Memories Of Childhood

Childhood is a golden period of man's life. It is the time when man is dependent but he enjoys all the comforts of the life. He has nothing to worry about. He has to do nothing to get his demand fulfill except weeping. It is a carefree time. In my childhood I was free from worries and sorrows. When every day and night brought joys for me. Parents tried to amuse me. They loved me so much that I began to think they were living only for me and it was not wrong as well.
Near our house there was a pond. Father took me daily to the pond to enjoy the beautiful sight of the setting sun. Once my father fell ill and could not go to the pond. I was very fond of taking bath in the bright water of the pond but father did not allow me to fulfill my desire. Now it was a golden chance. I went alone to the pond and jumped into the water. Deep water took me into its lap. After this what happened I do no know. When I opened my eyes a doctor was bending over me. Mother and sisters were weeping. I had to remain for one month in the hospital. Now when I recall that horrible accident my heart begins to sink with fear. Then I decided not to do anything without the permission of parents.
There is one more thing which I cannot help mentioning More over I can never forget the day when I was beaten by the gardener for stealing mangoes. My friend Maria and I went to the garden to eat mangoes. Maria was very active and clever. She remained out of the garden and asked me to climb up the mango tree. Consequently I was caught by the gardener and he bead me with his sharp stick. Maria ran away The gardener took me before my father and told the whole story. Father prohibited me from going to the garden. I was much ashamed but soon all it was over.
If you have female companion you are fond of dolls as well. The same case was with me. I was very fond of dolls in my childhood. Maria and I played with the dolls for hours, marrying and decorating them. Mother did not like her daughter wasting time in playing. As a result she took me to the school. I was much frightened and puzzled among the strange girls. I began to weep bitterly. While I was weeping I felt a soft hand on my back it was my teacher. She consoled me and gave me a beautiful book of colourful pictures. I was taught by her to smile in the storm of tears and sufferings. Now she is far away from me but her memory is fresh in my mind and I will never forget her as well.
Children usually keep on gamboling and playing . Sometimes they keep on running in childhood I was like a playful deer wandering through the meadows. Maria and wandered the whole day long in the green fields of our villages picking wild flowers and making garlands. How beautiful moonlit nights were in childhood! When the shining moon appeared we all played in the open fields catching one another. Now childhood is no more but it appears a beautiful dream.

If I Were A Millionaire

Our elders usually advise the young ones to forget the past, ignore the future and care for the present. But there is hardly any one who has no ambition for a higher status than the present one. The constant struggle for the higher position sticks to man till the last day of his life. This is true of every human being right from the man in the street to the topmost personality of Pakistan. This struggle infact is essential for achieving higher ends in life.
I come of a middle class of the society I can never think of earning millions of rupees. Still God has His own ways who knows I my get a lottery . And if ever I get it I cannot say whether I will be able to enjoy because sometimes the man is so much overjoyed that he leaves the world. Let me suppose that I am fortunate to get a lottery of millions of rupees. I will try to spend it in the most judicious manner as to derive maximum pleasure out of it.
My colleagues advise me that first of all I should endeavour to improve my living condition. I should have a huge mansion to live in and care for the family and so on. But my conception of life if quite different. Instead of improving my lot I am which more interested in uplifting the poor masses of the country.
Pakistan is a poor country. There are many people in Pakistan who hardly get two square meals a day what to speak of enjoyed the comforts and luxuries of life. They are poorly fed and ill clad. The largest number of these people is living in villages where the main occupation of the people is agriculture. In villages still the old bullock carts are used though the advanced countries have embarked upon mechanized farming. I will offer them loans at a very nominal interest so as to enable them to purchase tractors, fertilizers and better seeds.
I would spend a good portion of money in setting up a hospital with all the modern amenities. I will employ highly qualified doctors. This hospital will be run for the poor masses . Charities will always be awaited from the rich classes. This will save people from the jaws of death. It would be a ray of hope for the poor.
Thus if I become a millionaire my sole object would be to utilize this money for the greatest good of the greatest numbers. To help the poor feed the hungry nurse the sick and better the plight of the people would be my only motto. To help the humanity is a great deed.
Most of the people especially villagers have no means of recreation. I shall spend a part of my wealth for providing means of recreation to the poor. I shall open various social and educational centers at various places. There they would get education and make their lives.
It is painful to find that there is no adequate provision for supporting orphans and widows. I would therefore lose no time in opening new centers for widows and orphans. They would work and learn their livelihood honourably.
Some people would jeer and mock at the utter foolishness of spending millions of rupees in this manner. Probably they do not realize that a man gets spiritual happiness by helping the poor and its is much more than the sensual pleasures one gets from the money he possesses. I wish that I were a millionaire and could fulfill my desires.

