Could you tell us what made you decide to blog, and what was the inspiration behind it?
I am a writer since my childhood and I simply love to write. I have many published works in Urdu and English. There are two types of writers: One who wants to be known for his writings and the other who wants people to know what he writes. I belong to the second category and with the dwindling interest of the society in reading the traditional reading material, I decided to use this growing phenomenon of blogging as a medium to convey my message. The inspiration behind it is of course the success stories of many blogs that have attracted huge following of readers. I blog here.
What do you think sets your blog apart from other blogs?
I think my blog is different in its content. It has analyses of the issues in a very different manner. The motive behind all the posts and articles is to present a candid and true picture of the issue. I take pain in writing these articles and on my blog there is a preference of quality over quantity. The unique aspect of my Blog is ‘honesty’. I honestly want to convey my message to the reader and make some difference.
If you could choose one characteristic you have that brought you success in life, what would it be?
The main characteristic in my personality that I could attribute to my success is being content with myself. I always try to win rather than beat. This is what gives me positive energy and save me from frustration when I lose. Fair play does wonders for me.
What was the happiest and gloomiest moment of your life?
Every moment of my life is the happiest when I look at myself and find that I am blessed with sound mind and sound physique and that Allah has given me opportunities to make difference to the society no matter how subtle. The gloomiest moment is when I can’t do something for the society which I should or could.
Urdu Blogs have got huge potential, when do you think they will really take on the online horizon in Pakistan?
I am afraid I do not share the excitement of Urdu blogs making it big in future. English is a reality and we should focus on it. I am not, by any means, discouraging the Urdu Blogs but being a practical person, I really don’t see such blogs flourish in future. Urdu blogs have by and large a parochial approach and have the potential of transforming into propaganda tool by many opportunists because of the target audience. The sad part is that the people who can read English usually do not visit Urdu blogs and therefore we should encourage English Blogs which has international appeal.
If you could pick a travel destination, anywhere in the world, with no worries about how it’s paid for - what would your top 3 choices be?
Well that would be a dream situation. My destinations would be, in order of priority, as follows:
1. India
2. Spain
3. Israel/Palestine
These choices are purely based on their historic significance.
What is your favorite book and why?
It would be unfair if I chose only one book. The count of my favorite books runs in hundreds.
What are your favorite meal, dress, and sport?
Favorite meal is Rice of any kind. Favorite dress is formal and favorite sport is Cricket and Soccer.
What’s the first thing you notice about a person (whether you know them or not)?
Mannerism
Whose Future is brighter in Pakistan; English blogs or Urdu Blogs?
As discussed earlier my answer would be definitely English Blogs.
How Pakistani bloggers can benefit from blogs financially?
Patience, hard work, originality, sense of purpose and honesty.
Do you think Pakistani bloggers tend to remain somewhat self-centered and really don’t go out of their shells? Is it the oriental style of blogging, or they are still unsure about it?
In my view the majority of our bloggers have a lack of self-confidence and also they are overwhelmed with the presence of bloggers from all around the world especially from India. They should come out of their shells and start believing in themselves. But I will again stress on the basic point of successful blogging: originality and sense of purpose. I see no reason why can’t Pakistani bloggers find a place in the list of successful bloggers as we have all the talent and potential in the world.
What do you think where the Pakistani blogosphere is right now?
It is gaining momentum with every passing day but still lagging behind on many fronts. The efforts like this one by The Pakistani Spectator to interview and involve Pakistani blogger is a testimony to the fact that blogging in Pakistan has matured and have started feeling the need of taking it a step ahead. I think we were slow and non-serious in the beginning but I am satisfied with its growth and maturity now.
Who are your top five favorite bloggers in Pakistan?
Honestly speaking I don’t have any favorites as yet but I do like Chowrangi.
Have you ever become stunned by the uniqueness of any blogger in Pakistani blogosphere?
Not yet. We tend to follow others and original work is yet to be seen.
What is the future of blogging in Pakistan?
I think it is great. It is gaining momentum and will soon make its voice heard. People all around the world now want to know about Pakistan because of its coverage in the international media with context to the war against terror and the wave of religious fundamentalism. In fact, Pakistani bloggers can be successful in promoting their views and changing the opinion of many westerners about our country and religion.
You have also got a blogging life, how has it directly affected both your personal and professional life?
It has affected my life in a very positive manner. I feel satisfied and content when I post something and receive feedback. It makes my day and I perform in my professional life with more energy.
What are your future plans?
To be helpful to the society in a professional and organized level.
Any Message you want to give to the readers of The Pakistani Spectator?
We are great people; it’s about time that we become a great nation. I firmly believe that we can be in a much better, prosperous and honorable position if we sincerely dedicate one hour daily to the service of society and country. We are strong and hardworking people and we should utilize our potential in helping shape the destiny of this great country.
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