Interview: Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui

Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui is the President of Petroleum Marketing Business in Byco Petroleum Pakistan Limited (BPPL). He has done his bachelor in Chemical Engineering and Masters in Chemistry. He is a dominant market player.Presently,He is leading Byco’s Petroleum Marketing Business.He possesses global experience in business development,system re-engineering,streamlining processes,management of supply chain,marketing and sales and operations management.Since 30 years,he has been holding various senior management positions in the oil industry.
He has served the oil industry to a greater extent and it is his sincerity and hard work that has been serving the Petroleum Marketing Business in an outstanding way. Jewel Time had the honor of meeting Mr.Kalim A.Siddiqui who has proved to be a faithful and an exceptional professional.

JT. Tell us something about your professional background.

I am a Chemical Engineer by profession. I have completed my education from United Kingdom and I have worked there as well. Besides that, I have also worked in USA and Australia. I initially joined Caltex and worked there for almost 20 years. After that, I moved to PSO in 2001 and stayed there for 8 years. I was the Managing Director in PSO.Currently; I am working as the President, Petroleum Marketing in Byco. I was also part of the board of management at PSO and PRL.Presently; I am also a member of Board of Investment (BoI).

JT. What are the areas of operation of Byco in Pakistan?

I am looking after and heading the oil marketing company in Byco. We have redefined the region of Byco marketing two years back. In fact, we have redefined the whole direction. We have then made a vision that we want to be among the top 3 OMCs of the country. We are also trying to expand our retail network. We have given growth to our system on a fast track. Two years back when I joined Byco, there were about 32 outlets but, now we have over 206 retail outlets. These outlets are present in all of the four provinces of Pakistan, covering the areas from Karachi to Azad Kashmir. We are trying to increase this number by the end of this year. We are almost the 5th largest OMC among an industry of 12.However,we were on the 10th position earlier.

JT. Please explain the petroleum marketing business of the company.

We believe in a strong supply chain infrastructure. We are exporting as well as supplying the power. Imported expression is expected to increase. Currently, our turnover of 10 months is over 30 billion. We are building all of our activities according to good supply chain.
Our stations have reached the number of 206.We have started our active workings in Kemari and other areas. Besides that, we have finalized the arrangements on linear basis. There are about 13 operative stations in Karachi and another 3 to 4 will be operative in the next two to three months. We have about 4 to 5 stations in Lahore and the number is expected to reach from 8 to 9.We are trying to bring stations in urban sectors as well.

JT. What are the major challenges faced by the oil marketing companies in Pakistan and abroad?

In Pakistan, the formula of pricing and margin is observed as one of the lowest in the region. An oil marketing company has to build a good infrastructure and there is always the need of good equipments for the retail outlets. We have to monitor the quality and supply of the products. If the pricing and margin structure is not giving out a fair return then an oil marketing company faces many difficulties. Our industry is not completely deregulated yet. The most necessary step is to deregulate our industry. We had to face a major crash in December 2008 due to the overall fall of the oil prices.

JT. How has the current law and order situation affected your company?

Every other day, we have to shut down our business because of the situation of law and order. Many times strikes are being called. These strikes include transport strikes as well as strikes due to law and order. Besides that, supply chain gets disturbed because of the problems faced by the system of petrol pumps.

JT. What are your short term and long term strategies for marketing in Pakistan?

Our eventual goal is to be progressive in the market place; we want to be a major player in the market. Right now, our main objective is to be among the top 3 OMCs of the country. We want to supply the quality product and services to the customers. As far as deregulated market is concerned, consumer gets benefit in a long term strategy. We want to come forward as an integrated player in the long term strategy.

JT. What is Pakistan’s biggest challenge today in terms of growth and development?

As far as law and order situation is concerned, the continuity and the proper direction of the policy of the government are very necessary. These projects are considered as very capital intensive projects. When the policy of the government changes, it effects the investment and business policy of a company to a greater extent. There is a need of a proper and integrated energy policy. Government should focus on a long term vision and should announce a long term consistence policy.

JT. As a major oil refinery in Pakistan, what changes would you like to propose in government policies to assure better market conditions?

