ISLAMABAD, Jan 14: Writers and intellectuals of the capital on Sunday showered glowing tributes on a renowned progressive writer, journalist and poet, Anwar Pirzado, who passed away last week. The condolence meeting was arranged by the Pakistan Intellectual Forum (PIF), at a local hotel.

A resolution was also adopted calling upon the authorities to name a road in the federal capital after this “legend of Sindh,” as a tribute.

It also referred to him as one of those “eminent personalities who should serve as an example for future generations, as Anwar (Pirzado) was an exceptional social reformer, social scientist and crusader of his own style,” according to a press release, issued here by the PIF.

Speaking on the occasion, renowned researcher on the Indus Valley Civilization, Asadullah Mungrani, said Pirzado was an embodiment of Sindhi wisdom and such people occupied a “cherished place in people’s hearts and reign over their minds.”

Dr Haider Sindhi said Pirzado was a source of inspiration and reference for many youngsters from his home in Larkana district to land in the domain of English journalism and research on the Sindhi language and literature. He would compel readers like me to anxiously wait for his write-ups and weekly ‘Sindhi Press Review’ in daily Dawn, he added.

“He was born at a walking-distance from the historic site of Indus Civilization, Moenjodaro, and was in true and intense love with the site, its ruins and Indus legacy,” Dr Haider observed.

Aftab Soomro shared fond memories of the late Pirzado with the audience and said that he was an ever-smiling man. “The more the challenges, the more transparent smile on his face,” he added.

Hashim Abro of PIF said Pirzado was a man of conviction, communication, collaboration, and commitment and because of these virtues he would always be remembered by those who either worked with him or were his regular readers, both in English and Sindhi.

Mr Abro said Pirzado was the most eminent Sindhi renaissance poet, critic, essayist, philosopher and researcher on Sufis and saints, in particular, on Shah Abdul Lateef Bhittai adding, “Anwar-like legends never die.”

Other who spoke on the occasion were Dr Iqbal Ahmed Dogar, Dr Qasim Rind, Bhajandas, Sajjad Wagho and Vijish Kumar.—Our Reporter