Bulleh Shah’s Kafi: A Reflection on Chaotic Times

Current events remind me of a very popular kafi (verse, from Arabic lit. Qafiya – rhyming pattern) by the 17th century Sufi philosopher poet Bullah Shah (or, Bulle Shah) – Ultey Hor Zamaane aaye ('Chaotic Times Are Here’): Ulṭey hor zamaaney aaye Taan mein bhed sajan de paayePerverse (topsy-turvy) times are upon us Revealing the …

Smorgasbord

A dear friend and I met recently for our monthly lunch.  It is always the same location and pretty much the same menu – a cool one accompanied by guacamole and nachos, followed by soup and a sandwich with coffee to conclude our session that usually extends from 12.30 pm to 3.45 pm.  In spite …