What do you think?
Rate this book
Karachi Halwa
Why would Zia want to climb five floors of a hotel? Why did someone think Zia could fix his TV? Was Zia practicing urine therapy? What did Christopher Lee and Alyque Padamsee have in common?
KARACHI HALWA is a witty but insightful portrayal of Zia ul Haq’s rule in Pakistan. Ambassador Prabhu Dayal shares his recollections of that period and keeps you laughing throughout his account of the bumpy ride of Pakistan’s domestic politics and its relationship with India. He tells you how a Sahiwal cow was brought into the equation, and where an elephant comes in.
He says, ‘The past, the present and the future are in one continuous motion. Whatever I witnessed in Pakistan during Zia’s rule extends its long shadow not only over the present times but will do so well into the future also’. He poses the ultimate question whether the two South Asian giants can live as friends, offering his own suggestions.
KARACHI HALWA is a witty but insightful portrayal of Zia ul Haq’s rule in Pakistan. Ambassador Prabhu Dayal shares his recollections of that period and keeps you laughing throughout his account of the bumpy ride of Pakistan’s domestic politics and its relationship with India. He tells you how a Sahiwal cow was brought into the equation, and where an elephant comes in.
He says, ‘The past, the present and the future are in one continuous motion. Whatever I witnessed in Pakistan during Zia’s rule extends its long shadow not only over the present times but will do so well into the future also’. He poses the ultimate question whether the two South Asian giants can live as friends, offering his own suggestions.
204 pages, Paperback
Published December 28, 2015
34 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 14, 2016
It is a fantastic book by Mr.Dayal.I learnt a lot about General Zia and Pakistan.Mr.Dayal's narrative is lucid and interesting.The jokes added flavour to the book.His solutions on Indo-Pak disputes should be given a thought.
March 3, 2025
This book is a memoir by a diplomat's time spend in Karachi. This contains first hand account of the events observed by the author. But that eye is of an Indian diplomat. He has seen things through an Indian eye. However, in the ending chapter writer has given a sane advice for initiating talks to governments of both the countries.
June 13, 2016
A nice read. The author's writing style is very good. He mixes a slight amount of humor and sarcasm with his opinions. The book, however, is majorily about the politics / government situation in Pakistan. It was interesting to read about it because it felt like I was living there but then it went into history.
However, all that history stuff was too much for me finally. I was expecting a more personal touch, meaning more of personal experiences, what interactions he had, what he felt earlier and what he felt later on, situations that came up and how he tackled them. I guess a diplomat wouldn't open up much.
However, all that history stuff was too much for me finally. I was expecting a more personal touch, meaning more of personal experiences, what interactions he had, what he felt earlier and what he felt later on, situations that came up and how he tackled them. I guess a diplomat wouldn't open up much.
May 22, 2021
1. A good and relaxed 'lunch to dinner read' (a term invented by me for such kinds of book - it means you can start it post-lunch and finish before dinner.
2. The book is in the form of anecdotes by Prabhu Dayal mainly covering his stay in the Indian consulate at Karachi.
3. The book has gone beyond being a 'politically correct' portrayal of the India-friendly Pakistani public as per the personal experience of the author. It is evident through various events like:-
(a) Wish of a common Pakistani to teach a lesson to India for Bangladesh and 1971 humiliation.
(b) Celebration of the death of Indira Gandhi.
(c) Anti- India and anti-Hindu content in the school curriculum.
(d) Pervasive sadness in complete city on India's world cup victory.
4. The author has hit hard on the Islamization of politics and society initiated by Bhutto and pushed to a very high level by Zia.
5. The author depicted the clear variation in the approach of India and Pakistan in every aspect.
5. The author has concluded with few solutions to the animosity between India and Pakistan and is hopeful for peace in the future.
2. The book is in the form of anecdotes by Prabhu Dayal mainly covering his stay in the Indian consulate at Karachi.
3. The book has gone beyond being a 'politically correct' portrayal of the India-friendly Pakistani public as per the personal experience of the author. It is evident through various events like:-
(a) Wish of a common Pakistani to teach a lesson to India for Bangladesh and 1971 humiliation.
