The Many Faces of Violence

Afghanistan Kandahar Massacre: A rogue soldier killed 16 and wounded at least 9 villagers civilians, men, women and children -March 11, 2012

Oslo Bombings and Utoya Attack, Norway: 77 people were killed in a bombing of a government building in Oslo and a shooting rampage at a youth camp on an island near the capital committed by Anders Behring Breivik -July 22, 2011.

Fort Hood Shooting: 13 people killed and nearly 30 wounded at Fort Hood Texas committed by Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, an army psychiatrist, one of the worst mass shootings ever on an American military base -November 5, 2009

Marriott Hotel Attacks Islamabad, Pakistan: 53 people killed and at least 266 wounded by a suicide bombing on the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, one of the worst acts of terrorism in the history of Pakistan. -September 20, 2008.

Virginia Tech Massacre: Student Cho Seung-Hui killed 32 people and wounded 25 after two shooting attacks before committing suicide at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, the deadliest shooting rampage in American history -April 16, 2007

Benazir Bhutto Assassinated: As a result of gunfire and a suicide blast at a political rally, Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister of Pakistan and the first woman Prime Minister of a Muslim country, was assassinated, 20 others killed and 50 wounded-December 27,2007

Columbine Massacre: 12 students and 1 teacher were killed and 21 students injured by two school shooters who also committed suicide at Columbine High School -April 20, 1999

Oklahoma City Bombing: 168 people killed, including 19 children under age 6, and over 680 injured in a terrorist bomb attack at Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building committed by Timothy McVeigh -April 19, 1995

And

And….

What have all these faces in common? The victims are all innocent people.

What else is common?

It’s disturbed and confused minds unable to think rationally committing such horrendous acts.

Media, special interests and extremists everywhere and anywhere can and will continue to say whatever just to help support their special interests and agendas.

But think about it, does it represent a race, religion or a nation?

The media should have the responsibility to maintain a sense of rationality and honesty because the world peace depends on it.

Let us not be misled. Let us think clearly. Let us be responsible and try to understand so that we do not play in the hands of those who want to create rifts and conflicts. Let us understand so that we can fulfill our roles to make this world a safe and a happy place for all, because we are in it together, one world and one life to live.

-Myra Chaudhary, USA

The Message

“Iqra”, READ. This is the first word of the Quran ^{Surah Al-Alaq 96:1 .}

"Seek knowledge by even going to China, for seeking knowledge is incumbent on every Muslim” ^{Jalal al-Din 'Abd al-Rahman ibn Abi Bakr al-Suyuti, al-Jami al-Saghir min Hadith al-Bashir al-Nadhir(Damascus: Maktabat al-Habuni, n.d.), 1:43 (}In those times travel was extremely hard and going to China was not easy. The Prophet Muhammad used this example to emphasize the importance of learning and literacy.)

“Whosoever kills an innocent human being, it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind.” ^{Quran 5:32}

"You shall have your religion and I shall have my religion" ^{Quran 109:6.}

***

And what have Al Qaeda and Taliban been doing? Burning schools and killing innocent people.

To the misled, the self-proclaimed guardians of faith, no, no this was not the message.

The message was and is very clear, spread the light of knowledge, peace and tolerance.

To the true followers of the faith and of all faiths, the victims of hatred by the ignorant and the misled: Seek knowledge, let there be no confusion and no misunderstandings and understand the enemy. These are the enemies of all faiths and all people including the Muslims, yes the Muslims. In fact these are the real enemies of Muslims. Look around, it is the Muslims they are killing every day in the dozens and hundreds.

You are all in it together. Do not let the enemy divide you. Be united to fight your common enemy. And do it with a sincere and clear goal to protect and preserve life and peace TOGETHER so that no single innocent has to suffer or lose life again, because every life is precious.

