Nazreen Fazal

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Roadtrip

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Tour

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Venice

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Italy

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Venetian Masks

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Gondola

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Travel

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Italy by Road- Last leg (Venice)

Final Stop- Venice (Venezia)The last stop on our trip, and without a doubt the best one, was Venice. It’s around 500 kms from Pisa. Venice, over the years, has been described by many names- The City of Canals, The City of Masks, The City of Bridges. But nothing befits it more than the ‘Queen of Adriatic’.  Our stay there definitely made us feel so.Our hotel, Hotel Delfino was in Mestre,...

Continue Reading 29 Nov 2010

Deactivate

Un-Facebook

It was getting out of hand. Totally out of control. I was reeling under the shock that my life was being controlled and I had been morphed into a puppet. This monster, this vile thing, had me wrapped around it’s little finger. I had to take action…before I became its slave. That’s when I decided that it’s time to un-facebook. Yes, the monster I have been talking about is none...

Continue Reading 29 Mar 2011

Save time

Un-Facebook

It was getting out of hand. Totally out of control. I was reeling under the shock that my life was being controlled and I had been morphed into a puppet. This monster, this vile thing, had me wrapped around it’s little finger. I had to take action…before I became its slave. That’s when I decided that it’s time to un-facebook. Yes, the monster I have been talking about is none...

Continue Reading 29 Mar 2011

facebook

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Un-Facebook

It was getting out of hand. Totally out of control. I was reeling under the shock that my life was being controlled and I had been morphed into a puppet. This monster, this vile thing, had me wrapped around it’s little finger. I had to take action…before I became its slave. That’s when I decided that it’s time to un-facebook. Yes, the monster I have been talking about is none...

Continue Reading 29 Mar 2011

addiction

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

Un-Facebook

It was getting out of hand. Totally out of control. I was reeling under the shock that my life was being controlled and I had been morphed into a puppet. This monster, this vile thing, had me wrapped around it’s little finger. I had to take action…before I became its slave. That’s when I decided that it’s time to un-facebook. Yes, the monster I have been talking about is none...

Continue Reading 29 Mar 2011

exercise

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

flab

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

gym

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

university

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

weight loss

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

food

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

My battles with food and flab

Before coming to Uni, I had one small expectation from it that I never dared to tell anyone. LOSE WEIGHT. I had heard stories of people losing weight drastically after being subjected to the notorious ‘hostel food’. Not that I was huge or anything, I just wanted to tone down. But apparently, there was another plan in store for me.The first day, I find out that there is no ‘hostel...

Continue Reading 14 Jun 2011

BMW

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Nymphenburg Palace

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Germany

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Munich

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Alps

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Biergarten

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Marianplatz

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Viktualien Market

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Olympic park

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Schnitzel

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Olympics 1972

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Olympia

Europe Tour- Munich, Germany

Since the beginning of this semester I have been on my toes. I know now that attempting to read your coursework is a real drain of your time. I have also been busy with other activities on campus. My father saved me from premature graying when he suggested a week-long trip around Western Europe. I convinced my professors of the necessity of this trip, packed my bags and left the...

Continue Reading 04 Nov 2011

Mirabell gardens

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Salzach

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Salburg

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Schranne market

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Mozart Balls

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Salzburg weekly market

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Mozart

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Gazebo

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Austria

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Real VonTrapp family

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Salzburg Fort

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

Sound of Music

Mozart, Sound of Music and more- Salzberg, Austria

Salzburg- Salt Mountain. Salzburg is the town which gave the world the gift of musical genius Mozart. However, it is known more widely as the hometown of the VonTrapp family in the 1965 movie ‘Sound of Music’ (SoM). Romantics swear by this place where Maria, Captain VonTrapp and their 7 children frolicked around on the green meadows and fell into ice-cold lakes while singing about their sorrows and happiness.The name...

Continue Reading 18 Nov 2011

harmony

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

India

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

aviyal

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

Indian Muslim

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

identity

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

culture

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

unity in diversity

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

race

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

religion

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

diversity

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

france

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

niqab

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

singular identity

Aviyal

One of my many pet peeves is talkative taxi drivers. You know the ones who start talking once you enter the taxi and won’t stop even when you try to get rid of them with the fare. In Malaysia I have had to put up with so many of such rides that I have borderline taxiphobia. One more ‘teksi’ ride with a human radio and I will give up on...

Continue Reading 06 Jan 2012

Malayalees

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

West Bengal

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

siblings

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

life

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Bombay

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Chai

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

gmail chat

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

90s

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

kids

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Kurseeong

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Air Force AirForce

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

trains

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

brothers

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

bourbon biscuits

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

tea

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

chat

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

parents

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

fights

Nostalgia....Life before we got facebooked

Today morning I was just sifting through all the files on my laptop when I came across some of the old pics of our family. Needless to say, nostalgia struck and I was left missing them. It’s been a few months since I saw my parents and almost half a year since I saw my brothers, we talk on the phone, skype, chat and stuff but still…something seems to be...

