25 October Friday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM | Auditorium A-11, Academic Block, LUMS
On October 25, 2024, The Gurmani Centre for Languages and Literature hosted a book launch session for renowned Punjabi novelist, writer, and poet Zahid Hassan's latest work, Rabb dā Bāgh. The panel featured notable speakers, including Mudassir Iqbal Butt, Chairman Punjab Media Group, and Mr. Ashok Kumar, Assistant Professor, Punjab University. The session began with opening remarks from Ashok Kumar, who emphasized the role of poets as chroniclers of societal pain and experiences. He articulated how poets capture the struggles and narratives of their time, preserving history through their words. Kumar also noted the diminishing fiction output in Punjabi literature and commended Zahid Hassan for his commitment to advancing Punjabi fiction as part of a larger movement for the language. He highlighted that the themes in Hassan’s work extend beyond mere aesthetics, delving into self-exploration, dreams, and experiences rooted in the vibrant city of Lahore. Following Kumar’s insights, Mr. Zahid Hassan shared one or two poems from Rabb dā Bāgh, and discussed his personal experiences in Lahore and the inspiration drawn from the city. Mudassir Iqbal Butt delivered the presidential remarks, highlighting the significance of Hassan's book in contemporary Punjabi literature. He provided an overview of Zahid Hassan’s literary journey, expressing immense pride in the fact that the book was published through his foundation. Butt emphasized the fusion of classical and modern themes within the poetry, noting how Hassan’s style resonates with the contemporary concerns of today’s society. Concluding the session, Dr. Ali Usman Qasmi, Director Gurmani Centre, extended gratitude to the panelists and the audience. He shared his journey with Zahid Hassan and emphasized the significance of the Punjabi language. Dr. Qasmi highlighted how this event aligns with the Gurmani Centre's mission to promote Pakistani languages and the necessity of creating fiction in Punjabi.