Moving back to 1947, quotes from Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of Pakistan:

"Pakistan needs America. America needs Pakistan more than Pakistan needs America...Pakistan is the pivot of the world, as we are placed...(on )the frontier on which the future position of the world revolves" ~ Muhammad Ali Jinnah , ^{interview with Bourke White, Life Magazine 1947}

“Our object should be peace within, and peace without. We want to live peacefully and maintain cordial friendly relations with our immediate neighbors and with the world at large”. ~Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Moving to present times, quotes from Senator John Kerry, Chairman US Senate Foreign Relations Committee:

“The road to peace was never going to be easy. The past year has been especially trying for the U.S.-Pakistan relationship. Despite our many frustrations and setbacks, both sides must remember what is at stake here and that we have more to gain by finding common ground. We have to take a collective deep breath” ~Senator John Kerry ^{NY Times 2011}

“Ultimately, the only way to move the ball forward is to focus on areas where our interests align and where we can really make progress. Our two countries need each other.” ~Senator John Kerry ^{NY Times 2011}

The visionaries of the past and present remind us just how important it is to work together and with real understanding, mutual respect and cooperation. We cannot afford to err on this because the cost of doing so will be too much.

-Myra Chaudhary, USA

LET US STAY UNITED, THAT IS HOW WE HAVE DONE IT AND THAT IS ONLY HOW WE CAN DO IT

The mastermind and symbol of hatred ,death and destruction, the murderer of thousands of peace loving people from all faiths, nationalities and races has been eliminated.

Yes, it is a big achievement and the closure of a big and an important chapter but it is just a chapter in a long and a very difficult book that we must finish.

All this could not have been possible without determination , a lot of collaboration and cooperation. It is with the same spirit of unity, faith, discipline and cooperation across the world that we need to move forward.

And I quote President Barak Obama:

“ It’s important to note that our counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan helped lead us to bin Laden and the compound where he was hiding. Indeed, bin Laden had declared war against Pakistan as well, and ordered attacks against the Pakistani people.

Tonight, I called President Zardari, and my team has also spoken with their Pakistani counterparts. They agree that this is a good and historic day for both of our nations. And going forward, it is essential that Pakistan continue to join us in the fight against al Qaeda and its affiliates.”

We need to understand and remember always that Osama Bin Laden was a friend of no one. He wanted to divide the world and wanted the world to believe that he was a Muslim, yet a vast majority of his victims were Muslims all over the world. It is a day of some satisfaction for everyone everywhere in the world, but particularly it should be more so for Muslims all over the world because he was truly their enemy number one.

And I quote President Barak Obama:

“As we do, we must also reaffirm that the United States is not –- and never will be -– at war with Islam. I’ve made clear, just as President Bush did shortly after 9/11, that our war is not against Islam. Bin Laden was not a Muslim leader; he was a mass murderer of Muslims. Indeed, al Qaeda has slaughtered scores of Muslims in many countries, including our own. So his demise should be welcomed by all who believe in peace and human dignity. ”

And I quote Secretary of State Hilary Clinton:

“First, I want to offer my thoughts and prayers to the thousands of families whose loved ones were killed in Usama bin Ladin’s campaign of terror and violence, from the embassy bombings in Africa, to the strike on the U.S.S. Cole, to the attacks of September 11, 2001, and so many more. These were not just attacks against Americans, although we suffered grievous losses; these were attacks against the whole world. In London and Madrid, Bali, Istanbul, and many other places, innocent people – most of them Muslims – were targeted in markets and mosques, in subway stations, and on airplanes, each attack motivated by a violent ideology that holds no value for human life or regard for human dignity. I know that nothing can make up for the loss of the victims or fill the voids they left, but I hope their families can now find some comfort in the fact that justice has been served.”

It will serve us a lot of good if we are mindful of the fact that the breeding grounds need our attention. It will be very helpful if we have long term strategies to address the pressing need for reformed education and provision of basic human opportunities for the very vulnerable in the impoverished areas especially in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

We Americans have every reason to feel proud as a nation. Let us pledge that we will always stand united as one peace loving nation without regard to race, religion or color.

-Myra Chaudhary, USA

It is a Test of Our Wisdom

The last article I wrote about Pakistan was “Pakistan Deluged”. Then it was the rain and floods.This time it is a political storm.

Let us not underestimate the dangers here. The whole region is volatile and the situation there is very unstable. Also let us not forget that we are allies. And let us remember we have come a long way and need very much to continue working together as allies in this common struggle against extremism and terrorism.

