The Department of Libraries Islamabad, in collaboration with the Sukhan Foundation, hosted on Saturday a distinguished book launch and poetry symposium at the Islamabad Public Library to celebrate the release of renowned poet Aqeel Abbas' latest collection, Bar Qaab.
The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Qur'an by Muhammad Hammad, followed by a heartfelt Naat by Ishrat Naseem. The event was presided over by the esteemed poet, fiction writer, and scholar, Dr Waheed Ahmed. Senior literary figures, including Rehman Hafeez, Syed Shamsheer Hyder, and Khizar Saleem Khokhar, graced the occasion as guests of honour.
In his remarks, literary critic Waqas Aziz commended Bar Qaab as a significant contribution to modern Urdu ghazal, while Usman Halim emphasised its mythological undertones. Young critic Hasan Jameel of Wah Cantt described Aqeel Abbas as "a poet of fresh traditions," while senior poet Rehman Hafeez acknowledged his substantial impact on contemporary literature.
In his presidential address, Dr Waheed Ahmed lauded Aqeel Abbas' unique allusive style, recognising Bar Qaab as a refreshing and valuable addition to the modern ghazal scene.
The second session, moderated by poet and broadcaster Muhammad Ali Niaz, featured recitations by a range of prominent poets, including Tahir Khan, Saad Majeed, Hasan Ibn Saqi, Fakhar Kafayat, Bismil Hashmi, Aamir Qureshi, Aamir Dhaddi Rajput, Hina Qureshi, Ittifaq Butt, Waqas Aziz, Hasan Jameel, Syed Shamsheer Hyder, Rehman Hafeez, Khizar Saleem Khokhar, Aqeel Abbas, Dr. Saleem Akhtar, and Dr. Waheed Ahmed.
The Director-General of Libraries, Sheikh Muhammad Arshad, expressed his gratitude to the poets and participants, describing the evening as an inspiring literary celebration. "Such events will continue in the future, and my staff and I remain committed to promoting literature and culture," he remarked.
The program concluded with warm applause, marking a memorable and historic celebration of poetry and literary heritage.
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