Karachi: Under auspices of Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Literary Committee (Poetry and Prose), poetic gathering was held under title ‘Bazm-e-Sher o Sukhan.’ Senior and young poets presented their poetry while session was presided over by Ashfaq Hussain. Special guests included Neelofar Abbasi, Shahida Hassan and Rashid Noor. Khalid Moin was moderator of event. Ashfaq Hussain expressed that he had emotional sentiments about Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi because he served this institution 49 years ago. Love for literature and poetry can be gauged by observing individuals associated with literature in Arts Council. He said that for him, President of gathering is Professor Sahar Ansari, whose services to literature are commendable.

Neelofar Abbasi remarked that it is very delightful to see such good poets and intellectuals gathered together today. Poetry is essence of Urdu literature, beauty of poetry lies in being able to convey in two lines what cannot be expressed even after writing several pages in prose. She said that Sahar Ansari is still same as she was before. Ashfaq Hussain is known for his friendly and hospitable personality. Rashid Noor, expressing his thoughts, said that Sahar Ansari is an asset to our nation. Ashfaq Hussain has done lot of work in reference to Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Many old memories were refreshed in this poetic session. Shahida Hassan said that Sahar Ansari being here is very encouraging for us.

Journey she started is progressing rapidly. All poets today presented excellent poetry. They said that journey of life is extremely interesting and complicated. Whatever little I know about any work is learned from this city. Training exists within us and manifests itself in any form. Ambreen Haseeb Amber said that when Neelofar Abbasi was invited to this session, she said, “I am not poetess, but with so much melody in my music, how can we believe that there is no connection with poetry?” Such gatherings should continue to be organised.

Here, every individual carries weight for many listeners. In session, besides Nazhat Abbasi, Ajmal Siraj, and Hamza Nafis, young poets also presented their poetry.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 22 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.