Political Peace between Pakistan and India

Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder of Art and Living Came to Pakistan on his three day visit to promote peace and goodwill and also to promote his foundation that deals with stress reducing techniques, reducing individual violence and societal problems etc.

We as Pakistanis appreciate his idea and efforts that he came to Pakistan to spread a good message about peace and harmony but I feel it was more of his advertising campaign for his foundation.  The art and living foundation was formed in 1989 in Germany and America with headquarters in Bangalore, India. It is one of the largest volunteer sources in the world.

It  is true that it is important to spread love between the both countries but it will all be futile unless important issues that are spoiling the relationship are not dealt with.

1)      Kashmir issue

2)      India’s interference in Afghanistan

3)      India’s violation regarding water accords for instance Baghliar-1 dam has disrupted the flow of Chenab River in Pakistan and also stopping the flow of water. Clearly violating international laws.

4)      Constant accusation by India regarding the Mumbai Attacks in 2008

5)      On the other hand Pakistan blames India for funding the terrorists in the country and backing up separatists in Baluchistan

Unless the leaders of the both countries do not plan out a proper strategy this aman ki aasha, making singers and spiritual leaders go from one country to another will not help. Pakistan is free country and you cannot blame it to be discrinmative towards Hindus. We are taught to safeguard the right of minorities but this issue is not religious. Its political and out to be solved politically.

It is very important that south Asia should have the same peace and goodwill like they have it in the west. Global harmony can only be attained that way.  Unless the core issues are not treated, such peace steps that talk about cultural mergers, media collaborations can not work.

Bicycle - My Friend

I happend to read a letter to editor in one of the popular newspapers today which made me kind of shocked and amused at the same time.

There was this article that talked about Afghanistan and how important it was that the global leaders try to help establish a friendly government in Afghanistan. I was just done reading that when I happen to read this news line that was talking about the importance of a bicycle.

It’s so weird that now the only bicycles I see are carrying milk churns but I may be wrong because a lot of milkmen here in Pakistan deliver on bikes. Its fast and quick. But Since Mom believed that they mix water with milk so she converted to the all packed milks available in the stores.

I remember that back in the childhood it was a dream to own a bicycle and explore outdoors but children of this generation would prefer buying a bike or a PlayStation instead of wasting time learning how to ride a bicycle. It was very hard to ride on the proper bicycle so I always preferred ones with two small wheels to assist the back wheel.

Also it is believed that if poor nations invest on buying bicycles. Heavy percentage of poverty can be eradicated from the face of the country but I think Pakistani government is a little busy with its own political issues that it would be a miracle if they pay attention to Poverty. Poverty that is Increasing. Food Prices are swelling like anything, ( 79% in 4 years – Dawn News)  even the basic lentils are out of reach for the poor class.

Developed countries like United states, Europe, Italy and Australia etc have Cycling tours that not only give the people an opportunity to explore the nature by themselves but have a good physical exercise. Having a bicycle gives you empowerment. It makes you feel free.

Sitting in cars has made us forget how it feels like to have cool wind hitting your face.

China has the largest fleet of Bicycles today and we can see their close association with bicycles throughout history but they too are forgoing and moving to automobiles. Yes this world is faster and needs hi tech based goods but its just so sad that you have to let go bicycles that were once so important.