Chotay Ustaad: real emissaries of peace Dear Aman ki Asha
Whose brainchild is this program Chotay Ustaad? I don't know, to tell you the fact. Although I hear it connects to the chain of efforts from the Jang Group and the Times of India to bring the two neighboring countries closer. They call it Aman ki Asha. I will not hesitate to say there appears no difference between Pakistani and Indian kids. One, they are originally one race; two, they appear to be real emissaries of peace when they hug and show love for each other. Well done Geo and the Times of India for leading such an endeavour. You deserve plaudits. (Editor's note: Thank you. Aman ki Asha certainly supports Chotay Ustaad, although we did not initiate the programme).

Chotay Ustaad is undoubtedly attention grabber. It's a programme with exceptions.

Not that I am a regular writer or a columnist but having watched this programme by chance a few months back when it commenced, and later, impatiently waiting for it every week, I am compelled to jot down a few lines to laud the efforts of the performers in general and the thought behind this, in particular.

To be honest I am unsure when the programme Chotay Ustaad was first on TV, or if it was preceded by any advertisement. I have, however, become its great admirer for reasons more than one.

To begin with, I must say the choice of the venue for this programme is marvelous. The auditorium is sprawling with enough room for audiences and exclusive side-stage for the performers. One thing is quite noticeable that the young entertainers are confident and their support for each other is on offer, forevermore. I value those who directed the children to have such a manner as this not only demonstrates the children's ability to encourage others but also sends a message of tolerance, especially at this tender age.

I may be very naive myself when it comes to singing but I can still say the performances transcend expectations of the listeners. Almost all the children are God-gifted for singing but some are stars, if you like. I may be called biased for eulogizing one couple in particular but I am ready to bear any brunt.

Akansha from Rajhastan (India) and Rouhan (Pakistan) from Gujrat sing to steal the hearts of the listeners. In my reckoning, Mair from Karachi and Mayuri from Calcutta come second in the lead. Although some solo performances from other singers are extraordinary.

Last but not least, Sonu Nigham and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. I think, these days they are the two most popular singers from both India and Pakistan. No other choice would have been better.

I sincerely hope this Aman ki Aasha grows from strength to strength and meet its objective, what it's hoped for.

Sincerely,
Haroon Khan
haroon_khan_07@yahoo.com

Wednesday, November 03, 2010

Romancing the Border

Butool Hisam writes about a unique cross-border initiative she is involved in to bring young people of India and Pakistan closer together

I come fro .....more