It is a very unfortunate incident. Let us be very careful and not stir anything. The extremists are looking and waiting for an opportunity. Let the wisdom prevail, otherwise there could be a tsunami. We cannot afford to repeat history when the Shah of Iran was replaced by Khomeini. That was pretty bad but this would be worse because it is a nuclear state.

Any issues that have to be dealt with and resolved need to be done with calm and cool diplomacy outside the eyes of the camera and without rushing or pushing too much.

If we do not the only beneficiaries and winners in this scenario are going to be the extremists, and everybody else including the government of Pakistan, the people of Pakistan, the United States of America and the world at large will be at a big loss.

Let us all cool down and think how to handle this. It should be possible to find ways to resolve all issues by working together.

-Myra Chaudhary, USA

Pakistan Deluged

As if they had not had enough, now six million people are victims of very severe floods in Pakistan. This is the worst monsoon season the country has had in over 80 years and a lot of it is where it has not happened before.

WE CANNOT IGNORE THIS. Millions have been displaced and thousands have died. A very sad and a serious humanitarian crisis. It is not just that, most of the floods are in the northern areas, the frontlines that have been suffering at the hands of terrorists. The challenges in these areas were enormous to begin with. The devastation of the floods has multiplied it many times over. It has huge geopolitical and security implications. This is the frontline of our fight against extremism and terrorism. It is important to deal with it promptly and help the people in the affected areas and ensure that they get settled back in their lives and are not left at the mercy of extremists. We need to remember history and not repeat the same mistakes that we made when we ignored Afghanistan and we can see we continue to suffer till this day.

There is another very important lesson to be learnt here and it should not take the IQ of a genius. Look and you will see the so called guardians of faith are attacking and killing the innocent people trapped in the waters. Yes the terrorists are killing people and these are Muslims being killed every where. Let us think for a moment. When we use a broad brush and paint a picture of Islamic terrorists we are not only doing injustice but committing a huge strategic blunder. Our statements, our media and our approach has helped no one but the terrorists. Let us try to understand, the victims of terrorism really are the hundreds and hundreds of millions of Muslims who are the targets of extremists everywhere. They actually are on our side and need our support. It is no wisdom to put them on the wrong side and weaken our own ranks. So let us use a little wisdom and stop doing what the terrorists wish and want us to do.

It will take too much to detail the list of destruction, suffice to say devastation is on a major scale. All kinds of help and money is essential at this time. Nothing can be done without it. The UN High Commissioner has reported that as much as $150 million to $200 million or more may be needed. There are immediate needs and longer term needs and issues. What will also be needed is good planning, honesty and management to ensure that help gets where it is needed.

Someone will have to do something. Don’t wait for the politicians though because it is not going to be them. They are too busy and yes they won’t have any time left–all their time and energy will be spent finger pointing and just fighting with each other. Can some one tell them, this is not going to stop the floods or feed the hungry and the homeless now. There is a better way to stand out from the crowd and it is by offering real solutions. Any one who tries that is really really going to stand out, and this would actually be a better way to get into the high office also which they are all after. People are really suffering and desperately need help. Could everybody please get back to real work?

It is not enough to hang that picture in the big offices. It will help more to remember and follow the words of the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah: “My message to you all is of hope, courage, and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with grim determination and discipline worth of a great nation” Failure was a word that was unknown to Jinnah. For the sake of humanity and global security we cannot afford to fail.

Let us do what we can and let us give what we can. It will all add up and make a difference.

-Myra Chaudhary

See a BBC map of the intensity of the flood devastation and other ways to help raise money and learn more below: Let us not be silent. Let us work together and make this world a better place. Let us bring up the important issues, share ideas and comments.

A way to help: State Department Text Message Campaign

Text S-W-A-T to 50555 for a $10 contribution to the UN High Commission for Refugees for tents, cloths, food, clean water, medicine, and other relief assistance.

