UAE- 'We represent humanity not India or Pakistan'
(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)It was a day when Pakistanis wore orange and the Indians green to celebrate the upcoming independence days of both countries.
Such was the enthusiasm and the spirit of bonding that women of an online group exchanged the green and orange prominent flag colours of both countries and celebrated the occasion albeit 10 days earlier. Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day on August 14 while India celebrates it a day later on August 15. The UAE Fusion Socialites (ladies only online group) celebrated the days on Tuesday with some women 'physically' meeting each other for the first time. Fadia Jawad a mother of two from Sialkot Pakistan was dressed up in colours of the Indian flag. "The theme is really good ... and there are so many friendly faces here" she said. Fadia joined the group six months ago and was attending a gathering arranged by the group for the first time. Ayesha Sohail founder of the 4700 member strong group of women mainly from Pakistan India Sri Lanka and Bangladesh said it was great to celebrate the occasion under one roof. "Today we are both a single nation we do not represent India or Pakistan we represent humanity." She said the event was held earlier than the actual days since a number of members would be travelling soon. The group has given a platform to women from different backgrounds to understand each other said Sohail. "If ever there is a cricket match between India and Pakistan (which is a very sensitive issue) we pull our own legs ... we have developed that kind of tolerance towards each other" she added. Women attending the luncheon were asked to wear matching accessories such as bangles and scarves. They also sang patriotic songs and quizzed each other about the neighbouring country. Indian national Muneera Arif Khan who has been in the UAE for the past 30 years was dressed perfectly for the occasion. "My suit arrived today morning from Lucknow" she said while showing off her multi-shaded duppatta (scarf) - the colour of the Indian flag. "This event is a step forward in friendship" she said. "There is so much of violence going on in the world that we need such of events to remind us of love and friendship" she added. Her virtual pal Tasneem Qureshi also an Indian national said she had joined the group a week ago and was enjoying every bit of the online activities. Saima Abid from Pakistan said such events were a pleasure to attend especially since they were all away from their countries. "I attended last year's event too and had lots of fun." Pakistani Shazia Mahroz was dressed in white while her seven-month-old son Shameen was bundled in green - the colours of the Pakistani flag. Asma Ali Zain Associated with KT for 15 years. Covers health issues Pakistan community human interest stories as well as general topics for daily news or features.
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