If I Were A Dictator

Dictator is a person who has all powers and authority in the country. He is the main fountain head of power in the state. He needs not consult anyone. His decision is the last one. He is just like a king but more powerful than a king. That is why I would like to become a dictator. Cromwell, Napoleon, Bismarck are the names of immortal in the history of Europe. Their names are at once great and awe-inspiring. Stalin, Mussolini, Hitler are considered bigger edition of those illustrious heroes. The former trio reached the height before the coming of democracy the letter trio brought dictatorship. When I think of what they have done for their countries, I am also tempted to think of dictatorship in Pakistan. There is no charm in kingship or in being the president. If only I were a dictator of Pakistan for some years.
First of all I would issue an ordinance to put down communal spirit throughout the country. Discussions and criticism on religious basis would be banned. Under ordinary circumstances I would not however interfere with the private religion of individuals. At the same time I would introduce of Lingua Franca throughout the length and breadths of Pakistan. It would mean some trouble, but great reforms are never made in a easy chair. Thus unity of Pakistan would be achieved within a short time without any delay.
As far as administration is concerned I shall have to go in for drastic changes I shall continue the legislatures but their system of election will have to be changed. I shall continue the cabinet system but it shat be under my control. I shall to look to the details of administration and shall discourage bribery and corruption. During my period the social evil would be removed.
After it I would pay attention to economic changes. Like Russia I shall prepare a five year plan for the economic reconstruction of Pakistan. Rural industries will be encouraged. Establishment on new industries will be encouraged by me with direct or indirect help. I shall take special care to develop the shipping industry. Canals will be dug railwy will be constructed and aerodrome will be built. I shall appoint a committee to supervise the production of goods and so establish co ordination in various industries. I do not want to imitate Bolshevism, Fascism or Nazism, but at the same time I shall see that no person will go without food or clothing any day. Public would be looked after properly. They would have the sense of security.
There are many social problem in our society. The only cure is strong handed policy. Expenses on social functions will be brought to the minimum. Polygamy will be stopped. Side by side I shall revise the present educational curriculum. Technical schools and colleges will be opened at important centers. Education will be made compulsory and illiteracy will be made a penal office. Every town and village will be required to have a library and a dispensary. The state will undertake to provide well equipped hospitals in every district. No one will be allowed to beg in the streets but at the same time the state will make sufficient provision for the needy and the poor. The Govt. would look after their problems and help them.
I would like to have better foreign policy. I would not follow the other dictators. My foreign policy will not be I the least aggressive. I shall have a strong and well equipped army in Pakistan. But world peace will be my first consideration. I shall not hanker after colonies nor shall I try to get wealth from other countries by the force of arms. I would prepare to establish peace not only in my country but all over the world. The whole world would enjoy place.

My Ambition In Life

Every person a man or a woman has one or the other ambition in life. It is always a good thing to have an ambition in one's life. A man or woman without an ambition is really an unfortunate person because his life is just like a ship without a rudder. It is at the mercy of winds and will be tosses hither and thither aimlessly. As it does not have any set destination. It will reach nowhere. Without any set aim a person can achieve nothing in his life. An ambition is very essential in one's life.
Only having an ambition is not enough. A person should also work hard to achieve his ambition. There is no doubt if one makes vigorous efforts one is sure to achieve his aim in life sooner or later. Without making any efforts man cannot realize anything in life.
Different persons have different ambitions in their lives. It differs from man to man. Some persons want to get wealth. Others want to achieve fame still others want to service to the mankind. Some want to become doctors, while others want to become engineers. Some want to become business men and others like to pursue a political career. Still others may like to become lawyers.
My ambition of life is to become a teacher. I do not want wealth. I do not want to lead the glamourous life of an actor. But I want to serve my country in a very humble capacity. Nearly 70% of the Pakistanis are illiterate. I want to educated my countrymen. I really feel that I can serve my fellomen best by becoming a teacher. This is inspite of the fact that teachers in our country are ill paid. But money is not my main motto in life.
A teacher is the real friend. Philosopher and guide of the students. He serves the cause of education. According to Plato education is the turning of the inner eye towards light. The teacher removes the ignorance from the minds of his students. I want to realize the same ideals in my life as a teacher for which great men like Socrates, Plato and Aristotle had worked throughout their life.
I realize that if we are able to remove ignorance illiteracy and superstitions from our country we can develop it into a great country. I possess that zeal of a missionary for this profession and I know that if I join it the ambition of my life will be fulfilled greatly. I shall not only teach my students the theoretical education but I would try my best to develop their character.
I shall try to instill the true spirit of nationalism and patriotism in my students. I shall also teach them to perform their duties first rather than hanker after their rights. I shall try to inculcate in my students a desire of learning the truth and lead to noble and virtuous life.