Continue Reading 18 Jan 2012

Commandments

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

Facebook Parenting

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

Parenting

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

social Networking sites

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

SNS

Facebook For Dummies

I have been on Facebook for almost 5 yrs now (was an Orkutter before that). During this time I've made a lot of silly mistakes, some which I regret even now. There are also some stuff I learnt by observing others ( not stalking, mind you). I also had a period of addiction and had to go into rehabilitation for facebookoholics about which you can read here. These trials have...

Continue Reading 21 Feb 2012

headscarf

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Allah

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

objectification

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

marx

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

women in islam

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Indian Muslim woman

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Islam

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

sexism

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

france veil ban

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

feminism

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

veil

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

women

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

God

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

sexuality

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Hijab

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Islamic Culture Or. Cultural Islam ?

The past few weeks in the UK have given me a lot to think about. Living here in a different culture, going to a mostly western classroom...I really have been forced to step outside my comfort zone! Another reason I have been thinking so much is because I have A LOT to read these days. I am doing two literature classes and one Cultural Politics module so naturally, there's a ton...

Continue Reading 18 Mar 2012

Ocean

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

village

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

wild flowers

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

greek food

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

blue

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

Gouvia bay

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

lavender

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

Corfu

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

Bay

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

mediterranean sea

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

island

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

coast

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

greece

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

ionian sea

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

mountain

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

corfu town

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

family trip

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

ship

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

flowers

Corfu, Greece: Day 1

Our family, everyone says, has gone global. My dad’s working in Italy, mom and brothers are in India and Me, the wandering soul, floating from Malaysiato UK. It’s been almost 2 yrs living like this. And now, by some miracle, our holidays aligned and we got a chance to spend our vacation together.A trip to the Greek Island of Corfu really seemed like a prayer answered.We came with Endeavour Lines to Corfu....

Continue Reading 08 Apr 2012

friends

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

zombie

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

graduate

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

library

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

coffee

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

exam

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

student

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

research

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

study

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

desk

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

time

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

course work

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

sleep

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

dissertation

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

procrastination

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

thesis

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

meme

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

college

The not-so-delicate art of procrastination

It's that time of  the year again. Students who had forgotten their status of 'seekers of knowledge' suddenly find themselves swimming against a tide of course works and assignments. As they attempt to tame this Frankenstein they have created over a semester, some of them morph into zombies. You can spot one of them walking, dazed, in the library. Today, we follow him.Juggling a cup of coffee (Not to mention the cans of red...

Continue Reading 28 Apr 2012

orphans

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

death

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

poem

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

war

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

battle

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

widow

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

poetry

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

books

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

rain

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

short

Rhythms of a forgotten city

Clouds assemble and invoke the windNow rain drops on the window sillA steaming cup of tea warming me from withinThe familiar smell of a favourite ol' book (More dog ears than I can count!)The feel of damp, yellowing pages against my hands as I sift through worlds beyondBattles fought and won and regrettedWarriors killed, leaving anguished sweet hearts in their wakeOrphaned kids and mourning widowsFate stealing the light from their eyes...

Continue Reading 29 Apr 2012

foulard

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

garment

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

oppression

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

voile

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

scarf

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

submission

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

modesty

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Haya

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

liberation

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Smile

A Choice

A soft garmentLight in her handsA soft fragrance against her faceThen a swish, a twirlA pin to hold it in placeAnd some more just in case…A beautiful colour draped on her headFalling gently across her shoulders and down her chestA peek at the mirrorShe sees an imageA smiling woman, her head held highShe knows whom she has to pleaseAnd it’s not manIt’s the one above.Lord of the worlds,Knower of the...

Continue Reading 30 Apr 2012

Regret

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Salah

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Du'a

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

sujood

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Deen

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Dunya

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Prayer

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Rasool

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Heart

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Muhammad

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Love

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Namaz

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

Repentance

Submission

I runAway from the world Unfinished battles now behind Pain makes its way,crushing me in measures taking pleasure in my misery. I cry, I screamMy anguish in vain Salty droplets trickle down my cheeks And when despair digs deeper I hear a faint voice from a strangely familiar place The echoes find me And tug at my heart ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ ‘Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar’ 'God is great' says a...

Continue Reading 02 May 2012

pictures

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Pakistan

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Desi

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Brown

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

funny

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Hats

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

cutlery

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Knives

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

family

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Family

My slightly weird family of five is un-settled. Literally. Dad's jobs never let us stay in one place for long. He works for some secretive organisation which needs its employs to be always on the run. Ha! Got you! My old man's just a harmless diplomat. While growing up like a nomad isn't really the ideal situation, if I had to do it all over again, I would, without any...

