Tributes paid to Progressive Writers’ Movement stalwart Rahat Saeed

Heartfelt tributes were paid to the visionary ideologue of the Progressive Writers’ Movement, Rahat Saeed, acknowledging his significant contributions to the Irtiqa Institute and Irtiqa Publications.

Known as a leftist intellectual, scholar, writer and poet, Saeed dedicated his life to promoting workers’ politics and progressive literature until his last breath. His passing is an irreplaceable loss for the progressive and intellectual thought of the subcontinent.

These remarks were made by the country’s prominent writers, intellectuals and labour leaders during a grand condolence reference organised by the Irtiqa Institute of Social Sciences in collaboration with the Progressive Writers’ Association (PWA) and the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA).

The event held at the PMA House was attended by a large number of people, while progressive writers and intellectuals from various cities of Pakistan and other countries joined through audio conferencing to pay their respects.

The Irtiqa Institute’s Kaleem Durrani remarked that while everyone eventually leaves this world, historic personalities like Saeed live on for centuries. He expressed pride in being a part of the journey led by such a great man, highlighting Saeed’s significant role in keeping the torch of Irtiqa and the PWA alive.

Saeed’s daughter Dr Arjumand and son Haider said their father taught them honesty, courage and self-confidence. They said he was fond of classical music, and even in his final days he expressed a wish to listen to the Shehnai.

Professor Kiran Singh shared that Saeed led a dynamic life with both local and international connections, and was a skilled organiser, playing a vital role in organising Faiz’s centennial celebrations, and repeatedly attempting to reorganise the PWA, though not succeeding.

Riaz Shahid Dayo remarked that Saeed’s passing is a loss not only for his family but for the entire progressive movement, leaving an irreplaceable void. Saeed notably played the role of a bridge between Urdu and Sindhi speakers, and had a deep love for Sindh, and Sindhi culture and civilisation.

Dr Tipu Sultan noted that Saeed led a courageous life, maintaining his intellect and insight until the very end. Dr Nida shared that Saeed taught them love for humanity.

Dr Syed Jafar Ahmed described him as their ideological companion, dedicated to socialist ideas throughout his life, even while working for the Pakistan International Airlines.

Zubeida Mustafa said Saeed never let his illness take over him. Anis Zaidi credited him with a key role in initiating the first International Urdu Conference at the Karachi Arts Council, through which national and international delegations participated.

Ghazi Salahuddin mentioned that Saeed was among those who lived their lives firmly rooted in their ideological beliefs. Dr Huma highlighted his tendency to work behind the scenes, encouraging others to take the forefront.

Bina shared that his smile, reminiscent of the freshness of the first breath of life, remained on his lips even at the age of 85. Nasir Mansoor extended a red salute to Saeed, who tirelessly worked in progressive movements.

Dr Neel Kanth recalled Saeed’s friendship with Baba Rochiram, noting that those in love with a purpose never die. Dr Tauseef mentioned that Saeed was a man of ideas, suggesting that the only way to honour him was to pass on his message of progressivism to the youth.

Hussain Fatmi said poetry requires love and revolution, noting his personal connection with Saeed’s family, making his loss feel like the departure of a family member.

Ayaz Latif Dayo said Saeed embodied love, and had a profound connection with Sindh and Sindhi culture. Nadeem Subtain acknowledged Saeed’s role as a mentor, guiding them on the path of truth.

Manzoor Razi shared that despite illness, Saeed attended a conference at the Karachi Press Club in his final days, displaying strength, character and resistance. Shahjahan noted Saeed’s swift ability to maintain connections, and his openness in discussions on every forum, emphasising his life’s numerous beautiful aspects.

Among those who paid tribute to Saeed online included Imdad Akash, Dr Badar Ajani, Khadim Mangi, Dr Mubarak Ali and Hassan Naqvi, as well as Vibhuti Narayan Rai and Dr Reshma from abroad.