The first step which must be taken is to deregulate the whole industry and it should be market based. We should manage ourselves according to the dynamics of the international markets. Consistency of policy must be focused so that people invest with trust and make long term business plans. There is also a need of proper political stability and law and order.

JT. Have increases in fuel prices or other factors like the current law and order situation in the country, hampered future expansion plans?

The present situation is affecting the system of investment for sure. The lack in the overall circular debt is affecting the energy. Besides that, the disturbance in the current law and order situation affects the system of fuel prices which in turn disturbs the whole network of the business. Long term solution is needed in this case.

JT. What are your strengths in the face of such stiff competition?

I think living playing field and a healthy environment is good for a competition. According to me, a monopolistic situation should not be present at all.A competition ultimately provides benefit to the customers. The industry which will provide more benefits, facilities and products to the customers will survive better.

JT. Byco has been chosen as the Best Petroleum Company in the 6th Consumer Choice Awards 2010.What do you think were the reasons behind it and what role has Petroleum Marketing business played in it?

We got this award as we proved to be the fastest growing petroleum marketing company in the very difficult times. We achieved the growth of almost 300 %.We are still the fastest growing company this year. We have been trying to introduce new concepts. As it’s our objective to be a major player so we run our system according to this objective.

JT. Where do you see Pakistan in the next decade?

It mainly depends on the political situations. Pakistan has got very much potential. There is just the need of proper management of the available potentials. If we properly follow the plan of long term benefit then I believe that Pakistan will progress. We have a good market size. Pakistan can never progress unless and until the tax system will be improved. The development of Pakistan highly depends on the political stability as well as the present law and order situation. We should focus highly on the economic policies.

JT. Being a responsible professional, how do you manage your other activities in life?

I believe in proper time management. I like to give time to my social life as well. I try to relax and give quality time to my family in the evening. Other than that, I like to spend some time with my own self.

JT. What message would you like to give our readers?

Pakistan has got very much potential, resources and talent but, unfortunately we don’t utilize such blessings. If these blessings would be utilized with sincerity then Pakistan would become a developed country for sure.

Production and Role of Pharmaceutical industry in Pakistan’s economy

Pakistan has a developing and a vibrant Pharma Industry. At the time of independence, in 1947, there was hardly any pharmacy industry in Pakistan and the country was suffering in this regard to a greater extent. Today Pakistan has about 400 pharmaceutical manufacturing units, which also include those operated by 25 multinationals that are present in the country. Around 70% of the country's demand of Finished Medicine is met by The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Industry. In terms of share market, the domestic pharmacy market is almost evenly divided between the Nationals and the Multinationals.

The National pharmacy industry has shown a growing progress over the years, mostly in the last decade. The industry has invested significantly to improve itself in the last few years and in the recent times the majority of the industry is following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), compliant with the domestic as well as international Guidance. At present the industry has the capacity to produce a variety of product that range from simple pills to sophisticated Biotech, Oncology and Value Added Generic compounds.

According to the researches, although Pakistan’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors are expanding and evolving speedily, about half of the population has no access to the modern medicines. Clearly this presents an opportunity, but the government and industry's stakeholders are required to put more efforts. The value of pharmaceuticals that was sold in 2007 exceeded US$1.4bn, which equates to per capita consumption of less than US$ 10 per year and value of medicines sold is now expected to exceed US$2.3 B by the year 2012.

The Pharmaceutical market of Pakistan is estimated at over $1.5 Billion in value and bulk imports of raw materials are close to $450 million. The utility rates and other aspects of production have been experiencing a stable enhancement over the last couple of years. Prices of drugs have not increased over the last 7 years, most recently with China revoking its export subsidy by 8%; prices of raw materials are expected to shoot up further. Machinery and equipment is imported from China, Taiwan, Korea, India, Germany, UK, USA and Japan most of the time.
According to an expert, the regulation of price has given rise to the false belief that pharmaceutical companies are overpricing with reference to their products. Besides that, surging inflation and the deteriorating economic condition of the country has considerably affected company margins.

