Be your own critic, ignore the self proclaimed well wishers

I asked Abba once that how does he deal with criticism. "I don't respond to criticism at all. If it's coming from a well meaning source then I incorporate what I feel will help me in future, otherwise I just ignore it," he replied. Tell me more about how you don't let the critics affect you, I requested Abba. "Well there are times when I get letters where it's written that the meter of a particular couplet in any of my Ghazals is incorrect. I just simply throw the letter in the dustbin. My reasoning is that the person who is writing that letter and trying to criticise me is wasting his and my time. He should have rather tried and written a Ghazal that people would have loved unanimously. Why should I pay heed to someone who hasn't proved himself/herself in the world of Art? If someone makes a mark for himself/herself then he/she wouldn't be having so much of time to send a letter to me expressing criticism. People should rather invest their time and energy to hone their own craft," he said. 

Abba was a very harsh critic of himself. He used to write and recite his Ghazals/Nazmz to me (I was his first audience for the15-18 years before he passed away). He used to rework on them and then recite the corrected version. He would himself know where he has gone wrong. There were occasions where I felt a Ghazal or Nazm was excellent but Abba rejected it. People haven't read some of his works because he didn't approve of it. He didn't want people to know of it. 

Moral of the story is that be a harsh critic of yourself and ignore the self proclaimed 'critics' who may not be having the best of intentions. And they may be jealous of you as well.

Tashi Dzong: An Art Work of excellence in Thimphu, Bhutan

As we enter the Tashi Dzong crunchy Red maple leaves greet us with a welcome dance as they sway in the cool breeze. The long rows of roses line up the walls of the Dzong and are a delightful treat to eyes. 

Tashi Dzong or the (temple of goddess rain) is said to be a very important place in Thimphu. It has historical, political as well as religious relevance. The Dzongs were generally built as a place of protection from invaders, but now this is a place of religious learning as well as for public administration and housed a lot of offices in its premises. The palace of the Bhutanese king and queen is also a stone throw distance away from here. 

The artwork of Dzong is unique, it was told to us that the carpenter did not use any nails to create these huge structures. They are created by interlocking pieces of wood. We were left marvelling... 

The walls are wooden with relief work and colourful paints... seem to have borrowed abundantly from Chinese and Tibetan art and of course it has its own unique character. 

Photography is strictly not allowed in the Dzong and as you enter the inner portion of the temple it is mandatory to remove all caps, hats and shoes and locals wear a white shawl. To our surprise, you are allotted different colours of Chawla for wearing in the Dzong based on your social position. While commoners wear white and royalty yellow, other people are allotted other colours like orange ( ministers), blue and green (judges) based on their social status. 

Dzong is also special because this was the Place where the constitution of bhutan was Written and signed when Bhutan decided to become a democratic country in 2008. 

 100000 Buddha small statues along with a huge Buddha lead you into a mesmerising trance like state. A spiritual treat for those who genuinely care!!!

Text by Aarefa Faridoon

Pics by Faridoon Shahryar

#Thimphu

#Bhutan 

#FaridoonInBhutan

The peace evoking splendour: Memorial Chorten, Thimphu, Bhutan

The morning greeted us with a bright sunny smile. The nip of the November Himalayan morning was quite palpable as our car sped through the clean roads of Thimphu. Within no time we reached the Memorial Stupa also known as Thimphu Chorten that is right in the centre of the beautiful city. Built in 1974 it is a prominent landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. 

The stupa was erected in the memory of third Druk, Dorji Wangchuk. A beautiful pristine white structure decorated with very opulent golden pillars carved  to perfection. Unfortunately photography is strictly prohibited inside the temples inner areas. 

There is a huge statue of Buddha facing east, east because the sun rises from this direction and lights up the world and Buddha itself is a symbol of enlightenment. The hand painted religious scenes adorn the walls and the three floors of the chorten depict the esoteric teachings of Buddhism hinging more on the dragon and old school. 

A monk sat in a corner and chanted prayers while his voice echoed in all directions. The chanting can give you goosebumps moments. It was a spiritual experience powerful enough to bring you closer to God.. whichever one you might believe in!!!

Text by Aarefa Faridoon

Pics by Faridoon Shahryar

#Bhutan

#FaridoonInBhutan

The marvel called Cheri Monastery, Thimphu, Bhutan

The beautiful bright morning was a perfect start to the day. We started from the hotel at around 11:00 am and reached Jigme Dorji National Park in around 25 minutes. The Thimphu Chu river gurgling along the way was too riveting to not be pulled by her magnetic charm. 

