KARACHI: On the second day (Saturday) of Jashn-i-Bahar, held at the PMA House, the pre-noon session was allotted to children, including toddlers, who had gathered to listen to stories narrated by the elders. The first to narrate a story was Dr Aslam Farrukhi. His story, in fact the real historical account about the Moghal King's own elephant Maula Bax Haathi, was attentively listened by the children who had cared less regarding an inclement hot weather.

Sayyeda Naqvi recited poems, including one from Ibne Insha, for children. These poems are popular among juniors.

Ms Humera Khaleeque had adopted two stories from Kashmiri folk tales which were liked by the young listeners.

Another story from Zahra Nigah, a well known poet, was described by Sayyeda Naqvi, after which the session concluded.

As examination at various schools are continuing and also the new lot of children, seeking admission in better schools, is being kept busy in learning basics, the attendance at the PMA House gathering was rather thin. Some writers also did not turned up.

A day earlier (Friday evening), a book reading session was held. Well-known poet Ms Shaheda Hasan read out part of a chapter from Pardey se parliament tak (OUP), a fascinating auto-biography of the late Begum Shaesta Ikramullah. It was a fine selection, depicting transition in the life of the child Shaesta admitted to an English school despite tough opposition from close relatives, sporting school uniform, and appearing in the open hesitatingly.

Later, an informal mushaira was held, mostly participated by young poets. Ramzi Aasim, Inaam Nadim, Khursheed Alam, Naveed Sarosh and Mahvish Noor - a talented schoolgirl - were some of them. Ramzi Aasim recited the following.

Mujh me khushboo basi usi ki hai

- Saher Ansari

Fatema Hasan recited verses for her newest poetry collection Yaaden bhi ab khaab huen released during the poetry session by Scheherzade. Shaheda Hasan did the compering. -HA