Setting a new tradition, the Pakistan embassy, Washington DC this year organised a series of events during the weeklong celebration of Pakistan Day, from March 20 to 26.
Deviation from routine is a tough task. It means, carving out of time from hectic work of the continuing intense and shrewd diplomatic activities, in a bid to seek involvement of the community in healthy pursuits, and projection of Pakistan's rich culture and heritage.
The main attractions of the week were art and photo exhibitions, film show, a learned talk by noted historian F. S. Aijazuddin, besides the main March 23 flag-hoisting function followed by a reception hosted by the ambassador, at which US Deputy Defence Secretary, Paul Wolfowitz, was the chief guest.
The community had a variety of events to choose from and be part of, and the response seen was both immense and rewarding.
'Changing Perceptions: Pakistan's creative revolution, was the theme of the week. The premiere showing of film 'Daira by producer Shahzad Nawaz and his thought-provoking question-answer session was not merely just a deviation from the routine, but, in fact, it was a knowledgeable sitting preceded by a presentation by Fakir Aijazuddin on 'Pakistan: a bridge between the past and the future.'
The photo exhibition was based on paintings and art works by seven upcoming artists and luminaries, along with fashion design works on display by two noted professionals-'Sana and Safinas, and Umar Sayeed.
The painters were: Mansoor Aye, Mashkoor Raza Riaz Rafi, Hussain Tariq, Abrar Ahmad, Mansoora Hassan and Naheed Raza, besides the pearly! Tapu Javeri.
And, the spacious Jamshed Marker Hall of the embassy, resonated with brisk and festive activity as art fans remained absorbed with the sight of masterly art works on display, and offering of explanatory notes by painters themselves as well as by experts.
It was all a voluntary effort-and the missionary enthusiasm, with overtones of new nationalism-which was abundantly and enviably visible. This sentiment was felt and shared by the seniors and the novices, alike.
An apt observation heard was: "The endeavour is a swing in to fulfilment, motivation, self-confidence and towards attainment of excellence."
"It's a win-win situation, already," Fakir Aijazuddin said of the promising role of upcoming youngsters, adding: "The heritage' behind is as lucrative and majestic as the 'Shahzadas' of today.
Unlike the beaten track, he said, the young Pakistani-American today is blunt, terse, shrewd and convincing. "They don't have any baggage, they don't feel shy and they don't mince words they are exceptionally confident and reflect their sound upbringing." Khalid Saeed, a promising youngster, did not disclose it till the last, but it transpired that he is son of Suroor Barahbankvi, the lilting lyricist. He was master of the ceremony leader of the volunteer corps.
This galaxy of reputed young artistes and visitors, he told the newsmen, is all an enthusiastic gathering of fans of Pakistani heritage.
He was all praise for Ambassador Ashraf Jehangir Qazi and DCM Mohammad Sadiq for their considerate patronage.
Taking pride over the turn out at the art exhibition he said appreciable is the professional excellence of the pieces of paintings, thematic standard, fine brush work, minute details, variety of rich colours and frequent depiction from out of the varied past heritage.