Promising Pashmina Industry – A Paradigm Shift

Point of View 

It is a promising industry yet needing timely revitalization and redirection in the overall strategy to ensure a continuous growth trajectory and consonance with the changing business dynamics. We are not new to the business, but we cannot deny the position created by late entrants. Shawl industry has seen plenty of fluctuations in recent years. We have witnessed new products, new techniques, new strategies and more importantly a whole lot of new players making inroads into the trade. I term this development as a positive one as people always get into the trade that assures growth and returns. Here I can say – whosoever got into this business has made significant progress, fortunes, and if the graph has gone the other way, then they were able to move out without much of the exit load. 

Kashmir is the only place in the world where finely embroidered Pashmina shawls are hand-woven. Despite upheavals, the art of making the Pashmina shawls in Kashmir is unique, practised in the traditional way by local artisans. 

Talking about the raw Pashmina in a global context, the majority of the production is from China and Mongolia (by volume). However, if you are looking for the differentiated quality in terms of softness, fineness and feel, it will undeniably be the higher reaches of Kashmir (Changthang, Ladakh) – which is considered as the purest, ultra-fine in the world (12-18 microns in fibre) and predominantly used for manufacturing a Kashmiri Pashmina Shawl. I don’t want to delve deeper into the aspect of where it is obtained from, I will be spending time sharing my observations on how it’s sold, challenges faced by the manufacturers/ agents, trends that are affecting its growth, and the changing global economic paradigm. 

The success of the stakeholders involved in the production process (artisans and other manufacturing partners) depends largely on the consistency of the revenue stream of the business house. Production and the steps involved in the process (shearing – dehairing – spinning – weaving – clipping – dying – embroidery – washing and ironing etc.) should lead to the fulfilment of demand by catering to the market potential and at the same time creation of a healthy revenue stream. Demand-driven manufacturing is a prerequisite for the seamless selling, and this will ensure the realization of revenue and keep the whole value chain well-oiled. While industries are moving towards customer personalization (supplying to satisfy unique customizations) and not the old school segmentation, we should attempt to move towards that direction. 

This was a general context setting. Based on my little experience, inextricable ancestral connection with the trade, discussions with multiple stakeholders, and being a student of the business – I have come up with an approach: A Business Strategy aligned with the needs of the Pashmina industry (micro and macro level) as I do not see much of the following getting leveraged by the business houses:

1. Product Branding
2. Market Intelligence
3. Product Differentiation
4. Competitive Pricing
5. Relationship and Trust

Please note that I am primarily focusing on the sales and marketing perspective. I would like to believe that product sales (based on customer choices) drive and decide the manufacturing preferences while being mindful of the antique brand value that needs continuous protection. I cannot go on manufacturing what I have been and expect the market to embrace my product, with less or no innovation, always. Let me dive deeper into the points highlighted above:

1. Product Branding: There are two ways of improving the positioning of the products:

a. Brand Promotion Campaigns

b. Curbing the Malpractices vis-à-vis Spurious Goods

a. Brand Promotion Campaigns

This is the responsibility of everyone associated with the business and if I have to put stress, I would say it’s more to do with the big business houses, government-run emporiums, and product opinion (word-of-mouth) creators to ensure the reputation of the brand stays unblemished. A consortium of Pashmina manufacturers and dealers to vociferously promote/ push and encourage the marketing and awareness campaigns across the globe by detailing out the manufacturing-process related messaging/ product narrative (handcrafted embroidery, unique motifs, antiquated nature, weaving and spinning techniques etc.).

I will take a small example – if we can go buy a muffler from a branded outlet, it will cost us between 2000 to 15,000 INR depending on the brand we choose. However, if you see the quality of the Pashmina (softness, elegance), it will undeniably (in most cases) overpower the brand-manufactured muffler, but we will still struggle to sell because people are not aware of the brand. In today’s world, we are selling the brand, reputation of it, value and prestige it carries along. People prefer to buy usual wool for thousands of bucks but will mind spending the same amount on the Pashmina. It lacks the position in the market it deserves.

b. Curbing the Malpractices vis-à-vis Spurious Goods

Checks and balances required to counter the substitute or a fake product, which diminishes the position of the handmade pure Pashmina in the market. People indulging in selling spurious material under the label and legacy of Pashmina impact the genuine manufacturer and should be controlled by a robust mechanism through penalties and operational embargos. While Geographical Indication (GI) tagging acknowledges the purity of the material, but it is seen to be prevalent in a limited way. Dealers should be sure of what they are labelling as Pashmina; any distortion or deviation from the accepted standard of purity should result in heavy penalties and isolation of the business house. 

2. Market Intelligence

It is always a tricky part to understand the market sentiment, buying preferences, the specific choice of buyers, and subsequently and/ or antecedently (predicting) a right manufacturing mix to exactly satisfy the demand. Demand is not only knowing that there is a potential in the market, but having a clear view of what needs to be manufactured to cater to that demand. Proper due diligence in terms of gathering insights from the market is pivotal to the success of any business. Shutting down your eyes and ears, and keep on manufacturing the same stuff repeatedly, and expecting a different response from the market is a naïve way of doing business. Just because we are selling antiques and handicraft does not mean we will repeat the same design, embroidery, colour combination and weaving techniques.

Mass production has no place in today’s business landscape, its personalization. Understanding the needs of the consumer (or selling/ creating the needs by positioning the product appropriately) and trying to manufacture the products exactly as per the sense of liking/ choice of the customer. There should not be much of a conventional selling; it should be understanding and fulfilment of the need, a pull from a consumer more than a push from the seller. Products of high price and prestige do not usually sail through the market by aggressively pushing to unknown audiences; one will have to go for the target market identification supported by the capacity and capability to address the same market through a unique product line and competitive price.

3. Product Differentiation

Quoting Michael E Porter, “Competitive strategy is about being different. It means deliberately choosing to perform activities differently or to perform different activities than rivals to deliver a unique mix of value.”

Product differentiation is a prerequisite in Pashmina industry. If the product is unique (not seen in the past vis-à-vis embroidery, design), it will fetch the audience, and if it is not, it’s going to take a lot of time to find that one buyer who may like to purchase. Apart from the originality and softness of the genuine Pashmina shawl, I feel it is imperative to focus on the following: 

• Clean, clear and thoughtful designs and a sense of symmetry in the handwork. The design should tell a story. 
• Quality of the fabric and any innovation/ variation that can be performed through weaving 
• Creativity in embroidery motifs like the use of silken and other unique threads 
• Overall product refinement/ polishing in how it’s showcased 
• Colour combinations 
• Open to choices like Kani, Kalamkari, and any other variations/ modifications with a view of not losing the sheen and prestige it carries 

4. Competitive Pricing

I may talk a lot about product differentiation, but the fact is that it is one of those unique products wherein customer looks for extreme differentiation and extremely competitive price.