(b) Celebration of the death of Indira Gandhi.
(c) Anti- India and anti-Hindu content in the school curriculum.
(d) Pervasive sadness in complete city on India's world cup victory.
4. The author has hit hard on the Islamization of politics and society initiated by Bhutto and pushed to a very high level by Zia.
5. The author depicted the clear variation in the approach of India and Pakistan in every aspect.
5. The author has concluded with few solutions to the animosity between India and Pakistan and is hopeful for peace in the future.
January 30, 2018
Karachi Halwa is a noteworthy account of the author and his time in Pakistan. I personally enjoyed the initial bits of the book wherein his description of what Zia Ul Haq was like and the Pakistan under him is extremely insightful and amusing at the same time. The book also encompasses some very interesting incidents and popular jokes that went around in Pakistan in the mid 80s along with some instances of the shrewd and not-so shrewd political moves made by the different men who ruled Pakistan in that era and elucidates on some gaffes of Indian leaders as well. The biggest strength and skill of the author is how he has added a comical touch to the entire proceedings thereby making the read breezy and extremely enjoyable. The length of the chapters as well as the book itself is very short and took me one reading session to finish the same. Do definitely read this if looking for an Indian lens into a man who really lived in Pakistan for a few years.
Read
November 30, 2021The book is based on my experiences in Pakistan during my posting in Karachi in the early 1980's. Hope you like it.
May 21, 2020
A good,short and sweet book BUT......
The views put forth by the writer about engaging with pakistan in all kinds of discussions,developing people to people contacts,allowing Pakistanis to work in bollywood reek of the same cliche and useless thinking which has harmed India until now. If someone has to compromise,it is Pakistan. Writer says " it doesn't seem possible in near future but I hope everything becomes prosperous"
Saying this won't do enough!! Do not even wish this kind of thinking,nobody wants to befriend pakistan.
Pakistan needs to cede POK to us,destroy nuclear arsenal and should officially apologise to us,stop the Hindu hatred and stop sending terrorists across LoC.
If they do this for at least 10 years,only then we will think of forgiving them.
This spineless,brainless and wishful thinking has done uncalculable damage to India. Be willing not to compromise,but make them pay. The writer,needs to grow up.(Mentally ,ofcourse)
The views put forth by the writer about engaging with pakistan in all kinds of discussions,developing people to people contacts,allowing Pakistanis to work in bollywood reek of the same cliche and useless thinking which has harmed India until now. If someone has to compromise,it is Pakistan. Writer says " it doesn't seem possible in near future but I hope everything becomes prosperous"
Saying this won't do enough!! Do not even wish this kind of thinking,nobody wants to befriend pakistan.
Pakistan needs to cede POK to us,destroy nuclear arsenal and should officially apologise to us,stop the Hindu hatred and stop sending terrorists across LoC.
If they do this for at least 10 years,only then we will think of forgiving them.
This spineless,brainless and wishful thinking has done uncalculable damage to India. Be willing not to compromise,but make them pay. The writer,needs to grow up.(Mentally ,ofcourse)
May 7, 2022
It's a noteworthy account of the author and his time in Pakistan.
I personally enjoyed the initial bits of the book wherein his description of what Zia Ul Haq was like and the Pakistan under him is extremely insightful and amusing at the same time.
The book also encompasses some very interesting incidents and popular jokes that went around in Pakistan in the mid 80s along with some instances of the shrewd and not-so shrewd political moves made by the different men who ruled Pakistan in that era and elucidates on some gaffes of Indian leaders as well.
The biggest strength and skill of the author is how he has added a comical touch to the entire proceedings thereby making the read breezy and extremely enjoyable.
The length of the chapters as well as the book itself is nice & concise
I personally enjoyed the initial bits of the book wherein his description of what Zia Ul Haq was like and the Pakistan under him is extremely insightful and amusing at the same time.
