Condolence reference: Tribute paid to Urdu poet Afsar Minhas

HARIPUR:

Writers and social activists paid tribute to Urdu poet Fida Hussain, better known as Afsar Minhas, during a condolence reference held in Haripur on Saturday evening.

The event was organised by Anjuman-e-Taraqqi Pasand Musanifeen at Government Centennial Model High School for Boys No 1.

The poet, who had also served as provincial vice president of Anjuman-e-Taraqqi Pasand Musanifeen, passed away on March 10 after suffering a cardiac arrest.

One of the speakers discussed Minhas’ work. He said his poetry was never confined to “traditional romantic approaches” but carried powerful messages on socio-economic disequilibrium, personal strife and acrimony.

Professor Waheed Qureshi, a writer, said the poet’s work was a symbol of motivation for young people and those who are committed to bringing positive change.

He also drew attention to Minhas’ poems that highlight flaws in the political system and guide activists to work towards social welfare.

Minhas was 62 years old when he passed away and is survived by his wife, daughter and son. He penned an anthology of poems titled Koi tasveer to pathar se niklay. The poet also served as a programme manager at South Asia Partnership Pakistan, an NGO, and has authored several books on social activism.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 21^st,  2016.