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KUKI concepts,The year 2012...Yet

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The literary definition of the word fashion is ‘To

create’,then by very nature of it’s definition fashion is an

everchanging prospect, a continiually shifting paradigm,

not a dimension in which to realize your ‘inspirations’

or ever to ‘re-create’ but rather one in which you ‘create’.

As to re-create would be to ‘re-fashion’ and thats not

really fashion,now is it? One such prolific designer who

fits right into our Philosophic equation of fashion’s bill

is the critically appraised and rightfully acclaimed Zahid

Khan (a.k.a KUKI), the brains behind the leading and

well established fashion enterprise “KUKI concepts”.

The ‘Maestro Grande’is so good in the the creative

department that he is in himself fashion-manifest!(as

‘to create’ is ‘fashion’) Be it the originality of his

“Funk collection 2012” or the creativity of his “Frank

Stella collection 2012”, he has no one “Signature”(or

conventionally overhyped repeatedness,if you may)

rather signatures choose him as their nexus.A designer

showing true variance and mantaining breadth, depth

and originallity of designing topics and subjects, instead

of psuedo-creativity and pretentious style-consciousness,

is the first, last and truly the only kind of person we

need for a leap and bound growth of our beloved

Pakistani fashion industry.The following pictures are

laurels indeed.

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40 I November 04 -10, 2012

Pakistani film Josh

screens at the 14th

Mumbai Film Festival

osh, English Title “Against The Grain” is the only Pakistani film to be showcased at the 14th Mumbai Film Fest this year, making it the first fiction film in five years to make it to one of the region’s

most prestigious film festivals. Josh is the brainchild of Iram Parveen Bilal, a Pakistani film maker who dedicated the last 4 years of her life to working on her debut feature film. “Josh is a story of what happens when you find your world turned upside down and you want to take control of your life again,” said Iram Parveen Bilal, who is currently in Mumbai for the world premiere of her film. “What happens when you want your life to be much bigger than yourself and about others. It is a story of hope, of trying, of redemption. It is a story of the youth, of Pakistan, of the pain, the pleasure and the spirit of unity and independence. Ultimately, if I were to pick one thing, it is about “never giving up”.”Josh, which is already creating waves both in Pakistan and across the border, was recently mentioned in Hollywood’s Variety and IndieWire for being one of only 2 fiction films to be granted the prestigious Women In Film Finishing Fund. The film has also been mentored by Oscar nominated Hany Abu Assad. The film has a stellar cast, with some of the most talented and renowned actors and actresses starring in it.

Describing the casting process, Iram Parveen Bilal said: “We begun the casting process a year and a half before the shoot. Numerous m e e t i n g s , call back and interviews led us to a cast that I think outdid anything I could have written and directed for this film. They are amazing and especially as an ensemble with the killer talented Aamina Sheikh at the helm,” said the young director, who hopes to lock distribution deals for this film both in Pakistan and internationally. Aamina Sheikh, who is one of the most visible faces of stardom in Pakistan, has made her presence felt through captivating roles in TV, film and modeling stints. In this film, she plays the role of Fatima, a committed schoolteacher living the cosmopolitan high life in Karachi, who is devastated when her nanny, Nusrat, inexplicably disappears. Though her friends and family beg her not to disturb the status quo and confront the powerful feudals in Nusrat’s village, Fatima travels there to investigate. Will the trials and tribulations deter Fatima’s resolve? Will the quest challenge an already complicated romantic relationship? What all shall Fatima have to sacrifice in the search for

answers?In Mumbai, Aamina Sheikh seemed excited and thrilled at the reception she had received across the border: “The media and the festival organizers have been extremely welcoming and it’s an honor and a delight to be here.”Josh is essentially the story of a privileged woman whose life is shattered in a single moment. It is the story of a woman in search for a dangerous truth. It is the story of the biggest challenge to Pakistan’s still reigning feudalism: the country’s youth. The film explores the internal debates the young are struggling with, and how solutions can be attainable if and when they stand united. .Josh is the story of Fatima’s search for a dangerous truth in Nusrat’s feudal village. The starcast includes Aamina Sheikh, Mohib Mirza, Khalid Malik, Navin Waqar, Kaiser Khan Nizamani , Khalid Ahmed, Parveen Akber, Nyla Jafri, , Saleem Mairaj, Adnan Shah Tipu, Ali Rizvi, Faizan Haqquee and many more.

