Hujra: Where boys used to become men

Hujras were the equivalent of the sewing circle — not any more. ART BY JAMAL KHURSHID

The boys are cozying up in a corner, shooting marbles. One of them grabs another’s collar in a spirit of mutually shared camaraderie.

A few yards away, teenagers are lolling back on charpoys or squatting by them, playing cards in the shade of an old tree. Discreet smiles are exchanged from time to time as a village scandal quietly rolls off someone’s tongue. A little further ahead, a few middle-aged men sip tea and exchange thoughts on the Afghan drawdown while reminiscing about the good-old days. Preparations are underway for the night time tappay (singing) session as someone tunes the rabab strings. In the background, the caretaker, Kakhay, is keeping a watchful eye. The sense of community in the hujra is as real as the men sitting there.

In the veranda right below, “Har kala rasha” is written on a wall. It loosely translates to “May you always come,” in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region and is a phrase that usually indicates the space you are entering is a hujra.

A community club of sorts, found in almost every village and mohallah, the hujra is an integral part of Pakhtun culture. Usually shared by the whole community, it may sometimes be a space owned by a person of means, normally an open area stretching up to 1,200 square yards. Most hujras have a clearly marked boundary but no door, signalling that everyone is welcome. While lively conversations dominate the course inside the hujra, the open terrace adjacent is occasionally used for communal gatherings such as funeral prayers or wedding ceremonies.

Popularly known as a hujra or daira in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, it has been given various names throughout Afghanistan as well, ranging from kotta in Kabul, a sarachah in Khost,jammah in Dera Ismail Khan and chawk in Lakki Marwat.

Qazi Hanifullah, a teacher of Pakhtun culture for nearly 20 years at the University of Peshawar, explains that the hujra is an institution where men learn about life. Everything, from sensitive subjects such as sexuality, emotional and psychological problems to bigger issues such as succeeding in life, is discussed openly by the men who come from all ages and backgrounds.

However, with the spread of popular technology and the rampant use of cell phones and computers, the hujras are gradually losing their usual crowd. While the older generation still congregates in these spaces, it has become almost impossible to attract the youth here.

In Hanif’s opinion, this was slowly causing an erosion of Pakhtun culture. “The younger generation knows what is happening in Bollywood or Hollywood but no one is willing to listen to the poet who published his latest book,” he said. “They would know about the latest hairstyle but have no clue why the colour of a woman’s bangles changes as soon as she gets married. They don’t know these things because they are just not interested anymore.”

There are others who believe that while it is not necessarily worrying that the younger generations want to keep up with the rest of the world, there is a risk of losing touch with your own roots. Salma Shaheen, a researcher and professor of Pushto literature, said that while hujras still survive as a building in almost every village of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, they are losing importance as an institution.

“Almost 80% of Pakhtunwali (the Pakhtun code of conduct) is related to hujras,” she explains. “Therefore, a decline of the institution means a decline in Pakhtunwali.”

Comparing it to practices from the British era, Shaheen adds that the Pakhtunwali code was not written down but preserved through word of mouth and practice. A hujra is the only place where these traditions are learnt, acted upon and then passed on to the following generation.

“Unfortunately, the former generation couldn’t pass on this tradition to the current one and I am afraid the next generation would merely know the word, but not its importance,” she says.

In urban areas such as Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, Swabi and Nowshera, hujras are also being demolished and replaced by more modern structures. Shah Nawaz Ghamgeen, a resident of Jamrud, takes pride in his vibrant hujra which has survived all odds, including a militant bombing, and is still host to a daily congregation of the village tribesmen.

In most areas, the modern drawing room seems to have replaced the hujra in terms of utility. But for seasoned elders such as Ghamgeen, the collective experience of good company and conversation is hard to replace

Movie review: Rush - driven

Rush is an attempt to understand one of the greatest motorsport rivalries during the Formula One championship in 1976.

Life can be explained through the idiom of sport. The famed-UCLA basketball coach John Wooden once put it this way: Win or lose, courage is what lasts. For those who follow the Formula One championship, one historical example of courage superseding the glory of victory came in the shape of the rivalry between Nicki Lauda and the late James Hunt in the 1976 season — a watershed in the history of racing.

Now these men have been brought to life by actors Daniel Brühl and Chris Hemsworth inRush, a biographical action film written by Peter Morgan and directed by Ron Howard. It documents the struggles of the two sportsmen as they compete for the greatest glory — the Formula One championship.

The complexity of the rivalry between Lauda and Hunt is addressed in a relatively quick manner. We see the two drivers growing out of competing with each other based on mutual respect, despite the desire to push each other to the maximum on the racetrack. Back then, each racing season, one or two drivers would routinely be killed and building a career in the sport meant making sacrifices and taking risks. The difference between both Lauda and Hunt, as seen by Howard, stems from their different approaches to life and the sport itself.