There is the need of a properly defined policy in this regard, as price fixing remains is in the control of the ministry. It is necessary for the pricing policy to work in automatic ways, keeping in view the interests of both patients and pharmacists. In addition, price control can help increase investment.

It was being informed that the production of drugs takes place under strict CGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) principles, while a variety of dosage forms including liquids, tablets, capsules, dry syrups, creams and ointments, sterile ampoules, vials, metered dose inhalers can be produced. However, some companies’ products’ production for multinational companies is found to be worth Rs 1.0 billion.

The reputable companies are not involved in the smuggling of drugs while multinational companies refrain from such a thing as well. The doctors are responsible to support the interests of the patient, but unfortunately unethical and immoral practices seem to prevail in the community. Companies should identify their responsibility and, hence, should focus at maintaining excellence on reasonable prices, while marketing should also be patient-intensive.

It was being found that a meager seven percent claim of manufacturing is being satisfied on local basis as resources are not available in Pakistan. This is because of a lack found in petrochemical industry, which makes preliminary steps essential for our local industry. Certain companies have started such a thing, but it is disappointing that no basic research for making new drugs (molecular) is processed in the country. The quality standards of the ministry are not same for all, adding that role of the doctor could be limited through this access if it satisfies the patient to buy the same product on lower rates.
The ministry should keep an eye on Chinese drugs which are coming in Pakistan and should allow only those Chinese firms that are genuine. The pharmaceutical industry hires well qualified people; therefore, grey channel input is in the loss of the patient.

As for the budgetary changes, sustained increase in exports has been seen; therefore, duties should be revised on importing machines. In order to de-register the products, the Ministry of Health should play its dynamic role.
Pakistan is a developing pharmaceutical market, holds a large population and economic progress evident.However, and per capita drug spending was observed to be rather low at around US$9.30 in the year 2007. Classified spending accounts for 65% of total healthcare expenditure sourced through out-of pocket payments, international aid and religious or charitable institutions. Pharmaceutical spending accounts for less than 1% of the country's GDP, equivalent to levels in some neighboring countries but above that in some of the South Asian countries. The forecast period is probable to witness the marginal strengthening of the generics sector, albeit more in terms of volumes than values. The share of generics is also seems to increase further as major drugs come off-patent in the near term, to the likely benefit of the generics-dominated local industry.

With an export turnover of over US$ 100 Million as of 2007, the Pakistan pharmacy industry is relatively young in the international markets. Pakistan Pharma business boasts of quality producers and many units are approved by regulatory authorities around the world. Like domestic market where in the last five years, the sales in international market have gone almost double. The pharmacy industry is making efforts to an Export Vision of USD 500 Million by 2013. In the meantime, exports are also expected to be boosted by new regional and global opportunities.
Above all, the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Industry holds a successful developing business, providing high quality essential drugs at affordable prices to Millions. Technologically, well-built and self reliant National Pharmaceutical Industry is not only playing a specific role in promoting and sustaining growth in the vital field of medicine within the country, but is also set in a good manner to take on the international markets.

Conversation with Mr.Salih Demir Pazarci, Managing Director Pak-Turk Businessmen Association

He is a man who possesses the qualities of sincerity and passion towards his job. He always wishes for stronger trade relations between Turkey and Pakistan. According to Mr.Salih Demir,”The stronger interaction in business is bringing the two brotherly countries closer”.

1.Tell us something about your professional background?

I completed my MBA at University of Leicester in UK. Right now I am the Managing Director of Pak-Turk Businessmen Association.

2.How do you observe the Park-Turk business relations?

The Park-Turk business relations are going in a good direction. The stronger interaction in business is bringing the two brotherly countries closer. In order to expose the business communities of the two countries, Pak-Turk Businessmen PTBA has organised various bilateral business trips.
So far, with the help of PTBA’s customised business and trade organisations, a large number of Turkish businessmen and entrepreneur visited Pakistan and established business relations with Pakistan’s business and industry circles, and quite a large number of Pakistani leading businessmen and entrepreneurs also visited Turkey to be exposed to the opportunities that Turkey offers for international and regional trade.

3.What changes would you like to bring in the Park-Turk business relations?

