#KnowYourNeighbor: In Talks With Zeeshan Ahmed

Zeeshan is currently pursuing his Masters in English linguistics and literature. Born in Hyderabad (Sindh), he has written for publications like Dawn, South Asia etc. and happens to write both fiction and non-fiction. History fascinates him, as does photography, literature and science . In an exclusive interview with the Lighthouse Team, Zeeshan talks about his ties with India and his vision for peaceful relations between the two nations.

1. Tell us about your connections with India and what took you there?

I have a very interesting connection with India. It’s a bond that goes beyond generations, and only gets stronger by time. I won't go into details right now but here are the two immediate relations: My paternal grandfather moved to Pakistan in 1951, from Delhi, and my mother is from India. In 1990 she got married and moved to Pakistan. So, my whole maternal side is in India, along with a lot of other relatives. So the first time I went to India that was way back in 1991, and my first birthday was celebrated at my maternal grandparents' house. Since then I have visited India frequently, say, every two years or so. If you add up all the time I spent in India during all the trips, it would reach almost 2 years (8 or 9 trips in total). The trips during my childhood were of longer duration (the longest one was of 5-6 months). The last trip I took was in 2014, and that was after a gap of around 8 years. So, that is why India is my second home. I happen to have connections with places like Delhi, Hyderabad (Deccan), Bihar and Agra.

2. What are some of your fondest memories or any specific event that you recall often while you were traveling across the border? Have you ever been worried about the travel?

Too many, to be honest! Well, not that worried in the childhood, reasons being obvious! But nothing after that as well! As I said, India is my second home. I never feel any kind of worry going there. As far as the memories are concerned, there have been many. For example, it was during a visit to Muzaffarpur (Bihar) in 2014 trip that I met an elderly Sikh gentleman, who ran a small cafeteria/ shop with his wife. When he realized that we were from Pakistan, he started talking about his connections. Told us how his hometown used to be Sialkot, and he has fond memories. He was friendly and welcoming throughout, and offered us free coffee, which we gladly accepted.

3. Did your travel break any stereotypes about the other country? Please share your story.

There weren’t any ‘rigid’ stereotypes as such, in my case at least. But I remember that when I was in school my friends used to get very curious about my trips to India and they often told me really strange (and quite absurd, I must add) things about India. All these assuredly came from the prevalent stereotypes during those days. Interestingly, none of those were found out to be true!

4. What are the commonalities that you have observed between both the nations?

The people! The way they act, or react. And also both are welcoming to guests. This should be clear that both people are the same. The only thing that divides them is the politics.

5. In this day of modern technology, do you think social media has played an important role in bridging the gap?

Oh yes! I agree. Thanks to all these peace initiatives, such as Aaghaz e Dosti, or Love Across Borders and so on have been playing their respective roles too. While of course, there are people who fall prey to hate, but then there are always people who talk of love and peace between the countries.

Another important thing that should be mentioned are the Facebook groups. There are quite a number of groups promoting India-Pakistan peace and culture-sharing.

6. What are your thoughts on the existing talks between the two countries? How do you suggest we ease the existing tensions between the two nations?

I think it’s about time that both countries start thinking differently. It’s time to think out of the box! While talks have been happening for a while now, but the results are either very short-lived, or none at all. It is important for both countries to set aside the differences, and focus on the commonalities. Also, it is vital to start discussing controversial matters, and set the record straight. Both people have suffered long enough. Also, please, relax the visa policy! Much needed.

7. What is your vision for India and Pakistan in the year 2025?

While I am honestly unsure about the political relations, I am quite sure that people will continue to work together towards peace. The peace on political grounds will take a lot of time, but people, they will continue to reject hate and look towards a better future. Also, more collaborations between artists from both countries, I see, as well as other such initiatives.

8. Finally what is your message for our readers, how can they know their neighbor better?

Avoid stereotypes. They’re easy, and quite believable. But do not fall for them. Try interacting with people through social media, and be more tolerant and accepting. Appreciate anything positive regardless of the side of the border you’re in. And if you do get a chance, visit your neighbor country! I am sure this will be one experience that will change a lot!