SOME people are visible, and so is their work. Others are visible, their work is evident, and they are accessible. However, there is a third category of individuals—those who are neither visible nor easily accessible, but their work speaks so strongly that their presence is felt regardless of their visibility. In the world of journalism, I found Arshad Zuberi to belong to this third category. And now, Arshad Zuberi is no longer with us.
Late Muhammad Ahmed Zuberi built a Taj Mahal in the field of journalism. While there may be larger media empires in Pakistan, his institution stood out. But how? This is both an intriguing and fundamental question. Many journalistic institutions in Pakistan emerge with great fanfare but often burn out like a flickering flame, their existence becoming irrelevant over time. In contrast, the Taj Mahal of Muhammad Ahmed Zuberi wasn’t a sprawling metropolis nor so small as to be overlooked—it was a captivating edifice, moderate yet significant.
When Aaj TV was established, the person most deeply involved with its core team was Asif Zuberi. Working at this institution, I observed distinct temperaments in the three sons of the late Muhammad Ahmed Zuberi. The eldest, Wamiq Zuberi, succeeded his father and carried a fatherly aura—always accessible, nurturing, yet maintaining an authoritative presence that prevented overstepping.
Asif Zuberi, whom I assumed to be the third in line, was more informal and approachable. In our interactions, he shared his experiences and insights, offering invaluable learning opportunities. Through him, I discovered the secret to the growth, stability and longevity of Muhammad Ahmed Zuberi’s journalistic empire.
Asif Zuberi explained the critical role of Arshad Zuberi in fortifying the foundation of the Business Recorder House. He revealed that the enduring success of any journalistic institution lies in one fundamental principle: journalism for the sake of journalism. If an institution operates to serve a specific ideology, political interest, or personal agenda, it undermines its credibility and professional foundation.
True journalism is an end in itself, and only institutions adhering to this ethos can sustain themselves with respect and integrity. This principle resonated with me even more after working in Media Malaise theory, emphasizing the importance of journalistic purity. Among the few institutions in Pakistan that understood and upheld this principle, Muhammad Ahmed Zuberi’s organization stood prominently.
Now, who was Arshad Zuberi in this legacy? He wasn’t just another pillar; he was the backbone of this Taj Mahal. Operating from behind the scenes, he ensured that the essential tasks were executed flawlessly. Whether inside or outside the office, Arshad Zuberi remained committed to his unique role, embodying the strength and intellect of the Business Recorder House.
Although it has been nearly two decades since I left the organization, Asif Zuberi’s words and demeanor remain fresh in my memory. However, the one person whose voice and tone I can’t precisely recall is Arshad Zuberi. Not because I didn’t interact with him, but because his words were always measured—neither one more nor one less than necessary. His interventions were only in areas directly under his purview.
Arshad Zuberi exemplified how institutions are kept alive and thriving. While others might have contributed to the vibrant activities of Aaj TV, Arshad Zuberi’s presence was subtle yet indispensable. He worked silently, diligently, and within his domain, leaving a legacy that now passes on to Ahmed Zuberi. Fortunately, Ahmed Zuberi had ample opportunity to work under his father’s guidance, preparing him to carry forward this remarkable legacy.
—This writer is former advisor to the president of Pakistan, author & mass media theorist.
(farooq.adilbhuta@gmail,com)
