JHELUM: Writers, intellectuals, poets and political figures paid tribute to the late Senator Irfan Siddiqui at the launch of Irfan Bhai Aur Mein, a book lover authored by renowned educationist and writer Dr Shahid Siddiqui, at Book Corner Jhelum.
The ceremony brought together prominent literary and intellectual personalities to reflect on the life, personality and multifaceted contributions of the veteran Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senator, writer, poet, playwright and columnist, whose services to literature, journalism, education and public life left a lasting mark on Pakistan’s intellectual landscape.
Speaking on the occasion, the author said the book sought to bring to light lesser-known aspects of Irfan Siddiqui’s personality while documenting his remarkable journey as a teacher, playwright, columnist, poet and parliamentary leader.
He highlighted Siddiqui’s perseverance, tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to his ideals, describing his life and work as a valuable part of Pakistan’s literary and intellectual heritage.
The book is divided into two parts. The first presents Dr Shahid Siddiqui’s personal memories and experiences of Irfan Siddiqui, offering insights into his character, intellectual outlook and personal relationships. The second features a selection of Siddiqui’s columns, poetry and dramas, bringing together different facets of his literary and creative work.
Senior PML-N leader Senator Pervez Rashid said Dr Shahid Siddiqui’s book was unique because it brought to light previously unexplored aspects of Irfan Siddiqui’s personality. He said Senator Siddiqui had faced difficult circumstances with great courage and resilience. Mr Rashid said Irfan Siddiqui was lover of Nature and a born humanist.
Praising his literary style, he said Ghalib was admired for his brevity of expression, a quality that was equally evident in Irfan Siddiqui’s writings.
Referring to his columns on contemporary politics, Mr Rashid said he coined political epigrams and phrases also. He paid tribute to Irfan Siddiqui as a teacher who was extremely loved and followed by his students now enjoying high positions in different departments.
Dr Najeeba Arif, former chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, said the book could be classified as a work of memoir. She observed that Irfan Siddiqui was driven by a strong commitment to strengthening the foundations of every field in which he worked.
Gagan Shahid thanked participants for paying tribute to Irfan Siddiqui, adding that late Siddiqui was a mentor who guides us to improve the standards of publications of books.
The publication also includes excerpts from the writings of Arshad Malik, speechwriter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a longtime disciple of Irfan Siddiqui, adding a personal and reflective dimension to the account of the late senator’s life and legacy.
Published in Dawn, October 13th, 2026