I am looking forward for a more developed business relations between Pakistan and Turkey. Businessmen from Pakistan are very passionate and hardworking. I expect the business world of Pakistan to be more groomed with a strong hold.
We offer guidance for Pakistani businessmen. An educated and well qualified businessman is always given a priority everywhere.

4.According to you, which steps should be taken to improve the economic situation of Pakistan?

In order to improve the economic situation of Pakistan, it’s very necessary to control the overall situation of Pakistan. Besides; there is always a need of well educated and sincere person to improve the economic situation in Pakistan.

5.You showed great interest in building up schools in Karachi? Why do you think it was important to set up schools in Karachi?

We did it because we wanted to provide quality education. Turkish academic institutions provided quality education and lodged and boarded facilities to more than 5,000 students in 19 cities of Pakistan. More than 40 per cent of these students received full scholarships.

6.What is the reason behind the good economic situation in Turkey?

Good economic situation in Turkey is all because of the proper system there. I would say again that a good education plays a main role for a good economic situation. Besides that, awareness in people is another necessary tool.

7.How do you think, the current situation here is affecting the business of Pakistan?

A tough situation in any country ultimately gives a tough time to the business and economic situation of that country. Strikes, mishaps and political controversies create much disturbance and obstacles for the business world of Pakistan.

8.What is your suggestion to the new businessmen?

Give priority to a good education. Be aware of updates and everything around you and take the best you can from your experience. I have observed that many of the new businessmen, especially youngsters like to create short cuts in order to become a successful businessman. Try to avoid short cuts in the world of business as the world of business needs experience and quality.

9. How do you think that the Pak-Turk Businessmen Association is improving the trade relations between both the countries?

The Pak-Turk Businessman Association is playing a main role to improve the trade relations between Pakistan and Turkey. We offer guidance and maintain a list of contacts for Pakistani businessmen who wish to carry on business and trade relations with individual Turkish businessmen or with companies.

10. Your message to the readers?

Everyone has the potential to do something better for the country. You should make efforts for a better Pakistan. Youth should focus on education. Education and awareness should be brought up and maintained to do something better for Pakistan.

Consistency Counts a lot

An Interview with Mr. Waqar Mehdi,Advisor to Chief Minister Information,Govt. of Sindh.

Interview by, Bushra Khalid

“Pakistan’s image is really changing in the eyes of the world, especially after the recent developments in the war against terror. The world can see that how the people of Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in the war against terror in their country. They still have to face many difficulties and have to face many issues economically as well as socially but, they are fully cooperating against terrorism. I can understand the feelings of many people in the Northern areas. Pakistan is a Front Line State. Europe and other countries understand that Pakistan had to suffer a big loss in the war against terror”, Waqar Mehdi, Advisor to Chief Minister Information, Govt, of Sindh

Q. What is the role of the advisor to Chief Minister in this age of digital media?

It is the time of Modern Technology and Computers. You can say that now media is on a fast track system. Introduction of new and advanced technologies have brought a great revolution in the digital world. As an advisor to Chief Minister Information, I keep myself updated with all the news and updates. Besides other means, I also try to utilize the digital means to stay connected with media and people and to understand their problems. The main thing is whatever type of media it is, if a person is determined, hardworking, he can perform his duties in a best way by any means.

Q. What are the challenges that you face as an advisor to Chief Minister Sindh?

By the grace of Allah, I don’t really have to face any tough challenges as I have a better understanding and knowhow with people. My work is mostly related to media, so I have to keep myself updated with news and updates and I try my best to resolve the issues of the public by means of media. I also try to put forward a clear point of view of the Government at different circumstances.