Lately, with great inclusion of people getting involved in the shawl trade, the competition has been cut-throat. There are customers who have a lot of understanding about the quality and design aspects of the product and are able to appreciate the offering at a better price. However, if the customer is new in the arena, has not bought Pashmina in the past, and is looking for the cheapest price, it is actually painful to convert such a prospect. There are substitutes, spurious products, substandard embroidery and other replacements that people are selling in the name of high-quality handmade Pashmina and that too at a low cost. Business houses dealing with the handmade Pashmina (end-to-end except de-hairing) take the beating in this space. Nevertheless, it is something that Pashmina Shawl sellers should take cognizance of and come together, maybe create a consortium to restrict such malpractices and isolate the people/ firms encouraging such trade adverse/ destructive practices.

Let us be reasonable with the pricing and at the same time do not compromise in any way on the quality and designing of the product. Better wages to embroider, weaver and other factors of production depend largely on the selling price that a product is able to fetch. Paying well to the artisans who burn their midnight oil making a marvellous product is of utmost importance/ priority. Moreover, I believe it’s the responsibility of every stakeholder to show respect, care, and provide timely wages to every individual involved in the multi-step (arduous) process of manufacturing. Given the fact that it’s a handicraft, incentivizing the factors responsible for the manufacturing will ensure its growth and continuity.

5. Relationship and Trust

Given the price involved in buying a Pashmina shawl, it is important to develop a rapport with the buyer. Buyers mostly buy from their trusted sellers, and these sellers continue to pitch the products as and when they are ready with the new collection. Building a healthy relationship with your customers (B2B, B2C) plays a significant role in selling the products.

Exuding trust and confidence through what you are selling - the quality, competitiveness and uniqueness of the product will make it a saleable proposition. Sidelining the futuristic view (relationships) and only thinking about the short-term gains from the sales will negatively impact the trade in the long term. At the same time, a discount of a few cents in order to build a long term relationship with the potential buyer, will only embolden your chances of making a place in the market.

In the end, let us agree and understand that this business is a low margin affair owing to the factors of production and fierce competition, and if one thinks of making millions overnight, it is not the place to be in. Unless you want to indulge in malpractices like selling spurious, fake material at the price and positioning of the original.

Let us guarantee a level playing field to all involved in a genuine manufacturing and selling process. Firms indulging in any of the malpractices that I stated above tantamount to sinning as it jeopardizes the interests of all stakeholders especially the artisans. Let us not forget about the roots of Pashmina trade which goes back to Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani (RA), Revered Saint, who entrusted the people of the valley with Shawl making/ trade. May His blessings towards the trade and the tradesmen last forever and help achieve all a successful future.

-Yasir Reshi

Impromptu Tête-à-tête

I was sipping my green tea in a nearby café, and this guy caught my attention – he had a laptop in front of him, scrolling and shuffling between a personality-development book and a notebook in which he was capturing some key points. With intermittent puffs from an electronic cigarette along with the effervescent coffee, he looked intensely pensive. As he courteously checked with me that whether I mind the smoke emanating, I was quick to respond saying it’s not so pungent, it’s digital… and that’s how we got talking to each other. Reading the personality-improvement material on laptop/ books isn’t a bad idea at all. However if one is doing it in the night with such an impervious concentration – you tend to become a little inquisitive and start politely enquiring about such a surreal physiological and psychological need. It kind of intrigued me. I started asking questions about why, what led to, what’s the end goal.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the purpose of what we keep on doing in our day-to-day lives. What are we working towards? Is there any end to our official work? Are we deriving enough pleasure out of it? Is it monotonous!?

He responded with the similar revelations about himself. Working in an Analytics company in the US from last eight years with two years of visa still left, he decided to come back to his home country. It was a unilateral yet conscious decision. Nonetheless, his level of satisfaction seems to have surged because of such a move. He was on a sabbatical wanting to discover what he actually wants to do. Optimise himself. We need a course correction if we’re not happy with what we’re doing – not acting is not growing… status quo is a sickness. We may need to take rough, uneven alleyways to keep our focus intact on the bigger picture. Our aspirations and dreams. These are not the easy decisions to take, but it’s better to pursue the inner calling than living under the façade of superficial accomplishment.

Serving a company with his sales ability resulted in dollars for the company but no life, learning and satisfaction for him. He wanted to improve in life, intellectually and personally. What was stopping him – perpetual and superficial infatuation with what he was doing, and he didn’t want to do it anymore. For transient monetary considerations, we tend to take a less risky path but that turns out to be the most costly move. We completely become oblivious of the time we devote to such awry activities, and not being able to contribute to the self-conceived purpose of our life. While money may come and go – when time passes by, it doesn’t come back and that’s a sure and certain reality.

He believed that we, more often than not, put on the blinkers when we are on a specific track, chasing the goals assigned to us, and detach our self from other areas of knowledge and personal growth. Such an approach takes a toll on our overall growth. Growth cannot be limited to a specific profile, place and an area of operation. It’s important to grow in all the spheres of life. Personal development is equally important – be it behavioural, psychological and physiological. We will have to actively spend time with our own self re-checking, introspecting whether we are pursuing a right path or not; or is it just helping someone else meet his/ her goals and take the company (we work for) where it aspires to reach. We all so madly chase that one person’s dream with sweat and blood ignoring the importance, if discovered, of our own. If the interests are aligned, road-map charted, then it does not matter, but if it’s not, then it should bother us. It’s imperative to identify your interests to reach your full potential and productivity in an optimised manner.

Working towards accomplishing our aspirations should be our topmost priority. Money follows. We shouldn’t shadow money to make a career rather discover our interests/ passion make a career out of it… and make money shadow us. Such approach will relax us mentally. We will have to become more thoughtful in our approach that will help us develop new ideas and innovations in our chosen field.

It started as an impromptu tête-à-tête and developed into a meaningful exchange of thoughts and ideas. Quintessence remains the same – focus on the passion-driven vision, create your own path if required, and be consistent traversing through the thick and thin you may have to confront. You’ll end up achieving the ephemeral and eternal contentment.

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

Welcome 2018 – Salubrious Hope!

As we look back at the year gone by, I can say it left with a great deal of lessons, learnings and experiences. Thanks to Almighty Allah. 

You always have that list of activities, not necessarily on a piece of paper, to accomplish. At the risk of sounding a little disdainful about the year past, there are more to-do activities to be ticked than the minimally ticked ones. 

I feel the level of effort and emotion that goes into the planning, envisioning the desired future is much more than the energy that’s put to action for execution. Given the experiences of the past year, I see a huge potential to grow/ improve both personally and professionally. 

We envisage a destination, select a path and choose a course of action. However, there isn’t much we do to walk on the preferred path. Probably, it’s a lack of courage/ initiative to pursue the envisaged dream, or maybe it’s the fear of losing the monotonous, mediocre (day-to-day) rigmarole. Unless and until we are passionate, actionable enough, about realizing what we set out to, we cannot break the choking status quo. Growth can only be ensured by combatively cruising through the monotonous state to secure the unseen, imagined and dreamt-of objective. In many instances, we may not be having a well-defined path, but holding onto the status-quo obstructs the possibility of a marvellous future. 

