A poignant call for societal recognition of literary figures and the urgent publication of twelve unreleased poetry collections by the late Sindhi poet and scholar Maqsood Gul resonated at a tribute ceremony held recently in Karachi.
The event, organised by the Lok Virsa Committee of the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, brought together prominent literary and academic personalities to honour Gul”s profound impact on Sindhi literature, according to ACK today.
The commemorative gathering took place at Haseena Moin Hall, hosted by Yasir Qazi, attracting a substantial assembly of poets, writers, and literary aficionados.
Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council, lauded Maqsood Gul as an embodiment of knowledge, affection, and humanity. He underscored Gul”s substantial contributions to Sindhi letters and his lasting legacy as a devoted and magnanimous literary personality.
Mehtab Akbar Rashdi voiced concern that society frequently overlooks its poets and authors, yet applauded such initiatives for sustaining their memory. She advocated for enhanced recognition of women and youth within society and praised Gul”s selfless commitment to literary endeavours. Rashdi also highlighted his Urdu renditions of Sachal Sarmast’s Persian verse and made an impassioned plea for the publication of Gul”s extensive unpublished works.
Further speakers, including Professor Altaf Aseem and Dr. Riazat Buriro, emphasised Maqsood Gul’s unwavering dedication to veracity, aestheticism, and Sindhi cultural heritage, alongside his role in nurturing cultural awareness.
Adil Shah shared recollections of Gul’s paternal presence and devotion to education, while Dr. Mujeebuddin Sahrai advised the younger generation to thoroughly engage with and comprehend literature prior to embarking on poetic pursuits.
The ceremony concluded with a collective affirmation of Maqsood Gul’s enduring influence on Sindhi literature, accompanied by an appeal to safeguard and champion the creations of both past and future generations of wordsmiths.