TheNation

March 25, 2012

| Rendezvous |

50 things you

HSY
want to know about

| interview |
Cheering young
musicians
| special report |

waziristan
BUILD BETTER THAN BEFORE

| interview |
hoarding
artists
Turn to smaller canvases

STYLE | TRENDS | BOOKS | INTERVIEWS | art | q&A | SOCIETY

inside this week
March 25, 2012

08. Fashion
The King of Couture HSY talks about his
craftsmanship and his lawn collection

14. music
In conversation with the band mem-
bers of XXI (21)
34
spot on!
18. interview
Meet the hoarding artist who have
evolved from painting billboards
Editor’s note
We are back with another exciting
08. fashion
50 things you want to know about HSY 12. music
Cheering young musicians

issue of your very own Sunday Plus.

This week we are in conversation
with king of couture HSY about his
craftsmenship and his lawn line
that is all the rage among women.
Uth Records programme is creating
ripples in the music industry. This
week meet members of underground
band XXI (21) Moheetul Islam and
Mohammad Taimoor and Yahya
Farid. Art of paintings billboards
has been lost. Learn how hoarding
artists have evolved that art to paint
portraits and landscapes. Waziristan
is propagated by western media as
the most dangerous place on earth. In
our special report find out the reality
about the situation wherein peace has
returned and now it is being rebuilt
better than before. And don’t forget
40
to read the blog of top beautician
Ruby Hassan, who gives beauty tips 26. Special Report
exclusively for you. On our style pages We discover the dawn and revival of
see the latest collection of popular Waziristan
brand Chinyere. Also don’t forget to
check your astrological forecast and
the best picks of the season.
34. Style
Send us your comments and Chinyere unveils its Spring/Summer
feedback at splus@nation.com.pk collection 2012

40. Society
Report on the happenings and
events in your metropolis 24
TheNation
Sunday plus 57. blog
Editor-in-Chief
Beautician Ruby Hassan gives you
Majid Nizami beauty tips
Deputy Managing Director
Rameeza Nizami
Editor The Nation
58. Right off the shelf
Salim Bokhari
Read reviews of the latest books to hit
the stands
Editor Magazine:
Emanuel Sarfraz
Editorial Staff:
62. Picks of the week
Bishakha Khadka Kunwar, Go through the smart wish-list for the
Madiha Syedain, Sadaf Pervez & best buys and best picks for everyone
Navirah Zafar
Creative Head:
Faiz-ur-Rehman 26 18
Creative Team:
Talat Mahfooz Butt,
Shoaib Qadir, Faisal Fazal,
Hafiz Muhammad Nouman

16
GM Marketing:
Bilal Mahmood
For advertising:
Muhammad Zaeem: 0301 - 8463306
Salman Ahmed: 0300 - 4116792
Khalid Sheikh: 0345-5130728
Shiraz Akbar: 0333 - 2310851
08 Fashion By Bishakha Kunwar

50
r Yasin
ssan Sheherya
en Ha
decade ago wh
a
ore than
It was m

gs you ow
in
th ant to kn
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a tt ders ta ts a m a adult
that are in ly in his un f the Eastern cu ollections are un ke his shows
s m a o c
cess lie a blend uture to ma s
h is U S P lies in n s ib il it ie s. His co
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and s te rn s e a v e s n a u d ie n c g iv in g
and We an le the ns
Eastern n e g la m our. Hass igns, runways or chic on HSY gow
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ffi li a te of La C o f d ire ctors o b e rs o f the PF e Ahlan
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is also a n d is also one n e r o f th e Yea
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e re c ip ien a w a rd s2 s h io n Icon
th tyle h Fa
and Lifes , the Most Stylis
Fashion a la ysia
in M
in 2007

20 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 Fashion
just a
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day, HS
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us labe
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design the te d “Th ng
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L a s t y h is S Y
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know fea
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bro two colo toppable
regal em s in 14 designs in lawn, HSY’s uns ress us and
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print opti dal, pret, couture ns never fail to im raftsman-
Be it b ri ll e cti o a n d c
ant co tions
a ti v it y, extravag incredible innova
cre his
lus loves
Sunday P
ship.

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 09

 1. What is your creative process like?
HSY: The creative process is very fluid
2. You are perceived as having a strong signature. What are the
signature HSY design elements that define your collections?
HSY: Glamorous, linear, timeless elegant and clean
3. Do you design with any particular woman in mind? Who is the
ideal HSY woman?
HSY: The ideal woman is a free thinking, strong and independent
woman
4. What were the main highlights of last year in both your pret and
bridal collections and what should we be looking forward for this
year?
HSY: Every single time we do a show, I like the elements of surprise
and I wouldn’t want to ruin it now.
5. What made you focus on lawn last year and how was the re-
sponse like? Tell us about the expansion of your prints into three
annual collections.
HSY: We wanted to branch out to a larger audience and the response
was amazing. We are incredibly excited to be expanding our
design and retail to three distinct collection of prints this year,
all launching one after the other, marking a complete HSY lawn
journey the season. I am particularly pleased to launch our new
brand HSY Nation through which we are now able to cater to a
wider audience allowing us to be one of the first designer lawns’
to respond to so many different audiences. All of our prints are
being heavily quality tested internationally as well, so be it a
World of HSY Print or something from our HSY Nation line, we
will give our clients quality products. With a focus on design and
quality, the summer 2012 collection from The World of HSY
Prints has been certified and tested by the international SGS
group to certify that the lawn is fully compliant with local and
10 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
international standards of colour fastness and quality.
6. Your lawn collection has varying moods and feel.
HSY: Even though the moods are different, the aesthetic is undeni-
ably HSY
7. How is lawn different?
HSY: Last year we introduced fabric for men and this year we are the
first to offer two outfit options in one line.
8. Lawns rule our lives as a summer casual staple, but will people
also accept lawn in their formal collections?
HSY: They already have
9. Your must-haves from this lawn collection…
HSY: Everything
10. Can you tell about your limited edition prints collection
HSY: The World of HSY Prints Summer 2012 will be followed by a
limited edition prints collection later in the summer, specifically
in celebration of Eid. The House of HSY also announced earlier
the launch of a brand new collection this year, HSY Nation – a
range of prints that has been designed, printed and priced to
cater to a wider diversity of people, thereby bringing the fashion
houses’ coveted aesthetic to a larger audience of women in
Pakistan.
11. What are the best aspects of working in fashion? Flip side. What
are the worst aspects of working in fashion?
HSY: I don’t believe in focusing on the worst and the best is
I get to do what I love everyday
splus@nation.com.pk
 Fashion

12. How do you deal with criticism when you find yourself at the
receiving end?
HSY: My focus is on what my clients think not what my critics think
13. Designers you would like to collaborate with?
HSY: Can’t think of any right now
14. Do you follow what younger designers are doing?
HSY: I don’t follow any one but I wish them all the best
15. As a fashion designer yourself, do you find it harder to buy
clothes designed by other people?
HSY: Not necessarily
16. Most difficult but necessary skill to acquire before you embarks
on a fashion career?
HSY: An education in fashion
17. Fill in the blank: fashion designers make good clothes
18. Most common misconceptions about working in fashion?
HSY: It’s bitchy
19. You get to stay on top of all the latest trends! Can you name
some reigning winter trends for 2012 and SS 2012, as far as
what's hot in colours, fabrics and cuts we should be looking out
for?
HSY: We create our own trends and our next collection will highlight
the trends this season.
20. Is there one trend that is really big right now that you cannot
stand?
HSY: Nope
21. When you look back on your career and think about the parts
that may have been controversial?
HSY: I don’t focus on the past, I focus on the present
22. After 10 years in the industry, where do you see Pakistani fashion
headed?
HSY: Forward

