We are like neighbours who may not be too happy with the noisy parties the other throws but who would still like to be a part of each other’s happiness
This article is an attempt to focus on the everyday, the little things which unite us as a people
Forgive me if I come across as stating the obvious
But sometimes, the best of us tend to forget the obvious
And then it’s always good to remember, and to remind
1
We believe in one God No matter what side of the boundary one stands on, one can feel the power of faith
However, spirituality for us is more than religion
It is humanity and compassion
2
You can’t tell the landscape of one from the other at times Rocky, steep mountains which stand tall amidst azure streams, upon which frothy white clouds breathe, are a common sight in both countries
A visual treat fit for a traveller’s dreams
3
We know our real wealth lies in the luscious, green lands Though technological advancements have touched our lives, we continue to worship the land which sustains us
Such is the beauty of our fields that a stroll through the green countryside can drive away the worst worries from one’s life
4
Cricket is not just a sport for us The sport is a major issue of contention between our countries
But doesn’t our shared love for cricket bring us closer? 5
Our trucks can put the ‘Pimp My Ride’ team to shame From couplets to wisecracks, anything and everything can be spotted adorning the trucks on the road
The splash of colour is proof of our ingenuity and affinity for art
6
We love to shake a leg Many a times, what can’t be expressed through words, is better expressed through actions
And dance is the most tasteful collection of gestures
Both India and Pakistan have been blessed with varied dance forms which are beautiful, scintillating and amazingly expressive
7
Our voices are not drowned out in the streets Meandering through the streets, one can come across the varied expressions of identity that the people indulge in
What meets the eye is a voice which is slowly, but surely building an identity
8
A mother is just as indulgent on both sides of the border They say that no one can love like a mother
And all mothers are capable of showering their children with their selfless love, no matter where they belong
This love can warm any person’s heart, no matter which side of the border they stand on
9
Tragedy has visited us uninvited Sorrow knows no name, no creed
Both the countries and their citizens have had to face several tragedies
Earthquakes, floods, terrorist attacks are instances which have seen the countries and their citizens stand together
10
Selflessly serving the country is duty for us A soldier, be it from India or Pakistan, chooses the needs of the country over him/herself
And in return asks for nothing
11
Our marketplaces are a reflection of our colourful lives We don’t really know how to live without colours
Our clothes, houses, cuisines - all reflect our love for colours
After all they break the monotony of life and bring in a breath of fresh air
12
Our plate carries more than just food Food is an art for us, an art which has been crafted over the years with great precision in both the countries
And we like to appreciate this art whole-heartedly! 13
Tea spells comfort for us Nothing is more invigorating for our senses than a whiff of hot tea
It is our favoured beverage when sharing anecdotes about life or even when we are too tired to speak
14
The light of music shines bright in both the countries Music is not just a part of our lives but is an indispensable part of our lives
From prayers to love songs to celebrations, music gives expression to all
15
We take great pride in our past Yes, what is gone is gone to never return
But the beautiful memories, the achievements and the stories that our past has bequeathed us with, is something we are proud of
16
We abhor violence We know very well that there are no winners in a war
So, all we hope for is peace and freedom from terrorism and all kinds of violence
Still not convinced? If you think you can figure out the difference between India and Pakistan, try doing it on the Android app - India Or Pakistan built by social initiative India Loves Pakistan
Difficult right? Whether you guess right or wrong, you will have seen more of both countries
And that will hopefully help us realize how our dreams, our ambitions, our prayers and our passions are alike
This post originally appeared here
| Date: | 01-Mar-2015 | Reference: | View Original Link |
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