Film

This is a great message for all of us in these dangerous times of National and Global conflict. Although our feeling of

powerlessness and fear are real and depressing, each one of us can make a difference by taking responsibility for the conflict within ourselves. At age five Sultan uz zaman Xaigham Shaykh, with the help of his mother, produced his first book titled Our World, by six he

has another his first book published. Described as our budding author by his school, he apparently has much more achievements at the beginning of his life than most people by the end. According to statistics 88% of the world list publishing a book as their ultimate goal and dream. After having realized this dream already, what higher goal is Sultan uz zaman on course to achieve in the future? As if producing books is not enough

to occupy his time, while in class One himself, he taught English [mostly phonics] to underprivileged children from neighboring colonies at a coaching centre set up for community service. He appeared as guest of honor at a school award ceremony and delivered this message on stage at a peace work shop .“Before we can have peace on earth we have to believe it is possible.We cannot change the world until we change our self.”I am told before beginning anything Every morning he says prayers for protection calls Allah’s names and asks for success remembering there is no power or strength but Allah’s. Most important to constantly confirm .His next book Our Body is soon to be released and that is still not all. He has a green belt in Taekwondo, several Gold medals and shields for swimming as well as a first place trophy in roller skating within his own age group. He is also learning to plays Tennis .A natural musician is learning to read music while playing the piano.

Our Worldis a must read

“Before we can have Peace on Earth we have to believe it is Possible.We cannot change Our World unless we change Our Self.”

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By Sumeha Khalid

A-list model Zhalay Sarhadi would set the ramp ablaze as soon as she would set foot on the runway! She was the tops!

She could be seen sashaying down the runway in beautiful creations of some or the other designers or gracing covers of leading glossies till a few years back - and then she disappeared. Soon we heard Zhalay had tied the knot and before we knew it, good news in the form of a beautiful baby girl was heard. After having stayed away from the limelight for quite a few years, Zhalay recently staged a comeback in showbusiness and is at it once again! Acting!Pakistan Today caught up with the zany girl to find out what’s up her sleeve this time. Here are excerpts of the interview.

Q: Actor, wife and a mom... how do you do it all?A: Juggling has always been my forte. I am very clear about the tasks on hand and prioritise things accordingly. I adore being a mum, wife and an actor and manage to divide time between the three successfully. But most importantly since my husband is so supportive of my work, things somehow fall into place beautifully.

Q: How do you manage to stay on top of the game?A: Like I said, I know my priorities, I’m a hard worker and don’t shirk from going an extra mile… hence I make it work. I’m still a bit short of being top of the game though!

Q: How’s life after marriage and a kid? How does that affect your

work?A: Life is awesome after marriage career-wise… It was a setback after my baby came into our lives but now I have reached a point where I can work and be a good mom at the same time. It takes a little practice and conditioning but ‘where there’s a will there’s a way!

Q: In Pakistan the general conception is that post marriage your career as a celebrity ends. Your take on that!A: It’s not just a conception but a fact of life and not just in Pakistan but all over the world. Having said that, I feel this is more a cause of concern for film actors rather than ones working on the small screen. From experience I have learned that in fact people relate more with married women with children than with single females. At least I have been very lucky… For me it has been the other way around. My career is going strong even post marriage, so I have no complaints really.

