Nazir Sabir – Mountaineer from Pakistan

Nazir Sabir has taken Pakistan to the heights of glory many times by scaling some of the highest mountain peaks of the world.

Born in the mountainous valley of Hunza, Nazir Sabir was destined to conquer the lofty majestic mountains. His climbing career began in 1974 when he accompanied a Japanese expedition to climb the 7284m Passu Peak. He was a part of many successful expeditions which tamed the arrogant 8000m high peaks in Pakistan. He ascended K2 the 2nd highest peak of the world from an extremely perilous and virtually impossible angle the South West Ridge. He was the first Pakistani to attempt such a difficult climb and the second Pakistani to conquer K2. He also was the first person to reach the top of Paiya Peak (6660m). In 1982 he added another chapter to history when he conquered the two 8000m peaks in a week in a single attempt. These were the Broad Peak and the Gasherbrum. Nazir Sabir was accompanied by an Italian mountaineer Reinhold and a fellow Pakistani Sher Khan. Although Nazir attempted to tame Nanga Parbat three times but the killer mountain proved to be invincible as all three expeditions had to be abandoned due to bad weather.

In May 2000, Nazir Sabir along with mountaineers from USA and Canada conquered Everest. Once atop the roof of the world, Nazir paid glowing tributes to all his colleagues and friends who lost their lives trying to reach these glorious heights.

Nazir Sabir has been honored by the Pakistani government and many prestigious mountaineering clubs around the world.

Sabir has worked a lot for promoting tourism and presenting a positive image of Pakistan.

 

Plains of Pakistan

1. The Indus Plain

The word Indus is derived from Sanskrit word ‘Sindhu’ which means ocean. The words Sindh, India and Hindu also come from the same word. River Indus is one of the world’s great rivers. Almost all of the major rivers of Pakistan flows into Indus. River Indus Basin is a large and very fertile plain formed from the River Indus silt. This area has a 5,000 years old civilization with agriculture as the main source of income. The main parts of the Indus Plain includes Upper Indus and Lower Indus Plain.

The upper side of the Indus basin includes the Province of Punjab and the Lower Basin starts at the confluence of the eastern tributaries extending south wards to the coast. The high area of the indus Plain is known as the Potohar Plateau located close to the foot hills of Himalaya mountains. There are four deserts in the Indus Plain namely Thal, Thar, Indus Valley and Cholistan.

a.      Upper Indus Plain:

There is a vast plain located on the east of Kirthar and Sulaiman mountain ranges and south of Salt range extending up to the Arabian Sea. River Indus and its tributaries irrigates this area including River Sutlej, Ravi, Jehlum and Chenab. These tributaries meet the great Indus at Mithan Kot and on its south lies the Lower Indus Plain and on the north is the Upper Indus plain. The upper portion of River Indus is very fertile despite the fact that there is few rainfalls in this area, mainly because it comprises of the soil brouth by the rivers. Long chain of canals are spread in this area which help produce a good quantity of crops. This canal system is one of a kind in the world. There are few hills of low heights seen around Chiniot, Sangla and Sarghoda.

Thal desert lies on the west of River Jehlum which used to be an arid area. But due to intense irrigation by the canals coming from the Jinnah Barrage this desert produce lots of crops. There are many Doabas including Ban Doab, Sagar Doab, Singh Doab in the District Sahiwal and Multan. A large part of this huge desert is populated only beause of this irrigation system which is turn help produce different types of crops. The plain becomes higher and higher and this raised part is known as Daras. The plains of Peshawar and Bannu are also very fertile which lies in the north of Daras. This is also due to canal system of irrigation and tube wells. Many crops are grown in this region including; rice, wheat, cotton, sugar cane, oil seeds and tobacco

b.      Lower Indus Plain:

The area in the south of Mithan Kot to the Arabian Sea is known as The Lower Indus Plain, which comprises of most of the area of Province of Sindh. The soil is very fertile and where ever proper supply of water is available crops can be grown. Several canals have been made in the north of the province and the central part of Sindh is irrigated by a large network of canals.

