Dear Muhammad Ali Talpur,

Thank you for having us in your studio. It was lovely to remember Lala Rukh and other mutual inspirations. What was most refreshing was the insightful discussion on art and creativity. I have been thinking about the word dhiyan, as you used it to describe what you do while making art. There are various expressions in English for the word: observation, attention or devotion, maybe. You said painting is not a meditative act for you.

If not meditation, then perhaps mindfulness. But what's the difference between the two? In the South Asian cultural context, meditation typically involves remembrance and concentration. It focuses on the purification of mind and soul that further promisess some reward — Jannah, Moksha or Nirvana (Paradise, Eternal Salvation and Enlightenment). It entails disciplined practice and leaves no room for negotiating the ultimate truth rather it facilitates finding one.

Mindfulness, on the other hand, is about being aware of one's self and surroundings and being sensible........

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