Once a prominent journalist in Pakistan, Taha Siddiqui now resides in Paris, where he reflects on the stark contrast between his former life and his current reality. Siddiqui faced serious threats from his government due to his outspoken reporting on military affairs. Today, he manages The Dissident Club, a bar where his biggest challenge is handling the occasional unruly customer, a light-hearted acknowledgment of his transformed life since fleeing his homeland.
On a warm July evening, Siddiqui prepares his bar for the night ahead. His characteristic fedora and sly grin have become synonymous with his identity as a bartender. “It’s a personality thing for a bartender,” he explains, noting that the hat helps him stand out in the bustling Paris nightlife.
A Career in Journalism Filled with Peril
Siddiqui began his journalistic journey in 2006, initially working for local media before transitioning to international platforms like France 24 and The New York Times. His investigative work, particularly regarding the powerful military in Pakistan, earned him the prestigious Albert Londres Prize in 2014. However, this recognition came with significant risks; Siddiqui’s critiques angered the military, leading to escalating threats against his life.
Escaping Danger and Finding Refuge
In 2018, Siddiqui’s life took a dramatic turn when he was violently ambushed while heading to Islamabad Airport. A group of assailants attempted to abduct him. With remarkable courage, he escaped by leaping into traffic and finding safety in a passing taxi, ultimately reaching a police station. This harrowing incident marked the beginning of his exile, as he and his family sought safety in France.
Reflecting on his past, Siddiqui describes a profound division in his life: “There is my life before exile and my life after exile.” His bar serves as a constant reminder of that traumatic experience, a place where he channels his memories into building a supportive community.
The Dissident Club: A Haven for Exiles
Establishing The Dissident Club was Siddiqui’s response to the isolation that often accompanies exile. This bar in Paris serves as a gathering point for journalists, activists, and others who have fled oppressive regimes. Siddiqui understands the emotional toll of exile, stating, “You become very depressed,” which motivated him to create a space that fosters connection and camaraderie among those who share similar experiences.
Building a Supportive Community
Edward Said, a Palestinian American scholar, once remarked that exile is a profound rift between an individual and their homeland. Siddiqui’s bar counters this isolation by becoming a refuge for figures such as Russian journalist Daria Timchenko and Afghan journalist Mariam Mana, both of whom have faced peril in their respective countries. The Dissident Club provides a vital support network, where exiled journalists can find solace in shared stories and experiences.
Inside the bar, the atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, with eclectic decor, including a dartboard surrounded by images of authoritarian leaders. A neon sign proclaims, “Where Dissidents of the World Meet,” encapsulating the essence of the establishment. Siddiqui’s motto for his patrons is straightforward: “Eat! Drink! Rebel!” This mantra unites those who gather, sparking conversations about freedom and resistance.
A Unique Experience and Cultural Exchange
Beyond serving drinks, The Dissident Club hosts various events, including live music and discussions on human rights. Siddiqui draws inspiration from historic Parisian cafés, which have long been hubs for intellectuals and artists. His graphic novel, The Dissident Club: Chronicle of a Pakistani Journalist in Exile, is prominently displayed, bridging his past and present.
The bar serves as a crucial outlet for exiled journalists to express their thoughts and emotions. As guests enjoy their drinks, they often find themselves forming friendships over shared struggles. Siddiqui’s empathy and welcoming nature encourage patrons to feel at home, fostering bonds that extend beyond the bar’s walls.
On a warm July evening, Siddiqui prepares his bar for the night ahead. His characteristic fedora and sly grin have become synonymous with his identity as a bartender. “It’s a personality thing for a bartender,” he explains, noting that the hat helps him stand out in the bustling Paris nightlife.0
On a warm July evening, Siddiqui prepares his bar for the night ahead. His characteristic fedora and sly grin have become synonymous with his identity as a bartender. “It’s a personality thing for a bartender,” he explains, noting that the hat helps him stand out in the bustling Paris nightlife.1