The literary contributions and intellectual legacy of renowned Pakistani poet, scholar and intellectual Professor Sahar Ansari came under the spotlight at a special reception held at the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi.

The event marked the launch and reception of Pakistani Adab Ke Memaar — Sahar Ansari: Shakhsiyat Aur Fun, a new publication by the Academy of Letters Pakistan.

Dr Zia-ul-Hasan and Mushtaq Ahmed authored the book. It represents one of the early comprehensive efforts to examine Sahar Ansari’s personality, writings and intellectual contributions.

The ceremony took place at the Husna Moin Hall of the Arts Council. A large number of poets, writers, academics and literary figures from Karachi attended the gathering.

The programme opened with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Shakeel Khan. Organisers then presented a naat in honour of Sahar Ansari.

Dr Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui presided over the ceremony. Khalid Moin hosted the event and conducted its proceedings.

Several prominent literary and academic figures shared their views during the ceremony. Speakers included Dr Najiba Arif, Dr Kamran Jahangir, Dr Zia-ul-Hasan, Dr Saif-ur-Rehman Firasat Rizvi, Dr Rukhsana Saba, Dr Ambreen Haseeb Amber and Salman Pirzada.

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The speakers discussed different aspects of Sahar Ansari’s literary career and intellectual work. They highlighted his influence on Pakistani literature and his contribution to poetry, scholarship and critical thought.

Poet Kamran Mughal also presented a poetic tribute to Sahar Ansari. His verses reflected admiration and affection for the celebrated literary figure.

The organisers acknowledged the support of Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi President Muhammad Ahmad Shah, Dr Najiba Arif and Dr Kamran Jahangir. They praised their efforts in promoting the publication and bringing its contents before readers.

Dr Najiba Arif and Dr Kamran Jahangir also delivered video messages. Their messages added to the tributes paid to Sahar Ansari during the gathering.

Dr Zia-ul-Hasan, one of the book’s authors, joined the ceremony online because of illness. His participation allowed him to remain part of the event despite his health condition.

Organisers also expressed special appreciation for Dr Saif-ur-Rehman Firasat Rizvi. Despite health difficulties, he attended the ceremony and presented an article he had prepared for the occasion.

The unexpected arrival of Qamar Raza Shahzad provided another memorable moment during the gathering.

Sahar Ansari has remained an influential figure in Pakistan’s literary circles. His poetry, scholarship and intellectual work have contributed to the country’s literary discourse over the years.

The newly launched book brings together critical perspectives on his personality and creative work. It also aims to preserve and document his contribution to Pakistani literature for future readers and researchers.

The event also reflected the strong connection between Karachi’s literary community and Sahar Ansari. Poets, writers and academics gathered to recognise his work and celebrate his enduring place in Pakistan’s cultural landscape.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the organisers thanked all guests, poets, writers and audience members for attending the event.

They said the warmth and support shown by the literary community represented a meaningful tribute to Sahar Ansari and could not be fully expressed through words alone.

The ceremony concluded with warm wishes for the participants and the sharing of photographic highlights from an evening dedicated to the life, work and literary legacy of Professor Sahar Ansari.