of this remarkable organizers presented Nitin Mukeartiste and his ability to connect sh with a shawl during the concert with them, young or old. An era of in recognition of his performanchis legendary father was touched es over the years. It was indeed upon as he sang Dil Jalta Hai to an event which will linger in the jalne de, Mukesh’s very first song memories for a long time.
Playback singer Shamshad Begum passes away
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hen her singing career began, Indian cinema had barely started talking. And by the time it got over, the Golden Age of melody in Hindi films was gone. In a voice that was distinctive — nasal, deep and muscled — ShamshadBegum sang an impressive cache of chartbusters spanning three decades that continue to be heard and hummed even as generations come and go.
number of her smash hits were remixed: starlet Tanushree Dutta gyrated sexily to the reworked rhythms of Saiyan dil mein aana re (film: Bahar, 1951).
“Unki aawaz zordaar thi. Her pronunciation was clear. You could hear every word clearly. She was an extremely versatile singer. And as a person, she was humble and disciplined. She never threw tantrums. You can call me unlucky that I couldn’t work with her,” The Amritsar-born playback sing- says renowned composer Khayyam. er, who passed away on Tuesday after prolonged illness in Mum- Ghulam Haider, Anil Biswas, Sajbai at the age of 94, crooned ever- jad, C Ramchandra, S D Burman green hits such as Mere piya gaye and Shankar-Jaikishan, she sang Rangoon (with Chitalkar, film: for all music maestros in the Patanga, 1949), Saiyan dil mein 1940s and 1950s. But her biggest aana re (film: Bahar, 1951), Leke chartbusters came from Naushad pehla pehla pyaar (with Mohd (Jadoo, Anokhi Ada, Mela, Dulari, Rafi and Asha Bhonsle, film: CID, Mother India, Mughal-e-Azam) 1956), Teri mehfil mein kismet and O P Nayyar (CID, Naya Daur, aazma kar (with Lata Mangeshkar, Kismet). film: Mughal-e-Azam, 1960) and Kajra mohabbatwala (with Asha Shamshad Begum first made her mark singing non-filmi songs for Bhonsle, film: Kismat, 1968). AIR’s Lahore station in 1930s. Her Ask any wedding band master, earliest film hits came with comeven today there’s no better bi- poser Ghulam Haider. “The song, daai song than Pee ke ghar aaj py- Saawan ke nazare hain, from aari dulhaniya chali (film: Mother Khazanchi (1941) became wildly India, 1957) and Chhod babul ka popular,” recalls Khayyam. That ghar mohe pee ke nagar (film: she never sang with K L Saigal reBabul, 1950). A surprisingly high mained an everlasting regret for her.
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APRIL-2013
Health/Horoscope
Yoga is about the mind, body and soul
ers have their own specialised sets that allow for them and their pupils to create the necessary connection,” she adds.
Habib likes to use Sufism in her yoga practices. “Vadanta and Sufism are different practices of the same thing,” says Habib. “My love has always been for the Prophet and my journey is a homage to Based on the concept of him.” With the use of names of Alzikar, Kundalini yoga lah, Habib creates her own manincorporates mysti- tra to follow and brings the myscism and connects it to ticism of Islam to the practice of Sufism. “We basically yoga. “What yoga does is give you take a mantra or a set an experience of God,” enlightens music rhythm and the Habib, “It’s about the experience body utilises the man- and not the physical attributes. I tra or the music into its use qawalli to go into haal and not movement,” she con- only is it soothing and relaxing tinues. but it is also very enjoyable.” Working on the astral LAHORE: part of the body, people usually feel lightheaded-ness and a spirit which is more free. “It ignites the olistic health, by definition, is alternative medicine that keeps energy from the base of the spine in mind psychological, social and and makes it travel upwards, conphysical aspects of people’s needs necting the metaphysical spheres of the whole,” says Habib. The when treating a certain problem. Kundalini method magnetises It is a different approach that suglong-term study of the chickthe body in a deep alpha state and gests that a disease is a result of physical, spiritual, social and en- allows there to be a connection enpox vaccine has found it highly effective after one dose and even vironmental imbalances. Some with the core of the body. more effective after two. examples of holistic approaches Astanja, or the eight limbs of yoga, include herbalism, homeopathy, focuses on self restraint, mental/ Before 1995, when the varicella acupuncture, TCM (Traditional emotional discipline along with vaccine came into widespread use, Chinese Medicine) and ayurveda breathing and meditation. “This chickenpox affected 90 percent of (an ancient approach from India). particular method uses concenAnother wholesome approach tration and pranayam (breathing used to connect the body, mind practices) along with Asnas poses and soul with the core of the to carve out a path towards nirbody is yoga. Recently turned vana,” she says. into a fad and a fashion statement, yoga in its true form is a holistic This preliminary form of yoga is approach connecting the body as all about