Why is it important to remember the month of September, 1965? One of the answers is: because we fought a war against India and our armed forces made us proud. That’s correct. Another answer is: it should (also) be remembered for the countless kind acts of Pakistanis to bolster the morale of their soldiers during the war. There were individuals and groups, hailing from virtually every sphere of life, who came out to help and support the soldiers in whichever way they could. In that regard, as mentioned in previous columns, the role of religious minorities, women and even children was no less significant. It is something that must be kept in mind if we are to progress as a nation.

On Sept 24, 1965 it was announced that, on that very day, thanksgiving prayers would be offered in Karachi and other parts of the country for the souls of those who laid down their lives in their motherland’s defence. Maulana Ehteshamul Haq Thanvi was requested to lead the prayers in the Sindh capital. The prayers were held at the Polo Ground (the venue would subsequently take centrestage for something related to the war, which will be discussed in the weeks to come). The Christian community too offered thanksgiving at St Patrick’s Church, and the All Pakistan Women’s Association did the same at their famous community centre Gul-i-Raana. To be honest, the kind of unity that was displayed in that difficult time period in the country’s 18 years of existence was unmatched, which is why it’s all the more significant to recall those days.

What were the journalists doing all this while? Well, like every other citizen, they were concerned for their country’s safety and had been substantially contributing to their respective newspapers (since at the time the ubiquitous TV channels had not taken over) not just by writing exemplary tales of bravery and sacrifice, but by taking some other important measures as well. For example, on Sept 21, the Karachi Press Club decided to raise its membership fee from Rs4 to Rs8 with immediate effect in order to raise money for the National Defence Fund. The extra four rupees would be charged till the emergency in the country was lifted. By the way, on Sept 23, according to media reports, a ceasefire was supposed to take place at 3am. It seems things did not pan out that way.

Like journalists, scholars were playing their part with no less dedication. On Sept 26, former Central Law Minister and renowned poet and writer A. K. Brohi attended a symposium organised by the Ideal Speaking Forum. Speaking to the audience he remarked that it was during national crises, such as the one Pakistan had to go through lately, sterling qualities of people were brought into full play; and it was firm faith in justice which ensured the success of a people over their adversary. Hard to disagree with that!

Let’s move away from events related to battlefield. In the month of September, the artist community of Pakistan suffered a great loss. The eminent radio artist, Abdul Majid, passed away on Sept 21. On Sept 26, the executive committee of the Pakistan Writers’ Guild condoled Abdul Majid’s death. Since Mr Majid, like a majority of artists, was not one who would run after material gains, the guild requested the government to provide his family a monthly allowance. It would be interesting to find out if the government paid heed to the request.

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...