Islamabad:
A distinguished literary session was held under the auspices of the Academy of Letters of Pakistan (PAL) in memory of the legendary writer Urdu, humorist, announcer and diplomat, Syed Ahmad Shah Patras Bokhari.
The ceremony also marked the formal inauguration of the newly renewed Pal conferences room by Senator Irfan Siddiqui. The guests talked about the legacy of Patras Bokhari, as well as the importance of literary institutions such as PAL.
The event took place at the central office of Pal in Patras Bokhari Road, Islamabad, and was chaired by an outstanding scholar, writer and senator Irfan Siddiqui, while the Federal Minister of National Heritage and Culture, Aurengzeb Khan Khichi, adorned the occasion as the main guest. The parliamentary secretary of the National Heritage and National Culture Farah Naz Akbar and Secretary Asad Rehman Gilani, attended as guests of honor.
This unique event understood two especially notable segments. The first was a theatrical adaptation of the famous essay by Bokhari Patras “Sowere Jo Kal Aankh Meri Khuli”, artistically played by the Swaang Theater, which received great praise from the audience. The action so transferred to Federal Minister Aurengzeb Khichi that announced a special reward for the company in the event.
The second prominent point was an attractive dialogue session between Dr. Farrukh Nadeem and Ayaz Bokhari, grandson of Patras Bokhari. The conversation offered valuable ideas about the personality of Patras Bokhari, his literary genius and his diplomatic efforts. Documentaries on the distinguished life trip of Bokhari were also presented.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui offered a comparative analysis of the literary contributions of Patras Bokhari and Ferhatullah Baig in the field of satire and Urdu humor. He also shared memorable anecdotes of Bokhari’s life and praised the academy to organize such a significant event in his honor. He assured the hearing of the government’s commitment to the preservation and support of literary institutions, especially PAL.
In his welcome note, friend Dr. Najeba Arif highlighted the literary, intellectual and diplomatic achievements of Bokhari. She presented a complete description of her mastery of language, ingenuity and depth of thought. She thanked the Secretary of the National Division of Heritage and Culture for launching the necessary funds for the renewal of the Conference Chamber and expressed her special gratitude to Senator Irfan Siddiqui for her continuous sponsorship of literary institutions such as PAL.
This session not only served as a tribute to Patras Bokhari, but also played an important role in the introduction of the new generation of the refined tradition of the writing of Urdu humor. A large number of literary figures and members of the Bokhari family attended the event.
