On Ramadan’s True Legacy on March 27, 2025As 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 on February 27, 2025The 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 on November 26, 2024Pakistan’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 on November 1, 2024The 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 on June 15, 2024Eid 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 on May 19, 2024Pakistan 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, […]
Invaluable Lessons from the Blessed Ramadan and Eid on April 4, 2024The holy month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr offer us invaluable and enduring lessons. For an entire month, we Muslims have dedicated ourselves to fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, fostering a spirit of compassion and generosity towards others. This introspection and focus on giving create a truly special atmosphere and a […]
Thoughts on the first Female CM in Pakistan on March 4, 2024The recent election of Maryam Nawaz as the first female Chief Minister in Pakistan’s history is a moment of pride and hope, not just for Pakistanis, but for advocates for gender equality around the world. While residing in the US, I have witnessed firsthand the ongoing struggle for women’s empowerment. March, being Women’s History Month […]
New Year Thoughts and Wishes for Pakistan on January 3, 2024As the first whispers of 2024 dance across the Indus plains, I send heartfelt greetings and wishes to the people of Pakistan. Pakistan is a land where the Himalayas sing anthems of resilience, the Indus dance tales of history, and the people wear dreams like vibrant tapestries. This year holds particular significance for the Pakistani […]
Ex-PM Nawaz’s Return on November 9, 2023Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, returned to his homeland after spending nearly four years in exile in London. His return has raised considerable conjecture about what it means for Pakistan’s future. “It appears that we are in another pendulum swing of Pakistani politics – back again to Nawaz Sharif,” Madiha Afzal, a […]