Book Review > Discontent and its Civilisations by Mohsin Hamid

Discontent and its Civilisations by Mohsin Hamid
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the first non-fiction book I've read.
I've read Mohsin Hamid's debut fiction novel 'Moth Smoke' previously.
Honestly speaking, I couldn't really get into the story back then. There were only a few elements that I enjoyed.
'Discontent and its Civilizations' explains Hamid's real life encounters. He has described how his life has changed while travelling from Lahore to NY, London and then back to Lahore. During this journey, Hamid has seen immense changes in his own perspective and personality.
He has pin pointed real life incidents in this book and have told how Islam has changed post 9/11. He has portrayed the real elements of Islamization in the Western side of the world. More or less, he has tried to present the real image of Islam. Politics, Pakistan-India relationship, U.S Drone Attacks have been thoughtfully explained in this book.
He has openly said that Islam is not a monolith.
Hamid also shares his stories regarding fiction, books, movies and titbits of his marriage life and also discussed some of the phases of fatherhood.
Certainly, Hamid's writing style is quite sophisticated, knowledgeable and mature.

View all my reviews

Filmfare and Fawad Khan – A night to remember!

The journey from Jutt and Bond to Khoobsurat has been remarkable for our Pakistani superstar, Fawad Khan.

He came, he conquered.

Who would have thought the young chirpy boy from Jutt and Bond will stand tall with a Filmfare trophy one day! Once again, he proved that he’s here to stay till one can’t even imagine.

Year 2014 has been fortunate for Mr. Khan in so ways. Be it his successful debut in Bollywood with the movie Khoobsurat who won accolades for him and made him an overnight sensation in India. Prior to the release of Khoobsurat, Fawad had already gained immense popularity and become an eye candy among the Indian viewers with his impeccable performances in Pakistani drama serials Humsafar and Zindagi Gulzar Hai.

Audience has not only witnessed his charismatic looks but also seen a terrific potential in his acting skills as well. However, the former remains a larger reason for his fan following albeit.

Fawad managed to grab Fresh Face of the Year title at Hello! Hall of Fame Awards and Best Bollywood Debut honor at Masala Awards which were held last year. Nevertheless, the tempting moment that took us all by surprise was when he beat down his competitors in the B-town and was honored with the most coveted and prestigious award, Filmfare which is more or less considered as an Oscar in Bollywood.

By winning the Best Debut Award (Male), Fawad Khan became the first male Pakistani to win a Filmfare trophy in the actors’ category. Previously, Nazia Hassan, Salma Agha and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan were the fortunate ones.

There were a few breathtaking moments from the awards ceremony that I loved the most.

Suited in a Dior black suit, Fawad Khan managed to carry the similar royal look he’d essayed in Khoobsurat. Certainly, watching him in a formal look is always a delightful experience.

Fawad Khan walked the red carpet alongside wife Sadaf Fawad Khan. It was truly a sure shot delight to watch him posing for pictures and selfies with his true love.

The pictures that captured everyone’s attention were the ones where Fawad Khan was spotted with two beautiful ladies; Sadaf Fawad Khan and the black lady.

 

The rapport between Sonam Kapoor and Fawad Khan looks quite evident whenever the two of them are together. It was a brilliant idea by the Filmfare team to bring Sonam on stage and bestow the black lady in Fawad’s hands. None other than Sonam could have presented the prestigious award to him in a most endearing way. The paparrazi did not miss out the lifetime opportunity to capture the two beauties on the stage together.

Post the Filmfare event, Sonam and Rhea Kapoor were seen celebrating and posing candid pictures with Fawad at their residence in Mumbai. I couldn’t help but smile at these adorable pictures. There’s a peculiar grin on Fawad’s face that is rarely seen. Winning a Filmfare trophy is not an easy task. Leaving behind his contemporaries in Pakistan and India, Fawad has surely taken a prideful lead.

Everyone is impatiently waiting for 8^th February 2015 because that’s when the most awaited Filmfare awards are slated to air on Sony Television. Though I’ve seen a glimpse of his award winning speech somewhere on Instagram, I’d want to watch the actual moment over and over again.

The entire Pakistani media industry sent showers of blessings and warm wishes for our hero. Nobody stayed behind to congratulate Fawad for his splendid victory.