Q: What’s happening on the work front? What’s taking up most of your time these days?A: Acting has been taking up my time currently. I am doing serials for various channels and I’m enjoying the variety of characters I have and will be portraying in upcoming projects. Some of the projects I am involved in are SISKIAN, KAHI UNKAHI, MADIHA MALIHA and AKS.Also, as my little one is growing up real fast, al the time not spent working is devoted and dedicated to her. I feel blessed.

Q: What are you concentrating on currently – modelling, acting or entrepreneurship?A: Acting has been and will always be my first love - modelling is restricted to occasional print shoots and commercial films. And through my work, I have also become an entrepreneur.

Zesty ZhalayInterview

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Q: You were among the A-list models before you tied the knot. And then you disappeared from the fashion scene altogether. Why so?A: Leaving modelling was a conscious decision on my part and it had nothing to do with my marriage. I did not enjoy the peer pressures of a certain body image and of plastic looks. It was making me highly insecure with my own self and I am a confident person. Thus did not return to ramp modeling after I made a comeback in showbiz.

Q: Do you think our models have the capacity of matching the best in this business elsewhere in the world or even our neighbours India?A: Well, yes and no! There are a lot of subdivisionings in modelling. To be on the ramp you have to be above 5ft 9”. We have very few models in Pakistan who can meet the criterion. If you move towards the looks department, we are as beautiful as anyone else. So it can safely be said that as far as print media and commercials go we are confident about ourselves. Another area where we lag behind is grooming or more appropriately, the lack of it. Our models only learn the ropes after tons of experience. At the time when we step in this field, we are not taught the art of carrying ourselves.

Q: Do you think our industry or market is big enough to give our models the opportunity to do that?A: Definitely yes! Our industry is sufficiently big and is steadily widening its horizons. We are getting more and more professionals on board who are helping it prosper. Especially with the launch of Fashion TV in Pakistan the opportunities for people related to the fashion industry have doubled. Modelling is now being recognised as a profession, owing also to the

exposure people are getting through the cable television.Q: Is modelling a lucrative business? What’s the commercial aspect of modelling besides the fame and glamour factor?A: Modelling does pay but not as well as it should, primarily because we have lesser fashion shows, and secondly because our media does not give models their due respect and hype which is why we have no stars. It’s the same in the showbiz

circle. It is growing though, and so I think the monetary aspect would improve too. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and make a plea to all our media kings to please support our artists as we have to compete with the world as a joined force and not an embittered one.Q: How important is a model in the marketing of a brand?A: A model plays an important role in the presentation of a brand

because we are the ones on screen. We are the link between the clientele and the product. If the link is weak and a model is unimpressive the effect of the product is lost on the people. That is exactly the reason that the larger the brand the more they emphsise on using a top class model to promote the product. Take the example of Lux, Pepsi, Coke, etc. all have notable stars as their ambassadors.

Q: What has been the contribution of models in the success of brands?A: Lending their personalities, grace and power of conviction have been the models’ contributions in an advertisement campaign or a fashion shoot. Fashion is all about visual play of beauty and expression, with creativity brought in by designers and make-up artists. If all of this works in sync, then there is nothing but success. Most importantly, the product should be up to the mark and deliver whatever it promises.

Q: What in your opinion is the average life of a model/actor? A: There is no fixed age limit for a model - we have models in their early forties! For an actor the lines are even more hazy.

Q: What do you feel about the latest crop of young actors. Are they serious enough about their work?A: I feel that the latest crop of actors have entered a world of cut-throat-competition so the going is really tough - they are

more dedicated, hard working and focused than our earlier lot!

Q: Your favourite model locally and internationally… A: Rabia Butt locally; and even though she is now ancient Emaan was regal on the catwalk!

Q: People you adore working with?A: Imran Abbas, Zainab Qayoom and Juvaria Abassi.