eating right and thinking a whole. Here we talk to Amna right. “It allows for one to reach a Habib of Arammish Spa who has state of no mind. People are not been practicing yoga for over 25 aware of themselves or their own years and has received extensive surroundings and hence are untraining from India regarding able to connect and utilise their the accurate practice of yoga and minds to its full capacity,” continfter a period of living in the ues Habib. “Time is created by our what it entails. relative backwoods, dear Taurus, lack of awareness and yoga allows you are ready to share yourself “Yoga is one of the most serious you to achieve this state of timewith a bigger audience once cossearches in the world,” begins lessness whereby allowing one to mic bodies begin entering your Habib. “It is the search to find lead to nirvana.” sign, one by one. Venus, the Sun, your true self. We are empty carand Mars all enter Taurus on the Vinyasa Flow or synchronised casses until we don’t know who 15th, 19th, and 20th respectively, we are and that is what real yoga living, creates an interconnection with the soul using mind, and you emerge from a period enables one to do.” body and breath. “Being so aware of withdrawal and emotional reAfter training at the Iyengar insti- of your every breath and every newal. Until then, much is going tute in Puna, India, Habib began movement that one experiences on behind the scenes. You keep her journey to find herself and every moment of life in a differ- your emotional distance and a low profile. Major decision makbring upon other people to par- ent way,” explains Habib. take on this journey to discover This particular method of yoga in- ing may be deferred until you themselves. “There are various cludes different sets of movement feel more confident later in the types of yoga practices and all fo- and breathing exercises such as month. Desires are complex and cus of different discoveries. Some Surya Namaskar. “Various teach- either difficult to fulfill or you of the basic ones are Kundalini, Astanja and Vinyasa Flow,” she reveals.
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Vaccine prevents chickenpox
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the population, leading to thousands of hospitalizations and 100 deaths a year. “Now a very safe vaccine will totally prevent it from happening,” said the lead author, Dr. Roger Baxter, co-director of the Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center in Oakland, Calif. Between June and November 1995, researchers began studying 7,585 children vaccinated between the ages of 1 and 2. The analysis, published online in the journal Pediatrics, found 1,505 cases of chickenpox, all except 30 of which were mild or moderate, involving fewer than 300 lesions. There were no cases among children who received a second dose.
Overview for this Month: Taurus April 2013
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could struggle with whether you should go after them. Private and past matters tend to assume larger importance in your life, particularly around the 10th. From the 20th, you’re more assertive and opportunities that emerge are clearer and more straightforward. Personal magnetism skyrockets now. For single Taureans, romantic opportunities abound. Nevertheless, some relationship hurdles can figure strongly on the 20-22 and then the 28-30 in more serious partnerships. As well, emotions run high around the Lunar Eclipse on the 25th that brings a personal epiphany and relationship drama into your life.
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APRIL- 2013
FASHION
Summer fashion show in karachi april 2013
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NEWS
Bridge Mag International, Urdu Times, Pakistan Abroad and Pakistan Club organized a “Mehfil e Mushaira” in the honor of famous poet, Mr. Ghulam Mustafa Anjum, Mr. Anwar Ali Roomy (Pakistan) and Mr. Shakeel Chougtai Anjum(Germany) in Chicago, Illinois.” An emotional tribute was also paid to the late poet Muneer Uddin Shararr
Report by Jawaid Riaz
T
he Mushaira was presided over by senior poet, Hamid Amrohvi and emceed by Jawaid Riaz. Chaudhry Riaz Recited the Holy Quran. Hamid Amrohvi read the Naate- Rasool (MPH). Prof. Masroor Qureshi introduced the guest’s poets. An emotional tribute was also paid to the late poet Muneer Uddin Shararr by Tahir Farooqui of PC.
In the Mushaira Famous Poets of Chicago Land attended the reception / Mushaira and presented their poetry: Syed Hashmat Sohail, Nazar Naqvi, Wajid Nadeem, Rashid Shaikh, Nadeem Sharafi, Rashid Rahmee, Ghulam Mustafa Anjum, Anwar Ali roomy, Shakeel Chughtai, Waliuddin and Afzal ur Rehman Afsar read and presented their poetry and were appreciated by the crowd. Prominent Businessman and member of Pakistan Club Mohammad Kamran said the words of thank. The mushaira was well organized, prestigious and enjoyed by the attendees and will be remembered. Ch Riaz of Zeenat Banquet served the dinner. Community leaders and activists Hameed Ullah Khan, Producer Program Radio Aay Zindagi, Tauseef Siddiqui, Prominent Businessman Jamil Khan and Ex Member of Parliament Sindh, Wakeel Jamali, General Secretary Pakistan Parade Asif Saleem, also attended the evening.