The Thar desert is however quite infertile due to lack of water and is located in the east of this plain. Near Thatha the Indus becomes closer to Arabian Sea where almost 556,000 acres of swampy delta is formed including mangrove forests. This delta then divides into several branches and falls into the Arabian Sea afterwards. During the monsoon a large part of this area is flooded with water creating destruction. The seaport of Karachi is located on the west of this delta and salt marshes of Rann of Kutch lies on its east.

2. Deosai Plain:

The meaning of the word Deosai is ‘Land of Giants’. This plain is located on the boundary of Karakoram and western Himalayas and comprises of an area approximately 3,000 sq. km. It is about 30 km from Skardu. This is the world’s highest plateau. It is snow capped most time of the year with no trees or even shrubs.

The plain is accessible from Skardu and the Astore valley in a brief summer season only. But it turns into a paradise like place in summers with millions of flowers, lots of greenery and a background of snow capped mountain peaks. Sheosar lake in this area also provide beautiful views. It is filled with purple meadow cranesbill, mauve Eritrichium and Aster and yellow Pedicularis and Poppies and many more in the month of June. It seems like a sheet of colorful flowers on the slopes.

This place has a unique biodiversity. It is interlaced with lots of streams and golden marmots. Trekkers come to this area from within and outside Pakistan and enjoy the mountains till September. There is a track crossing Deosai plain to Skardu and Astore Valley. This track goes to the Satpara lake from Skardu and a small village. Deosai is surrounded by snow capped mighty mountains exceeding 5,000 m height.

Spring comes a little late in this area, but once its here it comes in full bloom. The vast alpine flowers grown in this plain are one of a kind. In the spring season thousands of wild flowers fill up the green grass land with Fiona flora getting most part of the attraction. Thousands of tourists rush to visit Deosai in summers with spectacular views of the great Karakoram mountains from the height of about 4,785 m. Many wild animals live in this area including the Brown Bear. Deosai at an elevation of 3,500 meters is officially a protected area for wild life and the Deosai National Park is also another tourist’s attraction spot. It is located at approximately 13,500 feet above sea level and is above the tree line. It has an area of about 3,000 sq. km and is tourist’s paradise.

Camping is quite common in the area in the summer season which is mostly done on the bed of edelweiss and river or lake side. Chakor Pass is another attractive stop of the area which is 4,266 m high and is stuated in the south of the plateau. Lake Shausar also give another spot worth seeing to the visitors. The great Karakoram mountains on the north of this pass provide a very beautiful view.

This area with an endless and unspoiled natural beauty attracts thousands of tourists. With the beauty of soaring mountains, shiny glaciers, crystal clear lake water, natural streams, alluring river sides, alpine pastures and many neighboring attractions the trip to Deosai becomes an unforgettable experience. People who love adventure and trekking will find this a heavenly place.

3. Coastal Area.

The total coastal area of Pakistan is about 1100 km long and is located in the Province of Sindh and Balochistan. The longest one is in Balochistan which is 770 km long. The coastal area starts from the border between Sindh, Pakistan and India and ends at the border between Iran and Pakistan. It is present on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Geographically, it has great importance as it connects Pakistan with the neighbouring countries.

There is a strong possibility of presence of mineral oil in the sea that is why the government is paying a lot of attention in its progress.

In the Sindh coastal area Karachi is the most important part because of its sea port. Karachi Port is located between the towns of Kimari and Saddar and are close to various industrial areas and the business district. Karachi is a metropolitan city with the busiest seaport. It handles around 60% of Pakistan’s cargo which is 25 millions tons every year.

In the coastal areas of Balochistan Gawadar has the most important place. It is a deep sea port with warm water at the entrance of the Persian Gulf and around 460 km from Karachi city, south of Makran and about 47 miles away from the eastern border between Pakistan and Iran.  It has developed as a district along the sea in this region. The coast line here is around 600 km long. Its port has a potential of becoming the hub of trading activities between Pakistan and Central Asia.

Pride of Pakistan – Hanif Mohammad

Hanif Mohammed is a respected name and an essential part of Pakistan cricket. Hanif Mohammed made his test career debut at the age of 17.