I’m happy because I believe this time Filmfare have been the most unbiased and fair awards ceremony apart from the others. The critics have recognized the true talent and did not shy away from rewarding the deserved candidate. With Kangana Ranaut (Queen) and Shahid Kapoor (Haider) sweeping the awards in the Best Actor’s category, it has been proved that Filmfare awards were not bigoted.

Moving on to his future projects, the actor has been flooded with many film offers both from Pakistan and India but he hasn’t signed any till date other than Battle for Bittora which is another venture by  AKFC and stars Sonam Kapoor opposite him. Rumors were in the air about him doing Karan Johar’s much anticipated movie Ae Dil Hai Mushqil starring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma. Earlier the actor was rumored to be paired opposite Kareena Kapoor in Udta Punjab but later on an Indian actor Diljit Dosanjh replaced him. Moreover, there was also news that Fawad has rejected to do a role opposite Kareena in the same movie. On the Filmfare night, Fawad cleared off these rumors by saying he'd love to do a movie opposite Kareena if offered in the future. According to him, he has many offers in his kitty but he hasn’t agreed on doing any project. He is yet to sign the dotted line.

We are profoundly thankful to the Kapoors for giving Fawad an opportunity to witness a different cinematic experience in Bollywood. The love and support given by Sonam, Rhea and Anil Kapoor is commendable and enduring.

Fawad Khan has made his fans and Pakistan proud with his spectacular triumph in the truest form. I wish him luck and success for his future endeavors. May many more awards and praises come in his way!

-          - Sara Naveed

Sara Naveed | First Video Interview | Undying Affinity | Pakistani Author

In Conversation with Jaideep Khanduja.

She is not a writer by profession but writing to her is more like a passion. Being a writer has always been a dream; in fact, it's a passion that resides deep inside her heart and soul. Having written in many fan fiction forums; her interest grew and her writing skills improved. She has finished working on her first book, Undying Affinity. Insha Allah, the book is published recently and is available on Amazon.com. She earnestly hopes people appreciate her writing; an asset, she most deeply covets.

Welcome Sara.

  

Your real name and pen name?

My real and pen name is Sara Naveed. 

Please share some of the best memories of your childhood

The first 12 years of my childhood have been spent in Sharjah, U.A.E. After I turned 12, my family moved to Pakistan because my father wanted to establish business here. Childhood has been well spent, I must say that. Childhood is a phase of your life when you are completely unaware of major issues pertaining to life. You live a carefree life when all you to have to worry about chocolates, toys, watching movies and attending birthday parties. 

About your education

After completing my matriculation degree, I opted for pre-medical. I must admit during that time, I paid less attention toward being a doctor and hence scored less in the final examination. My interest diverted and I stumbled into the business line. I did Bachelors in Commerce followed by Masters in Banking and Finance. Education is something that has no end. I intend to take MPhil and then go for PhD.

What career did you plan during your education days

I had originally planned to become a doctor but I guess fate had some other plans for me. 

What languages you can speak and write?

I can speak and write English and Urdu quite easily. Hey, I can speak Hindi too. (Winks)

What is your biggest source of inspiration in life

My biggest source of inspiration comes from the fear of losing. Failure scares the hell out of me. If I want to achieve something then I'd go for it; no matter how hard it is. 

What hurts you most in this world

Family separations and heartbreak hurt the most, I guess. 

What is the biggest challenge you have faced? How did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was to go out of the city to complete my Masters degree and stay away from my family in a girls hostel. I guess at that time I found it really challenging for myself and I'm glad I made that decision. Living alone and far away from family taught me to live an independent life. I felt myself more confident than before. 

What is your favorite genre and why?

My favorite genre is Romance because I've been grown up watching Bollywood romantic movies (Laughs). Jokes apart, romance is the only genre that intrigues me and that is why I've decided to write romantic novels whenever I intend to write because I feel I am good at it. 

When did you start writing? What is the purpose of your writing?

I've been writing fan fictions since my teenage years in various celebrity fan clubs and forums. From there my interest grew for writing . There were a couple of readers who enjoyed reading my fan fictions back then. I still remember my friend once told me to write a story and become a published author but I never took her advice seriously. I am amazed how I finally took the initiative and started writing. The purpose of writing is to express your innermost ideas and desires and share it with the audience. Writing gives me peace and another reason to live. 

