General Rani: The Mistress Who Ruled Pakistan from the Shadows

Words by Afifa Shahid

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This is a rare vintage poster for the National Dance Ensemble from Pakistan when they made their grand debut performance in New York City in 1973 at the Hulu Theatre in Madison Square Garden. The show featured celebrated Kathak dancer Nahid Siddiqui who rose to fame in the 70s but in the late 70s, martial law was declared in Pakistan and dancing was banned. She left Pakistan and relocated to London but was told she couldn't dance anywhere in the world without the permission from the government of Pakistan. Siddiqui defied these rules though and continued to dance. "How can you ban beauty?" asked Siddiqui. (Available now as print)

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General Rani: The Mistress Who Ruled Pakistan from the Shadows

General Rani's rise from the constraints of a tumultuous marriage to the inner sanctums of Pakistan's power corridors epitomized the complex interplay of ambition, influence, and secrecy. Her life story, filled with covert dealings and concealed power, remains a fascinating and mystifying chapter in the nation's history, marked by her hidden yet profound impact on politics and policy.