Guest Info
Mahtab Akbar Rashdi is an esteemed educationist. She began her professional journey in 1973 by joining the Department of International Relations at the University of Sindh. From 2013 to 2018, she also served as a Member of the Sindh Provincial Assembly, where her bureaucratic acumen played a pivotal role in driving positive and progressive change.
Mahtab Rashdi actively participates in numerous scholarly bodies, forums, and social organisations, where she spearheads initiatives to empower women by educating them about their rights and promoting economic independence.
Her influence extends to various esteemed positions, such as Director of the Board of HUM Television Ltd., the National Academy of Performing Arts, and Green Star Social Marketing. She actively writes for various publications, including Sindhi, English, and Urdu journals and weeklies, covering diverse topics such as social issues, environment, international relations, and culture.
About the Show
In this episode of the Global Indian Podcast, Rajan Nazran ventures to Pakistan to meet Mahtab Akbar Rashdi, a Pakistani politician, TV anchor, educationalist, and human rights advocate who has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for women in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh.
Mahtab begins by sharing the remarkable story of her father, who defied societal norms and empowered his daughter. She provides insights into the socio-political landscape that shaped her upbringing, highlighting the influence of a literary and artistic environment on her personal development.
Rajan and Mahtab engage in a thought-provoking exploration of identity and the challenges she has faced as a Sindhi woman. She sheds light on how religion has influenced societal expectations and behaviour and how she stays grounded in her moral compass.
Mahtab’s deep friendship with the late Benazir Bhutto has profoundly impacted her life, showcasing Bhutto’s dedication to social change. As the podcast draws to a close, Mahtab reflects on the slow yet evolving progress for women and her contributions as a Sindhi within her political party. She also addresses the current state of affairs between India and Pakistan.
This open and honest conversation captures the essence of our changing times, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of personal narratives and the resilience of individuals striving for a better future.
Produced by Global Indian Series for the Global Indian Network.
Script by Rajan Nazran
original idea: Rajan Nazran
Introduction music: (Music credit: https://freesound.org/people/TheoJT/sounds/569783/)
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