Initially Hanif Mohammed was coached by Abdul Aziz, a wicket keeper who played for All India team. Abdul Aziz guided Hanif and taught him to adjust to all sorts of batting conditions. His training came handy when Hanif was selected to play against England when the English team visited Pakistan. Hanif’s contribution with the bat in the second match at Karachi and agility behind the wickets were instrumental in getting test status for Pakistan.

To improve the performance of cricketers, some cricketers from Pakistan were sent to England to Alf Glover’s cricket school with Hanif being one of them. Glover satisfied with Hanif’s technique suggested that no changes should be made to it.

Hanif Mohammed stands out in the history of cricket with his famous score of 378 runs against West Indies which took more than sixteen hours. He not only set a world record of the longest innings of that time but also saved Pakistan from defeat. Hanif’s triple century remains the only triple century in 2^nd innings so far.

Hanif Mohammed also has the honor of exceeding Don Bradman’s record of the highest individual score. Hanif Mohammed made 499 runs and was run out when attempting the 500^th run. His batting feats earned him the nickname of “Little Master”.

Hanif Mohammed also kept wickets when required and had the ability to bowl with either arm. Hanif Mohammed played a total of 55 test matches with an average of 43.98 runs and scored 12 centuries.

Hanif Mohammed was named the Wisden Cricketer of the year 1959, he was also awarded the President’s Pride of Performance in 1968. Hanif Mohammed’s name has been inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame.

Top ten popular folk singers of Pakistan

Music is one of the most important elements that have existed in the world. Different people have different tastes and even the music styles of different areas of a country are so diverse that you may get confuse. Pakistan has always produced good music whether it’s folk, classical, pop or any other genre. Folk music is one of the most important music that belongs to our country and many singers who are worth mentioning, they made it worth listening with the beautiful and meaningful lyrics that give people a good leisure time and people actually get emotionally attached to them. This term has its history that shows that it was originated in 19^th century. Popular Folk singers of Pakistan that have been on the top includes Atta Ullah Khan Esa Khelvi, Arif Lohar, Saien Zahoor and many more like them who have changed the dimensions of this genre of music in Pakistan.

There is no denying this fact that Pakistan has produced some amazing folk singers who have won the hearts of millions across the globe through their singing.

Following is the list of famous Folk singers of Pakistan:

• Allan Faqir
• Sohrab Faqir
• Reshma
• Alam Lohar
• Arif Lohar
• Sher Mian Dad
• Shazia Manzoor
• Attaullah Khan Essa Khailwi
• Kamal Mahsud
• Zarina Baloch

 

Top ten famous writers of Pakistan

Writing is a very diverse field, and writers all over the world have expressed their selves via different means, and languages. Writers here in Pakistan have also dominated this field, with their very breath taking stories and informative books. Ashfaq Ahmed’s famous book Zawiya which was published in parts was an amazing one. Umera Ahmed has been providing us with her marvelous work. The writers here in Pakistan have not only written in Urdu but English as well.  Tehmina durrani with her excellent piece of work has given us very good books like Blasphemy, my feudal lord, a mirror to the blind which is an autobiography of Sir Abdul Sattar Edhi. Another very famous writer, without which Pakistan’s writing industry is incomplete, is Bano Qudsia who has written very good novels and are read by millions all over Pakistan. Other famous writers are Ahmed Faraz, Anwar Maqsood, Umera Ahmed, and many more.

Following is the list of famour writers of Pakistan

• Ashfaq Ahmed
• Bano Qudsia
• Ahmed faraz
• Qudrutullah Shahab
• Ibn-e-Insha
• Anwar Maqsood
• Quratulain Haider
• Ahmad Shah Bokhari
• Mushtaq Yusfi
• Naseem Hijazi

Top ten festivals of Pakistan

Pakistan has got a rich and vibrant culture which is famous throughout the world for its many festivals and joyous occasions, and the Pakistani youth knows how to celebrate them all! We have got an array of different festivals; some of them have got to do with religion, some with history, some with our rich culture etc. From Eid to the Independence Day, none of the celebrations are spared. The most prominent and celebrated festival is Eid-ul-fitr that occurs right after the month of Ramadan. It is also called the “sweet eid” because on this occasion people make many scrumptious desserts like “kheer”, “halwa”, “sheer khurma” and enjoy the delicious festivity after fasting for about 30 days. For children, the arrival of Eid is music to the ears because they get to refill their purses with the loads of eidi they receive from their relatives.

