The National Book Foundation (NBF) Tuesday hosted a special literary gathering (Mehfil-e-Musalama) in connection with the sacred month of Muharram-ul-Haram, where renowned poets and scholars paid tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala through poetry.
NBF hosts Muharram literary gathering to pay tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS)
ISLAMABAD, Jul 21 (APP): The National Book Foundation (NBF) Tuesday hosted a special literary gathering (Mehfil-e-Musalama) in connection with the sacred month of Muharram-ul-Haram, where renowned poets and scholars paid tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala through poetry.
The event was presided over by eminent poet and scholar Dr. Ehsan Akbar, while Managing Director of National Book Foundation Dr. Kamran Jahangir attended as the chief host.
A large number of poets presented their poetic tributes in reverence to Sayyid-us-Shuhada (Master of Martyrs) Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala.
The participating poets included Manzar Naqvi, Salman Basit, Shakeel Jazib, Ali Kumail Qazalbash, Dr. Mahnaz Anjum, Khizar Saleem, Ehsaan Abbas, Jamal Zaidi and Saleem Akhtar, who also hosted the literary session. Renowned poet Mehboob Zafar conducted the proceedings.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ehsan Akbar appreciated the National Book Foundation for organising the spiritually significant event during Muharram. He particularly praised Managing Director Dr. Kamran Jahangir for his commitment to promoting literature, books and literary activities.
Earlier, Director Headquarters NBF Murad Ali Mohmand thanked the presiding guest, participating poets and audience members. He also highlighted the Foundation’s objectives, achievements and ongoing priorities in promoting books and literary culture in Pakistan.
The gathering featured poetry reflecting the timeless message of sacrifice, justice, patience and steadfastness embodied in the tragedy of Karbala.
Among the notable verses presented, Manzar Naqvi paid tribute to the unwavering patience of Imam Hussain (AS) and Hazrat Zainab (SA), while Salman Basit described the path of Imam Hussain (AS) as the road to eternal life. Shakeel Jazib said that Imam Hussain (AS) taught humanity the true meaning of life through his supreme sacrifice.
Ali Kumail Qazalbash dedicated his verses to Hazrat Abbas (AS), portraying him as the symbol of loyalty and honour.
Dr. Mahnaz Anjum recited a poem highlighting the courage and resilience of Hazrat Zainab (SA). Khizar Saleem described Imam Hussain (AS) as the light of truth that illuminates darkness, while Ehsan Abbas reflected on the universal grief and reverence associated with the tragedy of Karbala, whereas Saleem Akhtar praised Imam Hussain (AS) as the shining star of greatness. In his concluding verses, Mehboob Zafar described Imam Hussain (AS) as the eternal inspiration and fulfilment of humanity’s highest ideals.
The literary gathering concluded with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity of Pakistan, while reaffirming the enduring message of Karbala as a symbol of truth, sacrifice and justice.
