Business made these men from across border friends

About 12 years ago, when Steve Miranda, originally from Kara-chi, Pakistan, began his career as a director in his brother's production design company, he never thought an Indian col-league of his would become one of his best friends.
Steve, who loves watching Bollywood movies and relishing pav bhaji (an Indian street food), considers Chris Merritt - an Indian who joined the Lighthouse company as an entertainment and project manager - as his "younger brother".
Apart from perceived political differences, "there are no differences", said Steve. "We are so much alike and I don't see any differences between Indians and Pakistanis. As far as my friendship with Chris is concerned, he is family now. My wife takes care of him like a brother. We go out for dinners and meet on every festival or occasion," said Steve. "I have so many Indian friends in the UAE and I really want to visit India. I want to see Mumbai, Goa and Delhi. I applied for a visa twice, but it was declined. Let's hope I get it next time."
The duo bonds over business, music and food. Chris said: "I have never been to Pakistan but I can feel it through Steve. He is lively, always smiling and a very positive person. I was so touched when he and his brother presented me with a very special gift on Easter."
This across the border friendship is just one among many in the UAE.
Another duo has been running a bike riders cafe in Dubai since 2013. Their mutual passion for bikes and coffee brought them together. Murtaza is a British Pakistani, while An-war Hussain is an Indian. The duo met at a Harley David-son showroom a few years ago. "It was by sheer coincidence that I met Anwar. His knowledge for bikes re-ally fascinated me and we decided to start this cafe," said Murtaza.
Recalling his childhood days, Murtaza said: "My father is from Karachi and my mother from Mumbai. I used to go to India for vacations and found that India was just like Pakistan - there is no difference at all. I believe strongly that this stereotype hatred should end and we should move forward in life."
ankita@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai