Loving the language 

Dignitaries term youth’s interest at the Aalmi Urdu Conference a refreshing relief

KARACHI: The impression, from the recently concluded Aalmi Urdu Conference at the Arts Council in Karachi, has refuted the general consensus that the Urdu language is fast losing importance as the sizable gathering of the youth at the event underlined that the national language is still loved and followed by many including the new generation.

The auditoriums number 1 and 2 of the Arts Council, where sessions on the discipline took place, were filled to capacity. Even the outdoor gatherings at the venue, where giant screens were installed, were oozing with audience. The setting also proved to be a platform for an ‘absolute’ freedom of expression of thoughts and speech as the speakers fully availed the opportunity to discuss the contemporary issues holistically. The senior media practitioners Hamid Mir and Sohail Waraich shared their views on the politics of ‘closed doors’ during the gathering that enthralled the audience. The visitors at the event were also very vocal and asked blatant questions in the interaction sessions.

photos: athar khan/Bol News

Anwar Maqsood’s speech on ‘Pakistan of the 21st Century’ in his typical sarcastic manner, won the hearts of the audience. The audience remained glued to their seats when the internationally renowned orator Zia Mohiuddin narrated the masterpieces of famous writers of the Urdu literature in his distinctive style. But, the catchiest moment of the conference was that when admirers of playwright and poet Amjad Islam Amjad surrounded him for a candid discussion. He was among the most sought-after personalities at the conference, with people queuing up to take pictures of him.

Many representatives of the Urdu language, who had come for the conference from all over the world, also shared their views at the event that lasted for four days. They spoke at length about Urdu poetry, children’s literature in the 21st century, journey of Urdu in Europe and developed countries, education, women and social attitudes.

The Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah while praising the spirit of the participants, said the enthusiasm of participants from all over the world would enhance diversity in culture and languages.

With the idea that Urdu embraces other languages, discussions on Punjabi and Balochi languages were also held. There was also an interesting conversation about women and social attitudes. The speakers asserted that because of the Aalmi Urdu Conference, literary connoisseurs are getting a taste of the language. Amjad Islam Amjad, Anwar Shibat, Abbas Tabish, Rehman Faris, Iftikhar Arif, and other poets’ words marked the occasion.

photos: athar khan/Bol News

Some discussions were also held on the different dimensions of literature, arts and culture. The launching of books – 200 Years History of Urdu Journalism, books on regional languages and other topics also marked the occasion. A humorous ‘mushaira’ also enhanced the flavour of the conference. The Qawwali session was also received well by the audience.

Amjad Islam Amjad at a sitting with Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui recited his poems to the audience which received warm applause. The youth’s interest in literary activities was appreciated and was termed as a refreshing relief by the dignitaries.

On the final day of the conference, a 14-point resolution was passed in support of Urdu. The well-known poet and playwright Zehra Nigham while sharing her views, said that despite the rampant inflation and other problems in the society, the conference is a breath of fresh air for all and sundry.

Hundreds of notables, intellectuals, writers, poets and foreign delegates participated in the 46 sessions of the conference that kicked off on 01 December.