CANDID CONFESSIONS
23. Your day starts with… Orange juice.
24. Something we don’t know about you……I am a bad cook
25. You bust your stress by….listening to music
26. If you were marooned on an island and allowed to take only 3
things, what would they be?
HSY: iPod, protein bars and sunglasses.
27. What get you really mad? be more tolerant
HSY: Lazy people 40. HSY’s journey so far… Fantastic
28. One thing you would like to change about yourself… Pretty happy
with the way I am CLOSET CONFIDENTIAL
29. Style statement… Clean and effortless 41. Most repeated labels in your closet… Varied taste and I wear
30. Style icons (locally and internationally)… Madonna everything from high-end to high-street depending on my mood
31. Celebrities you would love to see wearing your label… Madonna 42. 3 must-haves in anyone’s closet … Sunglasses, blue jeans ,
and Jacqueline Kennedy tailored white shirt
32. Your favourite muse…Changes constantly 43. Current obsession…RIO
33. Your first fashion creation…Tangerine cocktail dress I made in 44. Never be caught in… Spandex
school 45. Oldest items in your closet … My baby shoes when I was 2
34. Your favourite childhood memory…My entire childhood has been months old
amazing 46. Fashion Faux pas… Not dressed age appropriately
35. A period of history you wish you were a part of… Tudors
36. A city that inspires you… NYC FAV-O-METER….
37. A crazy holiday memory…I take many holidays and I have far too 47. My favourite gadget…iPhone
many to share 48. 3 favourite songs on your current playlist...My playlist is huge
38. The best thing about being a Pakistani… A sense of identity 49. Favourite items in your closet… My vintage blue jeans
39. One thing I would change about Pakistan is…Convince people to 50. Your favourite colours… Black

12 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

14 MUSIC

With the aim to promote young

Cheering
talent, in this week’s episode of
an underground band XXI (21)

young
was given the space to explore
and learn more about music.

musicians
XXI (21) comprises of a versatile
trio of musicians, Moheet ul
Islam and Mohammad Taimoor
on Guitars with Yahya Farid on
Vocals. Studying at LUMS, these individuals have already
collaborated with Taimur Rehman of Laal and Ali Hamza
of Noori for the official LUMS Flood Relief Song.
XXI (21) performed their original composition “Taare”
with musician Ahad Nayani featuring as a guest
drummer on the track. The energy is high, the music is
fine but still the song has not been able to cross the level
of expectations. But the level of maturity develops with
time and the need of time is to facilitate the emerging
music enthusiasts.
In conversation with the band members of XXI (21), they
talked about their music and future plans:

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 Fashion
S+: Who has influenced your own
personal style?
XXI (21): The great thing about our
music is that all three of us have very
diverse listening and backgrounds in music.
Yahya, the vocalist is very much into the
melodic mainstream stuff like Beatles, U2,
Noori & Junoon. Taimoor on the other hand
has an interest in listening and playing
such as Steven Wilson, Nickelback, Linkin
Park, Faraz Anwar, The Beatles and U2.
Whereas Moheet has completely diverse
tastes with the works of Jimmy page in
Led Zeppelin, Sabbath, KISS, Jack White,
Mark Tremonti and Salman Ahmed in his
playing.
S+: How would you describe the
music that you create?
XXI (21): We are all about the energy.
It’s about connecting to the people and
because we are a very young band, our
sound is focusing on melodies that catch
you and stay with you for a while leaving
some energy, every time you think of it. Our
sound is not bound towards a particular
genre, but we are essentially a rock band
focusing on some mainstream stuff, right
now maintaining that energy level as you
would see in TAARE.
16 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
S+: Was it your very first time
recording in the studio?
XXI (21): No, we have recorded three
songs before from a great music producer
from Lahore, Ali Mustafa. He is an amazing
producer and an even better person, a gem
of a human being, a lot of credit has to go
to him. He has been like a big brother to us.
S+: How was the experience of
recording in the studio of Ufone Uth
Records?
XXI (21): It was the best! Possibly one
of the best studios of Pakistan and the
fact that Gumby being such an experi-
enced musician and an icon for all of us,
was able to give us that space of comfort
where we could pitch in our ideas freely,
with the expectation of being understood
every time; it created such a great environ-
ment for us to learn.
S+: Why did you choose this song?
Tell about its lyrics and composition…
XXI (21): It was a joint choice between
us and Gumby. The platform of Uth Re-
cords is the turning point in our music and
we wanted it to be energetic fun involving
meaningful yet simple enough to get
through to the people. It talks about people
who weigh love and emotions in terms of
material gains and walk on with their lives.
A very special song to us, since it was one
of the very first we wrote.
S+: How has working with profes-
sionals, helped you understand your
own music and take it to the next level?
XXI (21): It is a completely different
level of experience to be discussing your
music with the likes of Gumby. The guy
has been there and seen it all and knows
stuff, it’s a whole different insight into your
song that you get and that has definitely
take TAARE to the levels of “STARS”.
S+: What is next for you in the
pipeline?
XXI (21): We will shortly be releasing
our next single with a video. We can assure
you of one thing, this sort of stuff has not
been done in the past in Pakistan. It is a
mixture of riff oriented rock pop and a U2
sort of ambience with a touch of electronic
music. One of the best lyrical works we
have done so far. The song is called
“Scottish”, which is in Urdu language.
splus@nation.com.pk
18 interview
By Emanuel Sarfraz

hoarding
artists
Turn to smaller canvases
The art of painting cinema billboards has
long been dead. What remains is a handful
of hoarding artists that have either switched
over to other jobs or have evolved their art to
make perfect landscapes and portraits. Two
of the artists who have evolved their hoarding
art to making paintings are Muhammad Arif,
who uses his initials J Arif that he used when
he was making billboards, and Muhammad
Ajmal. They honed their billboard makes
techniques to switch on to work on smaller
canvases with the same precision and
for art collectors and sometimes for art galleries. The workshop
creativity. where they used to make billboards is now in shambles. They
along with their disciples regularly come to the place to remember

L
ahore was home to Pakistan’s film industry, which is breathing its
last these days. No quality films are in pipeline while the old style
movie theatres are giving way to Cineplex and multiplex in the
posh areas of the city. The circuit cinemas in downtown no longer
attract families and have closed down or are doing little business.
Imported foreign films, which are mostly Indian, do some business.
For example the scribe recently saw an Indian flick ‘Kahani’ that
is doing record business in India and across the globe. There were
only six people watching the movie in Plaza cinema that has a
capacity of about 800 people. Such is the state of affairs of our
cinema industry. Hand painted cinema boards have been replaced
by large computer printed posters. The shift over began in 2002
and by 2007 the painting of cinema billboards had come to an
end. Sunday Plus decided to trace the hoarding artists of Royal
Park.
After many inquiries two hoarding artists were found who
are still working in Royal Park. However, they no longer painting
billboards. They have evolved their art to work on smaller canvases
the good old times when Royal Park was brimming with activity.
One of the disciples makes banners at the place while the two
ustads (masters) also sometimes make their artworks there. The
entrance to the place is also very interesting. A goat and street
dog along with some puppies guard the entrance. They offer no
hindrance when visitors are accompanied by the ustads. Other-
wise, they won’t let you enter the place. Now, the whole area is
home to flex printers (computer generated image makers).
“The Pakistani film industry is dead and so is the art of paint-
ing billboards. It is the age of flex. There was a time when there
were 40 to 50 hoarding artists in Royal Park. Now there are none
left. Most of them grew old and are now being taken care of by
their children. I know one who is working at a filling station. One
has become a roadside vendor. It is all over for everyone in our film
industry,” Arif shared.
“I started working as a hoarding artist in 1971. I worked with a
number of ustads. The late 70s, 80s and 90s were three decades
of prosperity. The film industry was booming. Every week there
was a new film being released. Film producers would give us

