Mera Pakistan

There are a myriad of social problems that the Pakistani government can be blamed for. One of the most disheartening failures of the country’s politicians is the education system. Education is not a right in Pakistan; it is a privilege reserved for the wealthy upper class. As a result of the government’s failure to provide education for all, non-profit private organizations have began to fill the void. This MSNBC news segment explains the challenges Pakistani children face in trying to attain a quality education. 

Like many members of the Paksitani diaspora, I have never felt more hopeful for Pakistan than right now. There seems to be some sort of awakening in the world - the protests, the revolutions, the uprisings, the springs taking place throughout the globe are a testament to this. I am overjoyed that this sentiment, this burning desire for change is also being increasingly expressed in Pakistan. 

I believe that Imran Khan is the only politician who can bring about this change in Pakistan right now. And I think this video will give you an idea why. He is a staunch critic of the political corruption that has poisoned and immobilized Pakistan for decades. It is clear, after watching this video, that his determination to bring democracy to Pakistan is unwavering.

“The decision has already been made by the youth of Pakistan. It’s what’s called the Tipping Point. It is the point where now politics will change in Pakistan. It’s already changing.” - Imran Khan

In mid July, this track topped the iTunes Jazz Singles Charts. This Hindustani flavoured re-interpretation of Dave Brubeck’s ‘Take Five’ has gained world-wide attention, including that of Brubeck himself, who said it was “the most interesting rendition of the track he’s ever heard.” Performed by Pakistan’s Sachal Orchestra, ‘Take Five’ is only one of many gems off their debut record, “Sachal Jazz: Interpretations of Jazz Standards & Bossa Nova”. Pakistani Classical Musicians have been a dwindling breed in Pakistan for many years. Most classical instrumentalists worked for the Pakistani film industry, called “Lollywood”. But when Lollywood died out, so did the classical music profession. Izzat Majeed, a Pakistani philanthropist and jazz lover, made it his mission to hunt down these retired classical musicians and create the Sachal Orchestra.

(Source: theworld.org)

Pakistan, unfortunately, is a country with a massive rich-poor disconnect. This video helps explain why.