Before we proceeded for our trek, we were lured by the music of water and steeped down to touch the ice cold mountain river. A magical experience by all means. 

Then we headed to our trek of 2.5 kilometres from the base to the #CheriMonastery. The trek is quite steep but not dangerous, but trust us... if you get going it will be worth all the effort. 

But the cherry (pun intended) on the cake was the breathtaking view of The Himalayas from the point we had reached. It's difficult to put into words the mesmerising experience, the pictures would be able to do justice to it...we just sat there under the majestic spell as we drank the view in bit by bit. Our guide requested us to move to monastery so that we can get our lunch on time and we reluctantly proceeded from our heaven. 

The Cheri Monastery is the oldest monastery built by Zhabdrung. It is said to be built around in 1620 and is a place for meditation and learning for those who train to be Llamas. As we sat inside the monastery Tandin narrated is some very informative nuggets of history that we lapped up all too eagerly. 

The trek downhill was far too easy... strain wise but a bit harsh on knees. But it is definitely worth the effort if you love adventure and nature...

Text by Aarefa Faridoon

Pics by Faridoon Shahryar

#Thimphu

#Bhutan

#FaridoonInBhutan

Takin Zoo: A paradise for peace in Thimphu, Bhutan

Takin is the national animal of

Bhutan. Legend says that a Tibetan saint called Drukpa Kunley, conjured it by joining the skull of a goat and the skeleton of a cow. The zoo is named after the animal. The zoo was quite small compared to the ones we have been to but the animals had adequate space to move around. There was a small, but unique variety of animals. We saw the Himalayan Gaural, the famous Takin,  barking deer, and sambar. A few of the animals came up to us and started rubbing their heads against the fence, obviously looking to be petted. But the bars were thin, so one could only pet them with their fingers. We fed them some grass growing nearby. A sambar also licked my fingers. We walked through the forest surrounding the enclosures. It was very peaceful, the vibrant colours of the forest seemed to pop out, the sun was shining bright and the trees were softly rustling in the wind. We could see a few climbers on the tree, which had turned red due to the change in season. A stream flowed alongside the path.

Though the zoo itself seems to be an occupying idea but when combined with the pristine beauty of Himalayas popping out in myriad colours of Autumn, the visual treat you get magnifies the experience by manifolds!

Text by Insha Faridoon

Pics by Faridoon Shahryar

#FaridoonInBhutan

Wonder of wonders Buddha Point in Thimphu, Bhutan

Buddha Point or Buddha Dordenma is a breathtaking sight in Thimphu. It's a huge-huge statue of Lord Buddha that is visible from almost the whole of Thimphu. The statue is THE biggest statue (51 metres plus 10 metres of platform) of Buddha (in sitting position) in the world. And the Bhutanese people are sure that it will be soon considered the eighth wonder of the world. 

The statue's construction had started in 2006 and got completed in 2015 with the hard work of almost 10 long years. The magnificent image sits tall amidst the hills that overlook the whole of Thimphu city. 

The  statue houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues ranging between 8-12 inches. The interiors are full of opulent brilliance. The gold carving on the wooden panels makes for eye popping beauty. A company in Shanghai, China spent 47 million dollars for making this marvel. Out of this one million dollars were spent on the diamonds in the teeka on Buddha's forehead. 

The majestic statue gleams in sunlight and is equally discernible in the artificial lights at night. We could find Buddha watching over us wherever we went in Thimphu... almost omnipresent. This is a sight that will linger on, in your mind for a long period of time!

Text by Aarefa Faridoon

Pics by Faridoon Shahryar

#FaridoonInBhutan

Cinema Scapes 2018

I was awarded for excellence in Cinema Tourism at Cinema Scapes Cinema Tourism Summit last year. I'm looking forward to the #CinemaScapes2018 that will be held on October 26 in #Mumbai

Kuldeep Nayyar: The Journalist who symbolised Truth!

Veteran journalist Kuldeep Nayyar sahab passed away last night at a Delhi hospital. He was 95. A Journalist who fought for freedom of expression and never hesitated in showing the mirror to the unscrupulous politicians. A journalist who was jailed during Emergency and resisted crumbs from the establishment all his life. 

I read his autobiography 'Beyond the Lines' with great interest. Born in Sialkot, he wrote a heartwarming account of Partition. He wrote about an unverified incident when Jinnah broke down during an aerial survey. When he saw the qatl-e-aam on the border post partition, he exclaimed with a sigh, "Yeh maine kya kar diya." 

