This text comprises excerpts from a Pakistani columnist’s articles. The pieces critique the Pakistani government’s allocation of national awards, arguing that they disproportionately favor sports figures over scientists, researchers, and other contributors to society. The columnist uses the example of javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem’s awards to highlight this perceived imbalance. Furthermore, the writing discusses the legacy of several Pakistani journalists, contrasting their treatment with the current disregard for intellectual achievements. Finally, the excerpts touch upon broader sociopolitical issues in Pakistan, including Balochistan’s grievances and historical parallels with the separation of Bangladesh.

Frequently Asked Questions about Societal Priorities and Recognition in Pakistan

1. What is the main criticism regarding the celebration of sports heroes in Pakistan?

The author criticizes the excessive praise and financial rewards showered upon sports heroes like Arshad Nadeem, especially when the country faces economic hardship, terrorism, and a lack of resources for education. The argument is that while appreciation is important, it should not overshadow the dire needs of the nation.

2. What historical parallels are drawn to highlight the potential consequences of neglecting certain segments of society?

The author draws a parallel to the mistreatment of Bengalis in pre-1971 Pakistan, where their language and culture were suppressed, ultimately leading to the country’s division. Similarly, the grievances of Baloch people are highlighted, emphasizing the need to address their concerns to avoid potential future conflicts.

3. Why is the author critical of the government’s distribution of national honors?

The author criticizes the government for seemingly prioritizing personal connections and sycophancy over genuine merit in awarding national honors. They lament the lack of recognition for individuals who contribute significantly in fields like science, literature, and research.

4. What is the argument against equating achievements in sports with those in science, literature, or research?

The author, supported by individuals like Tahir Yousuf, argues that achievements in science, literature, or research have a far greater and lasting impact on society compared to achievements in sports. They believe that equating the two is unjust and undervalues the contributions of intellectuals and researchers.

5. How does the author use the analogy of “Murasis” to criticize the Pakistani society’s reaction to sports victories?

The term “Murasis” refers to traditional folk musicians who often perform for celebratory events. By comparing the Pakistani society’s reaction to sports victories to the excitement of “Murasis,” the author implies that the nation is overly enthusiastic about something relatively trivial compared to pressing national issues.

6. What is the author’s opinion on the media’s role in promoting sports heroes?

The author believes the media plays a significant role in amplifying the hype surrounding sports heroes, placing them on a pedestal and potentially diverting attention from more critical societal issues. They advocate for a more balanced approach in media coverage.

7. What are some of the challenges faced by the people of Balochistan according to the author?

The author highlights the historical and ongoing oppression faced by the Baloch people, citing incidents of violence, enforced disappearances, and a lack of development in the region. They emphasize the need to address the Baloch people’s grievances and ensure their equal rights and opportunities.

8. What is the overall message the author conveys through the column?

The author urges readers to critically evaluate societal priorities and advocate for a more balanced approach towards recognizing and celebrating achievements in different fields. They emphasize the importance of investing in education, research, and addressing the concerns of marginalized communities for the nation’s long-term well-being.

A Critical Examination of Author’s Column

Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. What is the central criticism Author’s levels against the excessive praise and rewards bestowed upon Arshad Nadeem?
2. How does Author contrast the treatment of sports heroes with individuals who contribute to science, literature, or research?
3. What historical event does Author invoke to highlight the potential consequences of ignoring regional grievances and cultural differences?
4. According to Author , what socio-economic issues are being neglected while the government focuses on celebrating sporting achievements?
5. What is the significance of Tahir Yousuf’s argument in the context of Author ‘s column?
6. How does Shahbaz Anwar characterize Author ‘s writing style and his contribution to public discourse?
7. What is the symbolic meaning of Author ‘s use of the term “Murasis” when describing the public’s reaction to Arshad Nadeem’s victory?
8. How does Author connect the alleged mistreatment of Baloch youth to the historical experience of Bengali people in Pakistan?
9. What criticism does Author direct at the government’s distribution of national honors?
10. Identify one literary device employed by Author and explain its effect.