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk


production photos and tell us about the theme and story of the
film. We would visualize the film in our minds and created images
that were breathtaking. For example if it was a romantic movie we
would portray the softness of romance.
“The hero and heroine would be painted so beautifully that
a view would make you swoon and be transported to a land of
romance and love. The villain would thus be painted in such a way
that people would start hating him even before seeing the movie.
The billboard used to be the major tool in publicity of the film.
“There was thus a strong competition among the billboard
artists. They had to come up with billboards that would attract
audiences. There was a lot of creativity and imagination involved.
Now they use computer generated images of the actors with
splus@nation.com.pk
interview
Muhammad Ajmal
Muhammad Arif
backgrounds of their choice. There is no room for creativity in
them. Now all films have the same kinds of posters and billboards.
There is very little diversity,” Arif said while comparing hoarding art
and the current practice of using flex prints.
The hoarding artists made large billboards in pieces. Later they
joined them together to present the larger than life images of the
artistes. Ajmal who too began his career as hoarding artiste in
1971, at the age of 12, explained, “We worked on canvas that was
nearly 200 feet in width and 40 feet in length. We would hold the
production photo in our hand. We would work on a graph. First we
would make rough sketches with a pencil or chalk on the billboard.
After that we would visualize the whole billboards and start
applying colours according to the subject. Then we would work
March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 19
interview

to ensure immaculate detail of the visual image to make it at-

tractive. It would take days to make one billboard. Sometimes
we would work the whole night as the producer’s demand
would be to make a number of billboards for the publicity. Now
the styles of publicity have changed. Producers now rely more
on airing trailers on TV channels,” Ajmal explained.
Earlier he revealed how he entered the film industry.
“Those were hard times and everyone in the family had to
work to make both ends meet. My father sent me to his
friend Maqsood who was a painter. I learnt drawing from him.
I worked with him for some months. Then I came under the
guidance of big ustads like Musawar and Jaffar Sahib. Ustads
were keen to teach and we made sure that once ustad had
said something we followed it with spirit. Respect for ustads
earned us fame. We became successful only because of
them. There was a passion for the work we did and that was
reflected in what we produced,” Ajmal said.
Both Arif and Ajmal are proud that they succeeded in sur-
viving as artists. “I thank Almighty Allah for giving me enough
skills to paint for living. My artworks are now appreciated in
large circles. People sometimes commission me to work for
them. A person sitting in front of me I can with deftness make
his portrait. First I would draw his portrait with a drawing and
then use real life colours to give freshness to the portrait.
Similarly I make a lot of landscapes. My painting at minimum
is sold for at least Rs. 100,000. This is an honour that Allah
Almighty has bestowed on me,” Arif said.
Both the artists yearn for the good old days, which will
never come back. Both in the last 35 years painted thousands
of billboards. Now in the changed times they have through
sheer hard work managed to evolve their hoarding art and are
today thriving as artists. Their art is testimony to the creativity
that was there in painting of billboards.

The workshop in Royal Park

20 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

22 en vogue
2

1 Mishal w
earing a S
2 Redah M ania Mask
atiya
isbah love
s wearing
3 Iffat Om MUSE
ar spotted
with a Bott
4 L'Oreal ega Veneta
Pa knot clutc
Sheikh is ris Pakistan Spoke h
wearing M speople M
5 Sophie w aheen Ka eesha Sha
rim and M fi
eari ehreen Sy dons the MUSE o
Shehla Ch ng our very own Qu ed is weari utf
atoor een of Cou ng Sublimit, Aamina
ture e by Sara

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

24 up&rising
by Sidra Najam
Asma Ansari is one of
the main players at
ActOne, Karachi’s oldest
and most prestigious
centre for the arts
and wellness. ActOne
recently arranged
Dance for a Cause,
a flashmob aimed
toward generating
funds for the schooling
of underprivileged
children. In this exclusive
interview, Asma Ansari
talks about the growing
fad of flashmobs and
how they managed
to get 300 students
moving in synchrony.
Dance
for a
Cause
Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
Q. What is Dance for a Cause?
Asma Ansari: Dance for a Cause is
one of many activities conducted by Ac-
tOne. It involves gathering a lot of people,
teaching them a fun dance routine and
getting them to dance together in hun-
dreds. All proceeds are then donated to a
particular cause. A schooling project for
underprivileged kids is one cause we have
been working on.
Q. What was the “cause” for which
the recent flash mob was con-
ducted?
Asma: The recent Dance for a
Cause held recently was conducted to
generate funds for the Rahnuma School-
ing Project. There are a lot of underprivi-
leged kids whose parents cannot afford
their education. A student organization of
Indus Valley School of Art and Architec-
ture known as Rahnuma has taken a very
noble initiative to teach these children.
Q. What soundtrack was Dance for a
Cause conducted to and why did you
choose this particular song?
Asma: It is always wise to choose
a song that people can recognize and will
enjoy dancing to. “Moves like Jagger” by
Maroon 5 was our song choice this time.
Q. How does it work: do you teach
the students at the venue or do you
teach them earlier at a separate
location?
Asma: Well we invite the people
to come in at 3pm. Some people are
punctual, some are not. The first 100
people are put together and taught
indoors. After 30-40 minutes of training
they move in to the next area where they
revise and work on the final touches while
the next batch has replaced them and
have started to learn the routine. After a
good 3 hours of learning, everyone gath-
ers in the open area and dances together!
Q. How are funds generated through
this event?
Asma: ActOne collaborated
with Nokia for this event; we received a
generous amount from Nokia that was
all donated to the Rahnuma Schooling
Project. Some funds were also generated
via entry tickets.
Q. The flash mob is a Westernized
idea: how did it become a tradition
here?
Asma: We thought that if the
pizza can be turned into a chicken tikka
pizza, why not introduce dancing in
mobs. It is so much fun!
Q. ActOne has set a world record for
the maximum number of flash mobs
ever conducted in Pakistan: how did
this come about?
Asma: People say we are always
chanting the words “first this” or the
“most that”. The idea is to set standards
up there and then tempt ourselves to
exceed them! In 2011 we conducted
the first ever documented Flash mob in
Karachi. Within 10 months we created a
world record for an Oil marketing compa-
ny by carrying out 100 flash mobs in just
12 days all over Karachi city! It makes us
so proud… We have contacted Guinness
and have sent all our documentation.
Q. When you are teaching 300
people, there are probably some who
are good dancers and others who are
pathetic dancers: how do you bring
them all to one level?
Asma: We don’t! It doesn’t mat-
ter if they can dance well or not. There
is no such thing as a poor dancer. It is all
about being free! We have taught over
6000 people in Karachi. Different people
use their bodies to express themselves in
different ways.
Q. Is the aim of a flashmob to achieve
perfect co-ordination between all
the members of the group?
Asma: The aim is not to dance
and achieve perfect co-ordination, but
it is to watch a huge number of people
dancing the same routine together! This
is why we want a lot of people to show up
for the event. The more the people, the
more fun we have.
splus@nation.com.pk
26 report
BUILD BETTER THA
Waziristan propagated by western media as “the most dangerous place on earth”, is at the dawn of prosperity
S
outh Waziristan Agency is area wise the
largest of all the FATA agencies. It has two
headquarters; Tank in the winters and Wana
in summers. It is bounded in the north by
North Waziristan Agency, in the northeast
by Bannu and Lakki Marwat Districts, in the
south east by Tank and Dera Ismail Khan
Districts and in the west by Afghanistan.
The total area of the Agency is 6,620
Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
square kilometres. The two main rivers of
the agency are Gomal and Tank Zam. The
Agency comprises of rugged mountains with
no regular alignments.
The Mehsud tribe, which forms 63 %
of 5,15,000 agency’s population, occupies
the most rugged and mysterious mountains,
which had recently housed most, inhuman
militants. Lately the area from Ladha,
Shakai, Makin, Janata, Sararogha and down
in the southeast till Jandola and beyond wit-
nessed colossal devastation in terms of life,
shelter, livelihood and above all, the tranquil-
lity of the innocent. However, social welfare,
distinctive tribal customs and traditions are
still an integral part of the Mehsud society.
Reviving the infrastructure, shouldering
the pastoral economy and enlivening the
shattered ones were a daunting challenge.
With the Pakistan Army Engineers in the
lead; after combing the vast wilderness
for Improvised Explosive Devices, were
embarked for cutting through the rugged
mountains to build 270 kilometre long
lifeline of restive South Waziristan starting
from its gateway Tank till Wana in the west
and till Sararogha, Makin and beyond in
the north. The road is operational and the
bustling traffic has fuelled optimism for a
long awaited socio-economic revolution in
the area.
The turmoil especially in the Mehsud
region left a large number of tribal displaced.
After achieving stability in the area, Pak
Army faced the mammoth task of rehabili-
tating these homeless. The rehabilitation did
not entail mere move back of the displaced
persons (DPs) to their respective areas,
but involved construction of houses and
markets, renovation of health and education
facilities, restoration of electricity and wa-
terways and above all provision of livelihood
opportunities. To accomplish this, under the
instructions of Chief of Army Staff, General
Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, a master plan was
conceived after involving all the stakehold-
splus@nation.com.pk

