Cheeni Saqafat kay Tabinda Nuqoosh” (Gleaming Gems of Chinese Culture)—my latest book—was launched at the Institute of Strategic Studies, Islamabad in a solemn ceremony where literary luminaries including this scribe’s son Dr. Shafei Moiz Hali, currently the Head of Department of Government and Public Policy at the National Defence University reviewed the book.
The book is a comprehensive account of the various aspects of the rich Chinese Culture, numerous traditions, customs and mores and is a study of the ancient roots of the diverse history of the tradition and culture whose specimens are still prevalent.
“Cheeni Saqafat kay Tabinda Nuqoosh” is divided into thirteen chapters, which cover the diverse aspects of Chinese culture in full detail. The chapter on Art comprises research on Chinese Embroidery, its various forms, symbolism and representation. Four traditional styles have been discussed: Suzhou, Hunan (Zhiangzhio), Guangdong (Youzhio) and Sichuan (Shuzhio).
The art of traditional Chinese painting, its linkage with the art of calligraphy, classic presentation of landscape which differs from region to region has been deliberated upon. Renowned 5th Century Chinese critic, historian and academic Xie He’s book “The Classification of Ancient Chinese Artists” has been quoted, which talks of six rules of painting: firstly the “depth of the spirit” i.e. unless the artist paints with his true feelings, he can never reach the heights of creating a masterpiece. Second rule pertains to the “Bone Method” which teaches the correct use of the paintbrush and the relationship between painting and calligraphy. The third rule is “In accordance with the subject”. Art must be close to the subject while the shades, texture and form must have conformity. The fourth rule is “Accordance to the type” and the fifth rule is “Classification of art and planning”. The final rule is “Lessons from the Past”.
Calligraphy, painting and poetry are interrelated while the artist authenticates his creation with his seal. The art and history of cutting seals has also been discussed in detail. Wood carving is an ancient Chinese art, which was perfected many centuries ago and has been carried on by master wood carvers, who have created masterpieces.
The Scholar’s Four Treasures receive special mention. Chi-Pao—the traditional dress of Chinese women, its origin, development, different styles and conformity with fashion have been brought out. Art of Chinese Knot-making is specific to ancient China. The various designs, their symbolism and significance are essential to appreciate the Chinese knot-making as an art form.
Dragon and Lion have a significant position and status in Chinese Traditions thus they receive their due notation in various forms of traditional Chinese art, including embroidery, painting, wood carving, sculpture and cuisine.
Chinese lanterns, their significance, origin and various types and New Year paintings continue to be a part of Chinese culture. The art of making dough figures has an interesting background and continues to enthrall old and young alike. Chinese furniture is in great demand in the west but it has special significance in Chinese culture and modern Chinese also seek forms of traditional furniture.
Hand fans depict a specific part of tradition. Their origin, various types and uses other than fanning, which includes its use as a prop for story tellers or by traditional Chinese dancers, is a fascinating description. The chapter on traditional Cuisine is interesting because various forms of Chinese cuisine form an essential part of culture. Menshi and hot pot as well as the use of chopsticks draw the attention of the reader. Traditional tea ceremony, its significance in Chinese society in both ancient and modern times, the origin of tea, its medicinal properties and various types have been brought out. Traditional Festivals, including the Chinese Lunar Year, Chinese Spring, Lantern, Chinming, Duanwu and the Chongyang Festival; their importance, background and symbolism as well as philosophy have been explained. Traditional Chinese Medicine and how it differs from western medicine, what are the different types of treatment has been amply elucidated.
Traditional Chinese Musical Instruments, their place in Chinese culture and origin makes for interesting reading. Opera is a very important part of Chinese culture, its ethos, the different types, specific make up; their symbolism, opera masks and the use of shadow puppets have been painstakingly researched and described in the book.
China has scores of historical tourist attractions but six of them have been described in this book, including the Great Wall, Giant Buddha of Lashan Dafu, Stone Statues of Dazu and the traditional Hutongs of Beijing.Any discussion on Chinese culture would be incomplete without a mention of its traditional dances.
Chinese ethnic minorities have been encouraged by the Chinese government to maintain their rich traditions, dress in their finery and showcase their culture to tourists. A whole chapter has been dedicated to this which includes their specific customs including wedding ceremonies.
Keeping crickets as pets is specific to China and was practiced in ancient times by royalty and is still a popular practice among Chinese.
Deliberately, I have dedicated a chapter to discuss Chinese Etiquette, which is essential for visitors to China, while meeting or greeting them, dining in their homes or bringing gifts. Some social taboos have also been presented.
Moreover, China’s cultural history is incredibly rich and offers numerous insights into its national psyche. China’s long history of dynastic changes, invasions, and internal conflicts has fostered a strong sense of resilience and adaptability. The ability to rebuild and innovate after periods of turmoil is a recurring theme.
Traditional Chinese culture places a high value on family and community. Confucianism, which emphasizes social harmony and respect for hierarchy, has deeply influenced Chinese social structures and relationships. China also has a long history of technological and scientific advancements, such as the invention of paper, gunpowder, the compass, and printing. This tradition of innovation continues to be a source of national pride.
My endeavour to introduce the various aspects of Chinese culture in Urdu was essential because the majority of Pakistan loves its ‘Iron Brother’ China but knows little about it.
—The writer, Retired Group Captain of PAF, is author of several books on China.