Quiz Answer Key

1. Author criticizes the excessive praise and rewards given to Arshad Nadeem, arguing that such a reaction is disproportionate and diverts attention from pressing socio-economic issues. He contends that public funds should be directed towards addressing poverty, education, and security concerns rather than lavishing gifts on a single athlete.
2. Author highlights a societal disparity, arguing that while sports heroes receive significant attention and rewards, individuals who contribute to science, literature, or research are often overlooked and undervalued. This contrast underscores his belief that intellectual and academic achievements deserve greater recognition and support.
3. Author invokes the historical event of the separation of East Pakistan (Bangladesh) to emphasize the dangers of ignoring regional grievances and suppressing cultural differences. He suggests that the mistreatment of Bengali people and their language contributed to the nation’s division, serving as a cautionary tale for contemporary Pakistan.
4. Author argues that pressing socio-economic issues such as poverty, lack of access to education, inflation, terrorism, and regional unrest are being neglected while the government prioritizes celebrating a sporting achievement. He criticizes this misplaced focus, emphasizing the need to address fundamental problems affecting the well-being of citizens.
5. Tahir Yousuf’s argument, stating that achievements in sports cannot be compared to contributions in science, literature, or research, supports Author ‘s central criticism. It strengthens the claim that societal priorities are skewed, favoring athletic prowess over intellectual and academic pursuits.
6. Shahbaz Anwar praises Author ‘s writing style as neutral, logical, and realistic, emphasizing his ability to illuminate the “intellect of the nation and its ideals.” He acknowledges Author ‘s consistent and insightful commentary on societal issues, highlighting his role as a critical voice in public discourse.
7. Author uses the term “Murasis” to symbolize a sense of blind enthusiasm and uncritical praise directed towards Arshad Nadeem. The term, often associated with professional mourners or entertainers, suggests that the public’s reaction is excessive and lacks a nuanced understanding of the athlete’s achievement in a larger context.
8. Author connects the alleged mistreatment of Baloch youth to the historical experience of Bengali people by highlighting a pattern of suppression and marginalization of minority groups within Pakistan. He draws a parallel between the grievances of both communities, suggesting that ignoring such concerns can lead to national disunity and unrest.
9. Author criticizes the government’s distribution of national honors for prioritizing individuals with personal connections and those involved in corrupt practices over deserving scientists, scholars, and researchers. He condemns this system as favoring flattery and cronyism over genuine contributions to the nation’s progress.
10. One literary device employed by Author is the rhetorical question. For example, “Why are we, like the Murasis, so mad?” This question prompts the reader to critically reflect on the societal response to Arshad Nadeem’s victory and consider whether such enthusiasm is warranted. It encourages a deeper examination of national priorities and values.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the effectiveness of Author ‘s use of historical parallels to bolster his argument. How does the invocation of the separation of East Pakistan and the treatment of Bengali people contribute to his critique of contemporary Pakistani society?
2. Examine the ethical implications of prioritizing the celebration of sporting achievements over addressing pressing socio-economic issues. Discuss the potential consequences of such a societal focus, considering Author ‘s concerns about poverty, education, and security.
3. Explore the concept of “national heroes” as presented by Author . What criteria does he suggest should be used to define heroism, and how does his perspective challenge conventional notions of celebrating athletic success?
4. Evaluate the validity of Author ‘s claim that individuals who contribute to science, literature, or research are undervalued compared to sports heroes. To what extent does this assertion reflect the values and priorities of Pakistani society, and what implications does it hold for the nation’s development?
5. Critically analyze Author ‘s writing style and its effectiveness in conveying his social commentary. Consider his use of language, imagery, and rhetorical devices, and discuss how these elements contribute to the impact of his argument.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Murasis: A term used in South Asia to refer to professional mourners or entertainers, often hired for ceremonial purposes. Author uses it metaphorically to criticize the public’s perceived blind enthusiasm for Arshad Nadeem’s victory.
• Javelin player: An athlete who competes in the sport of javelin throw, which involves hurling a spear-like implement for distance. Arshad Nadeem is a Pakistani javelin player who won a gold medal, prompting the public celebration that Author critiques.
• Taliban Khan: A term often used to refer to Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan. The nickname draws a comparison between Khan’s political ideology and the Taliban, a militant Islamist group.
• KP and Balochistan: Two provinces in Pakistan with significant ethnic and political autonomy movements. Author highlights the security concerns and grievances faced by these regions, arguing that they are being neglected by the government.
• National Assembly: The lower house of the Parliament of Pakistan, responsible for legislation and representing the people. Sardar Akhtar Mengal, a Baloch leader, resigned from the National Assembly in protest, a move Author uses to illustrate the severity of Baloch grievances.
• Bengali brothers and sisters: A reference to the people of East Pakistan, who predominantly spoke Bengali and eventually formed Bangladesh. Author uses their experience to warn against the consequences of ignoring regional and cultural differences.
• National honors: Awards and recognitions bestowed by the Pakistani government to individuals for their contributions in various fields. Author criticizes the distribution of these honors, claiming they are often given based on favoritism and personal connections rather than merit.
• Whitewash: A term used in sports to describe a complete victory in a series of matches. Author uses it to highlight the defeat of the Pakistani cricket team by Bangladesh, suggesting that the nation’s focus on celebrating athletic victories may overlook its shortcomings in other areas.

