When Pakistani singer Ali Sethi released 'Pasoori' with Coke Studio Pakistan, the song gradually captivated audiences worldwide. From musical renditions to dance performances, fans connected with the melody in countless ways. But alongside the tune, the song's aesthetics also went viral, including the Bharatnatyam dance and floral décor.
'Pasoori' was an instant hit, particularly in neighboring India. A Punjabi song with profound lyrics featuring an Indian dance form created the perfect blend to capture the country's attention. As many began searching, it emerged that the woman performing the graceful traditional dance at the start was Pakistani classical dancer and activist Sheema Kermani.
While Kermani had previously gained recognition for her skills, she is now trending for a different reason. Videos of her being escorted and allegedly manhandled by policewomen in Karachi are circulating widely online, sparking outrage and debate about women's rights in Pakistan.
According to Pakistani newspaper Dawn, Kermani was among seven Aurat March activists briefly detained by Sindh Police near the Karachi Press Club on Tuesday. The activists had gathered for a scheduled press conference demanding a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the upcoming Aurat March event in Karachi. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar later ordered the release of the detained activists.
Who is Sheema Kermani?
The incident has thrust Kermani back into the spotlight, with people asking, 'Who is Sheema Kermani?' and researching her life and background.
Kermani is one of Pakistan's most talented and renowned classical dancers, theatre artists, and women's rights activists. Born on January 16, 1951, in Rawalpindi, Punjab, she has spent decades in performing arts, feminism, and progressive politics. Her father served in the Pakistan Army and later became chairman of Karachi Electric Supply Corporation. Her paternal roots trace back to Lucknow, India, and Kerman, Iran, while her mother's side hails from Hyderabad Deccan.
During school holidays in India, she developed a deep interest in Indian classical dance and art, later pursuing Bharatnatyam. She was married to Pakistani theatre actor and writer Khalid Ahmed.
Through dedicated pursuit of her talent, Kermani is credited with keeping Bharatnatyam alive in Pakistan despite opposition from conservatives. Over the years, she has become a major cultural figure in Karachi and across the continent.
However, most remember her for her appearance in Ali Sethi and Shae Gill's popular Coke Studio Pakistan song 'Pasoori'. That part earned her international acclaim and introduced her to a new, younger audience.
Beyond dance, Sheema Kermani is the founder of Tehrik-e-Niswan, also known as the Women's Movement Cultural Action Group. Since the late 1970s, her organization has worked on women's rights, theatre performances, and educational and cultural awareness in Pakistan. She openly identifies as a feminist and Marxist.
Her work gained significant attention during the military rule of General Zia-ul-Haq, when strict cultural and religious restrictions were imposed. Kermani continued her dance performances and teaching classes even then.
In a country where women are often oppressed and their voices suppressed, Sheema Kermani has ensured they have a platform to speak out.
