What will you learn from this book
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Bridge Between Cultures: Salman Ahmad's journey as a Pakistani musician highlights how music can serve as a bridge between different cultures and religions, fostering understanding and unity.
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Sufi Rock Movement: Ahmad pioneered the Sufi rock genre, blending traditional Sufi poetry and melodies with contemporary rock music. This fusion became a powerful medium for spreading messages of love, peace, and spirituality.
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Challenges and Criticism: Ahmad faced challenges and criticism from conservative elements within Pakistani society who opposed his fusion of Western rock music with Islamic themes. Despite this, he remained steadfast in his belief in the power of music to promote harmony.
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Social Activism: The book showcases Ahmad's commitment to social activism, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare. He used his platform as a musician to raise awareness and funds for various social causes, including disaster relief efforts.
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Impact of 9/11: The aftermath of the 9/11 attacks significantly influenced Ahmad's perspective and mission. He became an advocate for combating extremism and promoting a more positive image of Islam through his music and activism.
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Global Reach: Ahmad's band, Junoon, achieved international success, performing around the world and reaching audiences far beyond Pakistan. Their music resonated with diverse audiences, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
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Spiritual Journey: The book delves into Ahmad's personal spiritual journey and his deep connection to Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam. His exploration of Sufi teachings and practices profoundly influenced his music and worldview.
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Cross-Cultural Collaborations: Ahmad collaborated with musicians from various backgrounds, including Western rock artists and traditional Sufi musicians. These collaborations enriched his music and promoted intercultural dialogue.
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Advocacy for Peace: Ahmad emerged as a prominent voice for peace and reconciliation in South Asia, advocating for dialogue and understanding between India and Pakistan. He believed that music could play a crucial role in healing divisions and fostering cooperation.
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Legacy and Inspiration: Through his memoir, Ahmad shares his experiences and insights, inspiring readers to embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and work towards a more inclusive and harmonious world.
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10 | 8184951183 |
| ISBN-13 | 9788184951189 |
| No of pages | 248 |
| Font Size | Medium |
| Book Publisher | Jaico Publishing House |
| Published Date | 08 Jan 2010 |
About Author
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Free audio of 12 hit songs by Salman Ahmad. With 30 million record sales under his belt and with fans including Bono and Deepak Chopra, Pakistan-born Salman Ahmad, the leader of the band Junoon, is renowned for being the first rock and roll star to destroy the wall that divides the West and the Muslim world. His hits such as Bheegi Yadein, Azadi and Sayonee made rock history in India. Rock and Roll Jihad is the story of his incredible journey. Facing down angry mullahs and oppressive dictators who wanted all music to be banned from Pakistan, Salman Ahmad rocketed to the top of the music charts, bringing Western-style rock and pop to Pakistani teenagers for the first time.
His band became the U2 of Asia, a sufi-rock group that broke boundaries and sold a record number of albums. As his music climbed the charts, Salman found himself the target of religious fanatics and power-mad politicians desperate to take him and his band down. Undeterred, Salman created his own underground jihad: his mission was to bring his beloved rock music to an enthusiastic new audience in South Asia and beyond. In the center of a new generation of young Pakistanis who go to mosques as well as McDonald's, whose religion gives them compassion for and not fear of the West and who see modern music as a "rainbow bridge" that links their lives to the rest of the world, nothing could stop Salman's star from rising.