For more information see the State Department, US Agency for International Development (USAID), United Nations. , also PakPac Links: US, International,& Pakistani Charities

Some examples of relief assistance so far:

According to USAID the US government has pledged $35 million including $15 million from USAID Office of Food For Peace for wheat and peas to the UN World Food Program and $10 Million to support NGO’s implementation of humanitarian programs.$10 Million from USAID/Pakistan has been offered for grants to local NGO’s for emergency relief, safe drinking water, preventative healthcare. Several other countries including China, UK, France and others have promised to provide assistance as well. Another $18 million are from the UN. So far about $12,000 has been raised by the State Department Text Message Campaign.

An Ideology of Peace

What a misfortune when a small number is able to damage global peace, security, and stability.

There are nearly 7 billion people in the world coming from 195 different countries. A vast majority of these millions and billions of people are peace loving and want to live their lives in peace. With such large numbers, we are certainly not outnumbered. Then why do we let a very small minority destroy the peace?

It is vital to understand what really is going on.

How do you learn though? Most of our information depends on the media. Unfortunately most of the media all over the world likes to sensationalize everything and capitalize on stories for their own reasons. Some causes are way too important and the media needs to realize their responsibility for the peace and stability of the only world we have and the one they share too.

There really are only two kinds of people in the world: good and bad. The vast majority of the people in the world are good people. And it has nothing to do with religion, race, or nationality.

Don’t expect or wait for the extremists to learn tolerance. Greater understanding and tolerance for different cultures, religions, and people is actually needed more amongst the peace loving majority. If we understand we will be united and we will stand as one and become a wall against all evil minded people.

For our own sake and for the sake of the peace of our world it will be wise to stop associating any misguided people with any race, religion or nationality. Because when we do so we cut away from our very own ranks the millions and sometimes billions who actually are on our side——-Exactly what our enemies want us to do.

This job is not just for the governments. We all have to smarten up and help. Now is the hour for us to support our world. Let us not just sit aside. Let us all do our part.

E PLURIBUS UNUM;

Latin for ”Out of many, one “. These beautiful words placed on the Seal of the United States of America in 1776 the secret of our strength and stability. The idea that 13 separate and divided colonies could become one nation based on respect, peace , tolerance, justice, and freedom among other things is incredibly powerful. These symbols are what I admire most about America. May these wise words inspire all the peace loving people of the world!

The world is calling us for help. Will we, will you support your world or give up on it? With better understanding and tolerance we can strengthen our ranks.

Let us not be silent, let us all work together to make the world a better place! Let there be peace, respect, tolerance and understanding.

-Myra Chaudhary
Myra is a master’s student at Brandeis University International Business School focusing on International Economic Policy.

In Pursuit Of Peace For This One World We All Live In and Share, Our World Our Home

“Whosoever kills an innocent human being, it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind.”
(Quran 5:32)

“Seek peace, and pursue it.”
(Bible Psalms 34:14)

“Do naught to others which if done to thee would cause thee pain.”
(Hindu Mahabharata 5.1517)

“I am committed to cultivating compassion and learning ways to protect the lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to condone any act of killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life”
(Five Mindfulness Trainings of Buddhism)

You shall not murder.”
(God’s Revelation in the Jewish Old Testament)

13 people killed, 29 wounded at Fort Hood Texas. Who could have expected that? How sad and heartbreaking.

Terrorism is such a global issue — victims everywhere and from every religion.Yes, NO religion teaches what the terrorists are doing. Terrorists could not and do not have a religion. If we really want to defeat theses terrorists it is very important to understand and remember that they represent no religion at all. It is the terrorists who want us to believe otherwise because that is what really helps them in their own motives and agendas. Once we understand and grasp this important fact we will realize how outnumbered these terrorists actually are.

It is not the time for pointing fingers and causing divisions to help the terrorists. The solution to this problem could not be without a fully collaborated global effort from peace loving people of all religions and nations. This is the time to come together and eradicate this menace. Together we can do it.

Can we afford not to? Can we, can you afford to just sit on the side? Can we afford to stay silent? What do you say?

Let us not be silent, Let us make the world a better place! Your opinion matters immensely. Make your voice heard.

