Festival explores literature's role in societal harmony

9th Adab Festival Pakistan promotes book reading among youth in federal capital

ISLAMABAD:

The "9th Adab Festival Pakistan" had an engaging daylong session highlighting the role played by literature in building a harmonious society on Monday.

The event was hosted by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) in collaboration with Lightstone Publishers.

In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood emphasised Pakistan's literary richness and ISSI's commitment to fostering creativity through literature. He highlighted the festival's role in promoting book reading, especially among youth, as a vital balancing factor in the digital age.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood lauded the festival as a platform to celebrate cultural pluralism, inspire dialogue, and explore creative ideas.

He commended the festival's diverse programme, featuring book talks and discussions on topics such as Quaid-e-Azam's vision, women empowerment, and education, showcasing its potential to inspire new perspectives.

In her introductory remarks, Ameena Saiyid highlighted the transformative power of literature festivals in honouring writers, researchers, and poets, while addressing societal challenges and reinforcing cultural identity.

Dr Najeeba Arif, Chairperson Pakistan Academy of Letters, emphasised literature's role in fostering humanity, hope, and soft power, stressing its influence in shaping a nation's cultural and intellectual landscape. The session laid the foundation for a festival that celebrates creativity, intellectual exchange, and meaningful dialogue, underscoring the significant role of literature in societal progress.

The first session of the Adab Festival, titled "Jinnah's Vision for Pakistan – A Call for Action," featured insightful remarks by Barrister Yasser Latif Hamdani, author of the book, and was moderated by Professor Dr Ilhan Niaz.

Barrister Hamdani emphasised Jinnah's role as a key legislator in Pakistan's formation, contrasting his inclusive vision with Gandhi's focus on religion in politics.

He clarified that Jinnah envisioned a state and promoted harmony among diverse communities while fostering a modern Muslim society grounded in its religious roots.

Hamdani dispelled misconceptions, stressing that Jinnah's vision was not for a theocracy, but for a progressive Pakistan based on equality, justice, and tolerance.

The session highlighted the need to realign contemporary discourse with Jinnah's ideals, advocating for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Dr Maleeha Lodhi highlighted unlearned lessons from history, missed opportunities in land reforms, education etc., and the role of individuals in shaping history.