AN BEFORE
and revival, and has taken first step on the road to progress with the slogan of “Build Better than Before”.
ers i.e. Central Govt, FATA Secretariat, FATA
Development Authority, Local / International
Donors and above all, the Locals.
The blueprint revolved around the
slogan “Build Better than Before”, with
following priorities:-
• Restoration of Service and Infrastruc-
ture
• Re-establish the lost Institutions
• Capacity building (sustainability)
• Partnership
• Exploit economic potential (empower
the poor and women)
• Economic stakes to prevent seasonal
migration
• Increase inter dependence
Repatriation process started in De-
cember 2010 with arrival of 1300 families
and gained momentum in Jun 2011 with
another influx of over 2200 families. Until
October 2011, 6616 families returned home
with a total of 30,191 individual. Many
more are expected in impending spring. As
splus@nation.com.pk
report
the years long militancy had destroyed the Kotkai, Chagmalai and Jandola have been
houses of DPs; the immediate need for their commissioned in a record period of about six
settling by providing a shelter was catered months. Model village Sararogha is near its
for. So far, Army Engineers have constructed completion.
100 houses for the poor, which include 26 Reviving locals from the economic
houses for the widows. Moreover, building devastation was of prime importance; this
material has been provided to large number in mind, Pak Army engaged the stakehold-
for self-help construction. ers and as a first step started construction
The hallmark of rehabilitation process of market complexes at Kotkai, Chagmalai,
was concept of model village, which entail Jandola and Sararogha to create a base for
providing basic amenities to the villagers economic activities. Army Engineers have so
at their doorstep, which was never there far constructed five markets complexes with
for them before. The facilities like shops, 160 shops. These shops under management
poultry farm, honey extraction facility, of locals have been gifted to the villagers
school, health centre, sports complex, at nominal rent and will provide them the
recreational park, public toilet, roadside driver opportunity to sell and buy necessary com-
hotel and mosque are planned to serve as modities and generate funds for their uplift.
hub of village activities. Model villages at A larger traders’ marketplace to serve as
The middle-aged generation, which is earning hand of the society,
was engaged in multiple livelihood projects. Beekeeping is one of
the projects undertaken for their long-term sustenance.
March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 27
report

economic hub for whole of South Waziristan importance of these projects as a path to tant role in provision of necessary medical
has been planned at Spinkai Raghzai, the recover from their plight, generously offered equipment, medicines and by posting
place also earmarked for Cadet College their land for these projects. Ten poultry required medical staff. The demolished and
Sararogha (CCS). farms have been built so far in the market scratched Jandola Civil Hospital was reno-
As part of rehabilitation process, three complexes on such land and another ten are vated and commissioned in November 2011
generations were simultaneously focused, under construction. In addition to it three with the help of Saudi Arabia, which is also
wherein elders were assuaged and assured goat farms, two cattle farms and one duck funding for renovation of Civil Hospital Sa-
of economic stability. The youth were en- farm have been established and handed rarogha. A mobile field hospital under Army
gaged for their capacity building by providing over to villagers at Sararogha, Kotkai and is operative to cater the need of far-flung
them state of the art academic and techni- Murghiband. localities. Army Medical Corps is also holding
cal education. The middle-aged generation, The restoration of services was a free medical camps as a routine where this
which is earning hand of the society, was cumbersome task; electricity was restored facility has not been extended so far.
engaged in multiple livelihood projects. at priority at the locations where DPs have The capacity building of youth was as
Beekeeping is one of the projects under- returned. The water channels have been vital as the economic stability of their elders,
taken for their long-term sustenance. Honey revived, realigned and channelized to reclaim to achieve this; as per the vision of COAS,
General Asfaq Pervez Kayani an idea of
technical training institute was conceived
The restoration of services was a cumbersome task; electricity was and transformed into reality within a short
restored at priority at the locations where DPs have returned. The span of four months. COAS performed the
earth breaking ceremony of Waziristan
water channels have been revived, realigned and channelized to Institute of Technical Education (WITE) at
reclaim 644 acres of land. Chaghmalai in June 2011, the first batch
of 58 students started training in October
2011. The students of first batch completed
extraction centres have been established 644 acres of land. Another 290 acres their four months training on 31 Jan 2012
at market complexes to facilitate preserva- have been developed into model agriculture and are now qualified auto electricians, auto
tion and market of honey. Initially, 80 bee patches by Army at Kotkai, Murghiband mechanics, building electricians, drivers and
farmers were trained by department of Non and Meziwam Kach, where wheat seeds, computer operators, ready to support their
Timber Forest Producer in establishing bee fertilizer and ploughing facility have been families and society. During this training,
colonies, harvesting, packing and marketing provided free of cost. The water channels students were provided Rs: 2000 monthly
the purest “Waziristan Honey”. The business helped in establishment of fish ponds in the stipend, free medical, uniform, boarding and
has gained popularity in the locals, who are area, where hatchlings were provide to the lodging facilities.
eager to brand the honey as quick mean of farmers as an initial incentive. A number of The turmoil in the region left the
earning with small investment and negligible water supply schemes were also completed education system of the area in shambles;
production cost. So far, 172 honeybee boxes in record time to provide clean drinking water almost all the schools were burnt or razed to
have been distributed free of cost to the to the locals. ground. Therefore, reviving these remained
farmers, and another 300 boxes will be Reconstruction of health facilities was the centre of focus. So far, 23 schools have
given in coming spring. assisted by foreign, both private and public been reconstructed; three out of these have
The Mehsud tribe realising the donors. FATA Secretariat played an impor- been converted into model schools with the