Our explicit intentions should get translated into meaningful actions. We may have to take some bold decisions to move away from the status quo. Simply, if we don’t find it worthy to do what we’re doing, we should move away from it… it has to be beyond monetary compromises. For the sake of inconsequential, we give our hundred percent, completely oblivious and ignorant of our real potential and its suitable channelization to accomplish our self-visualised purpose of existence. It’s imperative to grow in the right direction at a right pace and with the support of right people. Let’s not keep our career hostage to the menial monetary considerations; the need of the hour is to classify the priorities, decide a course of action and start chasing till actualised. It’s undoubtedly easier said than done. Nonetheless, not doing anything would be a pessimistic posture replete with long-term repercussions. 

It’s bizarre. While I am writing this note, queerly the word ‘complacency’ comes to my mind. It’s is a sham. Even if we are confident, we can’t guarantee the favourable outcome. If we are complacent – It’s a mirage, an optical illusion, and it definitely warrants course correction. Plans do not necessarily go according to our wishful thinking; there’s a significant effort required to make our plans’ succeed. Self-conceived path, believed to be smooth and straight, may not always lead to a desired destination. It’s often a misleading mirage; a delusion. At the same time, strenuously trying is of paramount significance, though never guarantees the expected outcome - it only makes us comfortable and helps avoid regretting. We should learn to respect the decisions people take… these decisions might be having repercussions on our future, but they’re entitled to make choices basis their comfort, convenience and satisfaction. 

On the eve of New Year, let’s learn to accept the imprints of our engraved destiny. We will have to love the abstruse gift of the destiny rather than what we choose to love. Choice is a privilege not reserved for all. In the quest of love, I believe the first step is to respect the people who love you the most, shower affection on you, care for you; it’s pivotal to acknowledge their manifestation of greatness and generosity towards you, a favour. We should never fail to reciprocate, with love and emotion, not necessarily with the tangibility of the materialistic world. 

Understanding and accepting the ephemerality of our surroundings viz. people, things, situations (good/ bad) remains at the very centre of our happiness. If we are finding any of the aforesaid in our favour, it’s temporary, and if we are stuck in a quagmire of troubles - understand that it’s soon going to go away. Nothing stays forever – people, things, seasons, failures, success… all have an expiry date. Maybe the emotion and sentiment we own: Love, stays forever. It’s a person, not the profession; it’s affection, not the social sanction; it’s with whom your madness comes out, not always the civility; it’s the sense of unending passion, not an induced emotion. It resides in the heart, not fades away like a memory. It fills you up completely, leaving no further urge of wanting more. It’s divine, its love. Let’s cherish the expression of love and affection, spread and celebrate. 

In the conclusion, I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest that it’s always better to be fierce (not hurting people), fearless (not abrasive) and kind (not submissive). You’re the reason of your own happiness, you’re the cause of your own happiness, try to end the dependency on others. Don’t vest too much power in others, it belongs to you. Let’s try to be bold enough to achieve our conceived vision. 

I wish that the Year 2018 be the harbinger of good health, happiness, success and the peace of mind. I hope we are bestowed with the courage to celebrate what we achieve, able to achieve, and are always grateful to the Creator, and the creation we come across on the alley of our rightful means/ ways to attain the desired ends. 

Wishing you a great year ahead. 

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

Welcome 2017; Au Revoir 2016

Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous year ahead, 2017. Let’s enter into the New Year with our new self – full of zeal and contemplation. Be charged with the optimism and hope of accomplishing whatever you are passionate about; de-emphasize the discouraging failures you had, if any, in the past. An isolated failure or a string of unsuccessful events, businesses, and relationships are not going to decide the fate of the perceivable future. Be the driver of the future you envision, we can’t change the past but we can administer our future in the best possible way. Retrospect and extract the learnings out of the past year and try to give your best to the year ahead. 

In the treasury of your memories, it’s always going to be a mixed assortment of feelings. Not letting any negative event affect the clean slate of our future forms the premise underpinning the foundation of the approaching year 2017. It’s fully in your control to steer the way you want, the direction you choose, the path you find germane and the outcome you believe in, desire. 

It has been a year full of fresh perspectives, experiences for me… quantifying with an adjective or couple of adjectives will not do justice to the year. 

Furthermore, I believe neither should we let challenges pull us down, demoralise… nor should we get carried away, treat anyone with haughty disdain at the moment of our happiness and success (transient/ superficial). Love, courteousness, helpful approach and thankful demeanour towards whosoever we come in contact with, unlocks the inward and convincing contentment. Indeed. 

Wishing you all a very ecstatic and prosperous 2017. Let’s try to stay motivated, inspired, and workaholic enough to support our envisaged vision. Let’s pray and hope for the good health, happiness & success of all; hopelessness is a sin. 

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

Pashmina Shawl manufacturing, video provoked a viewpoint

Take a moment and appreciate the work of artisans involved in the end to end process of weaving a beautiful (handwoven) Pashmina Shawl.

It can take up to a year to complete the end-to-end process of manufacturing a handwoven embroidered Pashmina Shawl. Activities ranging from dehairing (clean-up) the raw pashmina wool, spinning yarn, weaving, and embellishing the Shawl with breath-taking embroidery (hand stitching with an exquisite design).

Let's think about the other side of the story – If I’m not wrong in assuming the demand dynamics of handwoven Pashmina Shawl insinuating at a gradual decline in the sales. Therefore, business houses may curtail their spending/ investment in this antique stuff, leading to low wages to artisans and least incentive (motivation) for someone new to learn the art. Why would an artisan prefer this as a career? Or why would his next generation indulge in this trade?

Erosion in the number of skilled craftsmen can result in the existential crises via-à-vis handwoven shawl industry. Cultivating and nurturing the skill, expertise of hand weaving/ stitching should be the priority of every business house.

While I've seen a great deal of people involved in selling (trading) of shawls, I’m skeptical about the magnitude of manufacturing, and I’m talking about the handwoven stuff not the machine driven manufacturing.

Unequivocally businesses are becoming more and more competitive. However, handwoven shawls warrant a competition based on product differentiation strategy as opposed to cost leadership.

https://youtu.be/vf86opvN4aQ

Umrah, Saudi Arabia – 2015; Part B

Part B

Madina, Saudi Arabia 

21st January, Wednesday 

En route to Madina from Makkah: A wide road amidst desiccate desert and mountains on the adjacent sides, neither any vegetation nor any habitation. I’m surprised why the government hasn’t kept train / metro service between the two Holy Cities. One can easily make out how much the torchbearers of Islam must have suffered, before the religion reached us. It would’ve been challenging to traverse through the arid deserts from one place to the other. Nowadays, there is a lot of infrastructure put in place, as opposed to erstwhile times. Indeed, Prophet Mohammad (SAW) revolutionised and transformed the whole world, and made it a structured and organised place to live. 

We checked in the Hotel – Al Shourfah New Hotel – it was very near to the Holy Masjid Al-Nabawi. 

