Latest news with #NoorJahan
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- General
- Express Tribune
The rot in the Ravi
Centuries ago, the Emperor Shah Jahan was preparing a room in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) of the Lahore Fort. Keeping the river Ravi in mind, the idea was to have special windows that would capture the cool breeze flowing off of the Ravi, for the empress. A swinging mirror next to the window would reflect the light of the stars and the moon and light up the detailed mirror work on the ceiling of Noor Jahan's room. The ceiling would glimmer like the stars because of the breeze swinging the mirror. Such was the majesty of the Ravi. But the Queen died before she could sleep in this room, and the room never served its intended purpose. Today, its only purpose is as a reminder of impermanence and the futility of idealism. It is hard to believe that the same Ravi is now a garbage dump. One wouldn't want to build a home next to the Ravi due to the smell of garbage and sewage water, let alone design an expensive window to catch the disgusting breeze. It is the simple things like this that help make or break the reported happiness of a city's residents. Paris recently reopened its river for public swimming. Will we be able to say the same about the Ravi some day? So far, we just have dreams. Standing at the banks of the Ravi, one can see a man fishing in the sewage water, a truck dumping garbage, and the sewage water converging with the rest of the river entering the city from Eastern Punjab, from India. The Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) has promised us that the river will be transformed into a vibrant and pristine waterfront for more urban development. Let's say that this works, yet in a world where we won't be able to grow food in Punjab (let alone Sindh), does any of this even matter? This is what Amir Khusrow had to say about our region, only a couple hundred years before the Sheesh Mahal: 'The splendour of spring is best to be enjoyed in India … India remains in spring throughout the year, with its evergreen, fragrant flora ... The wide fields are never short of greenery, the trees never look naked of leaves. The air is not empty of the chirping of birds … mustard flowers … sparkle like golden jewels on a green carpet … the crops of sugarcane, miles on end, evergreen' The landscape of Khusrow's period is rapidly vanishing. Significant biodiversity loss has contributed to wild cats such as the leopards being endangered or outright extinct like the Bengal tigers and swamp deer among others. This has exponentially worsened since the construction of endless dams on the Indus, resulting in the loss of the Indus delta, mangrove diversity and as a result many species that relied on them. Forest cover that was once dominant in Punjab is now only three per cent of the territory. This ends up making populations more vulnerable to flooding too, as forests act as a natural shock absorber to floods. Biodiversity at risk According to Sohail Ali Naqvi, Director of Freshwater, WWF-Pakistan, 'The river ecosystem and biodiversity is affected directly with the contaminated wastewater. The water quality is deteriorated, with extremely low levels of Dissolved oxygen (DO) in the Ravi near Lahore. As a result, fish species have vanished downstream of Balloki headworks [near city area].' This could be good news for the men who once fished on the banks of the Ravi, as they may have been spared from eating contaminated fish due to their non-existence. 'Sewage water is directly or indirectly discharged into the River Ravi from Lahore through eight drains," explained Naqvi. "These drains carry sewage and industrial effluents, dumping them into the river. Unfortunately, we don't have any Combined Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) for Lahore city." Despite sizeable land allocation to Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Lahore since the 1990s (7,200 Kanals near Babu Sabu), the city doesn't have any treatment plants. Due to the Indus Water Treaty (1961), the flow of the River Ravi is quite low. "With sewage water being dumped into the river and the river flow being quite low throughout the year, the Ravi looks like a dirty drain. In fact, no aquatic life is present near Shahdara Bridge,' said Naqvi. Public health hazard 'In the past decades, there were some studies which mentioned that River Ravi carried more than 38 species of fish from Lahore to Head Sidhnai, but unfortunately, these fish species have almost vanished near Lahore city,' Naqvi shared. 'However, at the upstream of BRBD and downstream of Head Balloki, fishing can be observed. Different studies have mentioned the bioaccumulation of heavy metals found in the organs of fish species, which directly impact the human health,' he added. During the extreme monsoon rains last month in Punjab, the DG of PDMA, Irfan Ali Khatia told The Express Tribune: 'We do not have a significant threat, at the moment, of a lot of water coming through the Ravi from India … Whenever there is 40-60% above average rainfall predicted, the chances of urban centres like Lahore being flooded increase.' Khatia was referring to the impact of the phenomenon called 'Spring-time Mid-East heating', which has impacted the severity of the monsoon in both India and Pakistan this year. The 'intense warming of land relative to the ocean' pushed the 'low-level jet' more upwards, and intensified it, which made this monsoon season particularly deadly. Management