As the moon of Shawwal rises to signal the end of Ramadan in 2026, the traditional atmosphere of jubilation is met with a heavy, sombre reality. For the global Muslim community, and particularly for those of us with deep roots in South Asia and a commitment to global humanitarianism, this Eid feels fundamentally different. The […]
Ramadan: A Month of Sacrifice and Compassion
As the crescent moon ushers in the holy month of Ramadan this year, it finds a world still grappling with profound fractures. From the remnants of the devastating 2025 floods in South Asia to the rising cost of living in the United States, the global landscape is one of stark contrasts. Ramadan arrives at a […]
Pakistan Floods and the Need for the Spirit of Philanthropy
The year 2025 will be etched in Pakistan’s history as a period of significant devastation. Monsoon rains, cloudbursts, and glacial lake outbursts triggered catastrophic floods that submerged vast swathes of the country, from its mountainous regions to the urban centres along its river belts. As someone dedicated to civic engagement and global philanthropy, I see […]
Trump as Peacemaker?
As President, Donald Trump has often presented himself as a pre-eminent peacemaker. In his inaugural address upon returning to office for his second term on January 20, 2025, Trump stated, “My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier. That’s what I want to be a peacemaker and a unifier. ” On July […]
On Ramadan’s True Legacy
As a Muslim of South Asian origin residing in the United States, I am continually struck by the profound and transformative power of Ramadan. This sacred month fosters deep spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and communal solidarity. The essence of this spiritual renewal culminates in Eid ul-Fitr. Eid is a time for families and communities to come […]
Impact of USAID Shutdown
The administration of President Donald J. Trump has begun the process of dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and shutting down its operations in locations around the world. USAID has played a significant role in Pakistan’s development landscape for decades, providing nearly $30 billion into various sectors from health and education to […]
Addressing Pakistan’s Smog
Pakistan’s annual smog crisis, a recurring phenomenon, has reached alarming proportions, casting a dark shadow over the country’s urban centres. The dense fog of pollution, visible even from space, could have serious ramifications for the future of the nation. I say this as someone who has been writing about environmental issues and climate change within […]
US and Pakistan relations: Past, Present and Future
The US-Pakistan relationship has been marked by periods of cooperation and complication since it was established. The outcome of the 2024 United States’ presidential elections will have definite implications for the future of the relationship. The US and Pakistan established formal diplomatic relations on August 15, 1947. The US was the second country to recognize […]
Eid ul Adha and the Spirit of Sacrifice
Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” marks the culmination of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. As Eid ul-Adha approaches, a sense of profound anticipation fills the hearts of Muslims worldwide. This joyous festival commemorates the extraordinary story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his unwavering faith in God. As an Indian-born Muslim entrepreneur residing in […]
The Need and Potential for Solar Energy in Pakistan
Pakistan faces a substantial challenge in meeting its growing energy demand. According to a report from the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, the country’s energy deficit was around 7000 megawatts during May-August in 2023. This deficit caused frequent power outages, hindered economic activity, and impacted the daily lives of millions of citizens. Traditional energy sources, […]