Fathers are often thought of as dominating and controlling especially in a patriarchal society like ours. However, there is a softer side to them, which is seldom explored– their nurturance. Fathers play an integral part in rearing children and in cultivating essential values, which eventually shape the child’s personality. All of us have learnt important lessons from our fathers and this Father’s Day we asked some of Pakistan’s top-notch fashion, music and media people about what they learnt from their fathers:
‘Coke Studio Season 5’ featured artist Uzair Jaswal learnt from his father that nothing in life can be achieved without hard work and commitment. He says: “He’s always kept the right balance between being strict and giving us our freedom.” The ‘Coke Studio’ artist admired the fact that his father has always been there for him. When asked what he’d like to change about his father he said, “I would want him to be young again, so that we could do all sorts of mischievous things together.” Uzair’s message for his father is, “You’re the backbone of our family, and you’ve supported and helped us through everything. I look up to you and adore you. I just hope that one day I can grow up to be an amazing person like you. Stay happy and healthy always.”
Fashion Designer Sania Maskatiya’s father taught her the importance of humility and kindness. She feels that each and every moment spent with her father is precious. Sania’s biggest strength is her father and as she puts it: “He is my rock. He is always there for me whenever I need him.” If Sania had a magic wand she would first of all cure her father’s diabetes so he could eat all the sweets in the world. Her message on this day is short and sweet, “Aba, you’re the best”.
Saad Sarfraz Shiekh, multi percussionist of Quadrum the band has learnt several important lessons from his father. He has learnt how to enjoy life to its fullest, to do things the way they should be done, not to lie and to utilise time in the most effective way. He says: “The best thing about my father is that he’s my best friend and is always there for me. He is light at the end of the tunnel.” When asked what Saad would like to change about his father he said, “He’s too nice with the world, and people take advantage of him.” This father’s day Saad wishes to express his gratitude by leaving a message for his father, “All that I have achieved in life, and will continue to achieve, is because of you, I am honoured to be your son. May you live a long life. Amen.”
‘Coke Studio Season 5’ houseband member Zoe Viccaji feels that her father is the most honest and well-intentioned person. Her daddy taught her, ‘that if you really stick to something and do it with all your might, you can’t go wrong’. There is just one thing that Zoe wishes to change about him. She hopes that he was more physically active because that way he would be healthier. Zoe’s message for her father is, “You’re at the top of my list of people I respect in this world and I love you very much even though I don’t show it everyday.”
Fashion Designer Arsalan Iqbal learnt the art of decision making from his father, “Never make a decision when angry and never make a decision when in a good mood. You always fail to read the situation perfectly.” Arsalan’s message on this day is, “You are the best dad in the world. If I can be 25 percent of what you are as a human being and a professional, I would be the happiest person in the world! I love you a lot pop!”
Khadijah Shah of Élan learnt some important virtues from her father, “Work hard, don’t look for short cuts and never compromise on your integrity.” According to her, the best thing about her father is that he is so gentle and kind that nothing can ruffle his calm. Her message for daddy this day is, “I am blessed to have you in my life, your guidance and support is priceless. Love you to bits!”