Similarly, the Eid-ul-Azha in which a sacrificial animal is brought from the animal market and sacrificed. The meat is shared among the poor and the relatives. The fun part is the BBQ which many people have with their family and friends.

Then there is basant which is celebrated to its fullest inPunjab. People, dressed in yellow, throng to their rooftops and other grounds to play the kite game. The site of the sky full of brightly colored kites is so picturesque!

The top ten festivals of Pakistan are:

• Eid-ul-Fitar
• Eid-ul-Azha
• Eid Milad-un-Nabi
• Basant
• Independence Day (14^th august)
• Pakistan Day( 23^rd march)
• Defence Day(6^th September)
• Shandur polo festival
• Lok Mela festival(Islamabad)
• Horse and cattle show

 

Pride of Pakistan: Nishan-e-Haider

Nishan-e-Haider is the highest military award of Pakistan awarded to those military men who have shown exceptional acts of bravery during a battle or when the integrity of the country was in jeopardy. It is conferred posthumously and so far only 10 brave men have received it. Out of these ten; nine are from Pakistan Army and one is from the Air Force. Nishan-e-Haider is made from the gun metal surrendered by the enemy.

The first recipient of this highest military order was Captain Muhammad Sarwar Shaheed who laid down his life defending the country in the Kashmir war of 1948.

Major Muhammad Tufail Shaheed was also awarded the Nishan-e-Haider for his heroism though not in a battlefield. He attacked an illegally setup post at night along with his men; though fatally wounded; he continued to command his men and succeeded in driving out the enemy.

Aziz Bhatti was another brave major of the Pakistan Army who embraced martyrdom during the 1965 war while resisting every move of the enemy. He was awarded Nishan-e-Haider for his exceptional valor.

Major Muhammad Akram Shaheed received Nishan-e-Haider for his courage and bravery during the 1971 war with India. He bravely commanded his men till his death.

Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas is the only recipient of Nishan-e-Haider who belongs to the Air Force. During a test flight, his plane was hijacked by his Bengali instructor. Rashid Minhas on realizing his intentions informed the control tower and interfered with the control of the planes causing it to crash.

Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed was one of the bravest majors of the Pakistan Army. His acts of valor and military acumen earned him the highest military award even the enemy acknowledged his bravery calling him “a fine soldier”.

Sawar Muhammad Hussain Shaheed was a jawan (foot soldier) in the Pakistan Army who was awarded Nishan-e-Haider for his extraordinary acts of bravery during the 1971 war. He destroyed sixteen enemy tanks before coming under direct fire of enemy’s machine guns.

Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfuz Shaheed was another recipient who was awarded Nishan-e-Haider for his heroics in the battle of 1971 between India and Pakistan. He entered the enemy bunker and destroyed it.

Nishan-e-Haider was conferred on Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed for his courageous deeds during the 1999 Kargil War. Even the Indian Army acknowledged his bravery and it is said that this award was given on the recommendation of the Indian Army.

Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed embraced martyrdom in the line of duty during the 1999 Kargil War. He requested the authorities to deploy him on the front position from where he bravely thwarted the enemy advances. He was the last recipient of this prestigious award.

Pride of Pakistan: The Nuclear Accomplishment of Pakistan

Shaken by the separation of East Pakistan and letdown by its allies America and China; Pakistan then decided to stand on its own and build a nuclear bomb.

What started in 1972 under the Bhutto regime was finally accomplished on 28th May 1998 during the tenure of Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan announced its nuclear achievement by detonating five nuclear heads in Chaghi Hills Balochistan. It was a proud moment for a nation which unfortunately has a long history of unstable governments and is plagued by problems both internally and externally. This day will go down in the history of the country as the “rebirth of the nation”.

