Srinagar, Oct 3: Anjuman-e-Faroogh-e-Urdu Sunday organised a book release function at Jammu in which books on eminent Urdu poet late Arsh Sahbai were released.

A book of criticism ‘Mughani-e-Hayat Arsh’ compiled by Syed Khurshid Kazmi,  ‘Urdu Ghazal Ke Ahd-Saz Shayir: Arsh’ by Kaushal Kiran Thakur and three poetry anthologies of Arsh Sehbai entitled ‘Teri Pur-fasoon Nigahein’, ‘Saye Teri  Yaadon Ke’ and ‘Shabnum Teri Yaadon Ki’ were also released.

In addition a poetic anthology of famed poet Syed Khurshid Kazmi entitled ‘Teri Fasoon-Saaz Aankhen’ was also released. Chairperson Waqf Development Committee of the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs Dr Darakhshan Andrabi was the chief guest. Lawyer & Journalist Sohail Kazmi presided over the function while poet Khurshid Kazmi, author Dr Jitendra Udhampuri & Prof Qudoos Javed were also present on the occasion.

Congratulating the Anjuman-e-Faroogh-e-Urdu for the service rendered by the non-profit organisation for promotion of Urdu language and literature in Jammu division, senior BJP leader Dr Darakhshan Andrabi said that poetry of Arsh Sahbai has been acclaimed at international levels and we are fortunate to have lived with him here. She hailed the efforts of the Anjuman in bringing out his unpublished books and providing a platform to the Ash-Shinasi. “Arsh was the son of the soil and he will remain as a beacon of Urdu poetry inspiring our young writers and authors. Khurshid Kazmi is also a sweet prominent poet who deserves applause for his latest book of poetry,” said Dr Darakhshan Andrabi.

She said that art and literature are universal creative reflections and its unifying force is magical. She appealed to the warriors of the pen to address broader human concerns through literature so that it remains relevant beyond time and space.

In his address Sohail Kazmi said that Arsh Sahbai has been a vibrant literary movement in Jammu for decades and veterans like Khurshid Kazmi have been part of his literary pursuits throughout. He said when on one hand we see the territory of Urdu squeezing in J&K, but on the other hand we see Urdu literature transcending all borders and becoming popular in all different linguistic domains. He said that by the addition of these very valuable books released today, the treasure of Urdu will be more precious.  He hailed Urdu fraternity of J&K for tireless efforts in preserving and promoting Urdu language in the UT despite many difficulties.   

The welcome address was delivered by president of Anjuman Fozia Zia. The function was attended by many prominent poets, journalists and social activists and poetry lovers.