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By Sehyr Anis

When it c o m e s t o fashion, m a n y women

get lost along the way somewhere. It may be a busy work schedule, children sucking up the energy out of you, denial of not being in your early twenties anymore or just not being able to realize what looks best on you. We all go through phases and we have all had our share of fashion faux pas. However, for some people the fashion mistakes do not pass by as a phase but become a permanent feature and that is when one should be concerned.There are several factors that need to be taken into account when you choose an outfit. You need to understand - you are wearing the outfit, outfit is not wearing you!

Know Thy Body Type: The girl you saw at the wedding last night looked fabulous and you could hardly wait to wear that ensemble. You want to look as gorgeous as her and the very next morning you are geared up to go on a hunting spree to get the exact same fabric and can not wait to get that outfit stitched in the same fashion. Before you head out, please PAUSE. Now hit the REWIND button and recall. Did the girl have the

same height, bone structure, complexion and weight like yours’ If not, then it’s not necessary that the same outfit and style will look similar flattering on you too. This is a very common fashion mistake that most women indulge in. By seeing someone chic and getting inspired by their look, they want to blindly copy look, without realizing that the same style may not enhance their attributes. Knowing your body type is a fashion must. “Finding clothes that fit your body will dramatically change how fabulous you look”, says Dawn Del Russo, beauty and fashion guru featured in InStyle, Elle and Life & Style. Knowing your body type, the styles that flatter it and the fashion trends that work for you make all the difference when dressing elegantly for your shape. With knowing your body type comes embracing your curves, wearing clothes that accentuate your best features and loving your body that much more.

Know Thy Age:Growing up means our clothes change as well. The sooner we realize that, the better it is. Wearing the same styles and designs which girls your daughter’s age are wearing may not be a very good idea, though exceptions are always there for women who miraculously have discovered the elixir of life.

What Not to Wear!

Each stage of life has its own beauty. With growing old comes elegance and grace. Why not honor that and embrace it?Similarly, young girls who should be exuding energy and liveliness when dressed in cuts and colors that are more befitting for the elderly may not necessarily look mature but also kind of drab. As I said exceptions are always there. Older women can still look vivacious and younger girls can still look sober by following trends more aligned their age. Not every trend works for every age group!

And Last but not the leastKnow Thy Self: Trust your own instincts and judgment. We all have mirrors. Don’t shy away from them and spend some time in front of the mirror evaluating your body. Only you can honestly and earnestly be your best critic because no matter how awesome and sincere your friends are, they consciously or subconsciously will be reluctant

to answer truthfully how you actually look when you ask them: “Do I look fine”? The answer: “You look awesome babe” not always be the whole truth. The fact that you had to ask that question itself indicates that somewhere in your mind the seed of doubt exist and there is something amiss! Spend time analyzing yourself and soon your body may be your new best friend!Happy Dressing Up Ladies!

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David Patrikarakos, based in London, is a young writer, essayist and journalist – associated

with the New Statesman, the Financial Times, the London Review of Books, Prospect and the Guardian. The present book is meant to understand modern Iran via its nuclear programme and vice versa. Prof. Ali Ansari of History Department at University of St Andrews and Director of the Institute for Iranian Studies rates it

as ‘One of the best and most readable accounts of a p r o g r a m m e which has come to define Iran’s relations with the West. An essential read for the general reader and specialist alike.’

Besides this book, three other books

Nuclear Iran: The Birth of An Atomic StateAuthor: David Patrikarakos

Publisher: I.B. Tauris & Co Ltd, London Pages: 340; Price: Rs.1995/-

Available at Readings, Main Boulevard, Gulberg, Lahore

Nuclear Potential of IranBy Syed Afsar Sajid

With the advent of the 1979 Revolution, the Islamic Republic officially rejected nuclear weapons. But subsequently Iran’s opposition to Iraq and her deepening mistrust of the world’s solitary superpower, nuclear programme came to be viewed as a symbol of the nation’s ‘refusal to be cowed’

Books

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have also appeared on the nuclear capability of Iran in recent past viz., Iran: The Nuclear Challenges by Robert D. Blackwill, The Iranian Nuclear Crisis: A Memoir by Syed Hossein Mousavian, and Iran, the Looming Crisis: Can the West live with Iran’s Nuclear Threat? by Dr. Emanuele Ottolenghi.

