PESHAWAR: Poets paid glowing tributes to Iranian leader Ayatollah Syed Ali Khomeini at Khana-i-Farhang Islamic Republic of Iran Peshawar chapter, which stood as a beacon of cultural grace and intellectual warmth.

Within its hallowed walls, graced with the solemn dignity befitting the occasion, a luminous gathering unfolded — a poetry recitation in heartfelt homage to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Syed Ali Khomeini, seamlessly accompanied by the ceremonial unveiling of two significant literary works.

Presiding over the event was the eminent scholar and writer Prof Abaseen Yousafzai, whose presence lent profound intellectual weight and literary elegance to the proceedings. Iran’s Consul General, Mr. Ali Banafsheh Khah, graced the event as chief guest, while senior poetess Narjis Afroz Zaidi added her distinguished aura as guest of honour.

Prof Malik Arshad Hussain conducted the proceedings with characteristic finesse and courteous eloquence, guiding the flow of words and emotions like a seasoned maestro of the pen.

In his welcoming address, Iranian Consul General Ali Banafsheh Khah extended a warm cultural embrace to all guests including poets and writers. He spoke insightfully about both books and shared select Persian verses of Ayatollah Khomeini, beautifully rendered into Urdu, allowing the audience to savour the leader’s poetic and spiritual depth.

The first pinnacle of the function came with the unveiling of Tauqeer Kharal’s much-anticipated book ‘Rahbar-e Shaheed’.

Ali Banafsheh Khah, Prof Abaseen Yousafzai, Bushra Farukh, Narjis Afroz Zaidi and the author himself ascended the stage in solemn unity for the ceremonial launch.

Kharal then spoke with quiet passion, offering insights into his work — a tribute that blends historical reflection with heartfelt admiration for leadership tempered in sacrifice.

The second movement belonged to Tabinda Farrukh’s travelogue ‘Hisar-i- Ishq’ (fortress of love), a lyrical chronicle of her journey through the soul of Iran. Once again, the dignitaries gathered on the stage for the graceful unveiling.

Shamana Rabab and Rubina Moeen delivered perceptive commentary on the book and the author’s literary persona. Prof Malik Arshad Hussain then read the touching impressions sent by Justice (retd) Yahya Gilani, Sajjada Nashin of Shah Qabool Auliya, who could not attend due to ill health.

Tabinda Farukh concluded the segment with her own eloquent reflections, brimming with gratitude and insight.

The true soul of the evening lay in its poetry. Verses flowed like mountain streams from Kulsoom Zeb, Muhammad Mohsin, Khadim Ibrahim, Rabab Mahi, Dr. Shahida Sardar, Samina Qadir, Narjis Afroz Zaidi, Bushra Farukh, Prof Abaseen Yousafzai and others. Their couplets, rich with themes of divine love, resilience, spiritual admiration and cultural harmony, created an unforgettable tapestry of emotion within the Imam Khomeini Hall.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2026