22nd January, Thursday: Entered the premises of Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi with Greetings and Salutations to the Holy Prophet (SAW), glimpses of a breath-taking architecture is flabbergasting, it's designed to perfection. Everything and every piece of embellishment are so perfect in whatever way or place it’s been kept. Masjid is an architectural marvel, the forethought involved in adjusting the intricacies and a well thought out design, must've taken a great deal of time, effort and acumen. 

Technological advancements of all sorts leveraged viz. robotic cameras, high quality speakers, automatic sliding domes etc. – interior & exterior of Masjid. Moreover, if I talk about the exterior areas – sun protecting umbrellas (retractable) are no less than an architectural genius. 

Thanks to Almighty Allah, All praises to the Government for making it such a marvellous Masjid, an experience spiritually uplifting and soothing to the core. 

Salutations and Greetings to the Holy Prophet (SAW) continued throughout. We were fortunate enough to get multiple opportunities to offer prayers near to the Holy sanctum sanctorum and around Prophet’s (SAW) sermon pulpit – Riad ul Jannah. Indeed, a spiritually uplifting, and soothing to the core experience. One feels that the Holy Prophet (SAW) on the other side listens to what you are beseeching – truly pure and pious feeling. 

Riad ul Jannah is a part of Paradise; you don’t feel an iota less than paradise when you’re there. Subhan Allah 

23rd January, Friday: We woke up to the news of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz’s demise. King had died in the Night. King Salman bin Abdul Aziz assumed charge of the kingdom; with heir apparent Muqrin bin Abdul Aziz, on the same day. 

We offered Friday prayers along with the schedule of Prayers in Masjid Al-Nabawi; the feeling was over-the-top. 

24th January, Saturday: Prayers and Shopping. Early mornings are very cold and nippy, but the enthusiasm to offer early morning prayers is always much more than the biting cold. Aura of Islam forms a halo over the followers head, it’s pleasurable and therapeutic. 

25th January, Sunday: En route to the sacred places of Madina. Prophet (SAW) has given a significant time in Madina, so most of the places are associated to Him.

We started with: 

Masjid Al-Quba: The first Masjid in Islam, foundation laid by the Prophet Mohammad (SAW). Prophet (SAW) Said, “Whoever makes ablutions at home and then goes and prays in Quba, he will have a reward like that of an Umrah.” After migrating from Makkah, Prophet (SAW) had spent the initial days, (from four to ten days) in this place, establishing the first Masjid, and then went to Madina city. 

Masjid Jumaah: It was a Friday Morning, when Prophet (SAW) started to move towards Madina city. On way to Madina, at the time of noon (Friday), He (SAW) stopped for Friday prayers. First Friday prayer and sermon was delivered from the same place, now Masjid Jumaah. 

Mount Uhud, Jabbal e Uhad: This Mountain has a huge religious, historic significance. Battle of Uhad was fought in the foothills of Uhad, Muslims lost around seventy warriors including Hazrat Hamza (RA), but the battle ended inconclusive, a kind of truce from both the sides. However, the opponents ran back to their own territories, and Muslims retained the area. The mountain has a special feature of changing the colour, I was myself surprised to see the change in colour, in a moment – you witness the change from red to black. Prophet Mohammad (SAW) said, “I love Uhad, and Uhad loves me.” Lot of references are seen in the Holy Quran and Hadith vis-à-vis the mountain of Uhad. 

Date Factory: Beautiful date orchids, with sales outlets. The Prophet (SAW) said, "If somebody takes some 'Ajwa dates every morning, he will not be affected by poison or magic on that day till night." 

Masjid Al-Qiblatain: In the early days of Islam, people used to face towards Al-Aqsa, Jerusalem, during prayers. Prophet (SAW) had a desire of making Makkah, the praying direction for Muslims; He used to pray to Almighty Allah for the same. Finally, Almighty Allah revealed a verse in the Holy Quran allowing the change of direction. Prophet (SAW) ordered the believers to change the direction towards Makkah. The communique reached Qiblatain Masjid (Present Name) – People were in the middle of prayer, imagine the quality and steadfastness in their faith/ belief, they changed the direction towards Makkah in the middle of prayer, they didn’t even wait for the prayer to end. On the said account, the Masjid was named as Qiblatain. All praise to Almighty Allah, may we become Muslims of such pertinacity, these days as well, Ameen. 

Khandaq: Battle of Trench (Khandaq) – Khandaq is a deep trench. Muslims were in a pitiable condition, they didn't want any war, and they didn't had enough strength to fight. One of the strategists in Prophet’s (SAW) brigade, Salman al Farsi suggested digging up the deep trenches. Deep trenches to thwart the attempts of adversaries, who were hell-bent on striking Muslims – this suggestion was approved and actualised. Excavation work was initiated, the entry to Madina was dug up, enemy forces came, and they couldn't cross the deep trench, but they were able to stop the supplies of all sorts to Madina. Prophet (SAW) prayed to Almighty Allah, seeking his intervention, subsequently there was a huge windstorm, forcing the opponents to retreat. Subhan Allah. 

Maqbaratul Baqi (The Baqi Cemetery): At last, went to the garden of heaven. The place of introspection, didn’t find any epitaph on any of the grave neither any plant/greenary, as opposed to Kashmir. 

26th January, Monday to 28th, Wednesday: While shopping I found the sales persons more jovial and amiable than other parts of Saudi. They welcome, greet and talk in a very genteel way. I liked to shop in Madina, Indeed. 

29th January, Thursday: Leaving from Saudi Arabia. At last, I went to the place where Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) had taken the oath of Caliphate. 

Alhamdulillah. May the divine aura perpetuate, every fraction of past two weeks is going to remain cemented to my soul, heart & mind. This soul refreshing religious expedition, more so (captivating) because of the company of family will remain with us throughout our life. Aura and ambience of the place is enchanting. The more you visit, the more you love; indeed, mesmerising. 

Flying from Madina, Saudi Arabia: As I am in the flight, I’m thinking – the enthusiasm, with which I used to follow the real purpose of life in Saudi, may get diluted once I land in India. Why don’t we take our religion on priority? Everything that happens in life is a priority, but the real reason of existence has become an ancillary matter. While I’m flying away from the headquarters of my religion, I wouldn’t want to walk away from the practices of it. 

I pray to Almighty Allah to keep me firm on my religion. 

At the end, the major takeaway from the religious expedition is fixated at the circumspection about the future course of action. How to lead what we ought to lead? And reach where Allah has prescribed us to reach – to attain salvation and live a righteous life. 

Thanks to the Family – Father, Mother and Brother. Without the collective effort, this expedition wouldn’t have been so prolific and unforgettable. 

Thanks to Almighty Allah for providing us an opportunity and means, to get together for this Holy Journey. We would always want to get this privilege again and again; it was a life changing experience. 

Thank you all for sparing your time to read this travelogue – May Almighty Allah consider all your genuine wishes and aspirations. 

Yasir Reshi

Umrah, Saudi Arabia – 2015

On 14th January, 2015, we embarked on a religious expedition – Umrah, it was a long held desire of my parents to take us along on an Umrah. I believe, heading towards the journey to perform Umrah, is more a call from Almighty Allah, than a personal discretion. Nonetheless, one ought / can only be assertive to such a call. 