Kuldeep sahab was critical of Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi and he was critical of Modi. He knew about Emergency better than most. Advani had famously said during Emergency, "Media was asked to bend, they crawled." Kuldeep sahab didn't bend, forget crawling. He stood erect  with pride till his last days.

 Rest in peace Sir!

What makes Gulzar sahab a Legend!

I've had the good fortune of interacting quite closely with Gulzar sahab as the D Day approached for Abba to be awarded the prestigious Jnanpith Award on September 18, 2011. Gulzar sahab edited the anthology 'Shahryar Suno' which was a collection of Ghazals and Nazmz of Abba. These Ghazals and Nazmz were selected by Gulzar sahab. It was launched by Mr Amitabh Bachchan after he handed over the momentous trophy to Abba. 

I used to interact with Gulzar sahab quite often on phone in those days as Abba was unwell and I was the contact point for their communication. What appealed to me the most was Gulzar sahabs passion. Someone who had achieved so much in life and was still so enthusiastic about editing anthology of a great Poet. I think it's this passion that has resulted in his longevity both in years as well as a relevant creative person. 

I have interviewed Gulzar sahab two times and the best way to define him is 'Intoxicating'. He's addictive. And the child like eagerness to be a student is very inspiring!

Happy Birthday Gulzar sahab. May you keep playing Tennis and may you continue inspiring!

Qurbani: The true and practical essence of humanity

I've been writing on the day of Eid Ul Zuha for the last two years that why it's important to make some changes, to help the poor instead of merely gorging on delicious feasts. This time I am writing this well in advance. I shall be donating a sum of money to help the poor and needy Muslims instead of the traditional qurbani of the goat. And I urge people to do the same. Just imagine the amount of money that can be generated if they-who-can-afford decide to donate the money in helping the poor Muslims. Clothes, books for children's education, food, basic commodities etc. The Savaab will surely be there. And most importantly you know that you've done something concrete that Allah will approve of. 

There are so many practises that we follow just out of societal pressures, to please others and may be to prove that we have loads of money. Anyone who understands the true meaning of Qurbani would approve the step to part ways with something that's dear to you. And that includes pride, ego and a false sense of self importance. Ammi Najma Mahmood always says that it's the idea of Qurbani that's far more important than sacrificing the animal.

Followers of any religion, sect or caste must update themselves. It's our responsibility that we help others and to ensure that through our actions, our religion must get acceptance Dil se. 

Debate and discussion is welcome but any sort of badtameezi won't be tolerated.

Relishing the royal treatment at Hotel Sacher, Vienna, Austria

Thanks to the Sacher management for a warm welcome. It is one of the finest hotels in the world. Established in 1875, Hotel Sacher has hosted some of the biggest politicians, movie and music stars. John F Kennedy, Indira Gandhi, Queen of England, Elizabeth Taylor to just name a few. Bulleya from Ae DilHai Mushkil was partly shot in and around this hotel. People still talk about Ranbir Kapoor and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Insha is enjoying the royal hospitality. 

#Vienna

#ViennaNow

#FaridoonInAustria

Helpless Smoke (Asifa)

Helpless Smoke 

A Poem by Faridoon Shahryar

On the cobbled road

She walked alone 

Blood dripped 

The breathing 

Heaved and echoed 

Flowers fell voluntarily 

Even the thought of comfort 

Isn't comforting any more

One last time she 

Looked up 

The vulgar roar of hyenas 

Blew the candle of life off

Helpless smoke wafts away...

#Asifa

Lamp Posts of Tears

Lamp Posts of Tears

A poem by Faridoon Shahryar

As I hear the 

Echo of expectations, 

I stand still 

For a while 

And admonish myself 

On the worldly vice.

'It's a sin to expect,'

I'd written long back;

Maybe it's time to write,

'Invest in emotions 

Only in those 

Who deserve

 Your attention and time.'

Wisdom is an 

Ongoing process,

The lamp posts of tears 

Shall guide you.

Sanjay Dutt's Biography is Unputdownable!

#SanjayDuttTheCrazyUntoldStoryOfBollywoodsBadBoy by Yasser Usman is a thrilling account of 1 of the most controversial movie stars in the world. Yasser dispels sentiments and states things as they are. When he praises it seems genuine,but clearly Sanjay is more a Khalnayak than a Nayak. 

Yasser traces Sanjay's life from childhood. He was a wayward boy who started smoking at10, boarding school, many trysts with dangerous activities that led to serious drug addiction, the many affairs, the many lies and embarrassments. Tragic demise of Nargis ji,how Sanjay got rid of drugs (overuse impacted brain cells forever), bomb blast case and the unconvincing reason why he needed another weapon when he already had 3 licensed guns, Yasser dissects it all. 

