PESHAWAR: Speakers at a literary function here paid glowing tribute to senior bilingual writer Prof Nazeer Tabassum and billed him an icon of Urdu literature at national level.

The engaging literary event was arranged under the umbrella of Halqa Arbab-i-Zauq in the hall of Dosti Welfare Organisation to praise services of Prof Nazeer Tabassum, a renowned writer of Hindko and Urdu.

A large number of poets, writers, scholars and fans of Prof Nazeer Tabassum turned up in the function and shared their views on his literary and academic services.

Prof Nazeer Tabassum is author of several books, research papers and articles. He is also a laureate of Tamgha-i-Imtiaz and recipient of the award twice for Hindko poetry. His doctorate thesis was based on the Urdu poets of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa whose literary works were published from 1947 to 2000. It was a landmark analytical and critical study of the KP Urdu bards. He remained teacher at Urdu department of University of Peshawar.

Speakers read out papers on the life and works of Prof Nazeer Tabassum and highlighted various aspects of his contributions including writing and guiding budding poets and writers. They said that he had produced a large number of students to serve the cause of national language.

Urdu writer Mushtaq Shabab, who was chief guest on the occasion, said that Prof Nazeer Tabassum inspired not only a host of young poets and writers but also ignited a spirit of innovative thoughts and ideas among youth. His selfless services both in the field of education and literature made him distinct among contemporary literati, he added.

Aziz Ejaz, another renowned poet, said that the writer under debate carved out a niche for himself. He said that his literary stature could not be eclipsed by presence of literary figures of Urdu literature and acclaimed a widespread reputation for his unique style and way of expression.

Prof Suhail Ahmad said that Mr Tabassum being icon of Urdu literary world had immensely contributed to both Hindko and Urdu and deserved kudos for his lofty imagination and creative strength. He said that he was still a powerful voice among the literary circles across the country.

Prof Fazal Kabir while moderating the event said that being old student of Prof Nazeer Tabassum, he had learnt a lot from his experiences and observations regarding the evolution of Urdu literature, especially its journey through last several decades in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Prof Owias Qarni in his paper maintained that Prof Nazeer Tabassum always guided his students and motivated them to contribute to society through their writings.

Bushra Farrukh, Shahida Sardar, Prof Ishaq Wardag, Iqbal Sikandar and Prof Sadaf Nazeer, the daughter of Prof Nazeer Tabassum, also spoke at the event.

It was followed by an interesting questions and answers session. Later Adman Joseph, a local folk singer, sang popular Urdu numbers of Prof Nazeer Tabassum and garnered applause from the audience.

Published in Dawn, October 7th, 2024