I prayed to Almighty Allah for a spiritually uplifting, physically soothing and intellectually ameliorating Umrah. Prayers / virtuous deeds get multiplied in the Holy places of Makkah and Madina. So, the priority should be to do, as good as possible. When I got my booking confirmed for Umrah, I thought, am I not too young for this religious responsibility? But what I witnessed was: the plane had a significant presence of kids, adolescents, nascent adults, and even sticks’ relying golden-agers. 

I had my diary along, on which I jotted down all the happenings, things, which interested or intrigued me, in anyway. Below is the essence/excerpt of what I wrote during my brief stay – in order to make it look abridged, I’m going to publish it in two parts: Part A will cover the Makkah pilgrimage, and part B will pertain to Madina.

Part A

Makkah, Saudi Arabia 

15th January, Thursday: Started the day with Fajr Prayers in the outer area of Masjid Al-Haram, Makkah. We prayed to Almighty Allah to make Umrah easy for us, and accept our prayers and Umrah. After Fajr Prayers, we all started to perform Umrah, the Masjid was huge, and the people were attending en masse. It was a challenge to find a place for prayers inside the precincts of Holy Masjid. 

We performed all the prescribed duties, required to accomplish Umrah, under the patronage of an expert person, who was accompanying us, to ensure its perfection. 

The experience of Umrah is beyond any human description or definition; can I elucidate its beauty – I cannot, maybe I’ll understate with my limited access to words, even attempting seems hair-raising. Subhan Allah 

We thanked Almighty Allah for making the procedures easy and smooth for us, may Almighty Allah accept our Umrah, Prayers. 

Empyrean aura of Makkah is unequivocally out-of-this-world. Almighty's house in front of our eyes is an ultimate source of absolute contentment. Circumambulation and embracing the Holy Kaa'ba provides one with a great deal of self-actualisation, exhilaration and completeness. Allah’s divine power enveloping everyone and everything: ensuing in contentment, happiness, and satisfaction of highest order. 

The way in which the one who leads the congregational prayers recites the Holy Quran with tears rolling down his cheeks and a shattered voice, creates the equal if not more, ripples in the listeners heart. Indeed, spiritually uplifting and divine. 

16th January, Friday: Early dawn, Fajr Prayers – Windy morning in Makkah, cool breeze piercing my body. Normally, it’s enough to make my torso numb, but at this revered place it was rejuvenating my soul. 

We went to the premises of Holy Masjid Al-Haram to offer the congregational Friday prayers. Time of the prayer is 12:45 PM, we entered the campus at 10.30 AM, because we wanted to ensconce within the internal contours of Masjid, near to Ka’aba. We had never thought or imagined, that we’ll witness such a crowd of people at that time; it was still two hours away from the prayer time. Nevertheless, we made it to the internal precincts. Thanks to Almighty. Subsequently, all the doors to the internal premise were closed down, to avoid over crowdedness inside the Masjid. I extol the persistent enthusiasm and sanguinity of devotees. 

On the same day, we performed circumambulation – seven rounds make one Tawaf. We embraced and kissed the Holy House of Allah, doorsill and Rukn Al Yamani. Self-actualisation, contentment, inward satisfaction, and peace of mind – was deeply felt. The moment translated an emotion of completeness to the erstwhile incomplete spirit. 

17th January, Saturday: We were supposed to travel to various religious sites. The places of religious prominence in Makkah, but that got deferred to the next day. 

18th January, Sunday: It was 2.00 AM in the night / morning; I was sitting in front of the Holy Ka’aba. I thought it would be easy for me to kiss the Hujra Aswad in the night. Contrarily, I found a negligible difference in the number of people visiting in the day/ night. It’s amazing to witness such a number of people, irrespective of day or night. The stern belief, fondness and enthusiasm with which people approach the house of Allah, Ka’aba – irrespective of day, night, time, is over and above the palpable contours of wisdom. 

People were in large numbers, ergo, translation of my intention into action became an arduous task. Nonetheless, I was successful in accomplishing my intention. I forced myself into the congested bunch of people, who were also trying to do the same, and after a great deal of pushing, pulling, holding – I & brother did it. 

Thanks to Almighty Allah. 

As per the pre-described agenda, we were to visit the Holy Places of Makkah on the same day; following are the places, where we went, and the description: 

Jabal Thawr (Mount Bull): Prophet (SAW) at the time of migration to Madina spent some three days in Ghar al-Thawr (Cave of the Bull), situated on the top of Mount Thawr; They (SAW) took refuge in the cave, as persecutors were chasing him. 

Mina: Massive congregation at the time of Hajj takes place in Mina. Prophet Ibrahim was enjoined by Almighty Allah to sacrifice his son in mina. But, then a lamb was provided as a substitute from Allah – the practice that we still follow, on the eve of Eid ul-Adha. Kudos to Prophet Ibrahim, he had the courage and an utmost sense of obedience to Almighty Allah. More than 100,000 air-conditioned tents provide temporary accommodation to visiting pilgrims during the Hajj time. 

Arafat: Last verse of the Holy Quran was ordained in Arafat to Prophet (SAW). Masjid Nimra is situated in the middle of the vast expanse of Arafat. Prophet Mohammad (SAW) gave the farewell sermon to the mankind from the same place, more specifically around the Mount of Mercy (Jabal ar-Rahmah). Prayers in Masjid Nimra take place only during the time of Hajj, led by Imam Kaa’ba. 

Wall - Aqueduct: After the death of Caliph Haroun Al-Rasheed, Queen Zubaydah travelled to Makkah to perform Haj. Makkah was facing water shortage; she returned to Baghdad and called on expert architects and engineers of the time to address this problem. After surveying the area, the initial report suggested that the construction of a Qanat (tunnel) would be a difficult task. When Queen was asked, she said, "Construct a Qanat at any cost, even if I have to give a dinar in exchange for every single stroke of spade." It is a masterpiece of engineering and an enduring symbol of the golden era of Arab culture. 

Jabal al-Nour (The Mountain of Light): Prophet (SAW) used to pray in the Cave of Hira, housed on the top of the hill. First verse of Holy Quran: Iqra – Read, was ordained to the Prophet Mohammad (SAW) in the Cave of Hira via Archangel Gabriel. Mohammad (SAW) was conferred Prophet-hood in the same Cave. It used to be the place of worship and meditation for Prophet (SAW); he has stayed in the cave for weeks together. 

Nowadays, train connectivity has been set up for the devotees making the travel more convenient and easy, on the pilgrimage route, during the busy Hajj days. All praises to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

At last, we went to the place, where at the time of conquering Makkah, Prophet (SAW) hoisted the Islamic flag. There used to be a tree which on Prophet’s (SAW) arrival moved from its place to greet Mohammad (SAW) – Subhan Allah. 

19th January, Monday: A schedule of prayers duly complied. Local markets and malls are an attraction but it’s a bit costlier than expected. I don’t even bargain because it’s futile to do so, apparently most of the commodities have a fixed price – you buy: good, you don’t: walk away. 