-Myra Chaudhary

Pakistan at a Crossroads 2

101 innocent people, mostly women and children have been killed in a single blast by a suicide bomber in a market in Peshawar, Pakistan .

What message does it send?

Does it make you want to say anything or do something?

Or are you going to be a silent bystander?

Let us not be silent, Let us make the world a better place! Please comment. Your opinion matters. Make your voice heard.

-Myra Chaudhary

Pakistan at a Crossroads

Pakistan is at a Crossroads. What happens in Pakistan affects the entire South Asia region and the world at large.

Considering that 60 percent of the population in Pakistan is under 24 what do you think is the most effective way to lead the youth in the right and positive direction. And in your opinion what would be the most effective way to address the issue of extremism?

Let us not be silent, Let us make the world a better place! Please comment. Your opinion matters. Make your voice heard.

-Myra Chaudhary

A Dream For Peace Within Pakistan

Reflections on Democracy

http://thehoot.net/articles/6124

By Myra Chaudhary
April 3, 2009
Section: Arts, Etc.

The first time I met Benazir Bhutto is a wonderful memory that I can never forget. She was the first ever woman prime minister of a Muslim country. And what a lovely New England autumn day it was. I fondly remember how she looked at the blue sky and the red-orange leaves and said “this is my version of heaven on earth.” While that day will always be incredibly special to me, what she symbolized is even more important: hope, courage, and determination. Benazir was a great source of inspiration. Like so many others I was devastated to see her go. What a terrible loss! I still cannot bear to think of that tragic day in December when she was assassinated.

Benazir is gone but her message to never lose hope will live on. She never gave up her struggle for democracy in Pakistan. Her book, “Daughter of Destiny,” is a powerful reminder of the significance of the need for democracy. This principle truly is the most beautiful and wonderful thing about America. The best example of this is when Benazir says, “America, it was in America that I had experienced democracy for the first time, and where I had spent four of the happiest years of my life.”

In her book, Benazir often pointed out examples when people from different parties came together to fight for democracy. Given the current state of affairs in Pakistan, now more than ever this is a time for unity, not division. It is a time to move forwards, not backwards. All party differences and political affiliations need to be forgotten. Things are very difficult and times are not good. It is very important to set aside the differences at all levels of society and government and move on as one, before it is too late. Most importantly this is not a time for blame or fights. In the words of Gandhi, “an eye for an eye only makes the whole world blind.”

Now more than ever, Pakistan needs to work with the world, and the world needs to work with Pakistan. India and Pakistan need to work together. There is too much in common and too much is at stake here. Their destinies are tied together. They cannot afford not to be friends. Understand that there are extremists on all sides who do not want them to be friends. They do not belong to any religion. And they should not be allowed to destroy the peace and prosperity of the region. People have struggled and suffered far too long.

“Our object should be peace within, and peace without. We want to live peacefully and maintain cordial, friendly relations with our immediate neighbors and with the world at large.” These wise words were spoken long ago by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan, and they should not be forgotten, especially now. The most important goal is peace within, without which nothing will ever be possible. For as long as the people remain divided, they only will be hurting themselves and going in circles. One cannot expect total agreement in everything, which makes it essential that we learn to disagree peacefully.Violence and anger never have and never will solve any problems.

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.” How true. And how tragic that a nation of 160 million people, a vast majority of whom are moderate, peace -loving people, lets such a small minority destroy their country! Pakistan has always been one of the most progressive Muslim countries in the world. It is essential to keep it that way. No compromises should be made with the people who are determined to destroy this country. People who are destroying schools are destroying the hope and possibilities for the future, and that should not be permitted.

What is the silent majority doing? Where have they gone? This silence must end now. Oh, peace loving people, wake up, wake up, please wake up. Don’t be silent any longer and don’t sit on the sidelines! Come out of your sleep. Do something but don’t throw stones and do not yell at each other. Write and speak peacefully.

Someone once told me that hope is more powerful than love. Without hope, everything would be hopeless. The opposite of hope is despair and impossibility. It would be foolish to lose hope and live in a world of impossibility. We should create a world where children can continue to have hope and dream for a better future. Together we can change the world. Let’s start now.

