ISLAMABAD: Minister for Science and Technology Shibli Faraz on Wednesday said Ahmad Faraz was a great poet of his time and his poetry covered the past, present and future.

During a prayer session held in collaboration with the literary and cultural organisation, Zawiyah, on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of Ahmad Faraz’s death, the federal minister said Mr Faraz’s poetry was a beacon for the times to come and especially for the new generation.

Before the prayer ceremony, PAL Chairman Dr Yousuf Khushk along with writers visited the grave of Ahmad Faraz in H-8 graveyard, laid a wreath and offered prayers.

Saadi Faraz, Dr Ehsan Akbar, Haleem Qureshi, Jamil Yusuf, Mohammad Hameed Shahid, Akhtar Usman, Anjum Khaliq, Mehboob Zafar, Haider Farooq, Khaliqur Rehman, Farrukh Jamal, Afshan Abbasi, Naeem Fatima Alvi, Bihar Ali Bihar (Swabi) and other writers, officers and staff of the PAL were present on the occasion. Later, a short prayer session was held for him at the academy’s conference hall.

Prof. Fateh Mohammad Malik said Ahmad Faraz was not only a great poet but a national hero. He always stood by truth and fought against exploitative forces, Mr Malik added.

PAL Chairman Dr Yousuf Khushk said Ahmad Faraz was the first head of PAL.

“He is still a popular poet and will always be popular. Undoubtedly, his poetry is a beacon for our new generation,” he added.

Published in Dawn, August 26th, 2021