My Best Friend

A good friend is a sincere person on whom we can depend in the time of need. A good friend is also a source of happiness. But now-a-days the word friendship is used very loosely. Generally all the person whom we call our friends are not in reality our friends. They are simply our acquaintances. A true friend on the other hand shares both our joys and sorrows. He is our true adviser and well wisher.
I am very fortunate that I have such a friend. His name is Ahmad Ali. He is my best friend. He is my friend since we were studying in the primary school. We have studied together all these years. He lives just near my hours. Most of our time we spend together in our studies and games.
My best friend belongs to a very noble and rich family. But he is not proud of his father's wealth or property. His father is a big government contractor. His mother is also an educated lady with a very sweet nature. His parents love me much whenever I go to their house. They consider me just like their son. Similarly my parents also love hi much.
We always study together and exchange our books with each other. My friend Ahmad Ali is a brilliant student. He always stands first in the class and I stand second. We study with a sense of competition without any tinge of jealousy. We also play together. We are both considered to be the best hockey players in our school.
Although my friend belongs to a very rich family. Yet he has very simple habits. He believes in simple living and high thinking. He does not wear very gaudy dresses. He is always dressed in simple but neat clothes. He is very handsome and possesses an athletic physique.
He is also a monitor of our class. All the teachers like him. He is quite popular among the students also. He never quarrels with the class fellows. He always tries to help the poor students. He teaches them in his spare time and also lends him books to them. If a poor student is unable to pay his school fee he also pays it gladly.
My friend has won several prizes in games as well as studies. Once he won several prizes of Rs.1000/- in an essay competition but he donated it to the poor student's fund of our school. He always tries to keep away from bad company. But he never hates any one. He rather tries to reform the bad boys also. Whenever there is any quarrel in the class he tries to settle it amicably.
We both are proud of our ideal friendship. We want to make it an ideal and a long lasting friendship. We never quarrel with each other. Although many students try to create misunderstanding between us but we always understand their jealousy. Our aim in life is to pursue higher study and become good citizens of our country.

Memories Of Childhood

Childhood is a golden period of man's life. It is the time when man is dependent but he enjoys all the comforts of the life. He has nothing to worry about. He has to do nothing to get his demand fulfill except weeping. It is a carefree time. In my childhood I was free from worries and sorrows. When every day and night brought joys for me. Parents tried to amuse me. They loved me so much that I began to think they were living only for me and it was not wrong as well.
Near our house there was a pond. Father took me daily to the pond to enjoy the beautiful sight of the setting sun. Once my father fell ill and could not go to the pond. I was very fond of taking bath in the bright water of the pond but father did not allow me to fulfill my desire. Now it was a golden chance. I went alone to the pond and jumped into the water. Deep water took me into its lap. After this what happened I do no know. When I opened my eyes a doctor was bending over me. Mother and sisters were weeping. I had to remain for one month in the hospital. Now when I recall that horrible accident my heart begins to sink with fear. Then I decided not to do anything without the permission of parents.
There is one more thing which I cannot help mentioning More over I can never forget the day when I was beaten by the gardener for stealing mangoes. My friend Maria and I went to the garden to eat mangoes. Maria was very active and clever. She remained out of the garden and asked me to climb up the mango tree. Consequently I was caught by the gardener and he bead me with his sharp stick. Maria ran away The gardener took me before my father and told the whole story. Father prohibited me from going to the garden. I was much ashamed but soon all it was over.
If you have female companion you are fond of dolls as well. The same case was with me. I was very fond of dolls in my childhood. Maria and I played with the dolls for hours, marrying and decorating them. Mother did not like her daughter wasting time in playing. As a result she took me to the school. I was much frightened and puzzled among the strange girls. I began to weep bitterly. While I was weeping I felt a soft hand on my back it was my teacher. She consoled me and gave me a beautiful book of colourful pictures. I was taught by her to smile in the storm of tears and sufferings. Now she is far away from me but her memory is fresh in my mind and I will never forget her as well.
Children usually keep on gamboling and playing . Sometimes they keep on running in childhood I was like a playful deer wandering through the meadows. Maria and wandered the whole day long in the green fields of our villages picking wild flowers and making garlands. How beautiful moonlit nights were in childhood! When the shining moon appeared we all played in the open fields catching one another. Now childhood is no more but it appears a beautiful dream.

