PESHAWAR: A heartwarming literary evening titled Shaam-e-Mulaqaat was organised at the Haq Baba Auditorium, Abasin Hospital, under the joint auspices of the Syndicate of Writers Pakistan and Horizon to celebrate the outstanding literary and cultural contributions of internationally acclaimed poet, fiction writer, playwright and columnist Prof Nasir Ali Syed.

Retired Justice Syed Yahya Zahid Gilani, Sajjada Nashin of Astana-e-Aliya Syed Shah Qabool Awliya, presided over the event, which attracted an impressive gathering of eminent poets, writers, scholars, journalists, intellectuals and literary enthusiasts from across the region.

Eminent poet Prof Zaigham Hasan conducted the proceedings with remarkable grace and eloquence.

A distinguished panel of speakers, including internationally acclaimed psychiatrist Prof Khalid Mufti, renowned poets Mushtaq Ahmad Shabab, Yusuf Aziz Zahid, Prof Sohail Ahmad, Dr Noor Hakim Jilani, Aziz Aijaz, Dr Khadim Hussain, Saeed Paras, Prof Asma Tahir and Dr Ali Ehsan Mufti, attended as guests of honour and paid glowing tributes to the celebrated literary figure.

Speakers highlight writer’s multi-faceted literary achievements

In their insightful speeches, the speakers highlighted Prof Nasir Ali Syed’s lifelong contributions to Urdu literature, fine arts, regional culture and community development.

They particularly acknowledged his international literary stature, intellectual depth and remarkable personal qualities, describing him as a humble scholar whose influence extends far beyond the literary world.

Several fellow poets also presented heartfelt poetic tributes, celebrating his multifaceted literary legacy and enduring artistic achievements.

In his presidential address, Mr Gilani praised Prof Nasir Ali Syed’s exceptional qualities, scholarly acumen and immense contributions to literature and the arts.

He also commended the organisers for establishing a commendable tradition of recognising and celebrating distinguished personalities during their lifetimes.

He observed that honouring literary icons while they are still actively contributing to society sets a positive and inspiring precedent for future generations while promoting respect for knowledge, creativity and cultural values.

In his address, Prof Nasir Ali Syed expressed profound gratitude to the organisers, guest speakers and participants for arranging the event in his honour.

He also delivered an engaging discourse on a range of social, academic, cultural and philanthropic issues.

Emphasising the transformative power of creative literature and the arts, he highlighted their vital role in promoting social harmony, critical thinking, humanism and ethical values in contemporary society.

Special messages of appreciation were also read out on behalf of prominent literary personalities Nusrat Naseem, Maryam Khan and Engineer Atiqur Rehman, who were unable to attend the gathering due to prior commitments.

As a gesture of appreciation, the organisers presented a commemorative shield to Justice (retd) Syed Yahya Zahid Gilani in recognition of his presence, leadership and continued patronage of literary and cultural activities.

Published in Dawn, November 8th, 2026