Daniel Brühl is an effortless Lauda, emerging head and shoulders above the rest of the cast. He puts forward a well-crafted performance, much like the racer himself. Hemsworth of Thorfame, too, fits nicely into the role of James Hunt with believable and passionate acting. Actor Olivia Wilde plays a small role as Hunt’s wife, Suzy Miller, whose character in the film is stunted in comparison with that of the support-system wife Marlene Lauda played by Alexandra Maria Lara.

Director Howard, whose legacy as one of modern-day Hollywood’s greatest, has always been challenged by his inability to address nuance, skillfully presents the high-octane action sequences. They are invigorating as the background score thrills the viewer to the edge of the cinema seat. The film’s success is based on its ability to accurately show and transmit the feel of the inside of a race-car, the surrounding track and the atmosphere around a heart-stopping race.

The storyline tends to veer towards the formulaic and Hollywood cliché, which as a result undercuts the rich theme of the rivalry between the two men who were closer to each other than what was popularly perceived. And so while the film fails to delve into their lives, it nonetheless beautifully interprets their struggles on the racecourse where the men are ultimately defined.

Rush is packed with action, bravado, and glamour through savvy cinematography. The combination has probably brought viewers closer than ever to the elitist and male-dominated world of Formula One racing. It is a must-watch and will go down as one of the better sports films in recent times. Its action and cinematography alone will carry it far.

Millers ask government to clear tax rebates

Pakistan’s textile exports crossed the $13-billion benchmark in the outgoing fiscal year, and would be achieving far better results if circumstances remained conducive. PHOTO: FILE

FAISALABAD: 

On Saturday, the textile industry of the country asked the government to expedite the process of payment of tax refunds to allow the millers to achieve maximum efficiency and boost exports significantly.

Conveying the demand, Pakistan Textile Exporters Association Chairman Sheikh Ilyas Mehmood said that huge amounts of cash of the textile industry was stuck in sales tax, local taxes drawbacks besides customs and federal excise duty rebates creating severe liquidity crunch within the industry. Once the cash is released, exporters can deploy the capital into expanding businesses, which in turn will help the country’s exports earnings grow.

Pakistan only held 1.5% of the global textile market share, which means that the industry had strong prospects to grow, Mehmood added.

Pakistan’s textile exports crossed the $13-billion benchmark in the outgoing fiscal year, and would be achieving far better results if circumstances remained conducive.

“The liquidity crunch will result in havoc with the tempo of exports,” Mehmood said.

The textile is industry is aiming to extract maximum benefits from the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) plus facility, which is expected to be granted in January 2014, and touch $15 billion export target in the current fiscal year, which will all go in vain in the absence of adequate funds.

The PTEA chairman was of the view that the textile sector of the country had taken a severe hit at a time when many of the leading players had invested huge amounts of capital in expansions to meet the growing needs of the global export market.

He said that the energy crisis had almost destroyed the manufacturing and industrial sectors of the economy and resulted in a significant fall in production.

The prevailing economic, financial and industrial crises had badly affected industrial and trade activities, productivity and employment and left the textile sector of the country in doldrums, he said. Exporters were working dire business climate as the cost of inputs was increasing day by day rendering them unable to compete in the international market.

PTEA chairman asked the government to bail out the industry from the crisis by removing hurdles and provision necessary incentives to provide stimulus to textile exports. He requested early released of stuck tax rebates.

Stock fashion staples for evergreen style

Fashion basics every woman should own, and for which they shouldn't mind spending a little more. PHOTO: FILE

LONDON: Women always desire to have a wardrobe full of trendy clothes and accessories, but first it is essential to get the fashion basics right. Stock your closet with fashion staples, which will stand the test of time.

Femalefirst.co.uk lists fashion basics every woman should own, and for which they shouldn’t mind spending a little more.

Jeans: Shopping for the right pair of jeans can be tough. They seem to fit well in the shop, but once you’ve worn them on for five minutes, you may end up tugging at the waist band constantly. The idea is to buy them a little tight because denim stretches as it’s worn. Whether it’s a slim fit, straight or bootcut style, make sure your jeans flatter your frame.

White shirt: This is a must have and a classic! Layer it underneath a jumper, wear it to work with black trousers and undo a button when you’re heading out on a date. The white shirt is a classic.

Cashmere: Whether it’s a jumper or a cardigan, whichever suits your style best, all women should own a piece of Cashmere. It is something you can snuggle into as the temperature drops.

Black Dress: This never goes out of fashion. But make sure it fits right and makes you feel comfortable.

Coat: A good strong wool coat will never look a misfit in your wardrobe. Have one in black, navy or grey. These are like an investment, so choose colours that aren’t trend led and will come back into style every year. Again, buy a style that suits your frame.

Leather handbag: Stick to a leather handbag in black, navy, grey or tan – muted colours that can be worn forever and with whatever. Make sure it is big enough to accommodate all essentials.

Dar briefs US treasury adviser on macroeconomic stabilisation plans

The government has initiated structural reforms to expand the tax base, resulting in 20% boost in tax revenues. PHOTO: ZAFAR ASLAM/EXPRESS/FILE

WASHINGTON: 

On Saturday, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar briefed the US Under Secretary of Treasury for International Affairs Lael Brainard about the country’s efforts towards macroeconomic stabilisation.

