A distinguished literary session was held under the auspices of the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) in memory of the legendary Urdu writer, humorist, broadcaster, and diplomat, Syed Ahmad Shah Patras Bokhari. The event took place at PAL’s head office on Patras Bokhari Road, Islamabad, and was presided over by prominent scholar, writer, and Senator Irfan Siddiqui, while the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Ms. Farah Naz Akbar, Parliamentary Secretary for National Heritage and Culture, and Mr. Asad Rehman Gilani, Federal Secretary of the same division, attended as guests of honor. The ceremony also marked the formal inauguration of PAL’s newly renovated conference hall by Senator Irfan Siddiqui. The guests spoke about Patras Bokhari’s legacy as well as the importance of literary institutions like PAL.
In her welcome note, Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of PAL, highlighted Bokhari’s literary, intellectual, and diplomatic achievements. She presented a comprehensive overview of his mastery of language, wit, and depth of thought. She thanked the Secretary of National Heritage and Culture Division for releasing the necessary funds for the renovation of the conference hall and expressed special gratitude to Senator Irfan Siddiqui for his continued patronage of literary institutions like PAL.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui offered a comparative analysis of the literary contributions of Patras Bokhari and Farhatullah Baig in the field of Urdu satire and humor. He also shared memorable anecdotes from Bokhari’s life and praised the Academy for organizing such a meaningful event in his honor. He reassured the audience of the government’s commitment to the preservation and support of literary institutions, especially PAL.
This unique event comprised two especially notable segments. The first was a theatrical adaptation of Patras Bokhari’s famous essay "Sowere Jo Kal Aankh Meri Khuli", performed artistically by Swaang Theatre, which received high praise from the audience. The performance so moved Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khichi that he announced a special reward for the troupe on the spot. The second highlight was an engaging dialogue session between Dr. Farrukh Nadeem and Mr. Ayaz Bokhari, grandson of Patras Bokhari. The conversation offered valuable insights into Patras Bokhari’s personality, his literary genius, and diplomatic endeavors. Documentaries on Bokhari’s distinguished life journey were also presented.
This session not only served as a tribute to Patras Bokhari but also played an important role in introducing the new generation to the refined tradition of Urdu humor writing. A large number of literary figures and members of Bokhari’s family attended the event.
