PESHAWAR: Poets and writers gathered here on Friday to laud noted Pashto poet Manzar Faryadi for his immense contribution to folk literature.

The event was held at the regional office of Pakistan Academy of Letters here the other day.

Poets, writers and fans of the octogenarian poet attended the function. The event was arranged under the banner of Anwaria Literary and Cultural Organisation (ALCO).

Pashto film director Aziz Tabassum Kalsoomzeb, Mohammad Riaz, deputy director sports, were also among the attendees.

Literati asked the provincial culture department to honour the senior Pashto poet as he had 18 poetry collections to his credit.

Poet Hameedur Rahman Nadan, while presenting a brief biography, stated that Manzar Faryadi born in 1944 in Mullagori area of Khyber district could get education only up to 10th grade and joined education department and also remained associated with Radio Pakistan Peshawar. “Several folk singers sang his popular numbers, which gained widespread fame,” he said.

Chairing the function, Prof Aslam Taseer Afridi said Manzar Faryadi remained active on the Pashto literary scene due to his rich romantic poems. He added Mr Faryadi despite being octogenarian still composed poems that carried the strength to inspire audience owing to his creative thoughts.

Prof Sher Zaman Seemab, a senior member at Pashto Academy, said selfless literary services of Mr Faryadi should be acknowledged in his lifetime. He said veteran poet was a precious national asset and deserved special attention of the relevant authorities.

Saidul Amin Ahsan Kheshgi in his paper pointed out that Manzar Faryadi being a seasoned poet had covered multiple aspects of Pakhtun rural life. He said Mr Faryadi also remained focused on highlighting contemporary literary trends.

Mr Kheshgi observed that romantic poets like Faryadi always advocated for durable peace in the region.

Assad Hussain, chief of ALCO, said folk tales composed by Faryadi were reflective of his deep love and admiration for religion and most of his poetry collections carried religious hymns.

Poets Soz Afridi, Sherafat Zameer, Khyal Shah, and Yasir Shah Ambar presented their poetic tribute to the veteran poet.

At the end, the veteran poet thanked the audience and also read out a few poems laden with romantic thoughts and garnered great appreciation from the participants.

Published in Dawn, November 17th, 2025