Yasser quotes from many of Sanjay's interviews. Mahesh Bhatt sahab said, "Sanjay is a disaster when he opens his mouth." In spite of the bomb blast case he was caught on tape talking on phone to gangster Chota Shakeel. The author analsyses how Munna Bhai films were the best works of Sanjay and changed his image forever. Jail brought the best out of him and the time spent there was the most spiritual learning experience for Sanjay Dutt. 

In spite of all the propoganda and genuine do-gooder image, Sanjay Dutt clearly has himself to blame for many of his misdemeanors and Controversies. Fate played traunt with illness of his mom and wife Richa as well. 

.#SanjayDuttTheCrazyUntoldStoryOfBollywoodsBadBoy by Yasser Usman is an unputdownable account of a unique tragic hero who's relentlessly pursued by controversies or maybe he courts controversies due to his personality. Do get a copy today!

Twigs of Togetherness

Twigs of Togetherness 

A Poem by Faridoon Shahryar

Twigs of love were deserted 

A pair of pigeons 

Flew in distinct directions 

Moist eyes and tremulous hearts

Bid adieu. 

A sea of loneliness

Still, as the silent evening 

Sad ripples and mournful waves.

Niche of Togetherness 

Fell apart 

Fairies search 

For the trail of a despondent flute.

A letter to my daughter Insha on her 14th birthday

Dear Insha 

As you celebrate your 14th birthday tomorrow March 20, I am brimming with happiness to see you grow into a fine young woman with a mind of her own. You are emerging as a fine writer and I genuinely believe that you can turn into a professional writer. Very soon. Your write ups are getting published in notable publications and they are being acknowledged by illustrious luminaries. 

What I find most heartening about your writing is that apart from a phenomenal vocabulary and an ability to weave beautiful pictures through words, you manage to have a unique perspective. You don't hestitate to criticise what needs to be criticised. And when you appreciate something/ someone then it's very apparent that the praise is truly deserving. It displays your self confidence, a belief in yourself and the fact that you're a fine people-reader and thankfully you don't go out of the way to be a people-pleaser. 

You take digs at me in your writing and I am absolutely fine with it. The world must know that I live for North Indian delicacies. And you're contributing in your own way in ensuring that people who invite me to their homes during my various trips, shouldn't waste on 'experimental' stuff. Just serve Nahari, kabab, Korma and I shall smile like a chechire cat. Jokes apart, I am willing to be more careful to live up to your standards and change myself so that you can write good stuff about me and it can come from an objective space. 

On this birthday, the gift that I wish to give you is the freedom to be what you are, write what you wish to write and be the person that you want to be. We are there for you at all points of time willing to lend a helping hand if at all you badly need it. But knowing you, I am sure you're on the path of self discovery where you shall be the one who shall show us the way. And there can't be a greater joy than that as a parent.

And yes, considering you do give credence to material gifts, so rest assured they are coming your way as well :) 

Have a great life ahead. 

Lots of Love 

Papa

In memory of Maqbool Hasan Khan sahab

I've learned so much about my maternal uncle Maqbool Hasan Khan sahab in the last three days that I didn't know in last so many years. Since the time the news of his untimely demise spread out, the messages and conversations of condolences have been non stop. There's a unanimous opinion that he was a great educationist but more importantly he was a great human being with a kind heart who helped everyone. It has truly been a learning experience. May he rest in peace and may the people whom he has left behind may find enough courage to carry on with their lives and continue walking on the footsteps of the ideals that he believed in. 

Ways to Make your Child's Camp Memorable

"Camping" is just another word for fun.Well, at least for kids! Most
kids are excited about their first camp and have every reason to be.
Camping can give a kid some real life-changing experiences. If you are
going on your first family camp, here are a few things that you can do
to make it memorable:
1. Choosing the right camp for your child is the first step in making
the experience memorable for him or her. Sobefore making any
decisions, sit down with your child and ask him/her what he/she would
like to do during the vacations. List the options in front of your
child and then let him/her choose. Do not force them into doing
anything they don't like. Memories are made while doing something you
love and that's what your child should do.
2. Have a theme dinner night during the camp. Dinner at home with the
whole family is always great, but a fun theme dinner in the outdoors
is a unique bonding experience!
3. Keep a track of all the items you are packing and label them. After
all, you don't want your kid to lose his favourites on a camp.
4. Carry mosquito repellents with you- you never know whether the
camping site is safe from thesemenacing insects. Carry outdoor
repellents like Goodknight Fabric Roll-On and Goodknight Patches.