Unveiling National Disparities: A Critical Examination of Pakistani Society

Source: Excerpts from “Pasted Text”

I. Lamenting Lost Voices and Questioning Priorities:

• This section introduces the essay through a nostalgic reflection on Irshad Ahmad Haqani, a revered journalist known for his insightful and impactful writing, contrasting his forgotten legacy with the contemporary journalistic landscape.

II. A Juxtaposition of Triumph and Despair:

• This section critiques the excessive adulation and financial rewards showered upon Arshad Nadeem, the javelin gold medalist, amidst a backdrop of economic hardship, educational deprivation, and escalating terrorism. The author urges a balanced approach towards celebrating athletic achievement, particularly in the face of pressing national concerns.

III. Historical Grievances and the Spectre of Separation:

• Drawing parallels between the current plight of Balochistan and the events leading to the separation of Bangladesh, this section highlights the dire consequences of neglecting regional disparities and suppressing marginalized voices. The author warns against repeating historical mistakes and emphasizes the need to address the legitimate grievances of the Baloch people.

IV. The Arshad Nadeem Phenomenon: A Cultural Critique:

• This section scrutinizes the cultural obsession with sporting heroes, questioning the frenzied adulation surrounding Arshad Nadeem’s victory. The author contrasts this with the comparatively muted recognition of achievements in science, literature, and research, advocating for a more holistic appreciation of national talent.

V. Elevating Intellect Over Athletic Prowess:

• Here, the author presents the perspectives of Tahir Yousuf and Shahbaz Anwar, who argue that accomplishments in intellectual pursuits deserve greater recognition than athletic feats. They advocate for a recalibration of societal values, prioritizing scientific and intellectual contributions over sporting prowess.

VI. A Scathing Indictment of Misplaced Honors:

• This section criticizes the government’s bestowal of national honors, arguing that the selection process favors personal connections and political affiliations over genuine contributions to national development. The author laments the lack of recognition for scientists, researchers, and other intellectuals, expressing concern for the future of intellectual growth in Pakistan.

Briefing Doc: A Critical Look at Pakistani National Heroes and Priorities

This briefing doc analyzes a column by Fiza Author , focusing on his critique of Pakistan’s misplaced priorities in celebrating national heroes and allocating resources.

Main Themes:

1. Misplaced Hero Worship: Author criticizes the excessive praise and financial rewards bestowed upon sports heroes like javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, especially when the country faces economic hardship and other pressing issues. He argues that this “murasi-like” frenzy is disproportionate to the achievements.
2. “Why are we, like the Murasis, so mad?” “You people must give appreciation, but do not return the money collected from public taxes so cruelly.”
3. Neglect of Other Fields: Author contrasts this sports-centric hero worship with the neglect of individuals achieving in science, literature, and research. He argues that contributions in these fields deserve greater recognition and support.
4. “It is injustice in itself to make sports equal to scientific research.”
5. Government’s Misguided Priorities: Author criticizes the government for exacerbating the problem through its unbalanced allocation of national honors, favoring personal connections and entertainment over genuine achievements in vital fields.
6. “Why are all the favors reserved for their servants, flatterers with personal relations, dramatists (or drama makers) involved in the business of corruption?”
7. Historical Parallels and Consequences: Author draws parallels with past injustices against marginalized communities, specifically highlighting the mistreatment of Bengalis and Baloch people. He warns that ignoring grievances and prioritizing short-term gains over genuine development can lead to national disintegration.
8. “Something similar happened to our Bengali brothers and sisters in the early decades after partition.” “Today, if Sardar Akhtar Mengal has announced his resignation from the National Assembly, then the seriousness of the discussion should be realized, their grievances should be listened to and resolved.”

Key Supporting Arguments:

• Economic Hardship: Author emphasizes the dire economic situation in Pakistan, citing inflation, unemployment, and the inability of many children to attend school. He argues that extravagant spending on sports heroes is insensitive and irresponsible in this context.
• Security Concerns: Author highlights the persistent threat of terrorism in KP and Balochistan, pointing to attacks on security forces and rising animosity towards Punjabis. He emphasizes the urgent need to address these security challenges.
• Importance of Science and Research: Author ‘s supporters, like Tahir Yousuf and Shahbaz Anwar, emphasize the vital role of science, literature, and research in national progress. They lament the lack of support and recognition for individuals contributing in these areas.

Overall Message:

Author ‘s column calls for a reevaluation of Pakistani society’s values and priorities. He urges a shift away from superficial hero worship towards a genuine appreciation of achievements that contribute to national development and well-being. He warns that ignoring deep-rooted social and economic issues while focusing on fleeting glories could have devastating consequences for the nation’s future.

