Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: December 01, 2023 | 
| 中文
(L to R) President Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP), Karachi, Syed Ahmed Shah, poet Iftikhar Arif and Chief Minister Sindh Justice (R) Maqbool Baqar
In a vibrant celebration of language, literature and cultural diversity, the 16th Aalmi (International) Urdu Conference kicked off at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi, marking its impressive 16-year legacy. The conference, a flagship event of the Arts Council of Pakistan, has evolved into a global cultural extravaganza, bridging gaps between ethnicities and fostering intellectual dialogue.
President of the Arts Council, Mohammad Ahmed Shah, expressed the sentiment that initiated this grand event, stating, “I started this conference under the tutelage of Urdu’s greatest names, today 16 years later, most of them have departed but their works live on. The 16th Aalmi Urdu Conference is an ode to those literary legends and the works they have produced.”
(L to R) Mubeen Mirza (moderator), Afzal Ahmed Syed, Zehra Nigah, Iftikhar Arif, Farasat Rizvi and Dr. Tahseen Firaqi
Chief Minister Sindh, Justice Maqbool Baqar, acknowledged the Arts Council's efforts in uniting people through intellectual discourse, emphasizing its role in bridging gaps between different ethnicities. As the conference unfolds, it promises to be a melting pot of ideas, a celebration of Urdu's rich literary heritage and a platform for dialogue on contemporary issues.
The first day of the conference was a tapestry of diverse sessions, each weaving its own narrative on different facets of Urdu literature. From the exploration of Meer Taqi Meer’s works in "Meer Ki Teen Sadiyan" to a conversation with novelist Mirza Athar Baig, in "Mirza Athar Baig Se Mulakat," the sessions were intellectually stimulating. "Jashn-e-Khusro" added a musical dimension, celebrating the legacy of Khusro with the soulful qawwali of Fareed Ayaz & Abu Muhammad.
Qawwali performance by Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad
The literary journey continues with discussions on legendary Urdu novelists and poets, including an insightful exploration of religious writers in "Taqdeesi Adab Kay Mashaheer." The global scope of the conference is evident in sessions like "Yorkshire Adabi Forum" and "London Urdu Voice," shedding light on Urdu's development in places far beyond Pakistan's borders.
The conference delves into regional languages, with talks on Punjabi, Saraiki, Sindhi, Pashto and Balochi literature.
Literary giants of the days gone by are being remembered through sessions like "Yaad-e-Raftagan," an ode to those who have left an indelible mark on Urdu literature. "Urdu Tanqeed Kay Mashaheer", pays homage to literary critics acknowledging their role in shaping Urdu's intellectual landscape.
Moderator Aurangzeb Niazi in conversation with Mirza Athar Baig
A noteworthy addition to the diverse array of sessions at the 16th Aalmi Urdu Conference was the theatrical performance of "Taleem-e-Balighan", by the students of ACP Theatre Academy, skillfully directed by Farhan Alam Siddiqui. The young actors are set to showcase their talent and dedication, bringing to life the nuances of the humorous but important narrative.
"Taleem-e-Balighan" not only added a dynamic dimension to the conference, but also underscored the importance of creative expressions, such as theater, in addressing and portraying the complexities of societal transitions. The inclusion of such performances reflects the conference's commitment to embracing various forms of artistic expression and contributing to the holistic appreciation of Urdu literature and culture.
The audience attending the conference
The conference also addresses contemporary issues with discussions on "Khawateen ki Jadojehed Aur Challenges (Women’s Struggle and Challenges)”, and "Gaza Kay Qatl-e-Aam Par Media Ka Kirdar (The Genocide in Gaza and the Role of Media)", providing a platform for dialogue on women's challenges and the media's role in global conflicts.
A highlight of the conference is the launch of books by prominent authors such as Javed Siddiqui, Noor Zaheer and Saleem Safi. Conversations with literary figures like Arfa Syeda Zehra, Mustansar Hussain Tarrar and Bushra Ansari added a personal touch, giving attendees a glimpse into the lives and works of these influential personalities.
Poster of the grand international poetic symposium
The conference concludes with a closing ceremony featuring classical dances, a fitting end to a four-day celebration of Urdu's literary richness. In a press conference preceding the event, the significance of the International Urdu Conference was underscored by Ahmed Shah, who highlighted its role in fostering unity and cultural understanding. Notable literary figures, including Iftikhar Arif, Noor Ul Huda Shah, Ghazi Salahuddin and Qudsia Akbar praised the conference's global recognition and its unparalleled celebration of languages.
As the 16th Aalmi Urdu Conference unfolds, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of language, literature and the shared cultural heritage of the Urdu-speaking community. In its 16th year, the conference continues to be a beacon of cultural celebration, bringing people together to explore, appreciate and celebrate the rich tapestry of Urdu literature. It will continue till December 03 and is open to all.
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