Write on a forum of hope: aforumofhope.blogspot.com

A Forum of Hope

The freedom to speak freely and share one’s ideas is a beautiful thing, something that I will always love about my home, America. Little could I have imagined what a few short articles could do, or how powerful a few words could be. Last summer, my assignment for Senator Kerry was to write an article about Pakistan. One article, “Hope within Pakistan,” unexpectedly turned into a blog series about critical issues within South Asia. It was truly an honor to write the articles, and it is something I started with a great deal of hope and dedication. Because of my Pakistani-American heritage, I felt compelled to share my understanding of this vital region. But the best part is that it sparked an energetic discussion among many different people from all over the world. In inspiration from the initial articles and all the people who shared their ideas, I have created a blog website called A Forum of Hope ( aforumofhope.blogspot.com).

It is my sincere belief that any goodthought or idea can make a difference in the world. Out of this entire experience, the greatest lesson I have learned is not to be silent and to always have hope. Discussion is also the first step to solving global problems. A Forum of Hope was created in the hopes that it will give the silent people all over the world a voice as well as an outlet through which to share their ideas. The blog itself is dedicated to the ideals of awareness, understanding, tolerance, compassion, peace, and love. It is also dedicated to raising hope, revealing similarities, and promoting understanding regarding the differences between people all over the world. Much of the focus will be on South Asia, because I believe that it is a critical region for the United States and the world at large. But this is a global forum on issues that all people can relate to and comment on, such as education, economic development, social issues, anthropology, globalization and politics.

My largest source of inspiration for A Forum of Hope is a Persian Proverb from Greg Mortensen’s book, “Three Cups of Tea,” “When it is dark you can see the stars”. Even when things appear to be difficult ,there should always be hope. We have to keep it alive . As the new generation, we must help move the world into the light and out of the darkness. It is extremely important for young people to share their opinions. Together we can preserve the true beauty of the world and its people. Things may seem difficult and it is important to be realistic, but I would like to remind us all of the words of Louis Brandeis, “Most of the things worth doing in the world had been declared impossible before they were done.” Why shouldn’t we continue to hope or strive for our dreams?

Anyone can make a difference no matter age. Some wondered what a young girl could possibly know about serious issues going on in a country like Pakistan. Others disagreed and said that children are the hope of the future. I am grateful to those of you that believed one girl could make a difference and discover her dreams. And I am only filled with a greater desire to help more children achieve their dreams. What could a child even know? My answer is, a lot. So many young bright minds are waiting to be discovered, and there is so much potential in the world. Wonderful things can happen if this is accompanied with the necessary support and encouragement. It is up to all of us to create a world where all children have the opportunity to hope and follow their dreams.

Recently, on the New York Times website, I saw the video of a little girl in Swat, Pakistan who was crying because she couldn’t go to school to become a doctor. It is completely heartbreaking to see that girls’ dreams shattered. So many others like her in that area can’t go to school now. No child should ever have to cry because she or he can’t achieve her dreams. We must not let more children loose their dreams. Hope is a powerful force, but like a glass it can easily become shattered. Everyone must work together so that the hope does not shatter.

This may still seem like a difficult task and we may not always agree in our ideas. But if we don’t try to understand and learn from one another then no problems would be solved. The best of ideas can come from the most unexpected places. It may seem like we are too different to ever agree, but in words of Albert Einstein, “All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.” When we look closely and try to learn and understand other cultures, we find how similar we all are and how similar our basic desires and emotions are. That is the essence of our life at Brandeis and in America: different cultures, people, religions–Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, and countless others–coming together to peacefully share their ideas. If we focus on the similarities, the differences will fade away.

May hope and peace always live on. May those branches Einstein spoke of always flourish and bring us closer together globally. This article is dedicated to the beautiful children who are the future of the world. Special thanks to the new members of A Forum of Hope.

Please see A Forum of Hope at aforumofhope.blogspot.com. Coming soon will be writing from other people and students.Please share your comments and ideas. Together we truly can make a positive difference.

Magic Within South Asia

By Myra Chaudhary
November 21, 2008
Section: Arts, Etc.

