Bazaar of Peshawar, Pakistan
via cricrich
A career in rock ’n’ roll might not be a conventional – or easy – choice for young Pakistanis, but despite the militant insurgency and social difficulties, aspiring musicians are finding ways to keep an alternative music scene alive.
Made in Pakistan (documentary) - Promo
previously discussed, here.
Children enjoy the ride on a decorated camel on the second day of Eidul Azha in Karachi on November 29, 2009. Muslims across the world celebrate the annual festival of Eidul Azha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, which marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah and commemorates Prophet Abraham’s readiness to sacrifice his son to show obedience to God. — AFP Photo/Rizwan Tabassum
“Propelled by a cover story in Newsweek in Oct 2007 labeling Pakistan, “the most dangerous place in the world”, ‘Made in Pakistan’ seeks to dispel the prevailing perceptions of Pakistanis in the West.
Set against the backdrop of the declaration of a state of emergency it aims at projecting a multifaceted society where politics, fashion, religion, law and tradition intersect by following the lives of four working professionals.
- Rabia Aamir: working mother and journalist
- Waleed Khalid: religious, articulate and secular lawyer
- Tara Mahmood: event and PR manager
- Mohsin Warraich: aspiring politician
At the outset the film does beg the obvious question about the decision to follow the lives of an obviously priveleged class of individuals. According to Executive Producer, Ayesha Khan, this was an educated decision since target audiences in the West would be more inclined to identify with them.
The subjects deserve kudos for their veracity and openness sans ‘schmaltz’, especially in light of the trajectory of events. Director Khan’s focus is keen. He does not attempt to break down political reality nor does he present a call to action.
If one can set aside the question, “Why does a western perception matter so much?” what you get is a tasteful chronicling of everyday lives of young urban people as a means to initiating discussion.
“Made in Pakistan” is the first documentary ever to be released theatrically in Pakistan, with a release to follow soon in the UK, courtesy of Mara Pictures (www.marapictures.com). For now, it is a favorite on the festival circuit, with the Cancun and Mumbai festivals up next.” (source / mzreport)
via dhool
A girl standing between members of Lashkar looks on near the entrance of a house where relief supplies are being distributed.
Government-backed Pakistani tribesmen have banded together to battle al Qaeda and Taliban militants close to the Afghan border, and play a key role in preserving the peace and maintaining gains made in a Pakistani military offensive, according to analysts. – AP photo
