A couple of months ago, I wrote a column in praise of certain Pakistani pop stars and bands, arguing that there are a fair number of songs that display political consciousness and a related sense of responsibility. I referred to such songs as Junoon’s ‘Talaash’, Shahzad Roy’s ‘Lagay Raho’ and ‘Kismet Apnay Haath Main’, Noori’s […]

Some Poems In His Own Voice Zulmat ko Zia (This is a recording of the first recitation of this masterpiece of defiance by Habib Jalib in public) Quaid-e-Azam Dek Rahe Ho Apna Pakistan Farangi Ka Jo May darban hota Mazaaray Laghaaray Wathan ko Kuch Nahi Khathra Ye Munsif Bhi Tho Qaidi Hain (Epitomizes the current […]

“Main Nay Kaha” is a satirical poem by the famous leftist poet Habib Jalib called “Musheer” (Advisor). Jalib wrote it in response to a conversation he had with Hafiz Jalandari during the time of Ayub Khan’s dictatorship. It remains just as fresh and valid today. The music video contains real images of events in Karachi, […]