Pakistan’s feat was welcomed by the Moslem world. On the other hand our neighbor and the Western powers were furious and regarded this development as a threat to the region. These double standard nations had acquired nukes themselves ages ago as Pakistan is the seventh nation which has gone nuke. The fact that India is allowed to import nuclear fuel and technology while Pakistan is not, exposes not only the double standards of the West but also its open hostility. Like Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya, Pakistan could have become a target of the Western powers if it did not have nuclear weapons. The West and our neighbor in particular lament the fact that Pakistan no longer feels insecure and cannot be easily bullied.

Pakistan has time and again assured the world that it will not use its nuclear weapons unless provoked. Pakistan’s nuclear accomplishment has brought stability in the region.

Heritage and culture of Pakistan: Popular Handicrafts of Pakistan

The diverse culture of Pakistan is reflected from its handicrafts. Pakistani handicrafts are known all over the world for their exquisiteness. Pakistani shawls, dresses, caps, decoration pieces, baskets, cooking utensils, hand bags, jewellery and mats etc are very popular among locals and foreigners. Intricate patterns in beautiful colors are quite eye catching and attractive.

The handicrafts of each region of Pakistan are different reflecting its tradition and timeless beauty. Sindh province is known for its ajrak; a graceful block printed shawl and a symbol of Sindh. Other fabrics originated from Sindh are susi and khadi. Sindhi caps are well known too as are the beautiful blue colored tiles and the earthenware. Rilli a bedspread made from small pieces of cloths stitched together artistically and is found in Sindh only.

Punjab has always been the seat of culture. Multan the City of Saints is quite famous for its embroidered clothes and shoes. Pottery of Multan is also famous. Chiniot is known for its furniture while the handicrafts of Sadiqabad are popular too. Camel skin lamps, brass and wooden handicrafts, glazed pottery and hand woven carpets of Punjab are some sought after handicrafts.

The province of Balochistan is known for its leatherwork, goat and sheepskin jackets and mats. Balochi embroidery is also famous. Marble work of this area is also known.

Copper and brassware of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is favorite among foreigners and locals. The beautiful embroidery of different regions and sandals from Peshawar are very much in demand too.

Showbiz in Pakistan: Top Ten Makeup Artist of Pakistan

Pakistan has loads of makeup artist who can transform a plain Jane to a princess with few strokes of brush.

The multi talented duo of Pakistan Ather-Shehzad is known for its expertise behind the lens as well excellent makeup skills. The pair has introduced many leading models and groomed and photographed leading personalities of showbiz.

Nabila is among the leading fashion stylist of Pakistan. She has been around for quite sometime and is a noted figure in the fashion industry of Pakistan. Her clients include elites, showbiz personalities, sportsperson etc.

Khawar Riaz is an iconic figure in Pakistan’s fashion industry. Gifted and talented he considers transforming people with his makeup skills, an art. He has groomed models, film stars and others. Riaz has won national and international awards for his expertise.

Mussarat Misbah the beautician from Karachi started with The Depilex Salon in Karachi which now has 23 branches in Pakistan. Mussarat introduced the concept of beauty salons and took make up to a new level with her fresh approach.

Tariq Amin is known for his innovations in make up and hair styling in fashion world of Pakistan. His ideas are bold and he knows how to carry them out beautifully.

Through sheer hard work the talented Babloo has carved a name for himself in the fashion world. With a large list of clients, he is a respected name in the industry.

Mubbashir Khan is another makeup artist who overcame all hurdles to achieve success. Talented and artistic he is one of the best makeup artists in Pakistan.

Saba of Sabs has achieved success in a very short time. This talented lady is one of the most sought after makeup artists of the country.

The magical hands of young Akif Illyas transform ordinary faces into pictures of beauty. Admired for his talents and respected for his skills, Akif is a busy man with a long list of clients.

Aliya Tipu of Alle’Nora has taken over the world of paint and powder with her artistic skills. She is currently one of the most successful makeup artists in bridal makeup.

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