Abdul Rafay
KARACHI: A prestigious literary gathering was organised on November 9 at the Pakistan Academy of Letters, Karachi, to commemorate the birth anniversary of the great poet, philosopher and thinker Allama Muhammad Iqbal and to celebrate the birthday of renowned poet, writer and researcher Dr. Nuzhat Anees. The event was organised in collaboration with the Mohibban-e-Bhopal Forum and brought together prominent literary figures, intellectuals, scholars, poets and admirers of Urdu literature.
The gathering provided an opportunity to pay tribute to the remarkable intellectual legacy of Allama Iqbal, whose poetry and philosophical thought continue to inspire generations. Speakers highlighted the relevance of Iqbal's message of self-realisation, self-respect, spiritual awakening, determination, unity and the importance of knowledge in shaping individuals and societies.
Addressing the gathering, the speakers discussed various dimensions of Iqbal's poetry and philosophy, particularly his concept of Khudi (selfhood), his vision of an enlightened and progressive society, and his emphasis on intellectual freedom, moral values and the revival of Muslim identity. They observed that Iqbal's message transcends time and remains equally significant in addressing the intellectual, social and moral challenges of the contemporary world.
The speakers also paid special tribute to Dr. Nuzhat Anees on her birthday, appreciating her literary journey, poetic expression and valuable contributions to Urdu literature and research. They acknowledged her dedication to literary activities, intellectual pursuits and the promotion of knowledge and creative expression.
The speakers included prominent journalist and intellectual Mr. Mahmood Shaam, Dr. Farhat Azeem, Professor Anees Zaidi, Mr. Khalid Fatimi, Mr. Abid Sherwani, Dr. Nuzhat Anees, Professor Sajida Parveen, Mr. Iqbal Dahraj, Ms. Shagufta Farhat and Mr. Owais Adeeb Ansari.
In their respective addresses, the speakers shared their perspectives on the significance of Iqbal's literary and philosophical contributions and discussed the importance of preserving and promoting Urdu language and literature. They also appreciated the role of literary gatherings in providing opportunities for intellectual exchange, encouraging young writers and researchers, and strengthening the cultural and literary traditions of society.
The birthday celebration of Dr. Nuzhat Anees added a special dimension to the occasion, as fellow writers, scholars and literary personalities expressed their appreciation for her literary services and extended their felicitations and best wishes. Her poetry and research contributions were discussed with particular emphasis on their place in the contemporary Urdu literary landscape.
The event was attended by a large number of distinguished intellectuals, scholars, writers, poets and literary enthusiasts from different parts of Karachi. The gathering reflected the continuing interest of the city's literary community in Iqbal's philosophy and the promotion of Urdu literature.
The programme concluded as a memorable literary occasion, combining a tribute to the timeless message of Allama Muhammad Iqbal with an appreciation of Dr. Nuzhat Anees's literary and research contributions.