If I Were A Millionaire

Our elders usually advise the young ones to forget the past, ignore the future and care for the present. But there is hardly any one who has no ambition for a higher status than the present one. The constant struggle for the higher position sticks to man till the last day of his life. This is true of every human being right from the man in the street to the topmost personality of Pakistan. This struggle infact is essential for achieving higher ends in life.
I come of a middle class of the society I can never think of earning millions of rupees. Still God has His own ways who knows I my get a lottery . And if ever I get it I cannot say whether I will be able to enjoy because sometimes the man is so much overjoyed that he leaves the world. Let me suppose that I am fortunate to get a lottery of millions of rupees. I will try to spend it in the most judicious manner as to derive maximum pleasure out of it.
My colleagues advise me that first of all I should endeavour to improve my living condition. I should have a huge mansion to live in and care for the family and so on. But my conception of life if quite different. Instead of improving my lot I am which more interested in uplifting the poor masses of the country.
Pakistan is a poor country. There are many people in Pakistan who hardly get two square meals a day what to speak of enjoyed the comforts and luxuries of life. They are poorly fed and ill clad. The largest number of these people is living in villages where the main occupation of the people is agriculture. In villages still the old bullock carts are used though the advanced countries have embarked upon mechanized farming. I will offer them loans at a very nominal interest so as to enable them to purchase tractors, fertilizers and better seeds.
I would spend a good portion of money in setting up a hospital with all the modern amenities. I will employ highly qualified doctors. This hospital will be run for the poor masses . Charities will always be awaited from the rich classes. This will save people from the jaws of death. It would be a ray of hope for the poor.
Thus if I become a millionaire my sole object would be to utilize this money for the greatest good of the greatest numbers. To help the poor feed the hungry nurse the sick and better the plight of the people would be my only motto. To help the humanity is a great deed.
Most of the people especially villagers have no means of recreation. I shall spend a part of my wealth for providing means of recreation to the poor. I shall open various social and educational centers at various places. There they would get education and make their lives.
It is painful to find that there is no adequate provision for supporting orphans and widows. I would therefore lose no time in opening new centers for widows and orphans. They would work and learn their livelihood honourably.
Some people would jeer and mock at the utter foolishness of spending millions of rupees in this manner. Probably they do not realize that a man gets spiritual happiness by helping the poor and its is much more than the sensual pleasures one gets from the money he possesses. I wish that I were a millionaire and could fulfill my desires.

Pakistan Of My Dreams

Dreams are natural. That is why everyone in this world is prone to dream. One always makes a plan about his future. So I have a Pakistan of my dreams which would be different fro the present one.
First thing it would be a Pakistan in which there will be no racism communalism and provincialism. First of all I would root out communalism whatever its shape or from may be. All such tendencies which fan the forces of separatism and disruption would be eliminated. Unity will be celebrated.
Next I want Pakistan to be scientifically advanced, technologically better and agriculturally sound. I would like to build a Pakistan where science and scientific ideas and not the blind faith and fanaticism, crude emotionalism and coarse sentimentalism would rule. I would like to bring Pakistan at the apex of scientific and technological progress.
The Pakistan of my dreams would be a Pakistan which is self sufficient in food All the waste and barren lands would be cultivated for achieving self sufficiency in food grains. Agriculture would be given special attention because agriculture is the base of Pakistan economy. An agrarian revolution would be brought about by launching intensive agricultural programmes and farmers would be asked to use better seeds and fertilizers.
I would like the country to be highly industrialized. This is the age of machines and industrialization of the country is a must if the country is to taken to the zenith of progress and prosperity with out industry the country cannot make progress.
I would also strengthen Pakistan's defense. The country would e so strong that no enemy would ever dare to cast her covetous eyes on the sacred soil of Pakistan. Defense and security of the country would be of paramount importance. For this the country would be equipped with all the paraphernalia of modern defense.
Abolition of ignorance and illiteracy would be my next endeavours, because these are a curse. People would be educated on a mass scale then the system of democracy would be workable.
The next thing which I would like to see in Pakistan of my dreams would be the abridgement of the gap between the rich and the poor. National income would be disturbed rationally among he sections of the society. Provision of food housing and clothing to one and all would be given top priority in the Pakistan of my dreams. For achieving and accomplishing this socialism would be the only remedy which if practiced sincerely would really usher Pakistan in an era of economic equality.
Thus Pakistan would really be counted among the leading powerful countries of the world and would also guide those countries which are still slaves of big powers.

Five Things I Like Most

All of us have our likes and dislikes. So have I. My dislikes are many. But out of my likes I have five at the top. These are Poetry of Nature, Music specially Ghazals, excursions meeting people and reading thought provoking books and magazines. Whenever I find time. I like to do one of them. Infact if depends on mood. I do not like to sit free. I am always doing something.
Being a student of literature, I have read Wordworth and his poems have left their lasting effect on me. Other poets of nature who have impressed me most are Dr. Muhammad Iqbal in Urda, Mirza Ghalib , Mir Taqi Mir, and Faiz. All the poets are good but I like Ghalib better. He speaks everyone's heart. Ghalib's poetry is a true reflection of man. He wrote not only love poems but also mystical as well. That is why he is popular even today.
Music people say has its effect even on trees plants animal and their growth. Milking cows have shown better yield of milk due to music. In music I like Ghazals best. Iqbal Ghalib Firaq and Saghar Nizaami are some of my choicest poets. In other words I can say music is the food of soul. When I am upset or tired I love to play music I do not like disco. Most of the time I enjoy classical.
I have gone on excursions to almost all nearby hill stations and health resorts. I prefer to go on educational scientific and historical tours also and have been to Karachi, Murree, Islamabad, and Peshawar. I usually go with my friends . I have proper timetable. One after another I visit the next place. I have collected a lot of information about them. I have photographs of most of the places.
Meeting people from various professions is my another hobby. I have pen friends among intellectuals Artists, Actors, Dancers, Scientists and University Professors. When I get a chance I never miss it. Sometimes I specially make a plan or request someone for an appointment. I like to meet great personalities. My main preference goes to professors and scholars.
Reading books on philosophy, Religion Anthropology, World History and Literature is my last liking. I subscribe to magazines and read in libraries also. Books and magazines on these subjects. Religious books are also very important. We feel real peace while reading them. Moreover we come to know how we can succeed in this world and the world here after.

