PUNJABI ANTENNA
A date with Zila Khan
Randeep Wadehra

Excuse Me Please highlighted Bihari labourers’ joie de vivre, even in poverty, and their touching faith in Laloo Prasad Yadav’s ability to resolve all the problems facing India – terrorism to unemployment to socio-economic inequity. When asked what they’d do on winning a huge amount in lottery, the answers mostly centred on having several wives, and assigning each one a specific task of serving their lord and master. Apparently, woman’s emancipation has a long way to go before the mindset changes. In fact, the release of the latest census report has brought back the status of girl-child into sharp focus. News bulletins quoted community-wise figures of sex ratio and literacy, triggering off a hullabaloo; while media pundits tried to get at the root of the problem of adverse sex ratio, cutting through the obfuscating maze of political skulduggery. 

Khabarsaar came up with a thought-provoking debate with a noted journalist, a woman politician and a government official as participants. 

The politician refused to be pinned down on specifics, the official – ever so careful with expressions – mouthed platitudes, while the journalist went hammer and tongs after the hypocritical outlook. Full marks to Ritesh Lakhi, and the invited audience, for keeping the debate firmly on track.

But things are not all bleak. In Meriyan Gallan Mere Geet, Zila Khan recounted how her father, Ustad Vilayat Ali Khan, would give instruction only to male shagirds, including her siblings. Although unable to attend the classes, she subconsciously picked up the essentials of music. She’d often sing while playing in the house. One day her father heard her. Realising her innate talent, the sitar maestro began to give her eight-hour-a-day coaching. And the result’s there for all to see. Zila Khan is certainly making waves on the small screen. Recently she wowed the audience with her zestful live performance during the Sham-e-Sufi organised at Kalagram in Manimajra. It’s always a treat to listen to Zila – whether she’s singing or recounting anecdotes.

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