Professor Michael Clarke, DG, Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies (RUSI) calls it a ‘story of Iranian nuclear policy’, and hopes that it will be a useful source and reference point for those who wish to learn about Iran and its nuclear controversy.

The world nuclear weapons club comprises the USA, Russia, the UK, France and China while India, Pakistan and North Korea, outside of the NPT, do also possess nuclear capability. Moreover, Israel too is a potent suspect in the nuclear arena. In this backdrop Iran’s ambition and plan to go nuclear in the current geo-political scenario detrimental to its vital strategic interests in the region, is quite understandable.

‘The seeds of today’s impasse between Iran and the US and other western nations’ are stated to have been sown, ironically with the signing of the NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) by the then foreign minister of the country Ardeshir Zahedi way back in July, 1968 for Akbar Etemad, a nuclear physicist close to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, thought that ‘it was not a fair treaty’ and resented the act for reasons of ‘national sovereignty’ and ‘the right to pursue indigenous enrichment under the NPT’.

However, with the advent of the 1979 Revolution, the Islamic Republic officially rejected nuclear weapons. But subsequently Iran’s opposition to Iraq and her deepening mistrust of the world’s solitary superpower, nuclear programme came to be viewed as a symbol of the nation’s ‘refusal

to be cowed’. Observers believe that this programme may be many things to Iran ‘but most of all it is the expression of a nation seeking a place in the modern world’. Still further, another popular western view is that this ambition might in the long run prove self-isolative (euphemism for self-destructive) for that country.

The book is divided into two parts aside from the ‘preface’ and the ‘prologue’. Part I bears the heading: A Surge into Modernity: The Nuclear Programme 1957-2001. There are eleven chapters in this part with eponymous titles

denoting the genesis, evolution and pre-maturation phases of the programme from the pre-Revolution dynastical regime to the post-Revolution Islamic republican era.

The second part of the book entitled: The Greater Game: The Iranian Nuclear Crisis – 2002-12 encompasses another six chapters unravelling the sordid enigma culminating into the intermittent resumption of the enrichment of uranium leading to the use of atomic energy for peace, and not production of WMD as espoused

by the Iranian leadership. In the concluding part of the

book, the writer proclaims, albeit tentatively: ‘The nuclear programme is the ultimate expression of modern Iran – evolving alongside the state itself. The Shah needed it to mimic his Western role models – to appropriate their technology to show how modern (read ‘Western’) his country was. The programme was his means of negotiating Iran’s relationship with a world that had proved so perpetually hostile, and the way he chose to drag his country into modernity. The

Islamic Republic initially rejected the programme on the same grounds, but once it came under attack it became a symbol of a defiant modernizing state that overtly confronted the system that denied it justice. Spurred by ideology and Khomeini, the programme became a means of appropriating Western technology to help create an identity for Iran in the modern world, but on its own uniquely Iranian and Islamic terms.’

The book is thus an expression of a westerner’s outlook on the ‘crisis’ in Iran arising from the triangular fraction between NPT (the Non-Proliferation Treaty), AEOI (the Atomic Energy Agency of Iran), and IAEA (the International

Atomic Energy Agency). It may seem ‘an even-handed analysis’ to some, but the partisan tilt in many an observation of its author can hardly go unnoticed by a liberal, non-committed reader who is fully alive to the global cleavage on the issue of nuclear non-proliferation. In this context the book is aptly estimated as ‘a watershed in the understanding of the Iranian nuclear programme’ by Siavush Randjbar-Daemi, a lecturer at the School of Oriental and African Studies (University of London).

‘Spurred by ideology and Khomeini, the programme became a means of appropriating Western technology to help create an identity for Iran in the modern world, but on its own uniquely Iranian and Islamic terms.’

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