Rich tributes paid to Munnu Bhai in UAE

DUBAI: Pakistani community residing in United Arab Emirates (UAE) paid a rich tribute to renowned writer, columnist and poet Munir Ahmed Qureshi, more commonly known as Munnu Bhai, in the condolence ceremony held in Niaz Library of Pakistan Association of Dubai.

Glowing tribute was paid to Munnu Bhai during the ceremony organised by Pakistan Journalist Forum (PJF). The chief guest was prominent Urdu fiction writer and literary critic of Pakistan Mohammad Hameed Shahid. Hameed Shahid recalled his memories with Munnu Bhai in different literary circles of the country.

Talking to The News, Hameed Shahid admired him by saying “Munnu Bhai was a sincere, humble and an honest man. His life and journalistic career is something for all of us to look up to. He brilliantly wrote in support of democracy and common man.”

Journalist Tahir Munir expressed his condolences on the unfortunate demise of his colleague since late 70s. He shared thought-provoking incidents of Munnu Bhai’s struggle in life and journalism.

Famous journalist Sohail Khawar also mourned the unfortunate demise of the writer. He said that the great writer would be remembered not only for his writings but due to his social work. He lauded the services of Munnu Bhai for the establishment of Thalassemia hospital in Lahore that is providing free medical treatment to people.

Journalist Malik Aamir also recalled the works of Munnu Bhai specially his dramas and his column titled Gireban. He said that his columns were popular because of his creative pieces that centered on a very humanistic angle.

President Pakistan Journalist Forum (PJF) Ashfaq Ahmed said that his death is the end of an era and the entire literary community is grieving his loss. He also lauded his role in highlighting issues related to common man throughout his life.

Talking to The News, Ashfaq Ahmed said that the purpose of the ceremony was to highlight the services of the veteran writer of our era and introduce him among the expatriates living here in UAE. He also promised to display the books of Munnu Bhai in Niaz Library Dubai shortly.

While, Hafiz Zahid narrated his Punjabi poetry and it was greatly admired by the audience. 84-year old Munno Bhai passed away in Lahore last week. He was born in Wazirabad in 1933. He was affiliated with journalism for more than 25 years. He also wrote dramas for Pakistan Television, his most famous drama is 'Sona Chandi' which will always be remembered by his fans.