LAHORE: The Lahore Arts Council (LAC) gave a tribute to humourist, education and diplomat Syed Ahmad Shah Patras Bokhari in a ceremony, titled Tumhein Yaad Ho Ke Na Yaad Ho.

In the ceremony, held at Alhamra Art Centre, Prof Fateh Muhammad Malik said that Bokhari produced significant works in the translation of English literary pieces into Urdu.

He had mastery over Urdu, English, Pashto and Persian from the very beginning. During his studies at the Government College Lahore, he served as the editor of its magazine Ravi. While pursuing higher education in Europe, he considered translating English literature into Urdu very important and encouraged others to do the same.

Syed Ayaz Bukhari mentioned that Patras Bukhari motivated his circle of friends for translation and compilation work. He recounted the journey of Patras and his life to the audience. He emphasized the need of a website for presenting his works to the world.

Alhamra Chairman Razi Ahmed stated that the real way to remember Patras Bokhari was to present his art to the new generation, acknowledge and appreciate his services, and that was what the arts council was doing.

In his remarks, Alhamra Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi said Patras Bokhari was an authentic reference in our literary history and his writings were still captivating readers’ minds like a fresh flower.

The ceremony highlighted Patras Bukhari’s achievements through various slides, featuring renowned literary figures and intellectuals.

It was informed at the ceremony that Patras Bukhari wanted Urdu to become a medium of instruction. He served as the director general of All India Radio (AIR) and held the position of principal at Government College Lahore. He never missed any opportunity for the promotion and development of Urdu and served as Pakistan’s delegate to the United Nations.

During his tenure as deputy secretary-general of the United Nations, he missed Lahore intensely.

Patras Bokhari passed away in New York due to a heart attack during his UN service. His book Mazameen-e-Patras Bokhari holds a prominent place in Urdu literature.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2025