Islamabad (Special Correspondent) – A grand poetry gathering was organized under the auspices of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Pakistan Cultural Forum in celebration of Independence Day. The event was presided over by renowned poet and intellectual Professor Jaleel Aali, with Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of the Academy of Letters, as the chief guest. A large number of prominent poets, writers, intellectuals, and enthusiasts attended the event.
In his address, Zafar Bakhtawari, Chairman of the Pakistan Cultural Forum, stated that Pakistan is our identity and freedom is our great blessing. He emphasized that organizing a poetry gathering on Independence Day reflects our collective thoughts and feelings about the nation and community, noting that poets and writers played a significant role in the freedom movement. He mentioned that Allama Iqbal was the artist of Pakistan, and Quaid-e-Azam gave life to his dream. The national anthem was also a great gift from poet Hafeez Jullundhri to the nation. Poets and writers guide the intellectual direction of society and provide the nation with the right path. He added that the journey of realizing Allama Iqbal’s dream continues today, and Pakistan’s role on the global stage is becoming increasingly important. The role of Pakistan in the Makkah Agreement and the unity of Muslim countries is a testament to its global significance. Poets and writers should connect the new generation with their culture, national language, and values through their creations. Poetry and literature play a fundamental role in promoting patriotism, national unity, and positive thinking among nations. Organizing literary activities on Independence Day is an effective means of familiarizing the new generation with the struggle for Pakistan’s establishment and the timeless sacrifices of their elders.
Professor Jaleel Aali, the president of the gathering, remarked that the dream of Pakistan was envisioned by a poet, and an unparalleled poet like Allama Iqbal instilled a new spirit of awakening among Muslims worldwide. Even today, Iqbal’s poetry is a significant force in our intellectual resistance against global imperialism. Despite 80 years of ups and downs, Pakistan has maintained its existence. Freedom is not merely about celebrating a day; it is a continuous responsibility. We must follow Quaid-e-Azam’s principles and lead Pakistan on the path of knowledge, education, peace, and development.
The chief guest, Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of the Academy of Letters, stated that industry and commerce are the backbone of the national economy, but the intellectual commitment of businesspeople to the nation and community alongside personal business goals is commendable. The purpose of Pakistan’s establishment was to protect human rights, uphold the rule of law and justice, and create a society where every individual has equal opportunities for development. Knowledge and literature are crucial means to achieve these goals. The role of the business community in promoting knowledge and literature is commendable. Pakistan’s independence is the fruit of the timeless sacrifices of our elders and martyrs, so it is the responsibility of writers and poets to highlight patriotism and national consciousness among the youth through their creations.
Acting President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Irfan Chaudhry welcomed all guests, stating that culture and literature are the means to keep the hearts of nations alive. We must strengthen our literary and cultural heritage alongside the economy. On this occasion of Independence Day, we renew our commitment to making Pakistan a dignified, prosperous, and developed country through poetry.
During the gathering, poets including Shakeel Jazib, Dr. Junaid Azhar, Professor Rashida Maheen Malik, Saeed Raja, Dr. Shazia Akbar, Dr. Mehnaz Anjum, Dr. Rubab Tabassum, and other renowned poets presented their works. The poets highlighted feelings of love for the homeland, the value of freedom, national unity, and the bright future of Pakistan, which was met with enthusiastic applause from the attendees.