LAHORE: In an online discussion on Faiz Ahmed Faiz in connection with his death anniversary, Urdu scholar in Moscow Dr Ludmila Vasilyeva and Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra threw light on different aspects of the iconic poet’s works and personality on Friday.

The moderator of the programme, Aaj Tum Yaad Be-Hisaab Aye; Remembering Faiz on his death anniversary, was Aleem Zubair. It was organised by Joy of Urdu, an online platform dedicated to Urdu literature.

Dr Vasilyeva who joined the online discussion from Moscow termed Faiz the identity of Urdu poetry. She said he was also a journalist of great stature with an extensive body of work as the editor ofThe Pakistan TimesandImroze. She said besides poetry, Faiz wrote a great deal of prose as well, including thought-provoking articles and prefaces to books. In this regard, she quoted an example, saying that Faiz had written the preface to Iftikhar Arif’s first poetry collection, titled Mehr-e-Dou Neem.

Dr Vasilyeva said Faiz knew the power of culture and cultural identity that’s why he always laid emphasis on culture and values. She said Faiz also worked on the cultural front and he worked for the Lok Virsa, introduced a number of folk artistes and held many notable art exhibitions. She said Faiz was also awarded with Lenin Peace Prize in 1962 and in Russia he used to have many literary sittings with writers and intellectuals.

She said that Faiz had a great sense of humour, was witty and could win the hearts of people easily.

Dr Arfa Sayeda also threw light on Faiz, saying he always talked about life and was never disappointed with circumstances. During the conversation, she also recited some of Faiz’s verses from the poem Sar-i- Wadi-i-Sina.

Published in Dawn, November 21st, 2020