Karachi, The second day of the “16th World Urdu Conference 2023,” organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, featured a session titled “Celebrations of Urdu Novels,” chaired by Mirza Athar Baig. The session delved into the works of renowned Urdu novelists, including Khalid Akhtar, Bano Qudsia, Abdullah Hussain, Shamsur Rahman Farooqi, Qura-ul-Ain Haider, and Shaukat Siddiqui, exploring novel writing and the personalities behind these works.
According to Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the session included discussions by prominent literary figures Hameed Shahid, Najiba Arif, and Mehmood Sham. Mirza Athar Baig highlighted the evolving nature of novel writing and its audience, encouraging young writers to break free from traditional templates and adopt a more open approach. The discussion also touched on the enduring impact of classic novels like “Khuda Ki Basti,” and the relevance of their themes in contemporary times.
The session delved into the varied styles of Khalid Akhtar, whose works explore life’s events through fiction. The unique ability to portray life’s tragedies and joys was highlighted as a hallmark of great fiction writing. Bano Qudsia’s contributions were celebrated, noting that her characters’ longevity keeps her legacy alive. Her novel “Raja Gadh” was praised for its captivating style and significant contribution to Urdu literature.
Abdullah Hussain’s work, particularly “Fareeb” and “Generations,” was discussed for its portrayal of village culture and deep character exploration. Shamsur Rahman Farooqi’s fiction was admired for its innovative approach and blend of past narratives, creating a rich tapestry of civilization’s story.
Najiba Arif spoke about Qura-ul-Ain Haider, emphasizing her role in defining modern Urdu novels and her diverse body of work. Haider’s ability to introduce readers to new worlds and evoke deep reflection was praised. The session underscored the richness of Urdu novel writing and its evolution, highlighting the contributions of these celebrated authors to the literary landscape.