LAHORE: Poet, critic and educationist Dr Aslam Ansari passed away on Tuesday in Multan. He was 85.

A prolific writer and a revered figure in Urdu and Persian literature, Dr Ansari’s contributions spanned over five decades, leaving a profound impact on Pakistan’s literary and academic landscape.

Dr Ansari was born on April 30, 1939, near Pak Gate in Multan. His academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Urdu from the Oriental College, Lahore in 1962, followed by a second Master’s in Persian from the Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU) Multan in 1985. He earned his PhD in 1998.

He was known by the public for his ghazal, Mein Ney Roka Bhi Nahi Aur Woh Thehra Bhi Nahi, and a poem, Gautam Ka Akhiri Waa’z.

Over the years, he served in educational institutions across Lahore, Bahawalpur, Multan, and other cities where he inspired countless students with his deep knowledge of literature and languages.

In addition to his work as an educationist, Dr Ansari was a celebrated poet, having authored five collections of poetry in both Urdu and Persian. He also made his mark as a novelist, writing a novel in the Seraiki language, titled Bairi Wich Darya, a significant contribution to regional literature. His intellectual reach extended to his work as a critic and researcher, producing scholarly works in Urdu, English, Seraiki and Persian.

Dr Ansari’s literary achievements earned him numerous accolades, including Pride of Performance Award, the Habib Bank Literary Award (1969), the Khawaja Fareed Award (1985), the National Bank Award and the Iqbal Award. His scholarly and creative output left an indelible mark on Pakistan’s literary world.

He is survived by his three sons.

His funeral prayers were held at Shahi Masjid in Eidgah, Multan. He was laid to rest at the Pak Mai Graveyard, Lakkar Mandi.

Published in Dawn, October 23th, 2024