often seems 'absent' at the WASA office in Lahore during monsoon, to 'supervise' rain response according to the staff. There seems to be little clarity on whether their crisis management would be better handled 'off-field', when the agency's staff is pressed for explanation. Does all of this negatively impact the groundwater in Lahore? Yes, said Naqvi: 'The wastewater also directly contributes to the groundwater aquifer contamination. During rainy season, the sewage water mixes with rainwater and also percolates into the soil and impacts the quality of groundwater. That's the reason that the shallow groundwater in Lahore is not of good quality' According to the director general of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): 'The government, now, has started to focus on underground water recharge.' He is referring to the unfinished holes you see in Lahore in the middle of roundabouts. WASA Director Mudasir Javed said: 'We are working on surface water replacement with ground water. So if we use surface water, we will be able to reduce pressure on groundwater.' He further added that, per capita, Lahore consumes 40 gallons per day. This is because currently groundwater is the only source of water for Lahore. With the growing population and diminishing groundwater level, we are headed for a crisis unless we have viable alternatives. It is yet to be seen whether and when this transition will be made. Commenting further on the public health impact of the sewage contaminated water of the Ravi, Naqvi said: 'In peri-urban areas, it is common for livestock such as cows/buffaloes to graze in open areas and use nearby water bodies for drinking and bathing. The contaminated water directly affects the human food chain and causes different kinds of diseases in the animals as well as in humans.' He added that different studies have mentioned that the pathogenic bacteria, heavy metals from farming activities and antibiotic waste directly impact human health and cause different diseases. 'These contaminants can enter the human food chain through the animals' meat and milk (and potentially lead to diseases such as skin diseases, allergies etc.),' Naqvi explains. He further highlighted the damning reality: 'The communities living at the bank of River Ravi are directly affected by the wastewater contamination. There are more than 8 drains (and many small drains), which carry the wastewater of Lahore into the river directly and indirectly. The communities living at the bank of those open drains near the river face different challenges such as contaminated groundwater, air pollution (caused by different gases discharged from the sewage water into the environment such as Sulphur dioxide, methane, etc.). These gases, along with the dust, often clog the exhaust systems of refrigerators and air conditioners, reducing their efficiency. Also the people suffer from a higher incidence of waterborne illness' While people criticise the illegal occupation of land around the Ravi by the residents, one must ask an additional follow up question: was it their fault that the sewage control is lacking this much? Inevitable extinction of culture Most of the coverage surrounding the crisis seems to revolve around the immediate loss and suffering, without the context of the climate crisis, let alone an even bigger picture analysis of our relationship with nature as that of master and slave, rather than interdependent species. RUDA, although built around a relatively more sustainable concept in principle, is still based on the premise that nature can be tamed and made to bend according to our specific urban needs. It is beyond their scope to deal with a '3-degree' world that we are headed for as per current trajectories. The project plans on engineering the construction in a way that can manage floods based on past floods 'to date', implying that the flood management may not be with respect to the increasing likelihood of greater and greater flooding due to climate change, with every year that goes by. We cannot manage a crisis appropriately if we are not aware of the extent of it. Have we really considered the impact of a 3 degree in Lahore? Temperatures could go up to 50 degrees Celsius. This is nothing less than unbearable, and farming is impossible under these circumstances. Under the current projections, we are expected to reach these temperatures by 2050. If you think that this won't impact you, air-conditioners at these temperatures may stop working or have difficulty working effectively. Most air-conditioners are simply not built with these temperatures in mind. Fireflies or jugnu, commonly used in Punjabi poetry as an allegory, have reduced significantly in rural Punjab, evoking yet another timely quote from Khusrow: 'How exhilarating is the climate of this country, where so many birds sing melodiously. Poets, composers and singers rise from this land, as abundantly and as naturally as the grass…' As we have shifted away from our habitat, nature, it should come as no surprise that art and culture has suffered too. Basant too was banned, for nothing to do with its ancient roots, we're told, purely due to the dangers associated with kite flying. It may as well be given up on, since harvest has only been declining due to rising temperatures and excessive rainfall, and instead of a cause for celebration, it marks existential dread for farmers, and bankruptcy for the state, with an endless cycle of debt, and more debt to pay off more debt. History tells us that even as we lose our biodiversity and wildlife over centuries, it will impact our culture. Our poetry, music, and literature is full of references to the fireflies, the birds and the rivers, and poetry is an integral part of our traditions. With an increasing extinction of our species, it should not come to us as a surprise when our culture, too, goes extinct, until we ourselves do. While we continue to dream through RUDA-like projects, the empress's Sheesh Mahal serves as a reminder that not all beautiful things will be lived in as intended. Zain Haq is a freelance contributor All facts and information are the sole responsibility of the author
