PESHAWAR: Speakers at a literary function here on Thursday urged poets and writers to focus in their writings on character building of youth, who in return would make the nation strong to face future challenges.

They said that poets and writers could help to reform society through their writings. A large number of writers and poets attended the event, organised by the Peshawar chapter of Academy of Letters to honour noted writer Prof Izharullah Izhar.

Bilingual poet, critic and fictionist Prof Izharullah Izhar, also head of Urdu department of Islamia College University, has recently brought out his 25th publication.

Prof Zaigham Hasan presented a brief profile of Prof Izhar, saying his most popular books included Giraft, Barsaat Mein Parchiyan, Rata Ghuwaguno Kay Bangrhi Shrangawee and Lams Kay Khawab.

PAL arranges function to honour Prof Izharullah Izhar

He said that Prof Izhar gave an altogether new twist to haiku both in Pashto and Urdu. He said that Izhar’s poetry was reflective of his imaginative and creative flight.

Khan Badsha Nusrat, resident director of Pakistan Academy of Letters, in his opening remarks said that the last one-and-a-half years, PAL Peshawar chapter organised more than 40 events to celebrate literary services of local literati.

He said that Prof Izhar’s contributions to quality teaching, research and literature were great and sublime by many standards and deserved appreciation. He said that Prof Izhar’s contribution to both Pashto and Urdu helped to bridge the gap between the two languages.

The speakers said that Prof Izhar’s knowledge of literature and its significance in the society was matchless and therefore, hundreds of budding literati followed his vision to contribute positive thoughts to character building of youth.

Prof Abaseen Yousafzai, who chaired the function, said that he and Prof Izhar both joined the teaching service at the historic Islamia College Peshawar and also shared literary journey but the later excelled him in many ways.

He said that Prof Izhar already attained the status of a mentor, guiding young bards and scholars, and also motivated numerous students to carry on the legacy of the Islamians.

Prof Owais Qarni said that Prof Izhar became a metaphor substance and his writing whether poetry, prose, criticism, research or fiction always served as medley of romanticism and high seriousness.

Prof Fakhrul Islam, Kalsoomzeb, Prof Noorul Amin Yousafzai and Prof Ahmad Ali also spoke on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, July 1st, 2022