KARACHI: On second day of two-day 14th national symposium organised by Pakistan Association for Eastern Medicine (PAEM) in collaboration with Hamdard Pakistan organised highlighted ‘Role of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said in revival of Tibb-i-Unani’ and paid tribute to Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said, renowned physician, intellectual and social reformer.

Opening session was chaired by Sadia Rashid President Hamdard Pakistan. Dr. Ahsan Qavi Siddiqui Chief Executive Officer of Sindh Healthcare Commission was invited as chief guest. Pro Vice Chancellor of Sindh University-Larkana Campus Prof. Dr. Azhar Ali Shah attended symposium as guest of honour and delivered keynote speech.

Professor Dr. Azhar said that Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said played crucial role and provided valuable contributions in reviving Tibb-i-Unani despite challenges. Because of his exceptional contributions, revival of Tibb-i-Unani, an important cultural and historical heritage became possible. “Recognising achievements of remarkable individuals is essential for progress of society. Through today’s insightful session, younger generations will gain profound insights into Hakim Mohammed Said’s academic and practical efforts to promote health and education sectors of country.”

He said that modern medicine often focuses on specific parts of body, whereas Tibb-i-Unani offers comprehensive alternative treatment approach that addresses person’s physical, medical and spiritual well-being. “Our knowledge of this method comes from teachings of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said. Today, global recognition of effectiveness of Unani medicine is significant achievement. However, this success was not easily attained, it resulted from tremendous dedication and effort of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said. He worked tirelessly and successfully convinced World Health Organisation of efficacy of Tibb-i-Unani.”

“Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said was prominent researcher, writer, entrepreneur and advocate for rich history of Mehran Valley in modern era. Unani medicine is part of cultural heritage of Sindh and he played vital role in preserving it. Now, it falls upon future generations to carry on this responsibility. Following principles of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said, we should all contribute to full development and promotion of Unani medicine,” he added.

Dr. Ahsan Qavi Siddiqui mentioned that Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said played significant role in nurturing mental and intellectual growth of three generations through his monthly editorials “Jaago Jgaao,” in monthly Hamdard Naunehal. Competent physician considers both patient’s complaints and symptoms when prescribing treatment. Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said possessed this quality as physician.

“During his time, Tibb-i-Unani was in decline and Unani medicine was often seen as relic of past in subcontinent. However, Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said introduced Unani medicine to public and restored people’s confidence in it. As Hakim, he conducted medical examinations of patients with warmth and sincerity. Every morning, thousands of patients eagerly awaited his attention as he addressed their health issues,” he said.

He said, “Notably, Hakim Mohammed Said did not oppose modern surgery but rather advocated for and promoted concept of Ittehad-e-Salasa, revolutionary idea aiming to foster collaboration among ancient wisdom, Unani medicine, allopathy and surgical expertise. As physician, Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said transformed Hamdard Pakistan into research institution and pioneered innovation and research in Tibb-i-Unani. Rules and regulations established in Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said’s clinic have now become industry standard for manufacturing Unani medicine.

Sadia Rashid thanked esteemed guest speakers and advised students to heed words of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said. “Time is trust from Allah and using it wisely is an act of worship.” She urged students not to squander their time on mobile devices but to use them only for necessary tasks or gathering information. She mentioned that Hakim Mohammed Said recommended reading books beyond course materials and encouraged all students to cultivate habit of reading.

During first session of symposium, Prof. Dr. Hakim Abdul Hannan, President of PAEM and Prof. Dr. Syed Shabib-ul-Hassan, Vice Chancellor of Hamdard University spoke.

Hakims (physicians) from different cities participated in symposium. They paid heartfelt homage and tribute to Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said and highlighted different aspects of his personality and contributions while presenting their research papers.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 02 2023

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