20th January, Tuesday: The positive energy of people drives you; the fervour and enthusiasm with which the followers of religion pursue the faith is phenomenal. Definitely, it provides the impetus to everyone; it also reasserts ones faith in the unfeigned truthfulness of a religion. 

21st January, Wednesday: Farewell Tawaf – As we are leaving to Madina, we did / performed a farewell circumambulation, as prescribed. Holy house of Allah is mesmerising, it’s difficult to separate yourself, but did it with prayers and emotions. 

May Almighty Allah accept our prayers, and give us the privilege of coming to this Holy Sanctuary, time and time again. Ameen

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

PK – A Succinct View

I couldn't find any better way of recommending a movie than simply saying: Indeed, It’s a Must Watch. 

Rarely, we come across such an adept story, crafted with perfection, and meticulously executed by all the actors. The way with which the story evolves/unfolds and the link between various scenes' is immaculately remarkable. Impeccable blend of humor and emotion is conspicuously visible, from the very beginning of the celluloid.

PK is unveiling a reality behind the misuse of apparent means of various religions. It is in no way questioning the sanctity of any religion. However, PK is factual to question on the exercise of various corrupt means practiced by the so called priests, to reach to the God. It's enlightening people of what they are doing vis-à-vis in quest of God's approval / sanction, and is in no way detrimental to any faith. It neither disputes the existence of God, nor does it despises praying, it only divulges the malpractices committed by the so called managers of religions, who think they are managing the company (religion) by setting the rules, regulations and code of conduct - based out of an offshore location; all because of their self-centric profit making business – the institution of religion shouldn't be debased. I believe no one can claim to represent, or is authorized (by God) to hold people accountable for the decree of God. 

Every bit and shot of PK has a meaning attached to it. Indeed, it should act as an eye opener to all those who blindly believe in all the claimed religious geeks. 

If a person belonging to any religion or faith does wrong or promotes self-interest over and above the people's interest, that shouldn't become the cause of maligning the religion but the person who indulge in such a practice. Ways shouldn't bring disrespect to the ends, actions of selected claimants’ jeopardize the image of ends. 

Undoubted Kudos to the film maker, for bringing in the naked alien to make people cognize the reality of what’s happening. Ironically, we are always surrounded by all this, and still aren't able to crystallize our well-dressed vision. It’s paradoxical and poignant too, on our part. 

At last, I would like to state, those who protest PK haven't really understood what it says, and they might be feeling threatened because of all the revelations made in the movie about their (protesters) allegedly dubious role in the respective religion. 

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

Welcome 2015 – Happy New Year

While thinking through the past year, we should easily be able to inscribe the portions of happiness, melancholia, inspirational stints, and desolation witnessed during the bygone year. 

The 'Learning' ought to be the only constant with all the above situations. Whatever happens to us or whichever state we go through, irrespective of how positive or negative that may be – learning has to be the major take away. Past year was an experience, and the learning derived out of that experience is tangibly / intangibly fructuous for us, for posterity. 

New Year is not only the time of celebration to welcome the upcoming year but it's a festivity to treasure / cherish the past year, to thank the bygone for all the moments. Moreover, to charge ourselves towards an unrelenting pursuit of our aspirations, to take a vow of staying motivated and enthusiastic for the year ahead. 

Wishing you all a very happy 2015. May we all stay motivated, inspired, and workaholic enough to support our vision. At this juncture, the minimum we can do is – Hope; let’s all hope for the good health, happiness and success, and keep in mind the fact that hopelessness is a sin. 

Happy New Year 2015

Thank You

Yasir Reshi

Birthday Musings

Birthday – The day a person makes an entry to this beautiful world...

With years’ progressing, the importance of this day continues to remain enigmatically subjective, depending on each and every individuals’ understanding. I believe it must result in: Happiness, Slight Melancholy, and Pensive Introspection.  

Happiness may be attributed to the fact that a person breathes, exists and enjoys – owing to that birthing.

As far as religion is concerned, Almighty has already set an exit date of each and every individual at the time of its accouchement. With each passing year, we are coming closer to that fixed date - in that way it's materialistically saddening and calls for circumspection.

During the course of past years, many actions and activities may have went well. However, many of them could have been carried on differently. Nonetheless, the greatest experiences come from our mistakes and the failures. We should always be able to extract learning from our past – Introspection seems important to get to the desired future. Analyze your past, and excogitate about your future.

Time – It doesn't stay the same, ensuing in the change in all the dispensations around…viz.: People – They don’t stay the same; Situation – There is so much of dynamism in life these days.

If you’re out of university or college, in a subsequent year, the mates who used to give you a call (unequivocally) on your birthday – will message you in a very casual way, that too because of social networks' calendar update. People change, so does the situation, and the credit of all is ascribed to time. We absolve our self by cursing time. Undoubtedly time drives us, and the present time is what we are obsessed with, always. 'Introspect'

At the end, I would like to appreciate & thank my colleagues, who made my birthday hugely special. This is my first corporate birthday, the warmth and the exuberance, with which everyone treated and wished me, will always be a delightful memory ensconced in my mind.

God Bless

Thank You All…

Yasir Reshi

Farewell Speech

Asalamu’ilikum

Prof. Shabir Ahmad, Honourable Dean, The Department of Business and Financial Studies, Prof. S A Mufeed, Esteemed Director, The Business School, Prof. M.A Sahaf, Former Dean & Director Business School, other Respected Faculty members, non-teaching staff and dear friends – I hope that covers everyone present here. A very good after noon to everyone!

It gives me profound pleasure and privilege to stand in front of this august house.

After spending around 2 years together in The Business School - Sharing the good times, the bad times, sharing some memorable, adorable and some unmentionable experiences, finally the moment has come to say goodbye. When I entered TBS I was intellectually and academically naïve, this place instilled decisiveness and a great deal of sapience in me. It’s saddening to realize that I will never be attending the Business School classes again. Business School is a place where I got a plentitude of intellectual amelioration both in terms of theoretical ability and in terms of pragmatic adeptness.

“I don't know how you say good-bye to whom and what you love. I don't know a painless way to do it; I don't know the words to capture a heart so full and a longing so intense.”

Well, we are leaving the business school, the school that we all are very closely knit with. It’s the last time we may shout, scream and even cry at The Business School. Never again shall we experience a class or a lecture from our esteemed faculty member. All these experiences are just memories now. Gone are the days when we used to witness those moments personally, now we can only be reminiscent of them. Life is too ironic. It takes sadness to know what happiness is, noise to appreciate silence, and absence to value presence. We will undoubtedly miss this place. 

Words may not express how I have grown fond of this place and you all. As we all approach towards the successful careers in our life, we must never forget The Business School. Don’t forget the good times, or the times from which we learned the lessons. This has been the most important part of our lives. We are leaving the school that has formed us into the mature, capable and charming individuals that we are today. The teachers have molded us into who we are, and we will never forget the good times, wisecracks, advises and life lessons you've given us. Thanks to the torch bearers. May the due reciprocation from Almighty Allah be accorded to you, as we will always be indebted to you! My heart perpetually prays for the teachers who have guided me throughout the thick and thins of my university stint. May Almighty Allah Bless you with the best of health! 