Q. What are the responsibilities of the media in reporting and covering news and events?

Media should portray the real picture of the society. As you must have felt yourself that, many times some of the media channels deliver news which is not at all related to the reality. Some media channels should avoid spreading negative sensation among people. Media should be free and I agree with that but, some media channels and newspapers take negative advantage of this freedom. All have the right to point out negative points of the Government; all have the right to give suggestions. Government is always here to hear and correct its mistakes but, what some of the media channels do is to just create negative sensation and false impact. This is very wrong and hurting. Such actions have made people the victim of tension and worries.
Let’s take an example of a common working or businessman, I have noticed that many times some of the media channels deliver news with much negative exposure, the man who is necessarily out for his work is forced to leave his work by his relatives and asked to come back as soon. I am sorry to say that some of the media channels become too much exaggerative while delivering news. However, some channels and newspapers are giving a fair and true performance. There should be a fair and just media in the country.

Q. What is the Government’s role in the development of a fair and just media in the country?

Government is always ready to provide every kind of help to media. In the previous days, we were being told by the owners of the newspapers that GST is being applied. We took actions to withdraw it after they shared their issues with us. Government always gives full support and facilities to Media and Journalism. Government wants the freedom of media and Government has even cooperated with media during different circumstances. Media should use this freedom with justice and should play a fair character.

Q. How is Pakistan’s image changing in the eyes of the world after the recent developments in the war against terror?

Pakistan’s image is really changing in the eyes of the world, especially after the recent developments in the war against terror. The world can see that how the people of Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in the war against terror in their country. They still have to face many difficulties and have to face many issues economically as well as socially but, they are fully cooperating against terrorism. I can understand the feelings of many people in the Northern areas. Pakistan is a Front Line State. Europe and other countries understand that Pakistan had to suffer a big loss in the war against terror.

Q. How do you assess the current law and order situation in the province? What measures in your opinion should be done by the government to control this situation?

The current law and order situation in the province has got better.Specially, we, with the help of police have taken control over the kidnappings on high way. Government is fighting hard against the target killings and crimes in the province. Government is taking strict security and other measures. Government always tries its level best to fight against terrorists and criminals. For that we also want the support of people. These people are in our boundary and only with people’s support and cooperation we can make the situation better.

Q. According to you, what steps should be taken to control the continuous target killings in Karachi?

Target killings can only be controlled with awareness and cooperation. Government is trying its level best; we want full support and cooperation of people in this regard.

Q. What tools do you apply to keep appropriate checks and balances on the media in the country?

Government can only request the certain owners of each media channels and newspapers to be fair in delivering news and information. We don’t really want to put checks, because then we are being blamed for being an obstacle for the freedom of media and journalism. Media shouldn’t just portray the negative image of the Government. Media should itself be fair in using the freedom of media.

Q. Being a busy person, how do you manage your daily routine?

I am a person with consistent nature. A person with consistent nature is always able to manage everything. I believe that if a person possesses the quality of determination then he can manage everything in life, no matter how busy he is. I read newspaper in the morning, and then I come to office bit late in morning as I stay back in office bit late at night. I prefer to spend at least an hour with my family after I come back home. In the evening, if I have to attend any social gathering, I attend that. I never mix my professional and political life with my family and private life.

Q. What message would you like to give our readers?

I want to give this message that if this society will be educated then there will be lesser problems and lesser crimes. Everyone should give priority to education. Parents should concentrate on their children’s education as education plays a main role in defending a child from the negative effects of the society. People should learn to be patient to bring peace in the city. One should follow the right media and should cooperate in fulfilling the dream which Shaheed Muhtarma Benazir Bhutto have seen for Pakistan.