Continue Reading 21 Jul 2013

Torah

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Holy Book

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Bible

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

spirituality

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

faith

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

follower

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Jesus

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Basics of Isla

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Qur'an

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Islam101

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Believer

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

christian

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

peace

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

Jew

A Muslim's perspective on God

I have shied away from writing anything in detail about spirituality or religion for a long time now. Faith is something intensely personal, and rightly so. But in this globalized era what's personal has become political. And as one can see from the news, the geopolitics of faith have become more important than the principles of it. Which is quite sad.So this post is my effort to introduce you to...

Continue Reading 23 Jul 2013

experience

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

London

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

Walking

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

England

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

LSE

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

Britain

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

UK

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

Tourist

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

Thames

London Revisited

So here I am, on a cloudy Monday, seated on an old wooden bench facing the Thames. I feel different things- excited, exhilarated, nervous, scared, happy. I am all of these now.This is my second time in London. I came here last year, but as a tourist. This time, I am a student. And what a difference it makes! My last visit to London was experienced through the camera lens....

Continue Reading 30 Sep 2013

feeling. writers

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

mind

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

thoughts

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

noise

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

confusion.

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

brain

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

Writing

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

words

On Writing: Part 2

(When I feel like I should be writing something, but can't figure out what, I usually end up writing about writing itself. Yes, I am a little crazy. You can read the first installment of crazy here.) I am having some trouble with this writing business again. What I feel refuses, adamantly, to tie itself down to words. Every time I plead for coherence, my thoughts run amok and hide in forgotten...

Continue Reading 08 Feb 2014

Muslims

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Poverty

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Hunger

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Thirst

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Drink

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Fasting

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Ramadan

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Why fast in Ramadan?

Ramadan is around the corner again! Naturally, Muslims around the globe are excited about this month and eager to welcome it. Some of my non Muslim friends might be confused as to why we are so excited about a month where we basically keep off food and water for a good chunk of the day. I have been asked this question a few times before so I thought I'd write a...

Continue Reading 26 Jun 2014

Believers

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Kindness

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Mecca

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Umrah

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Dates

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Just A Date?

I have been fasting the whole month of Ramadan since the age of 11 or 12. Before that, my Ramadan was mostly of half fasts-breaking my fast 5-6 hours before the adults. I remember one episode in particular where sunset was around 6 pm and I decided that fasting until 5 was the maximum I can do. So I broke my fast literally one hour before iftaar. Talk about patience.Other...

Continue Reading 01 Jul 2014

Sehri

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

curry puffs

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Iftar

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Suhoor

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Malaysia

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

Kerala

Ramadan and Family

There's chaos at home with mum dashing back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, making sure the plates are set, the lemon juice is chilled enough, the dates are ready and the guests are alive. Meanwhile, my brothers and I strain our ears to hear the Maghrib adhan.---The whole family- with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins- is seated around the table, hands hovering around their choice...

Continue Reading 07 Jul 2014

same

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

Hindu

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

understand

The Same...

You said these domes invade your skies,And my clothes offend your freedomWhich you so cherished.You claimMy smile doesn't reach your eyesNor my hand out thereWaiting for you To shakeAnd let peace prevailListen, When I tell you, My scarf, these domes, our extended handDon't mean any harmAnd I'm in no need of saving becauseNo freedom was infringed when I chose modestyNo oppression encountered till I was asked to shedWhat I protect.I will shed, though.I...

Continue Reading 18 Jul 2014

freedom

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

Saving

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

Muslim women

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

Muslimah

I Don't Need Your Saving

After ages I watched a movie that spoke to me. 'Arranged', a 2007 film, explores the evolving friendship of two fourth-grade teachers at a New York Public School- one a practicing Muslim and the other an orthodox Jewish woman. Rachel and Naseera, though from very different backgrounds, share a lot in common when it comes to their values and beliefs.I related with one scene in particular which took me back...

Continue Reading 28 Jan 2015

mobs

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

akhlaaq

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

communal violence

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

beef ban

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

meat

Dead Meat

Dead MeatAt his death bedHe said‘I have no beef with youDear neighborsJust an adviceTo think twice, nay, thriceBefore you peer into someone’s plateOr ask his name to judge his faithAnd relegate to an imaginary boxWhere all made-up-enemies stayAway from your discriminating eyes And twitching hands that seek bloodOf those who pray to different godsOf those who lead different livesOf those who hold different minds. In these timesDeath is better Than living in a...

Continue Reading 03 Oct 2015

Dalit

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

suicide

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

umbilical cord

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

Rohith Vemula

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

hanged

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

minority

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016

noose

The Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cordOnce cutDanglesFrom the navelTill it dries intoForgotten anatomyUnless you were bornInto a labelThe Umbilical Cord thenBleeds and never leaves asIt ties you to your mother,her mother, your foremothersand stretches to revealthe outlines of painengraved on your backs andthe blood on your bonesSo when other mothers feedtheir unborn what they need,the Othered Mothers seekinherited deeds to teach their childthe skill of unravelling Umbilical Cords morphed into noosesthat kill you by...

Continue Reading 19 Jan 2016