Faiz centennial: Bahar Ayee — album of Faiz’s poetry launched

LAHORE: Thursday saw the release of Bahar Ayee, a 10-track compact disc (CD) from the poetry of Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Tina Sani is the singer of most of the tracks while Indian actor Shabana Azmi recited some of them. The CD was launched as part of the Faiz Centennial celebrations amidst writers, poets and artists.

Sani speaking about Faiz said, “Faiz Sahib, you have been part of my life for a quarter of a century. You are my guiding light. When you said Bol Key Lab Azad Hain Terey, I tried to do exactly that. I learnt from you that no matter how difficult times are there is always hope.” “It’s great if you like the CD but if you don’t you have truly sinned,” Sani joked.

Human Rights Commission of Pakistan secretary general, and a close friend of Faiz, IA Rehman said Faiz’s poetry was the poetry of life. “When one is alone, hopeless, with no will to move on, reading Faiz give you the desire to live and move forward with life.”

Indian actor, producer and singer Ila Arum told The Express Tribune that she had been a great admirer of the poet and was pleased to be at the celebrations. Arun said she was impressed by Pakistani folk artists and made a special mention of Sain Zahoor. “If I get an opportunity, I will definitely work in Pakistan.”

Writer and director Atul Tiwari said it was his first visit to the country and he was delighted to see the manner in which Lahoris saluted Faiz. “The way Faiz is loved here is unmatched.” Tiwari plans to make a round of various historical sites during his stay in the city. Other prominent guests from India included Dr Alok Vajpai, Dr Anjali Tewari, Dr Asghar Wajahat and Lubna Salim. Faiz’s daughters Salima Hashmi and Muneeza Hashmi, and grandson Adeel Hashmi were also present at the launch.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 11^th, 2011.