KARACHI, June 14: The Karachi Gymkhana Library and its literary committee, held an evening with noted writer and poet, Jazib Qureshi, on Friday.

The well-attended event was addressed by writer and newspaper columnist, Azher hasan Siddiqui, Hussain Majrooh from Lahore, critic Rauf Niazi, Ms Rukhsana Saba and Raashid Noor, who did the compering.

Jazib’s work spreaded over more than fifty years, which included his memorable prose writings, such as ‘Pehchaan’, Shinasai and Takhliqi Awaz, Mr Noor said.

Azher hasan Siddiqui, while introducing the poet said, his first collection of poetry appeared in 1983, and he was the author of eight poetry collections and ten books on prose and critical essays.

Rauf Niazi read out pieces from his exhaustive article about Jazib’s life. He said Mohammad Sabir, later known as Jazib Qureshi, was born in Lucknow (India), came from a poor family and was only nine when his father died. The child worked for sometime at a workshop for a living, came over to Lahore in 1950, when he was ten and continued to work and learn, while devoted himself to teaching and column writing for newspapers, he said.

A creative poet of modern times, Jazib was a well read person and not wedded to any particular ideological school. His scholarly knowledge of classics made his critical writings more effective, Mr Niazi said.

Rukhsana Saba admired ‘multi-faceted Jazib’ for a successful career in all the literary fields.

Hussain Majrooh, a banker, apart from his love for poetry and satire, admired Jazib for his unending creativity.

Mr Majrooh, author of poetry collection ‘Kashid’ and a collection of satirical essays, ‘Martbaan’, said Jazib had carved out his own path in literature, with his commitment to culture, ‘literature and his creative zeal, patience and self confidence’.

A selfless and contended person as he was, he had introduced young talent in the literary field, Majrooh concluded.

Senior poet Raghib Moradabadi, who had recovered from a serious ailment, had also come to pay his compliments in verse, which he wrote, as usual, spontaneously. His sense of humour and ready wit never failed him despite his failing health.

Salman Siddiqui also read out his poem written for the occasion.

Nasim Gandhi, convener of the literary committee, thanked the guests.—Hasan Abidi