At the very outset, I’d like to welcome the MBA First Semester to this beautiful campus. The serene ambiance and the academic culture of the place provide an ideal environment for the pursuit of knowledge and education. 

I hope you’ll take this legacy of learning, growth and development forward. I wish you all the success and happiness. Friends – Even The Prosaic Thoughts Can Be Translated Into The Lucrative Ventures. Not Only an Idea, Not Only an Imagination, Not Only Skills – Are Necessary, But the Will, Perseverance and Focus Can Be the Key.

My dear Classmates, it has been an honor to lead you through these years. I thank you for your confidence and support. The magnitude of affection and love that I share with you all will always remain with me. Thank you for the years filled with laughter, fun, and irreplaceable memories. Neither will I forget any moment, nor can I ever stop missing you. May Almighty Allah flourish your life and give you success in the plans ahead. Business School has helped us grow higher and wider. Let us go out and give that to the world.

Lastly, I would like to express my deep sense of gratitude to MBA 3rd Semester, without their genuine efforts and endeavors, this wasn't possible at all. Thank you very much MBA 3rd! 

At the end, I would like to present a banner to the business school, which has some inspirational thoughts, more specifically for the juniors and upcoming batches. God Bless The Business School

Thank you, Thanks to all…

Yasir Reshi

Reminiscent Rain

My persistent engrossment on the falling rain reminds me of my predicament in the last official class of my favorite professor.

We genuinely miss what benefits us, or what we are addicted to. While shutting down the laptop of my revered professor, I suffered trembling and emotions trickled down my cheeks.

The learning that used to transpire will be profoundly missed. My inquisitiveness to learn, from a professor of superior intellect and academic excellence is what struck my minds and hearts emotional chord.

A Professor’s ability in motivating and shipping knowledge acts as an ingredient of change in a student’s life. My nirvana state of mind was shattered, when I realized that this period of time has inevitably kissed the conclusion, it was psychologically disturbing and painful too. The intellectual pleasure that I used to derive out of such interactions, nonetheless, will not be fascinating my discernment anymore – I’ll miss the sprinkling elixir of life that used to sprang out of the well of knowledge. 

May Almighty Allah Bless our pedagogues with good health and further their knowledge. Ameen! 

By Yasir Reshi

REMEMBRANCE

HAJI GHULAM NABI RESHI

(March 28, 2001)

“Though your smile has gone forever and your hand we cannot touch, We shall never lose the memory of You, we loved You so much” 

You left a million undulating impressions on countless minds. There are a million thoughts, even more emotions – yet I’m at a loss of words. The world knows how an astute personality you were, with high business acumen. Your unremitting care/ love for the relatives, friends and minors made you an all-time favorite, for the lineage as well as for other Family/Business relationships. We no longer see you physically, but we’ll always cherish and treasure the special moments we shared with You. You will always have an especial part in our hearts. 

May Allah grant you a special place in Jannah. Ameen!

“A life made beautiful by kindly deeds, A helping hand for others’ needs, Generous his heart and friendship true, Loved and respected by all he knew”

-Yasir 'S Reshi

Welcome 2013, Au Revoir 2012

What can I do in this beautiful eve of New Year 2013? Many things happened in the year 2012; today, we can reminisce all the convivial/disheartening moments, which transpired in the days of yore. Past remembrances make me euphoric. Some of the beautiful moments took place in 2012; from January to December, its significance is sky touching and I hope this merriment continues with due pertinence throughout the coming year as well. It will be simply not possible to quantify the level and intensity of joyousness that we (Friends) all went through in 2012. However, Happiness has some taste of, or is anteceded - followed by a miniscule of melancholia too, but that makes it an experience worth commemorating.

I learned a great deal of things. Lot of mistakes I may have committed, but the greatest learning is from the biggest mistakes, we commit. I learned through the entire course of events that took place in 2012.

I’m thankful to all my friends, acquaintances, relatives and whosoever came in my proximity. However, I may not have done what my friends expected from me, to the fullest, but I tried to justify whatever I did or intended to do. I believe we are living in a society where we find it difficult to please everyone, nonetheless, I think our attempts should never be at displeasing anyone – be it our friend or even an unknown human being.

We all must bid a cheerful adieu to the out-going year. Let’s take a vow – we shall never spill the beans of hatred, but live with care and affection. If we intentionally or unintentionally have done something, which we later realized was wrong, we ought to seek forgiveness and regret the act, with intent to – not indulging in it further. Religious connotations also suggest, “The first to apologize is the bravest, the first to forgive is the strongest, the first to forget is the happiest.”  

New Year Resolution: I wish and pray to Almighty for the better future of all my proximities. I pray to Almighty, to bestow the blessings on all of us, specifically in the shape of ameliorated behaviors, personalities and societies at large. I’ll try my level best to do justice with whatever I do, to make people happy genuinely, and to seek forgiveness where ever my acts/decisions impact some people negatively. I pray to Almighty, for the development of my knowledge and understanding of various subjects. I wish to stay as motivated/ dedicated as possible towards the goals and objectives that I have set for myself. Amen!

Happy New Year! Best of luck to all my friends, relatives and acquaintances for the year ahead, May all your genuine wishes come true. Enjoy and be affectionate to whosoever surrounds you. May the coming year permeate more happiness, love, affection and bonhomie among all the fellow mates!

Thank You


By Yasir Reshi

Knotty Appreciation!

Is this my prerogative to judge people, I think not. Almighty is judging us, he is the supreme/ Almighty, that’s why he is judging us all but how is it that his creation is judging one another, when he made all of us equal, no preferences were given to anyone over the other. Every Individual tries to undermine and subvert the intelligence/ acts of others; they cannot even see the good work which demands appreciation. Even If the quantum of quality work is very meagre, we can still encourage the person for that act, but conversely we prefer quiescence. We find it easy to criticize the minor demerit but find it difficult to praise the major merits. If a person has worked day in and day out for something or on some task, which means a lot of exertion has been put in, at least an observer needs to conceive that, how can he turn a blind eye? Conferring credit on the good deeds spurs up the confidence; contrarily demoralizing thoughts are disheartening.

The feeling of prejudice shouldn’t be their while doing any job, those things ensue in a decision which may be utterly biased and uncalled-for. If I like the person’s statement or any act for that matter, I should be able to appreciate it, regardless of the avalanche of problems I might be having with the individual at personal domain. On the basis of past encounters, I being cynical of whatever good the person does and finding it difficult to credit the individual is the most unfortunate and unlikeable part, even on the doctrines of religion.

Appreciate the right and condemn the wrong – Don’t appreciate on the basis of camaraderie and don’t abhor on the basis of preceding hatred.


