KARACHI: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi has celebrated the 90th birthday of renowned fiction writer, dramatist and poet Asad Muhammad Khan at Hasina Moin Hall.

Arts Council president Ahmed Shah, Zahra Nigah, Iqbal Latif, Shahid Rasaam and Mubeen Mirza addressed the event while writer and poet Iftikhar Arif expressed his views online from Islamabad.

Iftikhar Arif said: “When I joined the Radio Pakistan, I met Asad Bhai. His voice used to be very melodious. It was through his poem that I was introduced to him. A few people know that Asad Bhai writes very fast.”

Zahra Nigah said: “I don’t say that I know Asad Muhammad Khan. When I read one of his stories, I thought that he is such a good writer, his more stories should be read. He also shows good qualities in writing songs.”

On this occasion, Ahmad Shah said: “The stories, novels, dramas and songs written by Asad Khan have become immortal. It is a treasure for us to have him. We wish to celebrate his 100th birthday as well.”

Expressing his thoughts, Mubeen Mirza said that the gathering belonged to a few people whose names should be taken individually because they represented our literature.

Iqbal Latif said: “Credit goes to Asad Muhammad Khan for introducing Umar Sharif on PTV. There is no one in the country at this time like him.”

Asad on the occasion said: “I cannot express my happiness. I am grateful to the Arts Council president for honouring me and my family. “

A musical evening was also held in which singer Shahzeb sang Asad’s famous song ‘Anokha Ladla’ and forced the audience to dance. Everyone present there cut Asad ‘s birthday cake together.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2022