The remarkable thing about Mela is people from eight different countries—Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan–come together as South Asians to create a beautiful illustration of their culture, the masterpiece that we know as Mela. As a Pakistani- American and a South Asian, I could honestly never get tired of watching this thrilling show. It makes you feel like you are in South Asia with out even leaving Brandeis. This show is definitely worth seeing and always a magical experience.

Words could never do justice to the beauty of South Asia and many of its people. It is a region of the world that will always hold a special place in my heart. Mela is full of energy and excitement and a representation of this enchanting beauty within South Asia. It is a dazzling display of lights, colors, song, dance, poetry, jewelry, music, food, fashion, and so much more!

So lovely is the sound of the poetic, fluid languages and the music filled with beautiful rhythms, emotions, and energy—all about love, happiness and friendship.

The sound of pianos, flutes, violins, drums, guitars, sitars, tablas, dholkis, and harmoniums create the most magical melodies. The very beautiful classical dance—with foot and hand movements and gestures that flow gracefully with the music and translate into so many different emotions all flowing like water—is one with music.

The dancing spreads a happy energy that becomes contagious, allowing even the most unwilling of dancers to have a thrilling time. The culture is a vibrant celebration of life, love, joy, and happiness.

Mela is a lovely illustration of the joy of being South Asian and this vibrant culture which is so much a part of our lives at SASA. Like a patchwork quilt we are all different, but we come together as one to produce something completely amazing. And this is the essence of the Mela that we must always love.

South Asia itself is made up of many different people representing a number of religions including Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Sikhs, and others. So many different languages are spoken: English, Hindi, Urdu, Kannada, Pashto, Balochi, Punjabi, Sindhi, Marathi, Guajarati, Nepalese, Sinhalese, Sanskrit, Dhivehi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, and the list could really go on forever. Languages may be modified or change completely but the power and message of these words will live on in a very special way.

Whatever language one may speak or country one may be from, the people of South Asian share a fascination with the arts, poetry, literature, dance, drama, music. Even as we move forward, these precious gifts and treasures continue to be important elements of the culture. While Mela may just last one evening, the immense passion and enthusiasm will be in the hearts and everyday lives of South Asians. Whatever happens, the love will always survive.

The different voices and ideas of all the students combine to produce all the separate acts intertwined by a common theme of rediscovering our roots. It is possible to embrace one’s roots and simultaneously adopt elements of new cultures in a very creative and seamless manner. Being open to new ideas is the very thing that allows us to move forward. This idea of blending elements is not new to South Asia, which has ancient Indus, Turkish, Persian, Arab, Chinese, and Aryan influences constantly shaping and reshaping our conceptions of culture.

Mela is a mix of the new and old, traditional and modern, exotic and familiar, just like our heritages. You really have to be there to get a full idea. Discovering the voice and rhythm within us and never letting it fade away is the true essence of our heritage. It is reminder that once you discover your true passion or talent, you must never let it go to waste. You may be surprised what you discover along the way.

The best thing about Mela is being able to share our heritage with all of Brandeis. Every single country has its own wonderful qualities, and there could never be enough hours to fully explore all of the magical treasures with South Asia. It’s simply wonderful!

Equally wonderful are the special students behind the show. Everyone works hard to make the show special, spending an entire semester planning and practicing. It is easy to see how much they care about their culture and love what they are doing. Mela would not be possible without the earnest devotion of every single member of SASA.

This article is a tribute to the special people within South Asia and all those who make Mela possible at Brandeis.

May that lovely spirit that brought us here always live on and continue to be a source of beautiful hope and pride.

Images of Pakistan reveal a land of beauty-Brandeis Hoot

Images Of Pakistan on Flickr

Wonderful Views

All It Takes Is A Cup of Tea

All It Takes Is A Cup of Tea: Published on The Central Asia Institute Website

Looking Back in Pakistan in Order to Look Ahead

A Message of Hope and Determination August 12, 2008

Women of Pakistan

Women of Pakistan July 28, 2008

Education and Poverty In Pakistan

Education and Poverty in Pakistan July 13, 2008

Hope Within Pakistan

Hope Within Pakistan July 5, 2008

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