My Summer Vocation

Our school closed on May 14. We had been planning both at home as well as with our friends how we should spent the vacation this time. There were many proposals. My parents wished to go to our home town and be with my grand parents for about six weeks or so. My friends had a trekking expedition up their sleeves. While my class mates wished to go to some hill station on an educational tour for which our class teacher had also given consent. I wished to avail of all the three proposals.
First I made my mother and elder sister agree to my going on the tour with my class and the teacher as the railway concession was already allowed for such journeys. They requested my father to curtail the programe. To visit the grand parents by a week or two. My father and my mother agreed to go in the advance party to be joined by my sister and e after my tour.
My friends agreed to have the trekking after my return from both the journeys as the weather in May was also not conductive to hill climbing. Thus the three journeys were planned in the following order. Educational tour Swat in May home town trip in June and trekking in July. When the monsoon reaches this part of the country.
My class teacher had arranged for the railway concession for thirty five students and three teachers. We started on May 20 by Lahore Express at about 2 p.m. reaching Rawalpindi in the evening. There we has tea with snacks at the railway platform since the train stopped there for more than 20 minutes that being big railway junction. Reaching Peshawar we had to take bus for Swat. From there we had to take a bus reaching Nainital in about an hour.
We enjoyed our three days stay at Swat very much. There we got booked our rooms in a judge just near the lake. We had boating in that lake four times. We returned on May 25 very much refreshed and happy.
My father had booked our seats by Khyber Mail on June 2. I along with my sister went on this journey as already decided and reached Rawalpindi. From there we had to motor down to a town nearby. We stayed with our grand parents for the month of June.
Returning in July we went on the trekking trip to Chitral hills and covered 20 kilometers in a day. Rock climbing was pretty arduous.
Thus I spent my summer vacation.

A Visit To An Exhibition

Exhibitions are a very important source of information and education for the masses. They play a very important role in the life of a nation. They provide immense knowledge to the people about many things. The people are able to learn about many things by way of fun. Of course they are also highly informative for the children and students.
The students can learn a lot by visiting these exhibitions which are held in big cities in our country. They are also a source of amusement and recreation for them. The exhibitions tell us about the progress that has been made by our country in different spheres. The young boys and girls can be inspired to work hard and produce the things which are exhibited at these places.
Last time we saw a huge industrial exhibition at the Fortress Stadium. It was held in the month of January. Many countries of the world exhibited their industrial goods in this exhibition. Countries like Russia USA UK etc. had constructed huge pavilions to exhibit their industrial products. They had transported big and small machines all the way from their countries to show the progress made by them in the industrial field.
Pakistan industrialists had also constructed beautiful pavilion for the exhibition of their machines and goods. It was in international exhibition and a large number of foreign countries were exhibiting their goods. Millions of visitors were expected to visit this exhibition from all over Pakistan and other countries. It was a very good opportunity for the Pakistani businessmen to earn foreign exchange by selling their goods to foreign countries.
I went to see this exhibition along with my parents and my younger brother on a Sunday. There was a great rush in the exhibition grounds. The exhibition was in full swing because a week had already passed since it was inaugurated by our Prime Minister. Thousands of visitors had come to see it from all parts of our country and abroad. There were the young and the old ladies and gents rich and poor students and teachers workers and industrialists.
We bought the tickets and entered the exhibition grounds through a huge gate which was built in a grand style. We visited many pavilion one after the other. We saw beautiful goods and machines being exhibited here. There were attendants and guides who were giving the necessary information regarding the exhibits. There was a long queue of people at every pavilion.
The state governments had also set up their pavilions to show their achievements in the different fields of industry.
In the exhibition ground various amusements and entertainments were also provided. There were a number of restaurants which were doing a roaring business. A mini circus and a magic show was also going on. Children were having a ride on the back of a big elephant. We had a swing on a giant wheel and enjoy the view of the exhibition.
It took us nearly three hours to have a ground of the exhibition. It was now 8:30 pm. In the night. We felt quite tired. The exhibition ground which was fully illuminated with tube lights was looking like a fairyland. We hired a taxi and came back home. We had seen many new things and enjoyed every minute which we spent going round the pavilions.

