I HAVE thus far lived as plain ‘Mr Aziz’. Of late, my friends and acquaintances, based on some illusionary facets they see in my persona, have recommended that I add an appellation or prefix to my name. The suggestion is to choose between ‘Mian Sahib’ or ‘Maulana’.

Through the courtesy of this platform, I wish to reach out to the enlightened readers in seeking guidance on whether I can, without seeking any approval, choose between the two options, or a third one that might crop up from nowhere.

Those with legal minds and background may clarify if there is any statutory body from which I need to obtain prior permission in this regard. My personal inclination is towards adding Maulana to my name, making it ‘Maulana Aziz’ instead of ‘Mr Aziz’. Readers’ suggestion will help me greatly in taking the final decision.

Sirajuddin Aziz
Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 18th, 2022