Why it's great for some of us to be in Pakistan

This has been a very fraught week with our neighbours and possibly it might not seem the ideal time to be in Pakistan for lectures and book launches. But, in reality, despite the angry noises being made on both sides, there is a lot to be said about doing a literary tour, as we are! Especially since through this we get to interact with those who are interested in our joint cultural heritage, and other issues not necessarily to be fought over, though certainly healthily debated. The contrast between our discussions, held in the public space, and what is perceived to be happening in terms of militancy is interesting, but we should not make the mistake of thinking that the political atmosphere has to improve before any interactions begin. How can that be possible when we have so much of shared history?

We have found, thankfully, that there are still enough people who believe in toning down the rhetoric and exploring how we can escape the stereotypical "tutumainmain". We are at present inured from the hawks, and enjoying the gracious, well renowned Pakistani hospitality. (and I can almost hear some misguided souls back in India trembling with righteous rage, asking why we should be cavorting in the arms of the dushman! The reality, dear friends, is that this is possibly the best time to be here).

Besides, there is a growing suspicion that our two present prime ministers are genuinely interested in peace, even though there could be many roadblocks ahead. Peace is always a tenuous process to be negotiated over and over again, as the dangers loom from many directions. Thus as we drive around the beautifully planned, well spread out and large Pakistani capital city of Islamabad, most of us know that the fear of another Peshawar attack looms large. How can we not sympathise? Pakistan has suffered almost as much as India as a result of terrorism. One can only judge from the high security zones and the barbed wire that runs, sadly, even along the walls of schools and colleges. And in the way that those who can afford it ensure they only drive bullet proof cars.

Yet, even if the mistakes of the past cannot be erased, can we at least find new solutions ahead? Enjoy the common grounds we share and build on it?

Empathy for Pakistan does have space to grow, as apart from sharing language, food, clothes, we now share fears.

On a lighter note, we also share a common love for Indian cinema... and how can you not enjoy a bond with those who enjoy our very South Asian style of melodrama, spiced with songs?

Even as charges and counter charges are exchanged, and each country accuses the other of terrorism, Bollywood remains possibly the single most unifying force. Not only do newspapers in Pakistan discuss Bollywood gossip far more seriously than in India, we have found that in most shops, restaurants or homes, the music tinkling out will be from Hindi films. And the first question anyone asks is whether you have seen Bajrangi Bhaijaan.

They also tell you how people cried and laughed while watching it.

After all, they will say, we are the same, and it's the politicians that divide us.

So if anyone questions us about our present book tour, can't we say we are trying to turn the page?