KARACHI:
Fiction writer Shoukat Siddiqui was born on 20th March 1923. He belonged to the third generation of modern fiction writers comprising the literary giants. He played a significant role in promoting Urdu literature leaving a lasting impact on his readers. Those who enjoy Urdu literature have spent the last few days celebrating his 100th birth anniversary.
Shoukat’s commitment to truth and social realism directed him throughout his literary journey. He tried to raise social and political awareness with his writings and earned his reputation as a progressive writer. His masterpiece Khuda Ki Basti is regarded as one of the most persuasive documentation of life in a Karachi slum. Critics believe only some novels are jotted with such a realistic approach. The novel received international acclaim and was translated into more than 25 languages.
Shoukat Siddiqui’s stories mostly focused on the oppressed and less privileged and their exploitation. His reflections on crime are indeed exemplary. He advocated national progress and pressed on the need to abandon discriminatory and oppressive practices. Shoukat Siddiqui was awarded the Adamjee Literary Award in 1960 and the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003 by the Pakistani government due to his prominent and influential role in Urdu literature. Writers like Shoukat are seldom born but remain alive forever in the hearts and minds of generations due to their literary skills and creative articulation. It is indeed necessary to introduce the new generations to Shoukat’s writings. The best way to do this is to include his work in the academic curriculums to inspire younger generations and keep his spirit alive.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 20th, 2023.
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