KARACHI: Renowned writer and journalist Sheen Farrukh passed away in Karachi on Thursday. She was 83.

Ms Farrukh was born in Gujranwala in 1938. She obtained her master’s degree in geography from the University of Punjab, Lahore, after which she joined journalism. She worked with Akhbar-i-Khawateen, an Urdu magazine, for the longest period as a journalist and remained with it until retirement.

She was the author of many books, including a biographical novel on artist Ali Imam Madaar and an autobiographical book Jeeney Ka Jurm. Two other notable publications were Kari Zakhm, a collection of research essays on honour killing based on her field work, and Nai Dunia Purani Dunia.

Talking to Dawn, poet and writer Attiya Dawood said: “I had known Sheen Farrukh for the last 35 years. She was a dignified woman who led an independent life, never became a burden on anyone. All her life was spent struggling for a variety of causes.

“After a personal difficult period in her life, she came to Karachi from Punjab and stayed at YMCA hostel. She then taught at Islamia College, after which she joined Akhbar-i-Khawateen.”

Ms Dawood added: “Here in Karachi she befriended individuals such as Mahnaz Rehman and Anis Haroon. She also set up Inter Press Communication which enabled her to do a lot of work. She was an art lover, a progressive person whose friends were her only Sarmaya (wealth).”

Prof Dr Syed Jaffer Ahmed said: “She was a person who was full of life, very cultured, very civilised. She was fond of art and music and was an activist. As a journalist she worked with a lot of heart and courage.”

Sheen Farrukh’s funeral prayers were held after Asr at Bilal Masjid, Journalist Colony, Gulshan-i-Iqbal. She was laid to rest in the Bakhar Gabol Goth graveyard near Chappel Garden, Gulshan-i-Iqbal.

Published in Dawn, June 18th, 2021