LAHORE: Noted columnist Munnu Bhai’s 84th birthday was celebrated at the Lahore Press Club on Saturday.

A number of journalists, writers, intellectuals and other guests attended the event. A standing ovation and thunderous clapping marked the cake-cutting ceremony and Munnoo Bhai was presented a shield and bouquets by LPC President Shahbaz Mian.

Speaking on the occasion, Munnoo Bhai stressed if truthful journalism would not take place, the vices in society just couldn’t be resisted or fought back. He said terrorism, poverty and social degradation could be eliminated by doing truthful journalism.

He also underscored the need for women empowerment and protection of their rights. He mentioned struggle he had been doing for the last 17 years for the cause of Sundas Foundation which works for the children suffering from thalassaemia. He urged the philanthropists to come forward and help such children.

Shahbaz Mian announced that the club would arrange birthdays of all senior members as a mark of respect.

Published in Dawn, February 26th, 2017