A Visit To A Famous Café

One of the chief delights of having a meal at a popular café is the sense of luxury and importance it gives to its patrons. At home the need for economy is ever with us. The things we eat and the place we eat in are not those of our dreams they are those which can be afforded out of our meager income. But when we go to a café everything is on a grand scale. Electric light bulbs glow by the dozen instead of in single globes. Cakes fruits and sweets rise in mountains form the counters. Cups and plates abound waiters move about gratifying our slightest whim. Each member of the family can choose a different dish without causing undue pressure on the kitchen. We are indeed in a world of riches.
To make a visit to a café really satisfactory. We should of course go in a taxi. Then as it draws up out side the brightly lit portals. The gorgeously uniformed commissionaire with his row of medals for all commissioners are war heroes! Throws open a taxi door and courteously assist us to alight. We wait self consciously on the pavement while Father pays the driver, hopping that some of our acquaintances may be passing humbly on foot the other side of the street to observe our glory.
As we pass through doors held open for us the rich romantic strains of the orchestra thrill our senses. An aristocratic looking gentleman in evening dress enquired the number in our party and leads us to a table decorated with flowers and set with sparkling cutlery. If one of the family members is too young to reach the table with comfort he hastens to bring a special chair into which the small parton is deferentially lifted by an attendant waiter.
Then comes the exciting moment of choosing what we are to eat. The early part of the menu is usually passed over without interest it contains such utilitarian items as soup fish and joints all of which we are given at home with monotonous regularity. The thrilling part of the bill of fare is that marked sundries where the young can find unusual and indigestible dishes such as their souls love. Of course the bonne bouche is an ice cream of some sort preferably one of those highly colored confections in a tall glass bubbling and frosty with two long straws protruding from the top. The youngest member of the family conveniently at the higher extremity of the straw and has to stand on the kneel on the seat in order to arrive at the required height. But this trifling adjustment of posture merely adds to the excitement of the experience.
We sit a long time over our meal far longer than at home when meals are rushed through as quickly as parental authority will allow in order to get on with more interesting pursuits. The orchestra changes from waltz to tango and from tango to romantic ballad. Sometimes there is a crooner who makes noises that no music master would allow in a singing class and we wonder vaguely why it is that things punishable at school receive great applause in the adult world. But such puzzles do not worry us for commissionaire will blow a blast on this shrill whistle and like magic the taxi will draw up besides the curb and we shall all crowd in.
Tomorrow we shall be ordinary humble people again walking or talking a bus to school and eating pain whole some food in the family dining room but today we have sojourned on Olympus we are gods not men.

A Visit To a Fair

This year a few friends of mine accompanied me to the Cheragh Shah Fair which is held in Lahore in spring season. We biked to the Shalimar gardens. But the roads were thronged with crowds of men women and children. We got down to make our way through the crowd. The policemen were straining every nerve to direct the huge crowds.

People came from far and near to see it. Shopkeepers take full advantage of such occasions. There were about a thousand stalls set up along the road. These shops though temporarily set up were so well decorated that the sweets and their smell and sight were really very tempting. The shopkeepers had a busy time the hawkers had no less.
The Shalimar gardens presented an attractive look. The grassy plots had been properly trimmed. The pretty flowers looked gay and charming. The fountains were in full swing. Small streams were running along the walks. All this reminded us of the Mughal glory and splendour.
Some of the beautiful lawns were scenes of variety shows. In one could be seen a snake charmer. He played on hit flute and attracted a large crowd around him. He opened his basket and allowed a huge snake to creep out of it. He made it dance to the tunes of his flute. Then the snake charmer thought of another trick He bit the snake it became furious and attacked the crowd. Which got frightened and turned pale. The snake charmer was took quick for the snake and stopped it in no time.
In another plot a juggler was amusing the spectators by his feats. A rope dancer a fire eater a rustic harmonium player had attracted a large number of people elsewhere. The merry go rounds wheeling round and round with their freight of children had a busy time too.
We enjoyed this fair had our lunch there and returned home in the best of spirits.

A Visit To The Zoo

The zoo is an artificial forest created by man. Though there are few trees compared with the natural forest, the animals, birds and other creatures found in the zoo must always remind us of the forest. It is indeed an interesting place to visit.

Even in the natural forest such a variety of animals, birds and other creatures cannot be found as in a big zoo. Animals which are not found in the forests of one country are caught in other parts or the world and brought to the zoo. The lion, for example, is not found in Malaysia; but one may see an African lion in the zoo at Johore Bahru.

