15th death anniversary of Ashfaq Ahmad observed today

The 15th death anniversary of renowned literary figure Ashfaq Ahmed was observed today. Regarded as one of the greats of Urdu literature, his work is seen as the perfect between storytelling and intellectual depth.

Born on August 22, 1925 in the British Indian Punjab to a Pashtun family, Ahmed moved to Lahore in 1947 following the partition. Though e is primarily known as a writer, Ahmad started his career as a broadcaster, a field where he excelled at. Ahmed joined Radio Azad Kashmir following the completion of his Masters in Urdu Literature from Government College Lahore. The writer also briefly taught Urdu at the University of Rome.

Following his return to Pakistan from Italy, Ahmed published a literary magazine, Dastan Go. At the time, Ahmed also joined Radio Pakistan as a scriptwriter. The writer got his first taste of fame , Gaddarya (The Shepherd), following which he delivered a series of writings.

Among his many books included Zavia, Aik Muhabbat Sau Afsanay, Tota Kahani, Gadaria, Safar Dar Safar, Talqeen Shah, Mun Chalay Ka Sauda, Hairat Kadah, and Baba Sahba. On television, Ahmad penned the script of several plays that went on to become popular with audiences including, Uchhay Burj Lahore De,Tali Thallay, and Tota Kahani. He also made a feature film called Dhop aur saya in the 60's.

Ahmed married Banu Qudsia, who was also a well-known author and literary personality. He has received both the Presidential Pride of Performance award (Sadarti Aizaz Barai-Husn-Karkardagi) and Sitar-e- Imtiaz . The writer passed away died in 2004 at the age of 79

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