Just apply 4 dots of the Fabric Roll-On on your child's
clothes and in case of the Patches, simply stick them onto the back of
your child's T-shirt so that he/she doesn't take them off.
Both these are 100% natural and paediatrician certified. The best part
is that these repellents need to be applied on your child's clothes
and/or prams, cots and strollers, eliminating any contact with the
skin. These revolutionary products ensure that your kid gets all-round
protection from mosquitoes outdoors for up to 8 hours.
4. Get your kids involved right away by letting them help set up camp.
They can help establish areas for cooking, cleaning, tents and
garbage, or complete tasks like setting up their tent. It's all a part
of the experience and a great way to pass on skills onto the next
generation.
5. Telling stories around a campfire might be a cliché, but it's a
great time to share family memories of camping during the past years
or your own childhood. One day, your kid might be reliving the
experiences with his or her own family, continuing the tradition.
Follow these tipsand your kid will have an amazing first camp!

An ode to Saqi Faruqi sahab

I just got the news that prominent #Urdu and #English poet #SaqiFaruqi sahab has passed away. He lived in #London and was a close friend of Abba. He was born in #Gorakhpur, his family moved to #Bangladesh, then #Karachi and finally to #London where he lived all his life thereafter. I met him during my childhood. He was discussed at our home regularly. His pictures at Taj Mahal (with Abba) flash before me as I write this. 

The reason why I also write this is because of a qissa that Abba and Ammi often narrated to us. It was a qissa that Saqi Faruqi sahab had told them and it has a highly notable life-lesson. 

This is what Saqi sahab said: 

"I had two plants in my house in London. I spoke to one plant everyday, was particular about watering it and looked after it with a lot of care. The plant flowered and the leaves were always fresh. As if they were smiling and happy. I watered the other plant too. There were times when I forgot too. I didn't talk to it. With time, vo paudha murjha gaya. If plants can react to personalised care and attention (or the lack of it) then imagine how crucial it is for human beings."

I have always remembered this. I often tell this to my friends and acquaintances during my interactions.

I'd end this post with a Urdu couplet written by Saqi sahab

Ek shola Meri avaaz mein lehraata hai

Khoon mein lahar, khayalon mein lalak paida ho

Rest in peace Sir!

Trust, Credibility and Mutual Respect is everything!

As I am ready to head for the neighborhood swimming pool, I'd like to share a thought that came to my mind a short while back. In the week gone by, I managed to conduct exclusive interviews with Mr Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Ali Abbas Zafar and an exhaustive 50 minute exclusive with #TigerZindaHai director Ali Abbas Zafar. I also spoke at length to Mr Akshay Kumar and Sonam Kapoor on their upcoming film #Padman. Mr Kumar showed me exclusive excerpts from Padman that he must have shown to very few people. Actors Varun Sharma, Pooja Chopra and Angad Bedi came to my office for interviews and extended a lot of warmth and respect which was overwhelming. In other words I had a great week as a professional.

It's not easy to get interviews with superstars like Mr Salman Khan, Mr Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif or Sonam Kapoor. The reach of my chat show #TalkingFilms is immense but it's not about the reach or popularity. What is most important is that you as a Journalist should exude Trust, Credibility and Respect so that celebrities, filmmakers or even fans open up before you. What is most important is to be conscious that you shouldn't rub people the wrong way. The biggest of stars or even rank newcomers, if they are worthy of being hosted on your show, then they deserve respect. They deserve an assurance that they won't be misrepresented, that they won't be used as a cheap fodder for gossip or milked for overzealous commercial gains.

I always say, I am willing to come second but I won't resort to silly click baits to win (momentarily) but lose in the long run.

Now off to swimming :)

Have a great Sunday! 

A scattered smile

A scattered smile 

A Poem by Faridoon Shahryar

Fear tapped on my shoulders

A sinister stare followed

Snowstorm knocked 

On my window

An unnerving restlessness,

Parched throat 

Quivered in the cold 

The night was 

Darker and longer 

Than the usual,

I fiddled with my mobile 

Diverting attention

Hesitantly I decided 

To look beyond 

The curtains of doubt 

The mountains 

Gleamed through the clouds

A scattered smile

Winked at the sunlight

It was time to 

Make the tea

Dip the biscuits 

Hit the gym

Plan the breakfast

Even the dreams are chirping 

Time to deceive 

Ghosts of the mind 

Arrange the bed properly

And just open 

The door of freedom 

To walk out 

Into the sun.