Photographer Mobeen Ansari launches new book titled 'White in the Flag'

Project captures Pakistan’s depth, diversity by focusing on religious minorities


Our Correspondent August 05, 2017
PHOTO: KOHI MARRI AND MAHWISH RIZVI

KARACHI: Pakistan’s leading independent publishing house, Markings Publishing, proudly launched their landmark tenth title White in the Flag by photographer Mobeen Ansari at the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture on August 3, stated a press release.

White in the Flag has been launched specifically for Pakistan’s 70th birthday and focuses on religious minorities. The title is a continuation of Ansari’s journey to document the soul of the country. It explores the diversity, depth and vibrancy of its religions, cultures, and subcultures.

Wasim Akram and wife at the book launch. PHOTO: KOHI MARRI AND MAHWISH RIZVI Wasim Akram and wife at the book launch. PHOTO: KOHI MARRI AND MAHWISH RIZVI

Ansari’s journey has been equally introspective as he documented the human condition. It took him across the deserts of Sindh, the pristine mountains of the North, to the many temples and places of worship and gave the opportunity to interact with people of all faiths.

Sindh’s most wanted all in one book

White in the Flag was my journey into the various communities residing across Pakistan. I travelled nationwide, observing people in their habitats and places of worship. Whether it was witnessing the colours of Holi at the mandirs of Tharparkar or Sunday mass at Saint Anthony's church in Lahore, or joining in on the festivities of Chowmos; a Kalash festival, I have been able to see, capture and celebrate diversity,” said Ansari. “I learnt a lot more about Pakistan and the coexistence and my learning made me want to share it all through this book.”

Mobeen Ansari and Kiran Aman at the launch. KOHI MARRI AND MAHWISH RIZVI Mobeen Ansari and Kiran Aman at the launch. KOHI MARRI AND MAHWISH RIZVI

The photography for White in the Flag has been done by Ansari himself, with book’s layout and design by Samia Fatima and editing by Raisa Vayani. The book has been available across the country as of August 3.

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