Gold Jewellery, the beat of every heart

Gold jewellery of Pakistan is famous for its wide variety of styles, designs and neat hand work. Gold has always held a magical fascination. Gold jewellery has always been a unique item among Pakistani women on any celebration or occasion. It holds a great role in bridal getup. It has always been the sign of love and prestige.
As far as the subcontinent is concerned, the jewellery dates back to 3000-4000 BC. Excavations were processed in the towns of Ancient Indus Valley Civilization. These excavations revealed that the goldsmiths of such a primal age knew the art of making moulds for metal and terra-cotta ornaments. They made various jewels like necklaces, bangles, earrings, rings, brooches, head ornaments, bracelets, girdles etc. However, the Aryans were fond of gold ornaments, and the Yajurveda testified that gold had magical powers.
Women of the Indian sub-continent have always been observed as the biggest buyers of Gold jewelleries. From time to time and with the settlement of Pakistanis abroad, the export of Gold jewellery has also gone up considerably. Besides that, entries of Pakistani exporters in some of the developed markets has also supported and promoted the local jewelers to introduce their branded jewellery. Pakistan is among the top consumers of gold. Although its price range has become very high these days but, its demand is always high. Those who can still afford it leave no chance in buying the best of Gold jewelleries. Most of the women like to wear Gold jewelleries, depending on the nature of their work and life-style.
The styles of gold jewelleries vary to a greater extent in Pakistan. The styles which are usually displayed in different kinds of portfolios are for both casual and formal wear. Some of these styles are observed to be blended with western styles to create elegant combination of gold and stones for bridal jewelry and casual wear. According to a designer, stones and gems of various colors are embedded in yellow gold or white gold to produce jewellery. This is done in order to match clothes of different colors. These stones can be garnets, topaz, and blue sapphire. This has ultimately given a wide choice to brides for selecting color of their wedding dress and giving rise to new trends.

In Pakistan bulk of the jewellery is produced manually using the expertise of skilled workers. Many of these workers are also engaged with popular brands that create ideas regarding the designs of Gold sets and individual items.
Ar-Raheem jewelers has been able to create a popular identity in the world of Gold jewellery in Pakistan. It is the leading and an incomparable producer of branded jewellery in Pakistan. It was established in 1986 with and experience of about five decades. Because of a better understanding of customers’ taste, skills of the craftsmen as well as commitment to exclusivity, Ar-Raheem jewelers has been able to earn its reputation in just few years.
After getting the significant response from Pakistan, they have increased their business in a successful way. They have customers on both national as well as international level. Ar-Raheem jewelers have always received a good and a satisfactory response from the customers. According to Syed Amir Ali, to get the best result one should understand the personality and taste of the customer.
According to a customer of Ar-Raheem jewelers, besides silver jewellery, the designers of Ar-Raheem jewelers understand that gold jewellery sets of wedding are the most significant identity of jewelleries a customer can ever own. Thus their sets are full of creativity and sophistication.
Jewelers have a very strong belief that the gold jewellery export from Pakistan can be increased in various ways. They believe that the gold and other jewellery sector keeps the potential to earn even higher export. It all depends on the financial situation and policy of the Government.
The Bureau is following a multilane policy. This includes suggestions and recommendations to the government to make essential changes in the policies of the Government. The Bureau is persuading cluster development philosophy in an active manner .Besides that, efforts are being made to make sure that a greater contribution of local jewellery manufacturers in international jeweler exhibitions.

If marriage is a dream, jewellery adds existence and reality to this fantasy. Precious stones, gems and set in gold, add a shine to the bride's personality. No wedding ceremony in Pakistan is complete without gold jewelleries. It has become a traditional for a typical bride to wear at least one set of gold. Gold jewellery in any fashion is always a source of magnetism for Pakistani women combining idealism and style.
Gold jewellery is all about feelings and desire, which captures the sensuality as well as essence of the woman. Sense of movement and flow in design and craftsmanship is in these days. With jeweler outlets displaying the most modern and stunning wedding sets, gold jewellery is capturing everyone’s heart with full beat. One can also observe the presence of sets in stylish and striking boxes, making the designer gold jewellery as the perfect gift.

Interview: BOMBAYWALA

FABRIC FULL OF LIFE

No matter how old you get, if you can keep the desire to be creative, you're keeping the man-child alive. John Cassavetes.

Creativity with Quality is always the most wanted element in the world of fabric. Keeping this characteristic alive proves the vision and dedication of the business. Bombaywala is one such business. Founded in 1947, by the forefathers of Mr.Shahzad, Bombaywala is the pioneer of Block Printers and Dyers in the world of Block Printed Fabric in Pakistan. It has been running the business successfully from the last 60 years, satisfying the needs and desires of the customers in an outstanding way. Jewel Time enjoyed the great company of Mr.Shahzad who’s looking after the business of his forefathers in a responsible and a flourishing way.

Q.Share something about your professional background.

