The closest that i have been to Pakistan is to the borders separating both the countries. First experience was staying at the Air Force Station Bhuj, and the other was at Rajasansi, Amritsar. From the remote abode of the IAF in Bhuj, we could tune into the radio station of Karachi. It used to be a thrilling experience of feeling entertained in those days. Though today the same goes to the Syamvar of Veena Mallik.
From Rajasansi, about 20 kms ahead there is the Wagah Border. I have always been enthralled with that place. I am sure even a small time gangster of Daud Ibrahim mafia gang would also feel patriotic at that place. That is the magic of that place.
Though both these places are to be felt in physical form, but I do keep on experiencing little ways and means of being in our estranged neighbourhood through reading books related to that geography. My major source has been books by my favourite writer Mr. Khushwant Singh. Apart from his writing, I have also read "Difficult Daughters" by Ms. Manju Kapoor; "Islamisation of Pakistan" by Mr. Afzal Iqbal; "The Heart Divided" by Ms. Shahnawaz; "Blasphemy" by Ms. Tehmina Durrani and the most recent one "A Case of Exploding Mangoes" by Mr. Mohammaed Hanif.
I have always been fascinated with the place. I have read numerous descriptions of the wonderful scenic natural beauty in Pakistan countryside that make me want to visit the place at least once in my life time. Do not know when that day be, but I am happy I will be getting to see and listen to Mr. Hanif in few days from now.
Meet you Mr. Hanif at the Jaipur Literature Festival. Will blog on your book tomorrow if I get time.
From Rajasansi, about 20 kms ahead there is the Wagah Border. I have always been enthralled with that place. I am sure even a small time gangster of Daud Ibrahim mafia gang would also feel patriotic at that place. That is the magic of that place.
Though both these places are to be felt in physical form, but I do keep on experiencing little ways and means of being in our estranged neighbourhood through reading books related to that geography. My major source has been books by my favourite writer Mr. Khushwant Singh. Apart from his writing, I have also read "Difficult Daughters" by Ms. Manju Kapoor; "Islamisation of Pakistan" by Mr. Afzal Iqbal; "The Heart Divided" by Ms. Shahnawaz; "Blasphemy" by Ms. Tehmina Durrani and the most recent one "A Case of Exploding Mangoes" by Mr. Mohammaed Hanif.
I have always been fascinated with the place. I have read numerous descriptions of the wonderful scenic natural beauty in Pakistan countryside that make me want to visit the place at least once in my life time. Do not know when that day be, but I am happy I will be getting to see and listen to Mr. Hanif in few days from now.