Until I visited the zoo at Johore Bahru a few months ago, I had no idea how informative a visit to a zoo might be. Though the zoo at Johore Bahru is not big, I found many kinds of interesting animals and other creatures there. Lions, tigers and other animals were moving about lazily in their cages. Some of the animals appeared to be bored, and they took little interest in the visitors. The monkeys, however, showed their natural agility. Whenever they saw a visitor, they ran towards him and begged for something to eat. I was indeed amused at their behavior. Most of them were caught in Malaysia and their variety was amazing.

Some of the birds too were very interesting to see. Their beautiful feathers fascinated me. Birds are indeed one of the loveliest creations of god. A few birds are larger than many animals.

The lions and the tigers in this zoo were so docile that I could not but treat them as domestic animals like the dog and the cat. I went very close to them, but they showed little interest in me. I then began to think of how the animal or even human spirit could be broken by confinement. Confined to their cages, these animals had become spiritless. Even the sight of food did not see to excite them much.

Then, there was the crocodile with its usual pretence of innocence. It refused to be disturbed. Heaven knows how it might have reacted if a child had fallen into its pit. However, my visit to the zoo had increased my knowledge of animals.

A Visit To a Hill Station

Last summer vacation it was very hot. We decided to have a trip to the hills and as we had not much money to spend we went by bus to Swat and from there we started on foot. Our luggage consisted only of our beddings for which we engaged two coolies. It was quite pleasant to walk through the mountainous country. In the beginning up to a short distance it was a bit dreary but we soon found ourselves surrounded by verdure. We passed through high hills. Our route lay meandering round lofty rocks and when we emerged into open space the scenery was very picturesque . then green grass and ever green bushes and here and there a few flowers which covered the hill sides were very charming indeed. The air was fresh and life giving. At places we had to cross mountain streams full of limpid water.

Sometimes we made our own food and though we were novices in the art yet we managed to prepare a tolerably good meal to which we did full justice. After two or three days journey our appetite increase and we  felt hungry all the time. At the close of the day we used to wonder how we digested all the good and bad things that we had taken on the way. Really the climate of the hills is very healthy. In a few days we were changed men altogether Our health improved and we enjoyed much.

Middle class travelers have their problems. They cannot stay at good resting places because of high rates. The places where we stay are not comfortable. They are very dirty. It seems as if they have never been swept .We spread out bedding and lay on it not to sleep but to keep up a continuous fight with bugs and other insects which swarmed to have a taste of us strangers and intruders. We just passed the night because we could not sleep for a moment.

The next day we reached Kalam and took our lodgings in a hotel. Here we had very comfort and no difficulty about food. It is the summer headquarters of the district and snow at a short distance. We hired a mule which was very restive. We took our turns but it gave us a great trouble. Mr. Asif was thrown down and badly hurt. The mule never went straight. It was wandered from one point to another at one time going very near the brink of a precipice as if preparing to tumble dowm to end its own miserable existence and that of its rider but it soon came back on the road. We returned the same day.

For seven days we enjoyed there a lot and enjoyed our walks through mountains country a great deal. The ascent and descent were especially enjoyable and we walked long distances every day. As our summer vacation were about to expire. We took a motor car at 8:00 am. Reaching Lahore in the evening.

A Visit To a Historical place

Lahore is full of historical buildings. There is no exaggeration to say that Lahore itself is a historical city. Everybody who visit Lahore must go to visit historical buildings. They show us the picture of the past and the achievements of our great forefathers. Last Friday we chalked out a program for outing. I had not seen the tomb of Jahangir. So all agreed that this historical place should be visited. In no time we reached there by bus. The grand tomb of Jahangir was before our eyes. Every body was happy to see it. It looked beautiful I could not believe that it was so grand.

Jahangir's Tomb is at Shahdara. Shahdara is four miles away from Lahore. On the other bank of the River Ravi. The four tall minerates of the tomb can be seen from a distance. The mausoleum is in a park enclosed by a high wall. There is a magnificent gateway which is guarded by a walled quadrangle. The park appeared to be well kept. The seasonal flowers were in all their glory. There were mange groves here and there spreading in cool shade. A fountain in front of the mausoleum was sending forth a cool shower of water. It was presenting a beautiful scene. It filled our hearts with pleasure. For sometime we were lost in thoughts. It looked another world. Cool breeze was blowing.

After it we reached the tomb itself. It is a low large an beautiful edifice. In an inner room sleeps the Great Mughal Emperor. Nothing to disturb him now. The walls of his room have curious and colored designs on them. The huge mausoleum has a vast terrace. In each corner a minaret soars up in the sky. I went up and from the platform of the minaret saw the city of Lahore looked splendid. Man does not believe in his eyes. Everything looked so attractive and so charming.

We kept on moving about for quite a while. We sat in the grassy lawn for sometime. When It was evening time the light began to fade. The silence and peace affected us strangely. Our minds were full of solemn thoughts and colorful memories. In the twilight it appeared to us as if we were in a fairy land. The whole scene was presenting a beautiful picture. We were much impressed by the scene. It was time to go back. We did not feel like coming back but we had to. We came back tired but happy.