28 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk


latest facilities of computer and biology labs
and an adjoining sports stadium. During
COAS visit to WITE, Jirga of Mehsud elders
requested for a Cadet College in their area.
COAS consented and announced establish-
ment of Cadet College at Spinkai Ragzai.
Mehsud Tribe went step head and offered
100 acres of land for the project. With
resolute efforts of Pak Army and assistance
of FATA Secretariat, the dream of CCS has
come true in less than a year with a donation
of Rs: 759 million by Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia. Entrance tests for first session were
held in January 2012 and classes will com-
mence temporarily in the building of WITE
from 1st April 2012 until completion of CCS
campus at Spinkai Raghzai. In sequel to
improve stature of tribal society by educat-
ing the new generation, Pak Army adopted
over 100 children who are studying in Army
run schools in 10 different Garrisons of the
country. In the pursuit to social mobilisation
of tribal society, Pakistan Army also arranged
a teachers training workshop for the teach-
ers of South Waziristan. The workshop was
aimed at acquainting the teachers with
modern teaching techniques and methods.
Pukhtoons have a strong patriarchal
society, where women stay in veils, behind
the curtains, and in the backdrop. However,
in the tribal areas, women enjoy more liberty
in this regard, they engage extensively in
agriculture, cattle rearing and other house-
hold activities; so do the Mehsud women.
Empowering them economically, so that
they can assist their men in shouldering
their pursuit to prosperity is important. In
this regard seven ‘Women Skills Develop-
ment Centres’ have been planned which
splus@nation.com.pk
will impart training of sewing, knitting and
other handicrafts. Building of one such
centre has been completed at Murgiband
and classes will commence soon. Moreover,
as welfare, widows have been provided with
sewing machines, hens and goats for their
sustenance.
The militancy not only affected
Waziristan but also engulfed its adjoining
district of Dera Ismail Khan, which remained
frequent target of militants. The life in the
city of soft spoken came to stand still, the
riverbank of mighty Indus went deserted and
shutters used to be locked before dusk. The
revival of peace in Waziristan brought a new
The militancy not only affected Waziristan but also engulfed its
adjoining district of Dera Ismail Khan, which remained frequent
target of militants.
ray of hope for them. Army took the initiative
and restored the cell phone services, which
remained suspended for long due to security
reasons. The riverside has been developed
into picnic spot to invigorate the locals.
The airport, which remained close for quite
sometime was renovated and the flights
resumed once again. The Army also man-
aged to revive the cultural heritage of the
area, the traditional ‘Horse and Cattle Fair’
(MELA ISPAN WA MAUSHIAN) after a gap
of nine year, which gave multiple social and
economic advantages to the locals.
In the pursuit to rehabilitate the dis-
placed, Pak Army did not forget those who
crafted this turmoil. An in-depth analysis
of the apprehended suspects reflected
report
that most of them acted as sympathisers,
supporters and small errand runners for the
main culprits with mild traces of radicalism.
More so, they had not been directly involved
in killing or in any capital crime. Hence, there
was Hope to recover some of these ideologi-
cally perplexed individuals and transform
them into productive citizens of the society,
through a concentrated socio-religious
therapy in a suitable environment. To mani-
fest this Pak Army for the first time in South
Waziristan initiated a De-Radicalization
Emancipation Programme with a slogan of
Hope, Emancipation, Integration, Loyalty
and Acceptance (HEILA or Hope). Under this
programme first batch of 38 suspects has
successfully completed its training at Tank.
On one hand, military success has its
significance, but for sustained peace and
stability, all stakeholders are required to exer-
cise more systematic and concerted efforts
towards rehabilitation, de-radicalization,
reconciliation and re-integration of tribal
society. It is said that, “When opportunities
are available, economy flourishes and society
prospers. When society thrives, mindset
changes. When economic stakes are high
folks focus on them with less or no violence”.
Pak Army has initiated a ray of hope in
the area. Tribal are looking forward with
optimistic and pragmatic approach for their
bright future.
March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 29
34 style

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 style
SPOT ON!
Chinyere Spring/Summer 2012
Collection incorporates vivid colors,
stunning patterns, textures with breath-
taking silhouettes. Beautiful artistic
designs are inspired by sophisticated
combination of floral motifs with
classic embellishments. Let invigorating
range take you on a stylish adventure.

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 35

style

36 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 style

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 37

style

Label
Chinyere

Hair, Makeup & Photography

Deevees

Jewellery & Accessories

Chinyere

Models
Marvi, Alyzeh and Saadia

38 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

40 society 1

Taking the lawn to the next level!

KARACHI:
Paul Textiles will unveil its summer lawn collection 2012
Paulsha lawn by Noreen & Faiza” in an exhibition The
Imperial, Clifton. While the outfits are designed by Feeha
Jamsheed, Ayesha Somaya, Saman Usmani, Irma Hassan,
Samman Pirzada, and Usme Rehan. PR handled by Saima
Mahmood Catalyst.
2 3

4 5

6 7 8

1 Fayeza, Rizwanullah, Momal Sheikh, Zershi Razzaq & Mahin J Nawaz 2 Raheel & Faiza 3 Yasmeen, Nadia, Mina, Fatima & Nada
4 Palwasha & Adnan Siddique 5 Zaheer Khan,Huma Zaheer & Naznine Tariq 6 Iraj 7 Mohib Mirza 8 Zeba, Adnan & Iraj

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 society
9

10 11

12 13

14 15 16 17

9 Raheel, Hira, Malika, sonia, Naureen, Ameera, Alyssa & Manzar Paul 10 Shahid Khan, Imran Khawaja, Dr.Sadaf Khawaj & Guest 11 Yasmine & Omar

12 Rebecca, Naureen, Tasheena & Ainny 13 Haseena Moin 14 Imran Qureshi 15 Ayesha Omar 16 Saba Ansari 17 Shahid Khan & Manzar

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 41

44 society 1 2

Work
intelligently
LAHORE:
Pakistan’s first corporate venue, The
Enterprise was recently launched
to facilitate local and international
companies by providing a smart, efficient,
secure and functional business venue.
3 4 5

1 CEO The Enterprise, Muhammad Nadeem Khan 2 Hasib Nawaz Sheikh 3 Benish Khan 4 Ayesha Khan
5 Asad Dar & Zarrar Bhatti 9 Muhammad Ammar Khan, Tariq Mahmood Mian, Muhammad Nadeem Khan, Muhammad Mikail Khan & Hassan Mahmood

44 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

46 society 1

Snog-gy affair
KARACHI:
Snog recently opened its doors at Zamzama.
The event showcased a dance by ActOne
especially choreographed for Snog. The event
was managed by Voila PR with co-ordination
assistance by Phegency.
2 3

4 5

6 7 8 9

1 Sana, Fareeha, Najma, Saraa & Shehzi 2 Mustafa Chagla, Shezi Chagla with Mian Ehsan 3 Salman, Monalisa & Deepak Perwani
4 Snog Frachisors Rob and Pablo with Saraa Gheewala & Sana Merchant 5 Saraa Gheewala with Khursheed Haider 6 Yusuf Bashir Qureshi
7 Nadia Hussain 8 Sarwat Gillani 9 Aysha Omar & BNA

46 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 society 47
IIttehad Textiles launching ceremony
lahore:
Recently, a new outlet of Ittehad Textiles was launched at M.M Towers, Lahore.

1 2 3

4 1 Aksa and Arooj 2 Fatima and Shazmeen 3 Hania, Fatima, Fareeha

4 Rozi, Zoraiz, Lubna Lashari, Imrana and Dr Shehzard
5 Asif, Kareem, Zaeem and Shakil 6 Nosheen and Mahm
7 Shehzard and Ather 8 Fahad, Maram and Mohsin
9 Ayesha and Amina 10 Huma and Javeria
11 Mahrukh, Hira and Noor 12 Karim, Kashif, Shakil and Sheikh Nazam
5

9 8

6 7

10 11 12

splus@nation.com.pk March 18, 2012 Sunday Plus

48 society 1

Crescent comes to town

LAHORE:
Crescent lawn by Faraz Manan was launched
recently. 17 models including the top models,
friends & family exhibited the designs to an invite.
Hair and makeup was done by Ather Shehzad &
the event was managed by Savvy PR & events.

