Ghoonghat (The Veil) – Short story by Ismat Chughtai

Dramatic Reading by Syed Meesum Naqvi of Dastango Event: Lifting the Veil: Celebrating Ismat Chughtai at the British Council Library in Karachi. Friday, 19 August, 2016. This story touches upon notions of pride and arrogance that supersede the importance of personal relations. Masterfully woven by the author, the narrative speaks of the superficiality of traditions and customs and the false pride that rules the lives of the protagonists Kalay Mian and Gori Bi over a span of thirty years. Humorously told, yet intensely reflective of deep sorrow, this short story is skillful in its poignant simplicity.