Which of your work has been published so far? Would you like to share a synopsis of your work?

My first fiction book – Undying Affinity has just been released. Here is the synopsis;

Twenty two year old, Zarish Munawwar, has everything she could ever ask for in life; an elite family, a high profile status, a bunch of good friends and a childhood friend. Being childish, stubborn, imperious, extravagant and a bit impulsive at making important decisions pertaining to her life is what perfectly describes her personality. She takes life easily and can get anything she desires. To her, life is a bed of roses.

It is only when she meets, Ahmar Muraad her mentor and finance professor at university, her perspective of life completely changes. He looks quite young for his age as every girl at the university thinks he is attractive, seductive, intellectual and rather intimidating. This charming man is every girl’s fantasy and she also finds it hard to resist him.  But is he fascinated by her?

Little did she know how one little interaction could bring about so many twists and turns in her life.

Do not miss this romantic tragedy as it will encapsulate you totally and will stay in your heart forever.

What are your forthcoming writings?

I have my first book which has recently come out. Then I am working on another book which is also an intense romantic tragedy. 

What keeps you motivating towards writing?

When I come across a good book, I always think why this idea did not occur in my mind. Why I couldn't write such a terrific story? So yeah, I guess every well written book with engrossing story is the only factor that motivates me toward writing. 

If Writing a Book is taken as a project, What are the key essentials you take care of in Project Management?

I did not follow any rules and regulations while penning down my first book. It just came out naturally. 

How do you plan, schedule and monitor your writing commitments?

I always plan to write on daily basis. If I do not write daily, then I lose the temperament and eventually the story or any particular scene that I'd imagined, skips out of my mind. So whenever an idea strikes my mind, I plan to write it down as soon as possible. 

What is generally your preference in reading – a paper book or ebook? And why?

I will always prefer a paperback to an e-book. I believe when you're reading via an e-book, the impact of reading is lost somewhere. The feel you get when reading through a paperback is incomparable. I love reading paperbacks because I love the smell of the books. The idea of turning pages and then listen to the sound of turning a page drives me crazy. 

How much real life goes into a fiction writing?

I believe fiction is interlinked with non-fiction. The only difference between the two is that the former has to make sense. Writers write what they've experienced or seen in their real life. Therefore, real life experiences is what creates fiction. 

Is high level of imagination important to have for an Author?

Yes. Absolutely. A writer is not a writer if he/she is not imaginative at all. Fiction is a pool of imaginations. You cannot write unless you imagine or draw a picture in your mind. 

Your dream destination on Earth?

I'd like to go on a world tour and visit all the exotic locales. 

Your zodiac/ sunsign?

Aries. 

Your favorite color and why?

My favorite color is white because it indicates peace and tranquility. 

What is the last book you finished reading? What is the current book you are reading?

The last book I finished reading was Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell. Pride and the Prejudice by Jane Austen is the one I am reading nowadays. It's a cult classic. 

Your favorite book and why?

I don't have one. It's a never ending list. I fall in love with every good book I read. So, the favorite keeps changing. 

 

Your favorite movie and why?

Again, it is a never ending list. 

Your favorite celebrity and why?

Fawad Khan because he is the protagonist of my book. The main character of my book is highly inspired by his personality. 

Your favorite food?

Chicken Biryaani made by my mother. 

Your favorite sports?

Badminton.

What is the force that drives you?

The passion of becoming a successful person one day. 

What comes to your mind when you think of India?

Beautiful historical places and fortes based in India. Taj Mahal for instance. I love India and I cannot wait to explore it one day. 

Some quickies: 

Sun or Moon- Moon

Laughter or Smile- Smile

Morning or Evening- Morning

Coffee or Tea- Tea

Mountain or Sea- Sea

Long Drive or Short Drive- Long Drive

Silence or Conversation- Conversation

Water or Fire- Water

Air or Earth- Air

Mars or Jupiter- Mars

Tulip or Rose- Rose

Red or Blue- Red

Left or Right- Right

Glance or Stare- Stare

Fame or Money- Money

Boy or Girl- Girl

Day or Night- Day

Tree or Plant- Tree

Love or Passion- Love

What three words come to your mind for each – 

Technology- Necessity, intelligence, Next Generation

Life- Unpredictable, blessing, dream

God- Generous, Merciful, Beneficent

Humanity- Kind, helpful, supportive

Terrorism- brutal, inhumane, terror

Racism- injustice, cruelty, discrimination

Childhood Abuse- cruelty, injustice, discrimination

Love- blessing, best feeling, life

Parenting- blessing, love, life

Old age- inevitable, unavoidable, mercy

First thing you do in the morning after waking up?

