Writers, healthcare professionals praise Mushtaq Ahmed Yousufi

Prominent literary personalities at a literary event on Saturday expressed their high regard for Urdu humour writer Mushtaq Ahmed Yousufi highlighting his unique contribution to Urdu literature, particularly in the genre of humour and satire.

Former University of Karachi (KU) Vice Chancellor (VC) Dr Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui praised Yousufi for his extraordinary ability to blend humour with profound literary craftsmanship. He said Yousufi’s works offer mental and spiritual relief.

“It’s a pleasant surprise for society that those professionals who always cared for the human body are also making contributions for mental and spiritual relief through their efforts in literature,” remarked Dr Siddiqui at the event that was organised at the Arts Council of Pakistan by the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum, a group of medical professionals and pharmacists interested in literature.

The event marked the launch of ‘Ehd-e-Yousufi - Qissa Aik Sadi Ka’, a compilation of selected writings by in honour of his 100th birthday.

Joined by Yousufi’s family, the event saw a significant turnout of senior doctors, physicians and their families. Renowned figures such as poet Khalid Masood Khan, Arts Council of Pakistan President Ahmed Shah and Syed Jamshed Ahmed, chief executive officer of pharmaceutical firm Pharmevo and patron of Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum, attended the ceremony.

Dr Siddiqui praised the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum for holding the literary event. He stated that generally, doctors, healthcare professionals and pharmacists were not known for their interest in literature. “Engaging people in literary activities, particularly those involving humour, you all make a great contribution as it could offer significant relief and alleviate mental health struggles. You are also reviving our culture by highlighting those great individuals of our Urdu literature. This job is commendable,” the former KU VC remarked.

Poet Khalid Masood Khan said Yousufi is one of the greatest Urdu writers and humourists of all time. “He was a maestro who turned everyday observations into brilliant humour. His writings are marked with extraordinary wit and a keen sense of irony that transcends the boundaries of time and culture,” he said.

The Arts Council president emphasised that it would be a kind of injustice to label Yousufi solely as a humourist as he was one of the greatest intellectuals of Urdu literature. Shah added, “And let me share with you one more thing, I don’t agree with this theory that doctors or healthcare professionals are some kind of very dry and rude individuals. They always enjoy art, literature, and cultural activities. The Arts Council is one such example where we have a number of doctors as members who participate in every segment of our activities whether it’s literature, music or theater.”

Haroon Qasim of Pharmevo shared the 16-month journey to complete the book. He reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ethical medical practices and the overall well-being of society. He praised Yousufi’s work and its relevance in today’s healthcare landscape where empathy and ethical behavior were crucial.