I have done my MBA in business management. After completing my MBA, I decided to move towards my family business. The proper business got started from the outlet in Defence in the year 2003.The first exhibition was held in Lahore in 2010.Then we had our exhibition in Islamabad and then in Dubai. I have learned about block printing and dying from my father and forefathers. It has been our family business so I have always been having good knowledge of block printing and dying. I have properly been in the line of formal line dresses from the last two years.

Q.Bombaywala keeps a long lasting history. Tell us about the history of Bombaywala.

Yes, Bombaywala does keep a long lasting history. It’s in the industry from the last 60 years as it was started in 1947.We are the pioneers of block printing and dying.Initially,this business used to run on small scale, started by my forefathers. Then the business started to grow successfully after getting a tremendous response. People liked this idea as this idea was first brought by my forefathers in Pakistan. In the year 1980, our block printing suit started to reach towards a greater level and from then, we have been getting a good response every other day.

Q.Bombaywala was found in 1947, which was the time of Independence. Did Bombaywala face any initial difficulties? What was the criterion of business at that time?

1947 was the time of the independence of Pakistan so the overall social and economic difficulties ultimately created many obstacles for the business. As that was the initial stage so they had to suffer a lot of problems but, by the hard work and dedication, my forefathers managed this all and kept on with their business in a successful way.

Q.What is the history of block printing and dying?

According to the records, as far back as the 12th century, some centers in the south, on the western and eastern coasts of India became well known for their outstanding printed cotton. On the southeastern coast the brush or kalam (pen) was used. Printing and dyeing of cottons was specially developed in Rajasthan, in the medieval age. Besides that, the use of wooden blocks for printing was more common in Gujarat.Tents were created from printed fabrics. They became a necessary part of royal processions. Trade in cotton cloth is said to have existed between India and Babylon from Buddha's time. Cheaper printed cloth came from Ahmadabad and other centers, and strangely enough Sanganer was not such a famous center for printing as it is today.

Q.How many outlets do you have? What are your futures plans regarding your outlets?

We had our first outlet in Burns road, that is basically the production and the factory outlet. Besides that, we have one outlet in Defence.We have plans to expand our business and initiate outlets in other regions of Pakistan and abroad as well.

Q.Is Bombaywala running its business on International basis as well?

We have recently held exhibition in Dubai, which was very helpful for the business. We have plans to hold more exhibitions on international basis. Besides that, we have clients from US and other parts of the world as well.

Q.How will you differentiate and compare block printed fabric with other fabric?

One of the basic differences is variety. Block printed fabric have more variety as compared to other fabrics. We have blocks of many different designs and these blocks can be used at a time for one print.

Q.What kind of material and chemicals do you use for block printing and dying?

We try to use more durable and fast chemicals. As for fabric, we prefer the good quality fabric. Basically; we buy our fabric from Faisalabad. We manufacture our own fabric as well. Above all, we use the process of Discharge printing, in a unique way, through block printing.

Q.How would you explain creativity?

Creativity is the art of using colors and design in a unique way. Whatever you do, do it in a unique and attractive way.

Q.In order to produce the product of better quality, what kind of compromises do you have to face?

As compared to other designers, our prices are very reasonable. Our main goal is also to be reachable to the customer, that’s why our prices are not very high.

Q.Bombaywala is observed to have a high belief in creativity? How do you do that?

I believe in broader thoughts. I feel that one has to think broader. Broader thoughts let you think of the broader ideas.

Q.What is your observation towards the fashion world of Pakistan today?

Fashion world of Pakistan is at a good stage. Our fashion world is full of creative and talented people.

Q.What is your message to the readers and the new entrepreneurs?

Whatever Bombaywala is and whatever Bombaywala do and did, it’s all because of your support. Always remember, your business will run in a better way if you will have a family support. As for the entrepreneurs, I would say that be encouraged in coming to this field. It’s a very creative and challenging field. Try to educate and groom yourself in as best way as possible, before coming to this field.

Interview: Ali Safina

He Loves to Move On!

