Jalib’s poetry to be included in syllabus: minister

LAHORE
The 20th death anniversary of Habib Jalib, known as ‘Shair e Zamana’(The Poet of his times), was held at the Alhamra Arts Council, The Mall, on Friday evening.
The chief guest, provincial Minister for Education & Youth Affairs Rana Mashood Khan, paid rich tributes to Habib Jalib and termed him the ‘Poet of the People, added that he was the poet of the downtrodden, which had been exploited the most. He expressed the need to promote Jalib’s thought and his poetry to end the differences among the people for Pakistan and eliminate terrorism. He announced that the chief minister, who is also an ardent fan of Jalib, had already decided to include Jalib’s poetry in the curriculum to introduce it to the young generation.
The provincial minister agreed to the demand of Jalib’s family and his fans that a square or a road in the city will be soon dedicated to the great poet. The minister said that the Punjab government is keenly promoting education in the province and has taken many radical steps in this regard since it came to power. He emphasize on the need to think collectively as a nation like Jalib did and should contribute to the betterment of our fellow Pakistanis while joining hands together.
Amar Jalib, the grandson of Habib Jalib, a lawyer and holding an MBA degree, said that he is promoting the mission of his grandfather and he also requested the minister to help Habib Jalib Foundation for promoting education.
Habib Jalib’s daughter Rukhsahnda Jalib, a young poetess, recited her radical and revolutionary poetry which attracted great appreciation. She also complained to the minister about ‘irregularities’ in the appointments of teachers beyond merit.
Allama Iqbal’s grandson Waleed Iqbal narrated his meetings with the great man Habib Jalib and paid glowing tributes to him for his commitment, sincerity and honesty with his believes and ideology. He said that he had only one poet friend and that was Habib Jalib. Renowned singer Shaukat Ali also presented a ghazal of Habib Jalib. The function was organized by Habib Jalib’s son Nasir Jalib under the auspices of Habib Jalib Memorial Foundation, Pakistan.