I drink a glass of water. 

Last thing to do before sleep?

Pray to Allah. 

If one fine morning you wake up and find your sex changed to opposite, what will be your first reaction?

I would plead God to change my sex as soon as possible because I am blessed to be a woman. 

State your signature line/ tagline/ best quote

Love me for a reason and let the reason to be love. 

The title of your autobiography would be…

Pakistani Fiction Writer 

Links & other relevant details:

Publisher: Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Undying-Affinity-Sara-Naveed-ebook/dp/B00P53QSOY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419353479&sr=8-1&keywords=Undying+Affinity

Official Website: www.saranaveed.com

Twitter handle: @SaraNaveed

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/saranaveedwriter

Goodreads author page: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13168057-sara-naveed

Goodreads book page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23499489-undying-affinity

Any other links: www.saranaveedwriter.blogspot.com

Read the original article here: http://pebbleinthestillwaters.blogspot.com/2014/12/author-interview-sara-naveed-undying.html

My latest Interview at Pakreaders

Sara Naveed is a talented Pakistani writer, Author of the book “Undying Affinity” a love story of a girl “Zarish” belongs to a very rich family. It is really an amazing book covering the chemistry of rich people’s love stories. We are going to talk with Sara Naveed about it. It is a short interview with her to talk about herself and her book.

Q. First of all tell us about your educational background.

A. I have completed my MS. in Banking and Finance from UMT Lahore. Being a finance student, literature always lingered in my thoughts. I’d always wanted to do something in linguistics or literature but couldn’t pursue my education into these departments. I always wanted to be a writer; whether it was about writing fan fictions or novels, writing was embedded into my soul. That’s the reason I wanted to pursue my career in writing.

Q. What is your profession?

A. Apart from writing, I’m working as a Business Analyst and HR Manager in an American consulting group based in Lahore.

Q. Why your book character Zarish belongs to a rich family? Mostly in Urdu novels, we read that writers try to depict the stories of middle-class or poor families. So, why did you choose a rich family?

A. The decision of picking a royal family for Zarish’s character was to highlight the weakness and negative traits of the elite society. The rich is getting richer and the poor is getting poorer. That is the current scenario of the world right now. We do not realize the difference between the two classes unless we are exposed to the truth. Ahmar Muraad, the male protagonist in my book is a person who makes Zarish see the other side of the coin. To understand the difference, you need to belong to an opposite class. Ahmar explains her depth of the vicious circle of poverty in such a way that she is able to see that difference.

Q. There are lots of books about love stories in market then why not on other topics?

A. That’s true. These days, every other writer is writing romance and love stories. I did not choose to write on any other topic because I was not simply interested. I think I’m good at writing romance. You should always opt for something you think you can do justice with and think I can do justice with romance.

Q. To be honest I thought after reading short introduction of your book Undying Affinity that you got this idea of professor and student love story from “Raja Gidh” by Bano Qudsiya.

A. Really? (Laughs). Trust me, I haven’t read “Raja Gidh” by Bano Qudsiya till date and I cannot comment on something I haven’t read.

Q. Being a writer, is it really difficult to play with characters?

A. Not at all. When you fully understand the depth of a character, it becomes easy to write about him/her.

Q. Ever you feel that it is hard to manage the characters while book writing?

A. Sometimes, it does get complicated when you’re writing about multi characters but then again, understanding them deeply makes everything easy. You need to live your character to make them look genuine.

Q. Why book lovers should read your book? I mean what is unique in your book?

A. The most important element of this book is the romantic chemistry between the lead characters. That I think is the USP of this book.

Q. Which writers are your favorites?

A. Each writer is my favorite. I become a fan of every writer whose work appeals me. So my preferences keep changing with every good book that I read.

Q. Are you writing more? I mean what is next?

A. Yes. I’m working on my second novel which has a more challenging subject. It revolves around a dark yet intense romantic story.

Contact to Sara Naveed

http://saranaveed.com/
https://twitter.com/SaraNaveed

Read the original article here: Pakreaders