He attracts his fans with his vivacious, pleasant and a friendly personality. With his captivating performance in Radio and Television, he has become a true heartthrob in the media industry of Pakistan. Enjoying Coffee with Ali Safina was an interesting experience. He is an easy person to get along with, who possesses a great sense of humor. A popular RJ, VJ, DJ, a great actor and a musician, Ali Safina has proved to be a versatile celebrity.

Q.Ali Safina is one of the most popular celebrities now, how did it all get started?

It’s been five years since I am in Karachi. Before that I was in Glasgow. I was born in Multan and then my family moved to Oman. I had been a DJ in Glasgow. I always had a great interest in Music. As for acting, I never realized that I have an acting talent as well. It just came out with the time and experience.
Radio had been something which I always wanted to do. Radio taught me how to speak. Radio had always been my passion. My first show on radio was ‘Desi Club’, in the year 2007.It was a very different kind of show and everyone appreciated me a lot. I used to play hip hop urban songs with a Punjabi touch. I used to produce a remix version of songs with a Punjabi touch which listeners used to enjoy a lot. I had a great time presenting my shows on FM 89 and FM 96.In 2008 I got a chance of being aVJ on MTV.The role of ‘Taaka’ in ‘Taakay Ki Ayegy Baraat’ gave me a lot of fame in Television. I got nominated in the category of ‘Best RJ’ in Pakistan Media Awards, which was an honor for me.
I was having a good time with my Radio and Music programs on TV until I discovered my acting talent. I also enjoy acting a lot now.

Q.What type of show did you use to do in Glasgow?

In Glasgow, I was the DJ in Awaz FM 107.2, the only Asian radio station there at that time. This show could be heard in UK, Canada, US and Pakistan. I used to play regional music on my show. Besides that, I used to play underground music from Pakistan in my show, which seemed to be very different and interesting for my listeners.

Q.What made you move from Glasgow to Karachi?

I wanted to do something on my own and achieve my goals.Whatever, I had in Glasgow, that was great but, I was not satisfied as it was not being achieved by me. I wanted to progress and fulfill my desires and interests. I wanted to achieve my visions and do the work which satisfies me. I wanted to do things at my own responsibility. I discovered my path after joining Radio in Karachi.
I got the chance to be on MTV after auditions and that made me happy as I was on my way to achieve my goals without source.

Q.You have got a great fame as a RJ, DJ, VJ and Actor. Which job will you consider as your favorite one?

I think all of them.Basically, Radio had always been my passion and I have learned a lot from Radio but, each field keeps its very own importance.

Q.With whom did you enjoy working the most up till now?

I had a good time with almost all of my Co-Workers. I guess I am good at judging one’s attitude and I know how to deal with each personality.

Q.What do you think are the key points behind a good acting?

Acting is a very creative field. Good acting needs a lot of hard work and determination. While one is acting he/she has to forget whoever he/she is. Acting is to cover your personality with the role you are given, and then only an actor would be able to give a good result.

Q.What’s your opinion about the entertainment industry of Pakistan?

Our entertainment industry is moving towards a good direction. Like other industries, it does need improvements but it is doing a good job. We have got a lot of talent. I think it will be better if our media industry promotes our own talent and people more instead of outsiders.

Q.Do you think it’s good to have a good education before being a part of the media industry?

Of course it is. One can’t achieve his vision without a proper education. Education builds up your personality. If you are educated and a hard worker then nothing can stop you from achieving your goals.

Q.Any plans to get married?

Why not, I think everyone should get married one day.InshaAllah I will also get married; I am just waiting for the right time.

Q.What are your plans for future?

I am looking forward for many things, these days I am busy in shootings of a drama and have just got over with some projects. However, as a musician, I believe that there is still a lot to learn.

Q.How does it feel like to be a popular RJ, with a large number of fans?

It feels great of course. As Radio has always been my passion so I feel good about my place in this field. I have learnt a lot from Radio. I love my fans and I love talking to them.

Q.What message would you like to give to the Youth of Pakistan?

(Smiling) I guess I am no one to give message to the Youth of Pakistan.Still; I would like to say that this time is one of the best times. One shouldn’t waste this phase and should try to get the best from this period. Whatever you will achieve in this period, will be helpful for you in future.