SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Poets at a literary gathering titled “Annual Manray Gul” enthralled the audience at the District Press Club Wana on Friday.

The literary session was held under the auspices of Pashto Adabi Tolana Wana.

The event brought together a number of local poets, journalists, political and social figures as well as individuals associated with literature, creating a vibrant and intellectually enriching atmosphere.

The programme commenced with traditional warmth and hospitality.

A key highlight of the event was the formal launching of two new books, Taroon and Fikrona wa Falona, which was widely appreciated by the participants.

They described it as a positive step towards the promotion of knowledge and literature.

Speakers noted that such ceremonies played a vital role in strengthening intellectual and creative trends within society, while inspiring the younger generation to develop a habit of reading.

Poets belonging to Wana and its surrounding areas participated in the mushaira. They captivated the audience with their thought-provoking and engaging poetry.

The poets eloquently addressed themes such as love, peace, brotherhood, culture and social values, leaving a profound impact on the listeners.

The audience listened attentively and expressed their appreciation through continuous applause, making the environment lively and memorable.

The speakers said such programmes not only cultivated literary taste but also promoted positive thinking and awareness. They said that the regions that faced challenges like instability and social pressures such events served as a beacon of hope and encouraged youth to engage in constructive and meaningful activities.

Political leaders from Wana and journalists from the District Press Club Wana also attended the event.

Participants remarked that the primary objective of the mushaira was to convey a message to the world that the people of Waziristan were advocates of peace, love and brotherhood and were eager for development and prosperity in their region.

They emphasised that media and literary circles can play a crucial role in projecting a positive image of the area.

Addressing the gathering, Pashto Adabi Tolana Wana president Ameen Jan Ameen and renowned poet Umar Shah Koti said the mushaira sent a message of peace, harmony and unity that should be spread across the country.

They reiterated that the people of Waziristan were inherently peaceful and had always shown a strong desire to promote constructive activities.

They added that literary forums provided a platform for nurturing creative potential of young people so that they could play an active and positive role in society.

At the end, the organisers thanked the guests and reaffirmed commitment to continue holding such literary and cultural programs to keep the flame of knowledge and literature alive in the region.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2026