BATKHELA: Speakers at a literary event here on Sunday called upon the poets and writers to highlight the issues of poor in their writings.

They said that some poets preferred popular poetry to get attention of people but such writings lived for a short time owing to lack of substance and creativity for a cause.

They were addressing the launching ceremony of newly-published Pashto book ‘Poona Poona Stori’, written by young poet Nasir Amin. Mrstial Leekwal, a literary organisation, conducted the event at a local wedding hall.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of poets, writers and local elders.

Senior writer Prof Aseer Mangal, who chaired the event, said that the new book carried a positive message with a cause for social change.

He said that Nasir Amin shed light on various social issues so he could be termed a distinct voice among his contemporary poets from Malakand known for progressive thoughts.

Dr Alikhel Daryab in his paper said that the new Pashto poetry title would create a stir among the readers and upcoming poets.

He said that the poet used simple diction and metaphors to highlight the problems of people. He added that such poetry would stay for long.

Prof Abaseen Yousafzai said on the occasion that the poetry of Mr Amin was reflective of plight of his own land and people.

He said that such poetry remained alive in the heart of people as it translated their inner voices and wishes, which they couldn’t express otherwise.

The event was divided into three sessions. The first session was devoted to book launch, second was specified for reading out of papers and recitation of poetry while the third session was devoted to music in which noted Pashto singers Tariq Hussain, Zafar Iqrar and Wisal Khial sang numbers of Nasir Amin’s maiden poetry collection.

Bakhti Rawan Umarkhel, Advocate Attaullah Jan, Usman Olyasyar, Prof Hanif Qais and Aziz Manirwal also addressed the event.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2019