Sir: Although Pakistan is culturally rich, its diversity is hardly cherished. Fayaz Chohan’s rant against culture and art is a case in point. He blatantly showed his detestation for the arts by ridiculing performing artists and, in doing so, he depicted the views that many in our society have for artists and people working in similar professions. The people in performing arts are especially the brunt of criticism and are given no respect. However, more worrisome are the consequences of Fayaz’s rant.
First, in a country where terrorism and intolerance of all shades run high, such remarks by a responsible minister only dissipate hatred and intolerance. Needless to say, he should instead promote arts as a counter to the extremist ideologies sweeping the nation, as it is ultimately in the people’s minds, where the true war on such beliefs will be fought.
Second, cherishing artists and promoting true face of diverse Pakistan is in the country’s interest. This is because artists are ambassadors for their respective countries and can help create a positive image of their nation; something that Pakistan desperately needs in the current global environment.
Hence, it is disappointing to see that even in the “Naya Pakistan” such old aversions to the arts and culture still exist, and that too, voiced by a serving cabinet member. Alas, it seems old habits die hard.
KASHIF HAKRO
Karachi
Published in Daily Times, September 8th 2018.