Waris Shah’s poetry a call for spiritual awakening: Speakers

FAISALABAD, Sep 24 (APP): The poetry of Waris Shah is not merely a timeless expression of human love and separation but a profound call for spiritual awakening, compassion, justice and moral reform.

It was stated by speakers at Second International Waris Shah Conference organised by the Waris Shah Chair, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF).

Chairing the session, UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali said that Waris Shah is not merely a celebrated poet but a timeless symbol of Punjabi language, literature and cultural identity. He said that his poetry reflects the richness of traditions, the depth of human emotions and wisdom. “It is our collective responsibility to preserve his literary legacy and promote Punjabi language among future generations.” Waris Shah gave voice to the pain of human and exposed social practices that undermined dignity.

He said that Waris Shah’s poetry provides an opportunity to reconnect the individual with the society that worldly relationships and material achievements are temporary, while the relationship of the human being with Allah is the ultimate source of spiritual peace and moral strength. He said that UAF had established Waris Shah Chair to propagate his message and learn from the pearls of Wisdom

Rector University of Faisalabad Prof Dr Aman Ullah Malik called for greater efforts to introduce the writings and thought of Waris Shah to younger generations through universities, research centres, schools and contemporary literary platforms. Such efforts, he said, could help young people understand their cultural heritage while encouraging them to engage with questions of morality, spirituality, identity and social responsibility.

Dean Arts and Humanities Prof Dr Shazia Ramazan said that the enduring relevance of Waris Shah lies in his ability to connect the emotional world of the individual with the moral questions confronting society. His poetry invites the reader to look inward, overcome pride, hatred, jealousy and selfishness, and develop a relationship with the Creator based on love, humility, remembrance and sincerity. She said that the message of Waris Shah carries particular significance for the Muslim Ummah in the contemporary era. At a time when societies are facing division, intolerance, materialism and weakening social bonds, his poetry can serve as a reminder that spiritual strength must accompany social and intellectual progress.

Dr Riaz Virk said that Punjabi is a language enriched by centuries of literary excellence, and Waris Shah occupies a prominent position in its history. He said that Waris Shah’s poetry represents love, humanity, social awareness and cultural consciousness.

Prof Dr Jaswinder Singh Gill said that Waris Shah’s literary vision carries significance beyond the boundaries of Punjab. He added that his work offers profound insights into human relationships, cultural values and social realities.  He said, “commemorating Waris Shah, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguard the linguistic and cultural identity of Punjab.”

Asghar Ali Nizami Dr Muhammad Ayyub Khan, Dr Anwar,  Dr Samina Batool and Dr Kashif Shakeel said that Waris Shah’s masterpiece HEER continues to hold a distinguished place in Punjabi literature and serves as a powerful expression of the region’s rich cultural traditions. They said that the literary contributions of Waris Shah transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. They said that the International Waris Shah Conference is an important initiative to celebrate Punjabi language and acknowledge the extraordinary services of one of its greatest poets. Sanwal Dhiloon presented Heer Waris Shah that enlightened the audience with the great poet wisdom.