Special Report
KARACHI: A luncheon was held to honor renowned poet and scholar Mahboob Zafar, who is visiting Karachi from Islamabad ahead of his upcoming 40-day trip to the United States. The event, hosted by Manzar Naqvi, Executive Editor of The Financial Daily and Secretary General of the Karachi Editors Club, brought together a close-knit group of friends, literary figures, and media professionals to celebrate Zafar’s exceptional contributions to Urdu literature and his lasting impact on the cultural scene.
The gathering provided a platform for a lively exchange of ideas on poetry, literature, and the broader cultural landscape of Pakistan. Mahboob Zafar, known for his profound verses and extensive scholarly work, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and engaged in discussions about the evolving trends in literature. He also shared details of his upcoming trip to the United States, where he is scheduled to participate in numerous literary events and connect with the Pakistani diaspora across different states.
Reflecting on the state of literature in Pakistan, Zafar underscored the importance of literature as a powerful means of cultural expression. He emphasized the need for continuous support and recognition of poets and writers, urging the literary community to foster a greater appreciation for their work. Zafar expressed his thanks to Manzar Naqvi for organizing the luncheon and acknowledged the significance of such gatherings in promoting intellectual exchange.
Throughout the event, various attendees and friends of Mahboob Zafar took the opportunity to speak, praising his contributions to Urdu poetry and literature. They acknowledged his unique role as a cultural bridge between Pakistan and literary communities abroad. Zafar’s body of work, they noted, has inspired a new generation of poets and scholars, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary Urdu literature.
One of the highlights of the event was a special moment when Nasira Zubairi, a renowned journalist, scholar, author, and poetess, presented her book Teesra Qadam to Manzar Naqvi at the conclusion of the gathering. The gesture was a symbolic reflection of the shared intellectual and literary camaraderie that characterized the event. Zubairi’s book, celebrated for its depth and literary finesse, was warmly received by Naqvi, highlighting the ongoing exchange of ideas among the attendees.
The gathering featured a diverse group of literary and media personalities, including Nasira Zubairi, Shaista Mufti, Rehana Rohi, Naina Adil, Aqeel Abbas Jafri, Shakil Jafri, Javed Saba, Saeed Sarbazi (President, Karachi Press Club), Mubasher Mir (President, Karachi Editors Club), Rafaqat, Ahmed Malik (Ex-President, Karachi Press Club), and Adil.
The luncheon concluded on a high note, with participants reflecting on the rich discussions and the rare opportunity to spend quality time with Mahboob Zafar and other distinguished guests. The event was a testament to the strong friendships and intellectual bonds that continue to unite Pakistan’s literary and media fraternity, underscoring the importance of community in the pursuit of cultural and intellectual advancement.