2 3 4

5 6 7

8 9

1 Zainab, Zara, Cybil & Noore 2 Ahmed Ali Butt 3 Shazia, Hasnat & HSY 4 Zoya, Maimoona Manan & Sundas 5 Simky 6 Amber Gohar & Mishal
7 Shoaib Shafi, Alyzeh Gabol & Rana Noman 8 Nazish, Nasir Shafi, Mrs Nasir Shafi & Sana 9 Saira, Pinkie & Ayesha

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 10 11 12
society

13

14 15 16

17 18 19

20 21 22

10 Shehzad & Ather 11 Zohair & Mariam 12 Adil Bashir & Sana 13 Rizwan Shafi 14 Maheen Kardar Ali & Saad 15 Faraz & Cybil
16 Momina & Nael 17 Natty & Reimma 18 Asifa & Nabeel 19 Ayesha & Dr Shahida 20 Annie 21 Asif & Amina 17 Junaid & Mehdi

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 49

50 society
Coffee Planet launched 2 3

lahore:
Recently, a new coffee shop, ‘Coffee Planet’
was launched at DHA and was attended by
people and media personnel.

4 5

6
1 Sobia Mirza & Kiran
2 Alina
3 Maryam, Noor, D J
Buland, Mahnoor and
a friend
4 Sadia 7
5 Naila & Javeria
6 Alina Khan, Ahmed,
Anam Khan, Iqra, Mian
Haider and D J Buland.
7 Nabiha and Noor
8 Musical Group
8
9 Ayesha Mahmood
and Misbah
10 Samina
11 Farzana Butt and
Nasreen Nawaz
9 10 11
12 Mishal & Sana
13 Guest
14 Mehwish
15 Mrs Sadia Sultan and
Irfan Kokhar
16 Maria and Zarena 12 13
16 Ayesha, Javeria, Naila

14 15

16 17

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 society 51
Lawn exhibition
KARACHI:
Rosy Patel’s lawn exhibition and fashion show was held recently. The hair, fashion show was done Saba Ansari
and her team at Sabs. The event was organised by production 021 .PR and media was handled by Takell.
1 2 3 4 5

7 8

9 10

12 1 Saba and Koukab Ansari

2 Maha
3 Humaima Malick
4 Aminah Ilyas
5 Iraj
11
6 Rima with Khursheed
7 Fauzia with Juni, Koni and Sana
8 Fareen with Nazia, Mrs Moloo and Razia
9 Nabeel
10 Rosy with Nighat Tehmina
11 Benish with Ambreen and Neha
11 Sabeen and Munaf

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus

52 society
Sobia Nazir’s launch
Islamabad: 2 3

The red carpet launch

of designer Sobia
Nazir’s Exclusive Lawn
2012 collection was
held for the first time in
capital at her studio.
The glamorous event
was managed by Rezz
PR and Events

4 5

9 10
1 Daniella Liang and Nadia
2 Rezz Aly Shah nd Laila
3 Nazia, Shahida, Ammara nd
Mubasshara
4 Mehreen Syed
5 Nadia, Sobia Nazir and Samreen
6 Samman Ansari
7 Fatima and Aliya
8 Nilli and Mrs Fakir
9 Nazia , Janie and Sara
10 Beena Riaz Malik, Mehreen,
Cybil and Razia

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 society

11 12

13 14

11 Sharmeen
12 Ayesha, Ambreen and Warda
13 Natasha and Sarah Raza
14 Ayesha and Amina Syed.Jpg
15 Zahra , Amna and Fawad
16 Samina Lakhany and Humaira Bilour
15 17 Sara Walid and Palwashay Butt
18 Sobia and Sara
19 Ayesha, Farah and Feryal.
20 Aliya , Talat and Honey Khan
21 Mona and Naveen
22 Abida and Faryal
16 17 23 Sofia Ali and Janie

18

19

20 21 22 23

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 53

54 society 1

Élan with
panache
LAHORE:
Premier fashion brand Élan collaborated
with leading home textiles exporters Kamal
Limited to launch Kamal Lawn by Élan at a
much awaited and hotly attended event! The
exhibition was held at PFDC, Mall One in

2 3

4 5

1 Ahmed Kamal, Aleena & Erum Ahmed 2 Aneela Shah, Seema Aziz & Sehyr Saigol 3 Faraz Mannan, Shazia Deen & Tazeen Anjum
4 Khadijah Shah with Cybil, Rubab, Nadia Ali & Mehreen Syed 5 Iffat Omar 6 Mrs. Amber Gohar

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 7
society
8

9 10 11

12

13 14 15 16 17

7 Sehr, Aleena, Zainab, Sundus & Mishal 8 Sara Shahid 9 Aamina Sheikh 10 Qasim Yar Tiwana & Fiza 11 Mehriene Qureshi &Selina R Khan
12 Shazreh Khalid, Shazreh, Aneela Shah & Khadijah Shah 13 Attiya Rashid & Sara 14 Sabene Saigol 15 Mohsin 16 Waleed 17 Umer

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 55

56 society
1

L’Oréal Paris goes interactive

KARACHI:
L’Oréal Paris in Pakistan launched a brand new series of
interactive mall animations at Park Towers celebrating the
launch of the New Revitalift Total Repair 10; the World’s No 1
Anti-Wrinkle cream.

2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9

10
1 L’Oreal Paris Pakistan Spokespeople Meesha Shafi,
Aamina Sheikh and Mehreen Syed
2 L’Oreal Paris Expert Nabiha Zeeshan
3 L’Oreal Paris Expert Ujala Zia
4 Sumeha Khalid and Uzma Mazhar 5 Sitwat Khan
6 Nubain Ali 7 Dr Khilji 8 Ahsan Hayat and Ahmad Saadat
9 L’Oreal Paris Expert Nabiha Zeeshan with L’Oreal Paris BA’s
10 Shanaz Ramzi.

Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

57 blog ruby hasan
eauty
Ruby’s B
Buzz
‘Probably Lahore’s Best
Kept Beauty Secret of the
city’s finest socialites and most
glamorous personalities’, Ruby
Hasan, is one of Pakistan’s most
travelled and professionally trained
skin, hair & beauty experts. She is the
founder of SPLITENDS-well regard-
ed as Lahore’s premier beauty desti-
nation. Ruby Hasan has been trained
from the prestigious Robert Fielding
School of Hair Dressing in London.
Ruby is also a qualified technician
& CACI patented therapist trained
from the CACI Institute which keeps
Hollywood stars such Jennifer Lopez
looking young and gorgeous. Ruby
has also professionally received
the Oxygen facial training, which is
the beauty regime of some of the
world’s most famous celebri-
ties, including the Queen
of Pop, Madonna, who
uses it like a prayer. So
Now that the “Cat is
out of the Bag”, Catch
Ruby’s Weekly Buzz on ev-
erything that is keeping you
and the rest of the female
of the species looking ‘OMG’
beautiful
Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
Technology has entered the hair world in many forms –
the most obvious being the chemical innovations that allow
you to play with colour, texture and the condition of your
hair. The other is the fascinating world of hair tools and
enhancements (i.e. extensions). I maintain that hair tools
can really be a girl’s best friend. True, that the underlying
assumption and a big plus point is if you live in a country
that has uninterrupted electricity, nonetheless, whether at
the salon or at home, hair tools are the means to befriend
your hair and develop a great relationship with it.
The hair dryer is an indispensable one at the top
of the list. The choice of brush (or brushes) is the
real determinant in what your hair will look like once
it’s dried. Brushes are a science in themselves and
the innovation in brush design, shape, size, bristle quality
and material all play an integral role in what a blow-dry can
achieve. Your hairdresser can educate you about this and
what you enjoy as a salon service can be replicated at home
as well. Do your haircut and style justice by exploring this
and acting on it.
The hair straightener or flat iron is another hot favou-
rite (pun unintended but most apt) especially for a sleek,
smooth long and mid-length hair lover. Nowadays these
irons can be used to achieve a most flattering defined curly
look as well. It’s all a question of a good quality iron (GHD
ladies!), with the right sections and techniques and you are
on the way to have that smooth straight look that people in
our part of the world idolize.
Curling tongs and other magic wands seek to give you
the kind of curly look you want – and quick. The kind of
look depends on the shape and diameter of the rod. There
is a lot of variety available so consult your hairdresser and
choose wisely – the commercially available ones come with
different options in one tong. Big hair is ‘in’ in a big way, so
for added body, the Babyliss big hair styler is a good option
which has a fat-barrelled, heated brush attachment.
Rollers, if you have the time, be it at the salon or at
home, is nothing like it. Apply your choice of rollers they can
be heated, Velcro or benders, choosing the size according
to the extent of curl or the body you want to naturally-dried,
damp hair and let them dry in a dryer or naturally. Let your
hair down before you head out and wow!
Let’s touch on the topic of extensions and just say that
it’s an investment in your hair meal making it upsize. They
can work wonders to give you the glamour and change your
look all together. Add natural hair extensions and style
them with your hair and sport a beautiful head.
Don’t forget that all hair tools MUST be used with the
complementing styling products and treat your hair regu-
larly to a lush conditioning treatment.
splus@nation.com.pk
58 right off the shelf

Insight on Afghan
Conflict
Few people have a more passionate interest in the fate of Afghanistan than the veteran
television journalist Sandy Gall. It’s not just that his knowledge of this troubled land predates the
Soviet invasion of 1979. It is his resolute commitment never to abandon the millions of ordinary,
helpless Afghans whose lives have been blighted in ways most of us can barely imagine.

T hirty years ago, as a foreign cor-

respondent for ITN news, Gall took
his life in his hands to spend several
weeks travelling with the mujahideen to
make a series of television programmes
about their David and Goliath struggle
against the might of the Soviet army, the
first time the heroism of the resistance
struggle was brought home to a British
audience.
Since then his dedication to the Afghan
cause has been channelled through the
charity he set up soon after his gruelling
1982 experience, Sandy Gall’s Afghani-
stan Appeal, which provides medical assis-
tance – artificial limbs in particular – to
Afghans injured during more than three
decades of conflict.
All of which makes the veteran broad-
caster – now a sprightly 83 – perfectly
placed to provide us with a highly readable
account of the latest traumatic episode in
the country’s recent history.
Given the plethora of books that have
recently appeared on the subject, in ‘War
Against the Taliban: Why it All Went
Wrong in Afghanistan Gall’ has produced
a well-informed account of the litany
of disastrous miscalculations that have
befallen the West’s involvement since the
September 11 attacks.
Gall is particularly strong when it
comes to analysing Britain’s less-than-
impressive contribution to the military
effort, and has managed to secure exten-
sive interviews with many of the leading
players. They include Brigadier Ed Butler,
Rab Butler’s Eton-educated grandson who
commanded British forces when they first
deployed to southern Afghanistan in the
summer of 2006 and General Sir David
Richards, the current head of Britain’s

Title: War Against the Taliban: Why it all went wrong in Afghanistan
Author: Sandy Gall | Pages: 323 | Price: Rs. 2,295 | Genre: Politics

58 Sunday Plus March 25, 2012 splus@nation.com.pk

 right off the shelf

Armed Forces who was given the poisoned

chalice of commanding a Nato mission Fallen in Love
designed to support the reconstruction of Author: Lauren Kate | Pages: 256
Afghanistan’s government infrastructure, Price: Rs. 1,095 | Genre: Fiction
but ended up fighting a desperate war
Synopsis: What makes your heart race a little
against the Taliban.
faster? Just in time for Valentine’s Day, it is a ‘Fallen
As one would expect of someone who
in love,’ four wholly original new stories collected in
has lived the Afghan nightmare, Gall sets
a new novel set in the Middle Ages by Lauren Kate.
out the West’s descent into the Afghan mire
‘Fallen in Love,’ gives fans the much talked about
with admirable clarity. He reminds us that,
but never revealed stories of Fallen characters as
in the early, optimistic days of the Anglo-
they intertwine with the epic love story of Luce and
American intervention to defeat the Taliban
Daniel and others.
in 2001, there was a genuine opportunity to
stabilise the country. Most Afghans were as
delighted to see the back of the Taliban as
their Western liberators, and in those days
the atmosphere was so relaxed that Lawrie Songs of the Dying
McMenemy, the former Southampton Earth
manager, flew to Kabul to organise a friendly
football match between the Afghans and Authors: George R. R. Martin | Pages: 512
Nato. Price: Rs. 750 | Genre: Fiction
But the Bush administration’s obsession
Synopsis: Return to the unique and evocative world
with Saddam Hussein’s Iraq meant that the
of The Dying Earth, edited by best selling author
Americans soon lost interest in Afghanistan
George R. R. Martin, in this tribute anthology featur-
and diverted precious resources to another
ing the most distinguished fantasists of our day.
theatre of combat without first completing
Here are twenty-two brand new adventures set in
their mission in Afghanistan. The Afghans,
the world of Jack Vance’s greatest novel.
who thought the Americans would give
A dim place, ancient beyond knowledge. The sun is
them the security and stability they craved,
feeble and red. A million cities have fallen to dust.
felt betrayed, and it was not long before the
Here live a few thousand souls, dying, as the Earth
Taliban was staging a remarkable comeback.
dies beneath them. Just a few short decades remain
The strength of Gall’s book, though, lies
to the long history of our world. At the last, science
in its detailed analysis of British involvement
and magic are one, and there is evil on Earth, dis-
after Tony Blair pledged to provide British
tilled by time … Earth is dying.
troops to support the new Nato mission
Half a century ago, Jack Vance created the world
set up in 2006 to fill the gap left by the
of the Dying Earth, and fantasy has never been the
Americans. Gall examines the vexed issue
same. Now, for the first time, Jack has agreed to
of whether the politicians or generals are to
open this intriguing and darkly beautiful world to
blame for the mess.
other fantasists, to play in as their very own.
The politicians, especially after Gordon
Brown replaced Blair as prime minister,
have rightly been pilloried for their failure
to provide enough helicopters, and their
The Dukan Diet
inability to offer an explanation as to why Authors: Pierre Dukan | Pages: 384
British soldiers were risking their lives in this Price: Rs 895 | Genre: Fitness and Diet
hellhole in the first place. Synopsis: The Dukan Diet is a unique four-step
But, through his interviews with all the programme, combining two steps to lose your
main British commanders, Gall argues the unwanted weight and two steps to keep it off for
military must take its share of the blame, good: Step 1: Attack For 2-7 days eat as much as
too. Despite centuries of experience fighting you want of 72 protein-rich foods. Step 2: Cruise
in Afghanistan, none of our senior officers Continue eating the protein-rich foods with the
bothered to warn the ministers that deploy- addition of 28 vegetables. Step 3: Consolidation
ing the British Army to Helmand province Add fruit, bread, cheese and starchy foods, and 2
was the equivalent, as Gall puts it, of placing celebration meals a week, allowing 5 days for every
a rival gang in the East End, and not expect- pound lost. Step 4: Stabilisation Eat what you like
ing there to be repercussions. without regaining weight by following 3 simple rules,
Certainly, if any conclusion is to be drawn including the famous ‘protein Thursdays’. The Dukan
from Gall’s informative narrative, it is that Diet offers clear simple guidelines, menu planners
our experience in Afghanistan is a salutary and delicious recipes for long term success.
lesson in how not to go to war.

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 59

60 MOVIE by SYED ALI NAQVI
Safe House feels
like a trial run
A young CIA agent is tasked with looking after a fugitive in a safe house. But when the safe
house is attacked, he finds himself on the run with his charge.
PLOT:
The Bourne Legacy is hitting theaters
later this year as Universal attempts to
continue that franchise without Matt
Damon, but Safe House sure feels like a
trial run, or perhaps just an opportunity
to get the target audience for that film in
the theater in an effort to make sure they
see the trailer for the upcoming August
release. Either way, if the goal was to make
a below average copy of a film we’ve all
seen before then job well done.
Everything about Safe House feels re-
cycled all the way down to the film’s post-
er and the dingy, Man on Fire tint. From a
story and character perspective, it’s a film
with big promises and very little delivered
as each scene is no different from one to
Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
the next and often is essentially the same
thing just in a different location.
And what’s the point of the whole
thing? To tell us the CIA lies to the public
and those years of covert operations turns
you into a bad guy? It’s like The Bourne
Identity meets The Ides of March, but it’s
told in such an obvious, lackluster and
bored manner that you really don’t care,
and not even a bunch of adjectives can
make it any better.
Next we meet CIA safe house stooge
Matt Weston (Ryan Reynolds) whom
we’ve just seen begging his boss (Brendan
Gleeson) for a new position. He’s got a
girlfriend with a job offer in Paris and he
wants to follow her there, but he’s got
bigger problems at the moment. The CIA
has moved Frost to Matt’s location for safe
keeping until they can ship him back to the
U.S. But guess what, there’s about to be
a cross-cross-double-cross and the you-
know-what is about to hit the fan.
There are two major issues with this
picture. The first is that the mystery as
to who is tipping off these mercenaries is
pointless, but the film insists on focusing
on this idea. It doesn’t matter. Someone
is pulling the strings, okay, we get it. All
that’s left is to reveal who and it’s not as if
there are a lot of options. Just reveal this
bit of information early on and use it to
tell your story, or perhaps director Daniel
Espinosa’s goal was to have us focus on
something else. Giving him the benefit of
the doubt let’s explore our options.
splus@nation.com.pk

Maybe we were meant to focus on that
shoot out in the opening? Or maybe the
shoot-out in the safe house? The shoot-
out in the slums or, I got it, the shoot-out
in that other safe house? Because if it
wasn’t the shoot outs it must have been
the multiple car chases. Either way, one
runs smack dab into the other until they
all blur together into one big hyperkinetic
stew that looks like it was shot through
mud.
As far as the acting talent on display,
Reynolds proves he can actually do a little
bit of acting, something we haven’t really
been able to see from him as of late. Films
such as Green Lantern and The Change-
Up don’t exactly call on his dramatic skills
to any level. And as for Washington, he’s
fine. He’s not a problem. But his character
is.
We are led to believe this Tobin Frost
MOVIE
guy is some sort of CIA magician, but all
we see is an aging old man that thinks
SAFE HOUSE
he’s got mind control over everyone he
comes into contact with. I will admit, he’s
THE PLAYERS:
quite accomplished at holding himself
Genre:
steady when he’s stuffed in the trunk of Action | Crime | Mystery
a car that is zig-zagging every which way
director:
while going about 80, but other than that Daniel Espinosa
he’s simply a man with a gun and no con-
Cinematography:
science with the appearance of being more Oliver Wood
of a chatter box than an elite operative.
Actors:
Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds
OVERALL: and Robert Patrick
Safe House is an over-stuffed film with
writers:
empty promises. It’s trying hard to sell David Guggenheim
itself as a Bourne-esque thriller, but when
Music:
someone has already done it better and Ramin Djawadi
your Jason Bourne is a garrulous 57-year-
old you tend to tune him out, and hope
he’ll fall asleep while watching the five RATING: 6/10
o’clock news.

AT THE PREMIERE:

Luba Mason, Ruben Blades Stephen Bishop Ashanti, Denzel Washington, Pauletta Pearson Ryan Reynolds Krista Ayne

Molly Sims, Scott Stuber Taissa Farmiga, Vera Farmiga Fares Fares Robert Patrick Brendan Gleeson

splus@nation.com.pk March 25, 2012 Sunday Plus 61

62 picks of the week
We at Sunday Plus are
sharing our exclusive
recommendations
with all our readers.
Read on for the best
buys, the trendiest
brands and the most
enticing eateries that you need to know
about. We slog through the jungle
to bring you the hippest happenings
and must-have information, right
here in your copy of Sunday Plus: your
essential weekend luxury.
Luscious
Signature
Lipstick
The Luscious Signature Lipstick is a lightweight,
yet velvety and rich colour formula that provides
long wear and hydration for hours. The new
lipsticks have been formulated with extra pig-
ment for crisp, vivid and stunning colour results.
Packaged in a stylish tube, enriched with Jojoba
Oil which helps it glide on smoothly, and is avail-
able in 16 soft-matte and shimmer shades. The
lipsticks contain no animal-derived ingredients
and is alcohol free.
Available at all leading departmental stores.
Sunday Plus March 25, 2012
Sharmeen’s Original Creperie
For years, the term crepe has made people’s minds swirl with images of the romantic
sidewalk cafes of Paris. A warm gentle breeze, a joyful ambience and a ready waiter
are usually part of this picture. Now, you don’t have to travel to Europe to experience
this French delight you can experience it right here in Pakistan at The Original Crepe
Factory! It is the first authentic French Creperie in Pakistan. In celebration of Pakistani
winning its first Oscar, The Original Crepe Factory has launched the Sharmeen Obaid
Chinoy crepes. In a truly patriotic spirit, the Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy is white and green.
The green is added through a touch of basil while the white comes from the white
sauce chicken chunks are smothered in.
Head over to The Original Crepe Factory to 20-C, 10th Commercial Street Off
Khyaban-e-Shamsheer Near Labels, Karachi to try out these crepes.
Chester Introducing
Bernard comes SIMPLY SUBLIME!
to Faisalabad
Chester Bernard recently launched a flagship
store in Faislabad, making it one of the biggest
men’s wear brands to arrive in the textile city.
Chester Bernard already operates retail outlets in
Lahore (off M.M. Alam Road) and in Karachi (on
Zamzama), and the Faislabad outlet is their third
store. The store carries their beautifully tailored
shirts and huge variety of ties along with a select
selection of cuff links. Chester Bernard is consid-
ered a brand leader when it comes to elegantly
and beautifully finished shirts. The Chester
Bernard limited edition shirts are meant for men
who like looking good and feeling good. Chester
Bernard customers can easily be differentiated
by their love for elegance and in their belief on
expert finishing of every item in their wardrobe. SIMPLY SUBLIME line is the newest addition
to the Sublime label which currently boasts over
five permanent Prêt-à-Porter and couture lines.
While creating the Simply Sublime line, designer
Sara Shahid was motivated by three main
features: Versatility, Affordability & Wearability,
all wrapped into each Simply Sublime ensemble.
From a design perspective, the new ready to
wear line ranges from lightly embellished trendy
tunics to elegant, sophisticated & glamorous
tops. Simply Sublime line ranges from PKR
3000- 8000.
Launching today at the Sublime by Sara
Flagship Store located at 98 B/2
Gulberg III, M.M Alam Road, Lahore.
splus@nation.com.pk