Dear Padma,
Hello there! To start off with my introduction, my name is Tahira Khan and I’m almost in my final year of University here in Karachi, Sindh. I’m a Poli-sci major with a minor (and main interest) in theatre and drama. It’s exam season so I’m sure if you are also a student you’ll be on the grind- I am personally really looking forward to winter break this year so I can peacefully hibernate somewhere. How is school/work going for you?
Apart from studies, I really enjoy watching plays. I had a habit of memorizing lines from shows and then trying to reenact my own version of the story and, although it seemed annoying to my siblings when we were younger, we all now have a good laugh over it! One of my favorite English plays is ‘Richard II’ by William Shakespeare, the acting and emotions were absolutely amazing in it. ‘Khuda ki Basti’ (God’s own Land) is one in Urdu that I didn’t know I would have enjoyed. It’s set in Karachi and Lahore and deals with the lives of the underprivileged after the 1947 partition. It really shows a different perspective during that time and how many sides were overlooked because of a general uncertainty and distrust. Have you heard about it? The production might be a bit dated now but the aspect of family, tragedy and history is very moving. Do you enjoy plays or movies more? Movies are definitely more appealing visually because most of the time national theatre productions here do not have the budget for a lot of special effects like the movies do, but they are still enjoyable nonetheless!
Since the weather has been changing, the winter smog and unpredictable temperatures have set in. I’m glad for the coast line here because at least extremes of the weather can be tolerated. It gets dark quicker too these days, but I still get to enjoy the weekends when I go out with my friends to the local bazaar or just hang out at their place and enjoy some video games. On the weekends one thing is a must though: buying samosas and jalebi! We usually pool in our money and get a good amount of them to savour before dinner and they are amazing! I like Aloo (potatoes) samosas with their methi (sweet) chutney (sauce) and of course, warm, fresh jalebia are just the thing to combat the cold. I do not think I could ever tire of them both, do you have a favorite food or snack you couldn’t go without? I’m always open for recommendations!
I found the concept of this letter exchange really interesting! I know there might still be a lot of ground to cover before more progress is made on the issue of Indo-Pak relations, but until then, if we keep dialogue open and give each other a chance, then I’m hopeful for a better future for all of us. Let me know your opinion! And I’ll be signing off now, wishing you well!
from,
Tahira
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