RAWALPINDI: Three-day photographic exhibition about the shrine of Imam Ali Raza began at Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) on Monday in connection with birth anniversary of the Imam.

The exhibition titled ‘Zer-e-Saya Khurshid’ was arranged by Rawalpindi Arts Council in collaboration with Khana Farhang Iran and NCLSW (Computer Literacy Shelter Welfare) and inaugurated by Director General Khana Farhang Iran (Iran Cultural Centre) Baraham Kiyan.

The exhibition was attended by a large number of people from twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Prominent among them are Naheed Manzoor, RAC Director Waqar Ahmed and Chairperson NCLSW Masooma Zahra Naqvi.

More than 76 photographs of the shrine of Imam Ali Raza and his sayings along with Quranic verses were put on display. The photographers captured the beauty of the shrine as well as the people.

In some pictures, the different parts of the building was presented with historical backgrounds and in others, the sayings of Hazarat Imam Ali Raza while the calligraphic work done on the walls of shrine was also highlighted.

Speaking on the occasion, Khana Farhang Director General Baraham Kiyan said that the exhibition was a gift for fans of Imam Ali Raza and love for family of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

He said that the exhibition would also strengthen the cultural ties between Iran and Pakistan. He said that both countries were tied in brotherhood and religious bonds and the exhibition presented the common culture of both countries.

He said the people to people contact between the two countries further enhanced the friendship. He said that the cultural centre was promoting love between the two countries.

RAC Director Waqar Ahmed said all Muslims need to be united to counter anti-Islam factions. He said that Imam Ali Raza revered by Muslims.

He said that photographs of the shrine and the culture of the Iran presented in the exhibition. He said that there was a need to promote harmony among the people through the respectable personalities sayings.

Mr Kiyan said that the exhibitions of art and culture were aimed at promoting the love and peace among the people and highlighting the common culture between the two countries.

Chairperson NCLSW Masooma Zahra Naqvi also spoke on the occasion.

The exhibition will continue for next three days.

Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2018