The sources discuss Irshad Ahmad Haqani, a journalist who used to work for the Jung editorial page. [1] Haqani was a prolific writer, and his friend Author , the author of these excerpts, believes that Haqani was a good writer who focused on real and lively topics. [2] Haqani had significant influence, and his writing was impactful. [2] The sources do not provide information on how people remember Haqani or his broader legacy.

The sources discuss how national heroes in Pakistan are rewarded, focusing on the example of Arshad Nadeem, a javelin player who won a gold medal. [1] One journalist criticizes the outpouring of praise and prizes on Nadeem, arguing that Pakistan should adopt a more balanced attitude toward sports heroes, like other civilized nations. [2] The journalist compares Nadeem to a previous sports hero who was celebrated by the media and the nation, but this experience ultimately proved to be bitter. [2]

Another journalist, Shahbaz Anwar, agrees with the criticism and notes that Pakistani rulers have unbalanced thinking and prioritize their personal interests. [3] Anwar criticizes the government for focusing national honors and awards on those who serve and flatter them, rather than scientists, engineers, researchers, economists, mathematicians, or agricultural experts. [3] He laments that national awards are going to those who engage in corruption, and questions whether Pakistan will be able to produce experts and scholars in the future if this trend continues. [3]

The sources discuss an imbalance in the recognition of different professions and achievements in Pakistan. One journalist criticizes the excessive praise and rewards showered upon Arshad Nadeem, a javelin player who won a gold medal. He argues that this is a symptom of Pakistan’s imbalanced attitude towards sports heroes, contrasting it with the more measured approach of “civilized nations.” [1]

Another journalist, Shahbaz Anwar, supports this critique, highlighting a broader imbalance in how Pakistani society values different professions. He condemns the government for prioritizing national honors and awards for individuals who serve their personal interests rather than recognizing scientists, engineers, researchers, and other experts. [2] Anwar suggests that this favoritism towards certain professions, particularly those that engage in corruption, will hinder Pakistan’s ability to produce future experts and scholars. [2]

These perspectives highlight a concern that the excessive focus on sports heroes reflects a broader societal imbalance, where achievements in fields like science, literature, and research are not adequately recognized or rewarded. This imbalance, as Anwar suggests, may have significant consequences for Pakistan’s future development.

The sources discuss criticisms of governance in Pakistan, particularly concerning the allocation of national resources and recognition. One journalist criticizes the government for its lavish rewards bestowed upon Arshad Nadeem, a javelin player who won a gold medal. He argues that these excessive expenditures are inappropriate given the country’s economic struggles, including an empty treasury, the need to beg from developed countries, high electricity bills, inflation, and a lack of resources for education [1].

Another journalist, Shahbaz Anwar, criticizes the government for its “unbalanced thinking” and prioritization of “personal interests” over the nation’s needs [2]. He specifically condemns the government’s approach to awarding national honors, arguing that corrupt individuals who serve the government are favored over deserving scientists, engineers, and researchers [2]. Anwar expresses concern that this imbalanced system of recognition will discourage future generations from pursuing careers in vital fields, ultimately hindering Pakistan’s development [2].

These criticisms highlight concerns about the government’s fiscal responsibility and its commitment to supporting essential sectors like education and research. The journalists’ remarks suggest that the government’s actions demonstrate a misalignment of priorities, potentially hindering Pakistan’s long-term progress and well-being.

The sources discuss the grievances of the Baloch people in Pakistan, highlighting a history of oppression and marginalization. One journalist points out the “plight of Baloch youth” who have been “in the shackles of the establishment from Khan forts” for the past seven decades. [1] This statement suggests a long-standing power imbalance and systemic mistreatment of the Baloch community.

The journalist further emphasizes the severity of the situation by drawing parallels to the events that led to the separation of Bangladesh. He recounts the atrocities committed against Bengalis, including attempts to suppress their language. [1] This comparison underscores the gravity of the Baloch grievances and warns against repeating past mistakes that could further fragment Pakistan.

The source specifically mentions Sardar Akhtar Mengal’s resignation from the National Assembly, urging the government to “realize the seriousness of the discussion,” “listen to their grievances,” and “resolve” them. [1] This call to action emphasizes the need for dialogue and concrete steps to address the Balochistan issue.

The sources suggest that the Baloch people’s grievances stem from a prolonged period of oppression and neglect, leading to a sense of alienation and resentment. The journalist’s comparison to the Bengali situation serves as a stark warning about the potential consequences of ignoring such deep-seated issues.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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