The Under Secretary leads the development and implementation of policies in the areas of international finance, trade in financial services, investment, economic development and international debt.

Dar, who is in Washington to spearhead a Pakistani delegation to the International Monetary Fund (IMF)-World Bank annual meetings, also informed Brainard about the actions taken by the government in the first four months, saying that the measures of the new government had put the economy back on track, according to an aide to the finance minister.

Dar highlighted that the government had cleared the crippling circular debt of over Rs550 billion, and in doing so had added 1,700 megawatts (MW) to the national grid. Also, the government had initiated structural reforms to expand the tax base, resulting in 20% boost in tax revenues.

Dar said that these steps had restored the confidence of investors and multilateral agencies, which is evident from the fact that foreign direct investment inflows had clocked in more than double in the first quarter and the overseas chamber of commerce had improved Pakistan’s rating from negative 34 to plus two.

The finance minister said that the government had set an ambitious target for the economy in the next three years which included reducing the fiscal deficit by half, doubling the gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate and boosting investment by 50%.

The measures taken and the ambitious target had led to the approval of the bailout programme by the IMF. The Washington-based fund, he said, had endorsed the policies of the incumbent government.

Brainard appreciated the bold decision taken by the new government to revive Pakistan’s economy. She observed that these steps would help create employment opportunities and pull investment into the country. She assured the finance minister of all possible help to achieve the targets set by the government.

Later, Dar addressed a gathering of a group of Pakistanis and Americans at the Embassy of Pakistan, which hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting finance minister and his team of economic managers including Finance Secretary Dr Waqar Masood Khan, State Bank of Pakistan Governor Yaseen Anwar, and economic affairs division secretary.

Charge d’ Affaires Dr Asad Majeed Khan welcomed the finance minister and praised his expertise and focus in dealing with the economic challenges faced by the country.

In his wide-ranging speech, Dar touched upon a string of structural reforms and measures that the government launched right away and assured the guests that the government was pursuing a clear-cut, target-oriented roadmap for economic rebound.

He cited a number of hopeful positive economic indicators that have emerged in the wake of the new policies in the last four months. Regarding energy issues, he said the government is taking immediate, medium and long-term steps to meet the fast-increasing energy needs of the country. 

Pakistan tries to attract American private sector

“We are implementing reforms and policies; we mean business, and Pakistan will be a good host,” Dar told the gathering of prominent business leaders. DESIGN: CREATIVE COMMON

WASHINGTON: 

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar Friday invited American entrepreneurs to make use of lucrative investment opportunities existing in Pakistan, as he assured businessmen of Islamabad’s commitment to good governance and transparency to facilitate business and economic activity, while visiting the United States (US).

The finance minister is trying to meet with as many world leaders as possible, to attract investment for Pakistan.

Speaking to members of the US-Pakistan Business Council, Senator Dar expounded the vast investment potential the country offers in the fields of energy, gas and oil exploration.

“Transparency, merit, due process, good governance are going to be hallmarks of the government,” he stated.

“We are implementing reforms and policies; we mean business, and Pakistan will be a good host,” he told the gathering of prominent business leaders.

The new government, he said, is focused on addressing three inter-related problems including energy, economy and extremism.

On steps towards meeting Pakistan’s exponential energy requirements, the minister spoke of the Dasu and Diamer-Bhasha dams and that completion of these projects would help ensure smooth flow of energy.

He informed the business and corporate leaders of the reforms and measures the government had taken to check inflation, curb fiscal deficit, attract foreign investment, bolster revenues, step up tax collection.

As a result of the new government’s steps, the international business and financial institutions’ confidence in the country’s economic development potential had increased tremendously, said Dar.

The minister, who is heading a Pakistani delegation to annual IMF-World Bank meetings, is accompanied by Finance Secretary Dr Waqar Masood Khan, Governor State Bank Yaseen Anwar and Secretary Economic Affairs Division and Nargis Sethi.

Earlier, Esperanza Jelalian, Executive Director of the Council, welcomed the Minister.

In her opening remarks, Carolyn L Brehm, Vice President of the US Pakistan Business Council, spoke of the great economic potential of Pakistan and its advantageous geographic location.

“Our members see value in Pakistan’s geographical proximity — it has a talented workforce,” she said, noting that a number of companies are running profitable businesses in the country.

Capacity constraints: Garment makers unenthusiastic about GSP Plus

This statement is in contrast to previous statements by the APCMA, which expects massive increase in exports. PHOTO: FILE

LAHORE: 

Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) on Saturday said that the local garment industry is not fully prepared to take advantage of duty-free access to the EU (European Union) market under Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Plus status mainly due to shortage of raw material, said PRGMEA (North Zone) Senior Vice Chairman, Jawwad A Chaudhry.

This statement is in contrast to previous statements by the All Pakistan Cotton Manufacturers Association, which expects massive increase in exports.

He urged the government to relax the import policy to empower value-added textile industry to get the maximum benefit of GSP Plus status, as the country had no input except cotton.