Syed Shams Uddin Paulownia: The Fastest-Growing, Fire-Resistant Wonder Tree A compelling Facebook post recently caught my attention, highlighting the extraordinary characteristics of Paulownia—a tree renowned as the fastest-growing species in the world. What intrigued me even more was its exceptional fire resistance, making it a uniquely valuable timber source. This prompted me to delve into its significance. This remarkable tree called Paulownia in English has repotedly gained global recognition for its rapid growth, with some species exceeding six meters in a single year. Beyond its speed, its wood is both lightweight and remarkably strong, making it highly desirable in industries such as shipbuilding, aviation, furniture manufacturing, and musical instrument production. What sets Paulownia apart is its fire-resistant nature, a crucial factor in construction and industries where durability and safety are paramount. Its straight, knot-free trunk enhances its commercial appeal, e...
By Syed Shams Uddin Abdul Sattar Edhi was a beacon of hope, compassion, and selfless service in a world often divided by wealth, status, and power. Born in 1928 in Bantva, Gujarat (British India), he migrated to Pakistan after Partition in 1947. It was in this newly formed nation that he embarked on a journey that would ultimately transform countless lives and earn him the title of the ‘greatest humanitarian’ Pakistan has ever known. Edhi’s life was one of unparalleled dedication to the welfare of humanity. When he arrived in Pakistan, he saw immense suffering and destitution. With meager resources but an unshakable resolve, he set out to make a difference. He started by purchasing a small room in Karachi, which he converted into a dispensary, providing medical assistance to the needy. Witnessing the scale of poverty and the lack of healthcare services, he expanded his work and founded the Edhi Foundation in 1951, which would go on to become the largest and most trusted philanthropic o...