News18
26-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Difference Between Chikankari And Lucknowi: Everything Fashion Lovers Must Know
Last Updated: Although they are often used interchangeably, the phrases 'Chikankari' and 'Lucknowi' are not exactly the same. The history of Chikankari and Lucknow is as old as the city itself. Despite their popularity, they are frequently mistaken for one another. Lucknow offers a narrative in both the tranquil areas of Hazratganj and the bustling lanes of Aminabad. The City of Nawabs is home to the unique art form of Chikankari. What Is Chikankari? The ancient hand embroidery technique known as chikankari was first used in Lucknow, India. The term 'chikan" refers to needlework. Usually done with white thread on light, pastel fabrics, it entails delicate and exquisite threadwork. Chikankari is a type of embroidery. It is the delicate, whisper-soft type of thread work that makes you look twice. Each motif, be it a small flower, leaf, or paisley, is created by hand using stitches that have names as lovely as they are: murri, phanda, and bakhiya, to mention a few. History Of Chikankari There is some confusion over the origins of Chikankari in Lucknow; some stories attribute it to the Mughals, particularly Empress Noor Jahan. She became enamoured with the art form and encouraged it, making it a favourite skill of the Mughal court. Chikankari was given the boost it needed to flourish thanks to the royal patronage, which also solidified its place in Lucknow's sociocultural fabric. 'Lucknowi," on the other hand, refers to anything from Lucknow, particularly its embroidery or clothing. In the textile industry, clothing with Chikankari embroidery is officially referred to as 'Lucknowi." Lucknowi, on the other hand, is not an embroidery technique; it is a fashion tag. The entire style is characterised by airy shapes, delicate hues and a regal yet subtle atmosphere. The term 'Lucknowi kurta" usually refers to a kurta with Chikankari embroidery in the distinctive Nawabi style. Although Chikankari is used in some Lucknowi pieces, not all of it is referred to as Lucknowi. When you go shopping, consider Lucknowi to be the style and Chikankari to be the art form that goes along with it. What Is The Difference Between Chikankari And Lucknowi? In textiles, terminology and locations can become entangled, resulting in a mix of names that can occasionally be confusing. The same is true of Chikankari and Lucknowi Chikankari. Fundamentally, they all allude to the same beautiful art form. The prefix Lucknowi pays tribute to the city of Lucknow, which is the centre of its renaissance and power. Chikankari is a live example of Lucknow's skill and tenacity because of its delicate stitching and classic appeal. When someone mentions Lucknowi Chikankari, they are essentially highlighting the tradition and authenticity of Chikankari as it is practised in the centre of Lucknow. The craft itself is the same; it's like valuing a treat and then connecting it to its origin for further respect. Therefore, while all Chikankari can be considered Lucknowi, not all Lucknowi ensembles are necessarily hand-done Chikankari. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India Today
15-05-2025
- India Today
Tigress gives birth to 3 cubs in Ranthambore, forest department shares pictures
A two-and-a-half-year-old tigress gave birth to three cubs in the Phalodi Range of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. According to forest officials, the tigress, RBT 2302, was spotted with her cubs in the Devpura forest area and photographic evidence captured through camera traps has confirmed the villagers were the first to observe the tigress with her cubs and informed the Forest Department, which has since intensified monitoring spotting the tigress, the forest team promptly set up camera traps in the area to track and monitor her movements, emphasising that the safety of the tigress and her cubs is their highest priority. The tigress is a first-time mother and is the daughter of two prominent Ranthambhore big cats – tigress T-114 (Noor Jahan) and tiger T-108 (Jai).The birth of these cubs is seen as a positive sign for tiger conservation in the region, especially after recent tensions surrounding the tiger-human development comes on the heels of a string of alarming incidents involving tigress Kankati, who has killed two people, including a forest ranger, within 26 have urged visitors and nearby villagers to remain cautious and allow the forest department to ensure the safety of the inputs by Sunil Joshi
Arab News
03-04-2025
- Arab News
In the heart of Bahawalpur, a 152-year-old palace continues to reflect its royal past