A Visit To a Circus Show

A circus is a place where beasts and animals perform feats at the orders of their trainers. A circus has many animals and beasts from all parts of the world. Many other feats are also shown in the circus which are performed by the artists and the clowns. In a circus we see many wonderful feats under the big top.

Last year at the time of Mela Data Darbar many Irani Circus came to Lahore. They pitched their big tent in opposite to the Lahore Fort. The arrival of the circus company was widely advertised on the radio and TV many days before it actually arrived in Lahore. I had not seen any circus before I therefore along with my friend made a program to see it on a Sunday.

We reached the Minto Park by bus. It was 5:00 P.M. The big tent was beautifully decorated and illuminated tastefully. As we reached the place the circus band was playing and loudspeakers were blaring film songs. The circus was attracting huge crowds. There was big queue on the booking windows. But luckily we had reserved the tickets in advance. So we entered the tent hurriedly.

The circus tent was fully packed. It was brightly illuminated like a wedding place. We could hear the roar of the lion and the trumpeting of the elephants. In the middle of the big tent there was the arena where all the acts and feats of artists and the beasts were shown. Circus is a show which attracts all and sundry. People from all age groups and classes go to see it.

A few clowns were sitting on the arena who were making the people laugh at their clownish gimmicks. At exact 6:00 pm. The dhow started. First of all a few smartly dressed girls and boys came. They were gymnasts. They showed us their wonderful feasts. After this a girl danced on a steel wire. She balanced her with an umbrella.

The arena was lit brightly with flood lights. Then a few girls and boys showed some feats on the swing. These were very dangerous feats and were much applauded by the audience. Then a cyclist came on one wheeled cycle. He cycled on a steel wire. After this some clowns came in to show certain funny acts. Every body laughed at their tricks.

After this a few horses entered the arena. The riders stood on the backs of the horses and showed many feats on the fast running horses. One horse also jumbled through a ring of fire. Then a beautiful woman came and stood near a wooden plank. A man began throwing sharp daggers at her. We all were afraid that a dagger might hurt her but the person was full of confidence and none hurt her.

Last of all a huge cage was brought into the arena. Three lions and two tigers were brought in this cage. A ring master who looked like a heavily built waved the big whip of frighten the animals. The big beasts roared but they were doing every thing at the command of their trainer the ring master.

The ring master also placed his head into the mouth of a big lion. It was really a very daring act. It was the last act of the show. We enjoyed every item of the wonder circus. The show ended at exact 9:30 pm. We hired a taxi and came back to our homes.

A Visit To a Museum

A museum is a treasure-chest of antiquities. In it, are kept all such articles and diggings as reflect a country’s culture and civilisation, her historical panorama, modes and manners, its religions and relics and finally, her art and architecture. A museum is the miniature reflection of a country’s ancient periods and gives a vivid picture of the customs, conventions and traditions of the nation.

In New Delhi, I had a golden opportunity to visit the historic and famous National Museum. The building of the museum is majestic and sturdy and has many departments that cover various subjects and periods of history. As I entered the ground floor, I saw a number of articles, images, sculptures and rock-engraved scriptures and many other things of great interest and value. The entire museum has been divided into many compartments like anthrological division, archaeological division and display selection etc.

Then, I moved to the first floor where, among other things, charts, paintings and murals were kept. Manuscripts in various languages were on display. There were ancient dresses, robes and weapons. In one corners there is the numismatics section. In this section, coins of different periods have been kept. In other halls, one finds historic Ajanta and Ellora paintings with the lovers in a mood of dalliance. Just by the side of these, there is a vivid depiction of the lives of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna and Lord Budha through charts, scriptures. By having a look into this section, one really discovers India.

On the second floor, one finds the remains of Indus Valley Civilisation. The excavations from Harappa and Mohenjodaro, broken pitchers, beads, toys, stones and skulls throw light on the civilisation of those times and one comes to the conclusion how advanced that civilisation was!

The third floor houses the military equipment. There are weapons like swords and sheaths, spears and pruning hooks; shields and helmets; various dresses of the Generals and Commanders of ancient times. After seeing this part of the museum, I was thrilled because all this ancient military equipment of our past heroes and heroines inspired me.

Broadly speaking, the entire museum was a treasure-house of India’s great men and morals, historical facts, laurels and legends that are connected with the whole gamut of India’s life and literature — whether they are poets or prose writers, dancers or dramatists, songsters or sculptors, scientists or galaxy-gazers, lawgivers or lexicographers and musicians or doctors.

For me, the visit to the museum was a thrilling experience and what I saw and observed in the museum is a part of the richest experiences of my life. I was deeply moved to see this vast storehouse of India’s ancient glory. This visit has left an ideliable impression on my mind.