Quadrilingual mushaira celebrates Pak-China friendship

PESHAWAR: A poetry recital session in four languages was arranged at the Chinese Cultural Centre on Thursday as part of the celebrations of the national day of China and the enduring friendship between the two brotherly countries.

The organisers said poetic verses were recited in English, Urdu, Pashto and Hindko languages, sending a heartfelt message of love and eternal friendship from Peshawar to the people of China.

Hosted by Professor Malik Arshad Hussain, an English, Urdu and Hindko poet and writer, the event was attended by Mushtaq Shabab, Ms Bushra Farrukh, Aziz Ijaz, Aseer Mangal, Dr Khadim Ibrahim, Samina Qadir, Shahida Sardar, Muhammad Owais Qarni, Ms Gul Arbab, and Professor Dr Gulzar Jalal.

The programme witnessed the expressions of poetry, which artfully wove together themes of friendship, progress, and China’s remarkable development.Professor Malik Arshad Hussain and Professor Dr Gulzar Jalal recited their pieces of poetry in English.

Hailing from Peshawar, Professor Malik has translated the classic English poets into the Hindko language besides composing poetry and penning travelogues in his mother language.Professor Gulzar Jalal is known for his efforts in the promotion of the Pashto language and literature.

The chief guest, Provincial Secretary for Local Government and Rural Development Dawood Khan, lauded the China Window for the initiative.He remarked: “While China Window has organized numerous events over the past six years, this poetry festival marks a milestone. It has opened an important chapter in cultural diplomacy, using poetry to convey a timeless message of friendship”.

The official lauded China for making immense progress in various fields and recognized it

globally.The secretary emphasized the enduring significance of poetry in the literary traditions of this region, lamenting that this art form has, in some ways, waned over time.

He called for a renewed focus on promoting literature, ensuring that future generations remain connected to the nation’s cultural heritage.Dawood Khan announced the plan to organize another Mushaira under the auspices of the Local Government Department.Souvenirs were distributed to guests at the end of the function.