The book also encompasses some very interesting incidents and popular jokes that went around in Pakistan in the mid 80s along with some instances of the shrewd and not-so shrewd political moves made by the different men who ruled Pakistan in that era and elucidates on some gaffes of Indian leaders as well.
The biggest strength and skill of the author is how he has added a comical touch to the entire proceedings thereby making the read breezy and extremely enjoyable.
The length of the chapters as well as the book itself is nice & concise
September 11, 2021
An indian Foreign Service officer fondly recalling his stint in Pakistan by the sweet famous dessert of Karachi Halwa, itself shows much about the great potential but sorry reality of Indo-pakistan bilateral relations
A light note single sitting book filled with occasional anecdotes of writer, this book is a happy insight into some of the crucial years in pakistan history' 1982-85, when General Jia's hardcore Islamisation was changing pakistan to its core and its effect was seen everywhere, from high class club going people to the poor unemployed destitutes of the country.
Nice read...go for it
A light note single sitting book filled with occasional anecdotes of writer, this book is a happy insight into some of the crucial years in pakistan history' 1982-85, when General Jia's hardcore Islamisation was changing pakistan to its core and its effect was seen everywhere, from high class club going people to the poor unemployed destitutes of the country.
Nice read...go for it
January 4, 2022
Karachi Halwa is a very popular Pakistani dessert. But the book " Karachi Halwa" had nothing to do with desserts but It is about the time that a young diplomat spent in Indian consulate in Karachi.
Sprinkled with a good dose of humour, the author, Prabhu Dayal, narrates the time he spent there between 1982 to 1985 in Pakistan under Zia-ul- Haq. It is during this time that Pakistan turned from a relatively liberal country to religion oriented dictatorship. Must have been a tough posting for a young diplomat.
He highlights the deterioration of the relationship between India and Pakistan over the years till 2015 and at the end suggests how it could be improved. Interesting read.
Sprinkled with a good dose of humour, the author, Prabhu Dayal, narrates the time he spent there between 1982 to 1985 in Pakistan under Zia-ul- Haq. It is during this time that Pakistan turned from a relatively liberal country to religion oriented dictatorship. Must have been a tough posting for a young diplomat.
He highlights the deterioration of the relationship between India and Pakistan over the years till 2015 and at the end suggests how it could be improved. Interesting read.
July 20, 2017
Bitrer Sweet Karachi Halwa
This book by Prabhu Dayal, makes for a breezy read. It is lucidly written memoir covering his stint in Pakistan as a diplomat. He brings out varied hues of Pakistan and enables a little better understanding of the enigma that Pakistan is. Recommended afternoon read.
This book by Prabhu Dayal, makes for a breezy read. It is lucidly written memoir covering his stint in Pakistan as a diplomat. He brings out varied hues of Pakistan and enables a little better understanding of the enigma that Pakistan is. Recommended afternoon read.
June 12, 2018
A book that solely focuses on years of Zia's rule through hilarious anecdotes. Short chapters glossing over multiple aspects of life in Pakistan through a diplomat's eyes posted in Karachi. Short and simple, makes for an excellent read over dessert (thus, appropriately named Karachi Halwa :P). Pakistani history (Zia's rule) kaa revision ho gaya. :). Zia ul Haq, may you rest in pieces. :D
December 1, 2019
Easy to read. At times entertaining but partisan book. Typical Indian offical attitude: Pakistan is completely nefarious and India absolutely right and righteous in everything.
If you’re bored read this book. Some nice jokes. If you want insight into Pakistan or how to improve relationship between the two brotherly enemies then read any official policy statement from the Indian government.
If you’re bored read this book. Some nice jokes. If you want insight into Pakistan or how to improve relationship between the two brotherly enemies then read any official policy statement from the Indian government.
August 5, 2024
The author’s anecdotes from his time in Pakistan paint a realistic picture of Pakistan and its relations with India. Coupled with jokes and a lot of witty remarks, the book is a fun read. The book also raises important questions about radicalisation of religion, the reach of media, school curriculum and more.
