New book sheds light on religious minorities of the country

Each community reflects the divine, the mercy, and the love, said Dr Amineh Hoti while virtually addressing her book launch ceremony, from the United Kingdom, at the Arts Council of Pakistan on Tuesday.

Amineh's book titled, 'Gems and Jewels-The Religions of Pakistan' aims to bring the religious minorities to light.

Giving an insight about her book, Dr Amineh said that this book is an anthropological reflection, based on experience and fieldwork. She said that the people would come across beautiful picture and stories about the religions found in Pakistan.

"While the world was under the influence of pandemic, I was beating the cancer, undergoing chemotherapies, as well as giving this book a finish," said Dr Hoti.

She said that some of the stories in the book really gave her the spirit and courage to overcome the suffering.

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Former member of national assembly and sponsor of the book Isphanyar Bhandara attended the ceremony virtually from Murree. He said that the timing of the book was extremely opportune as the country was going through a lot of turmoil, with perspectives becoming narrower day by day.

"I think it is a good opportunity for everyone to recognize and cherish other religions in Pakistan," said Bhandara.

He said that he congratulates Dr Hoti for having the honor to feature the minorities of Pakistan in a book.

Council of Islamic Ideology Chairperson Dr Qibla Ayaz from Lahore, said on the occasion that the situation of Muslims and non-Muslims has never been discussed academically in the history as it is done by Dr Hoti in her book.

"This book conveys a message that each of the citizens, no matter what religious identity they have, is a gem of Pakistan," said Dr Ayaz.

Concluding the session, moderator Afreen Saher congratulated the author and paid regards to the distinguished panelists for joining the session on the behalf of Arts Council of Pakistan President Mohammad Ahmed Shah.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 1^st, 2021.