PESHAWAR: Speakers at a function paid rich tributes to noted writer Abdur Rahim Majzoob and termed him a pioneer of romantic Sufism in Pashto owing to his intuitive nature and vast scholarship.

They said that being a polyglot, he was well-versed in several disciplines of literature, history, anthology, law, human psychology, Sufism and academic research.

The event was jointly organised by Pakistan Academy of Letters and Abaseen Foundation to mark the first death anniversary of known poet Abdur Rahim Majzoob. A large number of literati, intellectuals and research scholars turned up and expressed their views on the life and works of the late writer.

Speakers highlighted various aspects of life and contributions of Abdur Rahim Majzoob to Pashto and Pakhtuns at large as he had penned down several books and influenced a host of young generation of literati. They said that he introduced innovative thoughts in literary criticism and opposed conventional trends.

Speakers at a function ask young writers to conduct research on Abdur Rahim Majzoob

Prof Noorul Amin Yousafzai said on the occasion that Abdur Rahim Majzoob’s writings had several shades. He said that he had a unique style of expression laden with both substance and meaningfulness.

He said that that the late poet had a philosophical bent of mind so his approach remained different from his contemporary writers.

Prof Mohib Wazir in his paper pointed out that Majzoob, literally meant mendicant, was true to his poetic title because he believed in what he advocated in his writings. That’s why he explored his inner world and earned the title of the pioneer of romantic Sufism in Pashto literature. He was kind, generous and genuine in his convictions and practices, he added.

Saidul Amin Kheshgi said on the occasion that Abdur Rahim Majzoob was versatile literary figure but would always keep low profile. However, his poetry, prose and research treatises showed lofty thoughts and his varied tastes, he added.

Prof Zubair Hasrat said that many aspects of Majzoob were still hidden and young researchers should come up to dig them out. He stated that romantic Sufism was a vast subject that required critical analysis and young writers were expected to conduct research on it.

Prof Tariq Danish, Kalsoomzeb, Bakhti Rawan Umarkhel and Prof Qasim Mahmood also addressed at the event.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2022