January 12, 2021
Being an ambassador to Pakistan Mr Dayal shows us the inner portrayal of General Zia ul Haq, then ruler of Pakistan. The book is full of laughter but sometimes you are forced to believe lies to laugh. A good read overall.
May 29, 2017
Interesting read and racy narration by Prabhu.......each chapter makes you to understand the days in Pakistan during dictator Zia and pakistans failure as a modern state...
August 27, 2017
Light reading yet informative. Gives a sneak peak into the political and diplomatic circles during Gen Zia s rule in Pak.
April 12, 2018
Good. But just scratches the surface
Could have put some more anecdotes of his stint in Pakistan. The chapters seem abrupt as if the author does not want to divulge much
Could have put some more anecdotes of his stint in Pakistan. The chapters seem abrupt as if the author does not want to divulge much
June 21, 2020
A short memoir on Pakistan. What makes it so good is that its breezy and keeps the pages moving. A snack rather than a wholesome meal.
June 26, 2021
Anecdotal, humourous and insightful
July 14, 2021
Excellent Book
One time readable. I enjoyed it a lot. Thanks for sharing knowledge about Mohenjo-Daro. Pakistan needs democracy with full independency.
One time readable. I enjoyed it a lot. Thanks for sharing knowledge about Mohenjo-Daro. Pakistan needs democracy with full independency.
January 1, 2022
The book started off well but soon shifted to an almost twitterisque tone of propaganda rampant with gossips and speculations.
February 8, 2016
The book provides interesting insights into the "happenings" and "mis-happenings" in Pakistan during Zia's regime. The narration is fluid and laced with humour. Mentions, like "President Zia may rest in pieces" and anecdotes, like the rejection of Mangoes by the Sri Lankan President, are used to drive home pertinent points and to portray the vitiated environment that was sustained over so many years. Despite the gloom and the doom and despite the traumas that the author suffered during his stay in Pakistan, the he ends the book on an optimistic note. He even provides for a prescription. Prabhu Dayal makes a strong and valid statement :"Wars begin in the minds of people, and children in Pakistan and India should not grow up perceiving each other as enemies whom they want to annihilate". This indeed is the crux of the matter. If the minds are trained, as they are, to hate each other, there can never be peace in the sub-continent. Well said, Mr Dayal.
August 12, 2016
a very livid account of days in pakistan under the regime of zia , which we see through a diplomats eye , the write style is very interesting and author also takes us to the journey of mohanjo daro which leaves us sad seeing the sorry state of affairs
Beyond the entertainment , it brings out frustration of a sincere diplomat who like all of us realises the great opportunity region is missing by this confrontational stance . He very colourfully portrays the gradual destruction of civil society in Pakistan and how Zia to get support made military so dominant in national affairs by handing over largesses to his select group of supporters
Beyond the entertainment , it brings out frustration of a sincere diplomat who like all of us realises the great opportunity region is missing by this confrontational stance . He very colourfully portrays the gradual destruction of civil society in Pakistan and how Zia to get support made military so dominant in national affairs by handing over largesses to his select group of supporters
January 26, 2016
Lots of anecdotes during the diplomat's stay in Pakistan. Get a good understanding of Zia's autocratic tenure and how the present extremism started to strike its roots. A good amount of Pakistan's geographical history which was part of erstwhile India before 1947. A fast read. Though in last it turns out to be a editorial of a news paper ( feels like added pages as a filler to finish the book). Apart from them its a wonderful read.
October 9, 2016
Light Reading on Indo - Pak Relationships
Quite a graphic account of Indo - Pak relationship both in diplomatic level as well as street level . Good light reading without getting into heavy political modalities.
Quite a graphic account of Indo - Pak relationship both in diplomatic level as well as street level . Good light reading without getting into heavy political modalities.
January 11, 2016
An incisive, delightful and humorous take on the author's diplomatic stint in Karachi, and his take on the vexed relations between India and Pakistan..
February 3, 2016
Karachi Halwa by Prabhu Dayal is a Great book. A great narration. A treat for the book lovers indeed !
December 26, 2016
A truly well written and informative book. Kudos to the writer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews