LAHORE: A literary sitting was held on Sunday at the Adabi Baithak, Alhamra Art Centre, The Mall, to mark the 111th birthday of late poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz.

A number of distinguished guests attended the sitting, including Faiz’s daughter and former head of the National College of Arts (NCA) Saleema Hashmi, Dr Arifa Syeda, singer Ali Zafar, actor and host Adeel Hashmi (also the poet’s grandson) Lahore Commissioner retired Captain Muhammad Usman and others.

The sitting also marked the reopening of the Alhamra Adabi Baithak, that was closed a couple of years ago because of the Covid-19 pandemic. During the closure, the place was also revamped by Alhamra administration.

A cake-cutting ceremony to mark the poet’s birthday was also held on the occasion.

Dr Arifa Syeda also spoke on Faiz and explored different aspects of his poetry.

Lahore Arts Council Board of Governors chairperson and Faiz’s daughter Ms Moneeza Hashmi on the occasion launched her book titled ‘Conversations with my Father’.

The book comprises letters Faiz wrote to Moneeza and the replies the daughter penned years after her father’s death. Adeel Hashmi recited Faiz’s poetry during the sitting.

Saleema Hashmi threw light on the history of Alhamra and mentioned the contribution of Faiz and other poets and writers in the gradual development of the institution.

Commissioner Mr Usman stressed the need for making serious efforts to create awareness among the youth about Faiz’s poetry, persona and ideas.

Singer Ali Zafar sang Faiz’s poetry.

Minister of State Azam Jamil also attended the literary sitting.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2022