Event honours women writers

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) on Wednesday hosted the 76th informal session of its popular weekly literary series, "Chai, Baatein aur Kitabein," to honour distinguished women writers of Pakistan. The event was held in recognition of their valuable contributions to literature ahead of the upcoming International Women's Day.

The session, titled "Asr-e-Hazir Ki Pakistani Khawateen Ahl-e-Qalam: Takhleeqi Baseerat aur Samaji Shaoor" (Contemporary Pakistani Women Writers: Creative Insight and Social Consciousness) commenced with a meaningful discussion on women's rights, prevailing social attitudes, and the challenges faced by women in society.

Renowned journalist and writer Fareeda Hafeez and Afshan Abbasi spoke at length about the significance of International Women's Day and highlighted the evolving role of women within the social framework.

Chairperson of PAL, Dr Najeeba Arif, in her address stated that women are playing an active and impactful role alongside men in every sphere of life, proving their capabilities and resilience. She appreciated the creative energy, intellectual depth, and social awareness demonstrated by women in the literary field, while emphasising the need to further expand their representation. Dr Arif remarked that exceptional talent never remains hidden; however, emerging and mid-career writers require consistent effort, intellectual discipline, and proper mentorship to excel.