Ahmad Ibn Sakina hails from the Awaran region of Balochistan, a troubled region, but he still rings the jingle of bells on the rocky mountains.
Ahmed used to listen to classical music on the radio from his childhood, which inspired him to become a dancer. He started dancing in the 8th standard and till now he has performed in different cities of the country.
Ahmed, 32, has always faced criticism for being a dancer in a conservative tribal society. He explains: ‘I never criticize people for what they think.’
He said: ‘I think what I think is what I think. What people think is what they think. Neither I can ban people’s thinking nor I want to change that thinking. What I am doing is right for me.’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp5v_Q6iX6Q
Ahmed said that ‘wherever I am criticized and abused, people have also given me a lot of love.’
Regarding her art, she said: ‘Thanks to this dance, I have met so many people who treat me like family.’
The Sakina attached to Ahmed’s name is his mother’s name, which shows Ahmed’s love for his mother. He said that combining mother’s name with one’s name is considered unusual here.
He said that ‘in our society, people shy away from telling their mother’s name, and it is considered wrong to tell their mother’s name.’
Ahmed earns just enough by selling his artworks or performing to support himself (Photo: Video Screen Grab).
Ahmed told Birmala: ‘My whole life has been spent with my mother. I am in love with mother, that’s why I added mother’s name to my name.’
He faced financial difficulties during the days of Corona (Kovarna) epidemic and still Ahmed’s financial condition is not good. He complains that he could not get the job despite giving multiple tests and interviews.
By selling their artworks or performing, they earn just enough to support themselves.
Ahmed is always faced with these questions from his family that why he does not work even after reading and writing? Why did you choose an art field that doesn’t get jobs anymore?
He explains: ‘Every time my father calls, he asks for a job.’
Despite all these difficulties and especially to people who criticize themselves, they seem to give a message of sharing love and being loved.
#Balochistan #Kathak #dancers #ringing #bells
Interview with Ahmad Ibn Sakina: A Dancer’s Journey from Awaran
Interviewer: Ahmad, thank you for joining us today. You come from Awaran in Balochistan, a region known for its challenges. Can you tell us what it’s like to pursue a passion for dance in such an environment?
Ahmad: Thank you for having me. Awaran is indeed a troubled region, but it has also been my source of inspiration. The rocky mountains around me feel alive when I dance. While there has been criticism, this has only fueled my love for dance more.
Interviewer: You mentioned receiving criticism for your passion. How do you cope with that negativity?
Ahmad: I’ve learned to respect others’ opinions without letting them define me. I believe each person is entitled to their thoughts. For me, dance is my expression and my truth. I focus on the love and support I’ve received as much as I acknowledge the criticism.
Interviewer: Speaking of love and support, you’ve performed across various cities in Pakistan. How has dance helped you connect with others?
Ahmad: Dance has been a bridge for me. It has introduced me to countless people who treat me like family. The connections I’ve made through my art are profound— they transcend societal boundaries.
Interviewer: Your name, Ahmad Ibn Sakina, has a special meaning. Can you explain that?
Ahmad: Yes, the “Sakina” in my name is my mother’s name. In our culture, it’s uncommon to attach one’s mother’s name to theirs, but it reflects the love and respect I have for her. I want to celebrate my mother’s influence in my life, especially in a society where many shy away from acknowledging their mothers publicly.
Interviewer: That’s a beautiful sentiment. What message do you hope to convey through your art?
Ahmad: I hope to inspire others, especially from conservative backgrounds, to embrace their passions, no matter the societal pressures. Everyone has a unique path, and it’s essential to respect and pursue one’s truth.
Interviewer: Ahmad, thank you for sharing your story with us. Your journey is both inspiring and enlightening.
Ahmad: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share my journey, and I hope it encourages others to follow their dreams.
Pression, my freedom. I focus on the love and support that I receive from those who appreciate my art, rather than the negativity.
Interviewer: You’ve uniquely incorporated your mother’s name, Sakina, into your own. Can you explain the significance of that?
Ahmad: Absolutely. In our culture, it’s uncommon to attach one’s mother’s name to theirs, but for me, it symbolizes my deep love and respect for my mother. She has been my pillar of support throughout my journey, and I want to honor her legacy.
Interviewer: The financial challenges you face as a dancer are significant, especially during the pandemic. How do you manage to sustain yourself?
Ahmad: It has been tough. Many times I have struggled to find enough work, and the pandemic made it even harder. I sell my artwork and perform whenever I can, but it’s unpredictable. I often question my choices, especially when my family brings it up, but I believe in pursuing my passion.
Interviewer: Your experiences highlight the contrast between societal expectations and personal aspirations. What message would you like to send to those who face similar criticism?
Ahmad: My message is simple: love yourself and stay true to your passion. There will always be critics, but you must prioritize your happiness and find joy in what you do. Love is powerful, and we should all strive to share it with others, despite the challenges.
Interviewer: Thank you so much, Ahmad. Your story is truly inspiring and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s passion against all odds.
Ahmad: Thank you for sharing my story!
