ISLAMABAD: Literature and journalism are closely related; the messages in fiction and poetry written about Tehreek-e-Pakistan reached the common man, only through newspapers because at that time, editors of newspapers were mostly writers because of which literature has flourished, these views were expressed by Mahmood Sham while presiding over a discussion titled ‘Role of Journalism in Tehreek-e-Pakistan’ in connection with Independence Day celebrations, organised by the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL).

Intellectuals and journalists including Mujahid Barelvi, Dr Ayub Sheikh, Qasim Naseem, Amjad Ali Khadim and Shahida Sardar spoke on the occasion.

PAL Chairman Dr Yousuf Khushk said: “In the beginning newspapers and magazines regarding Tehreek-e-Pakistan played an important role in creating awareness in the nation as well as paving the way for the war of independence. The language and rhetoric of these newspapers aroused the spirit of the war against the British. TheIndependence Day celebrations have been organised under the auspices of PAL to provide awareness to the new generation about Tehreek-e-Pakistan. PAL will also publish the articles of the Independence Day talks in book form.”

Mahmood Sham said that after Tehreek-e-Pakistan, many writers remained editors of newspapers. “We should prepare articles on Pakistan according to new technology so that it can reach the new generation in the shortest possible time,” he added.

Mr Barelvi said: “Journalism is direct in literature. There was resistance in the newspaper articles; it cannot be seen in isolation from democratic movements.”

Dr Sheikh said that there has been a history of newspapers in Sindh, in which very important editors have published literature on Pakistan.

Mr Naseem said that there were two radios in Gilgit-Baltistan which were the sources of information for people about Tehreek-e-Pakistan. “Radio was thesource for people to listen to the voice of leaders and dignitaries. The telegram was also used as a source of information at that time, later a newspaper typed in English was produced,” he added.

Mr Khadim said that our elders sacrificed a lot to achieve freedom. Newspapers kept people informed through literary works and articles.

“The Urdu language and journalism are inseparable. Writers reflected national history in newspapers and highlighted the freedom struggle of Muslims,” Ms Sardar said.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2020