PESHAWAR: Scholars, writers and devotees on Saturday paid homage to Abdul Rahman Baba at a seminar held in connection with the annual urs celebrations of the mystic Pashto poet.

Arranged by the Rahman Baba Adabi Jirga at a local hotel, the event served as a vibrant platform to explore the mystical depth and social relevance of Baba’s message in the contemporary era.

The seminar was presided over by the eminent scholar Prof. Javed Iqbal Khattak, chairman of the Pashto Department at Islamia College University, while MPA Asim Khan attended as chief guest.

Several distinguished figures including Malik Farhad Khan, the Peshawar division Salar of the Khudai Khidmatgar; Rashid Ahmed, former director of Radio Pakistan; and noted man of letters Anwar Khan Begukhel were seated on the stage.

The organising body included Malik Wazir Khan, patron-in-chief of the Rahman Baba Adabi Jirga and Atlas Gul, the Jirga’s president.

Addressing the seminar, the speakers highlighted that Rahman Baba was a poet of humanity whose verses transcend geographical and linguistic barriers. They noted that his Diwan remained the most widely read book in Pashtun households, serving as an essential guide for moral and spiritual conduct.

A significant highlight of the seminar was distribution of awards by the Rahman Baba Adabi Jirga among various literary figures in recognition of their services.

The recipients included M.R. Shafaq, Younas Sherpao, Atlas Gul , Gul Muhammad Betab, Qandahar Afridi, Dr. Irfan Khattak and Sikandar Khan.

Special commemorative awards were also presented to MPA Asim Khan and Dr. Javed Iqbal Khattak by Malik Farhad Khan for their dedication.

The intellectual session featured insightful research papers presented by renowned scholars including Syed Al-Amin Ahsan Kheshgi, Dr. Aslam Taseer, Dr. Hanif Khalil, Rashid Ahmed, and Fazal Momand.

The speakers delved into the philosophical nuances of Baba’s poetry, emphasising his role as a social reformer who preached the lessons of contentment and divine love.

The proceedings were moderated by Daud Khan Momand and Sheikh Noor Ali.

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2026