-Yasir ‘S Reshi

Love for the Mystic Saint - Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA)

Every time I used to pay obeisance to the holy place. We lost one of our ancient heritage architecture to this stormy fire, which after minutes, became so uncontrollable and fierce to contain. This fire can only devastate the ancient edifice but not the inner faith/ belief, which we all have in such holy places. The 200 year old historical shrine was built in a deep veneration, for the 11th century saint, Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) in Kashmir; it cuts across all the religious barriers. Its graceful white and green exterior used to hide a glorious papier-mâché interior - Arabic script and floral motifs, supported by papier-mâché palms.

I’m going to miss that beautiful shrine, that satisfaction, tranquillity, place where atonement transpired. I think whenever people were sad or in need of any help, this place solaced them and provided them with the unimaginative happening (miracle). The devotees witnessed the placidness while visiting the spiritual place and that composure will undeniably be missed; the touch of ancient heritage is in itself a soothing consolation to our mind. We can now re-make it with gold or whatever but what we lost is irreparable. Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) is considered to be the head/ King of all saints, their embracers are ubiquitously spread all around the world, and the love which people have with them and their valuables can never be undermined.

May the mercy of Almighty Allah be showered down on us all!


-Yasir Reshi

Au revoir 2011

When I look back and reminisce the blithesome moments that transpired in 2011: those sweet nostalgic remembrances are making me euphoric; this is a very special year for me. I learned a great deal of new things which includes my indulgence in a plethora of new/positivistic happenings that took place. 2011 will always be remembered, owing to the fact that the major portion of adventures and events, which I was part of, added spirit to my jocund and lively persona. The uniqueness of 2011 is ascribed to the new mates around me, who made the latter part of 2011 worth remembering/ unforgettable. In 2011, I came to know about the new doctrines which insisted on un-learning and re-learning mechanisms, for the amelioration of uncertain future. For me 2011 is totally attributed to Change, Change which I at times wished to see and at times, disliked the most; nonetheless witnessed.

I wish a very happy New Year to all my acquaintances, friends and relatives. May the coming year permeate more happiness, love, affection and bonhomie among all the fellow mates! I pray to almighty Allah, for the better future and the fulfilment of every individuals dream. Amen!

By Yasir Reshi.
 

Ebullient Odyssey To Pahalgam

From initial Disinterest to the Sheer Joviality: A Trip worth Remembering.

It was my first university expedition. Initially, I was not interested because of the reason that my close acquaintances or the jocund mates around me were not coming due to their personal reasons. The main cause of my disinterest was coordinating and managing the jaunt, which in our class is always a difficult task. We are a class of diverse ideologies and multifaceted opinions accompanied by an outlandish attitude, always ready to dissent, whatever the issue may be. Sometimes, the dissension is positive for our class and sometimes badly counterproductive.

When I woke up in the morning of 22 October 2011, it was 7.25 AM and I was still wondering whether to go or not. But, when I got the call from my classmate and that call was immediately followed by a call from the faculty member, enquiring about the number of candidates coming and from which place. Then I thought it would be grossly unjustifiable to defy the directives of honourable director and other accompanying faculty members. When I reached the pick-up location, it was appalling to learn that only five or seven classmates were present out of thirty, who have already assented to the idea of picnic by forwarding their names in writing. That signifies the level of responsibility, we all share.

Finally, we left the pick-up location amidst inclemency. It was raining terribly; heightening the enthusiasm as well as disinterest. Our bus finally departed with a large number of faculty members on board. Classmates were very enthusiastic and their cheerful alacrity was providing me a kind of impetus, which made me euphoric. I think if people around you are happy, you are also happy and if people around you are unhappy, you are unhappy as well. My classmates were ceaselessly singing and shouting the songs that I have rarely heard. I was confounded by the song selection and as a result of that I switched on my headphone and started watching a movie ‘Up’ (animated). But, I was enjoying the happenings around me; it was an ultimate playfulness, where everyone was trying to enjoy the moments.

When we reached Pahalgam, the climatic conditions were totally gelid. It (Pahalgam) was outrageously frigid with fast-moving breeze and enshrouded with impenetrable clouds. The initial panoramas made me reminiscent of harry potter fighting the dark lord amid volatile natural surroundings. When I came out of the bus, faculty members invited me and the class for a cup of tea, as it was shivery cold. Then we planned a trip to betaab valley which was later on countermanded due to non-availability of transportation. We had a hearty lunch accompanied by the beautiful lot of jokes and continuous laughs, which made it unique in a positive way. Now, we all were ready to encounter the climatic severity, fast-moving breeze and the haunted clouds. I and my classmates were enjoying the moment: Chatting, Singing, joking, jesting and shooting snaps of everything around. Some were very enthusiastic about photographs; group snaps and individual clicks as well. Photographs generally capture the lovely moments with the help of which it becomes easy for every individual to reminisce and cherish. But, I don’t know why I took only scenic shots - obviously, owing to the reason that nature intrigues me more than anything else.

Camp fire (sic) and the events surrounding that beautiful place (picket), from where we took the entire panoramic view of Pahalgam was staggeringly awesome. A cup of tea which we all had there, proved to be very lucky for our class because at the same time, we got a call from the university about some of our classmates winning awards, for their splendid performance in Sonzal (Event). Everybody was enjoying, and enjoying to the fullest - “The Delightful moments.”   

The aforementioned enjoyment was followed by a handsome horse ride which we decided to go for, after the insisting efforts of my classmates and my personal desire. It was raining enormously, but I found the coalescence of rain and ride very idyllic.

After completing the joyous ride, our prescribed time of pleasurable roaming came to an end. I with my classmates rushed to the location of buses, where we bussed ourselves, and took off amidst the torrential rain and cheerful screaming. I was highly ebullient; the feeling was totally antithetical to what I perceived in the morning, when I came out of my quilt/ duvet. I also shouted with my classmates even if I scantily know the songs or most of the time I could only recollect the first line, because of my close propinquity with English songs/ celluloid. It was a moment of high-pitched excitation and zestfulness for all of us.

En route to Srinagar, we took a brief hiatus and went to the local Akad Park. In Akad Park, we played different games and most of them (games) were providing me with the nostalgic vibe of puerility. It was the absolute pinnacle of playfulness and enjoyment, which I was part of and witnessed. Once again, bus engine revved up and we all went aboard! The enjoyment continued till we reached Srinagar.

Songs of all sorts were whistled out and dedicated to all the faculty members in general and the teachers present in our bus in particular. First I thought the faculty members present in our bus will accompany us in various enchanting acts but, they restrained themselves from all sorts of jocund activities and were just mute spectators/ onlookers, keeping that teacher-student line intact. Nonetheless, teachers present in our bus were young, yet outdated. Sometimes, “we have to be undisciplined, to know and contrast it from the discipline.”

Till the end, I was charged and continuously attempting to make every person around me happy. Irony of the whole trip is that, the classmates who put forward the picnic application didn’t turn up. Out of 30 written committals, only 19 surfaced. Responsibility is the word that struck my mind when I saw my classmates flouting their own written commitments.

The Pahalgam trip is one of the best jaunts I have ever had and will always remember. The ones who came are satiated with the gratifying remembrances, and the classmates who turned down or simply didn’t come have missed a great deal.

By Yasir Reshi