BAHAWALPUR: A young nawab once built a palace for his wife, so goes a local legend, only for her to abandon it after a single visit. As the tale is told, Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV had Noor Mahal constructed for his spouse, who, after spending one night there, glimpsed a nearby graveyard from the balcony and refused to return, considering it a bad omen. The story may not hold up to historical scrutiny, but it continues to captivate the many tourists who flock to Noor Mahal, Bahawalpur's most iconic monument. Towering over manicured gardens, the palace, built in 1875, is famed for its Indo-European architecture and striking symmetry. Before joining Pakistan in 1956, Bahawalpur was a princely state, one of over 500 semi-autonomous territories in British India ruled by local monarchs. These rulers retained control over internal affairs while pledging allegiance to the British Crown. The 152-year-old Noor Mahal was a crown jewel of Bahawalpur under its last great ruler, lending some credence to the theory that it may have been built as a gesture of affection for Noor Jahan, his wife. Some historians, however, offer a different reading. 'At the time, the Nawab family had multiple palaces, and Noor Mahal was primarily intended as a guest house for foreign dignitaries and experts,' Dr. Nadeem Omar Tarar, an art historian, told Arab News while challenging the popular story. Nevertheless, another scholar, Dr. Usman Ali, maintained that the building might originally have been planned as a personal residence before its use shifted. 'The 1904 Gazetteer acknowledges that it was originally designed as a personal residence but later repurposed due to its proximity to the graveyard,' he said. The story of Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan's ascension to the throne is equally intriguing. When his father died at the age of 29 on March 25, 1866, Khan was just four years old. The young nawab was immediately declared his successor, but his position was challenged by rival factions seeking control of the state. Fearing internal unrest, his family and loyalists turned to the British for support. In return for their intervention, the British assumed guardianship of the child ruler, securing complete political influence over Bahawalpur. 'The British government took the young Nawab under its guardianship, ensuring his personal education, health and training while also focusing on the development of every sector of the state,' Hafizur Rahman Hafiz wrote in his 1924 book, 'Tajdaran-e-Riyasat Bahawalpur.' To oversee both state affairs and the young Nawab's upbringing, Major Charles Cherry Minchin was appointed political agent in November 1866 and served as the de facto authority until Nawab Sadiq IV formally assumed power at the age of 18. Noor Mahal was constructed over an area of 44,600 square feet, featuring 32 rooms — 14 of them in the basement — along with six verandas and five domes. Its design was selected from 11 architectural proposals solicited from across India, with the final plan submitted by a building designer named Muhammad Hussain, adopted with minor modifications. The palace blends Corinthian and Islamic styles, with columns, balustrades and pediments sitting alongside domes and angled arches, a signature of Indo-Saracenic architecture. A commemorative inscription and state coins were buried in its foundations during construction as a good omen, according to court historian Azizur Rahman Aziz in his book, 'Subh-e-Sadiq.' After Bahawalpur joined Pakistan in 1956, Noor Mahal came under the Auqaf Department. In 1971, the Pakistan Army leased the property and eventually bought it in 1997 for Rs119 million ($428,400). Today, the palace is open to the public and remains a major tourist attraction. Each evening, visitors gather for a sound and light show narrating Bahawalpur's history, from its state rulers to its accession to Pakistan. 'The immersive experience draws large crowds every weekend, running throughout the year,' said local tourism official Waqas Ahmed.
Express Tribune
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Kubra Khan to Star Opposite Shuja Asad in Exciting New Drama
Kubra Khan is back and ready to captivate audiences once again! After making waves with her stellar performance in the hit drama Noor Jahan, the talented actress is set to return to television in a brand new project after her highly publicised wedding to fellow co-actor Gohar Rasheed. This time, she'll star opposite Shuja Asad, who also had a breakthrough year with successful roles in Aye Ishq e Junoon and Tan Mann Neelo Neel. What makes this drama even more exciting is that Kubra is making her comeback with the same network that aired Noor Jahan, and fans are eagerly awaiting her return. Adding even more intrigue to the mix, the drama is being directed by none other than ace director Mehreen Jabbar, known for her exceptional work in both film and television. Mehreen Jabbar's 2016 film Dobara Phir Se was widely acclaimed, and a project directed by her is always highly anticipated. This upcoming drama marks the first time Kubra Khan and Shuja Asad will be paired together on screen, creating even more buzz around the project. The tentative name of this drama is Aye Dil Tu Bata. Filming has already begun, and it's rumored that the drama's script is written by Sanam Mehdi, known for her work on Radd and Guzaarish, adding another layer of excitement to this collaboration. Along side Kubra and Shuja, the cast includes none other than Noor Jahan herself - Saba Hamid and Hajra Amin. With such a powerhouse team behind and in front of the camera, this drama is shaping up to be something special. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project!
