ISLAMABAD: The Asian Study Group (ASG) on Thursday hosted a captivating evening with academic Fakir Syed Aijazuddin, featuring a presentation based on his latest book, “Forgotten Images: Postcards of Pre-Pakistan, 1890-1947.”

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, who was the chief guest at the event, introduced Mr Aijazuddin, highlighting his multifaceted career as a chartered accountant, author, and former principal of Aitchison College, Lahore, besides representing the Great Britain as honorary consul in Lahore for over 28 years, until his retirement in 2022.

She lauded Mr Aijazuddin for his role in arranging the visits from British royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III, and Prince William and Kate Middleton.

In his multimedia presentation to packed audience, including diplomats, Mr Aijazuddin brought to life forgotten images of pre-Pakistan’s past, showcasing postcards from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The postcards featured provincial -- Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta -- as well as prominent cities and areas in each province. His book provides a valuable record of buildings, landscapes, events, and people from pre-Pakistan’s history.

The event highlighted the evolution of postcards as a popular form of communication, which eventually gave way to instant electronic communications. However, postcards have become increasingly valuable to collectors and historians as a visual record of the past.

Aijazuddin’s presentation demonstrated the significance of these artifacts in understanding Pakistan’s rich history.

The ASG is a non-profit apolitical organisation and its purpose is to enable members of the community, both foreign and Pakistani, to learn more about the culture, geography, history, religions, environment, crafts and customs of the Asian region in general, and of Pakistan in particular through exclusive and curated educational and entertainment programmes, according to its official website.

Published in Dawn, April 11th, 2025