About me

Introduction	I am a zealot for moderation. Being a moderate is belonging to the Qur'anic ideal of the "Middle Nation." This middle ground can be reached only through intellectual honesty. I cannot stand double standards. I would not mind being remembered as a Muslim American gadfly. I am a freelance writer published in the Chicago Tribune and other newspapers. I am author of a well regarded book "The Seven Phases of Prophet Muhammad's Life" and have contributed articles to books like "Opposing viewpoints" and "Muslims in America: opportunities and challenges" I am inspired by the Qura'nic ideals and their interpretation by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). My parents lived the ideal I am dreaming for and gave to others without a frown or expectation of recognition. I hope I can be half as generous.
Interests	I love reading a good book, watching a complex thriller, Sherlock Holmes, Monk, Urdu spy novels (Jasoosi Dunya) I love writing, South Asian cricket, American football, MJ's Bulls and a cup of Hyderabadi chai. I keep busy with a Muslim American think tank ISPI, of which I am a founder member. The think tank has the goal of being a bridge between Muslim Americans and the rest of the US society. I am also a founder member of a group AMPI that is funding two hospitals for the indigent in India.
Favorite movies	Gur Dutt movies from the 80's
Favorite music	Indian semi classical and qawwali.
Favorite books	Recently "Lost History" by Hamilton Morgan, "Dreams of my father." "The Mind al-Qur'an builds" "the Venture of Islam" urdu novels like "ek aag ka darya hay aur doob ke jaana hai" and Faiz and Mirza Ghalib's poetry.