Correspondent
Islamabad: A grand launching ceremony of young writer Shah Jamal Hashmi’s book “Rumi and Tagore’s Blessings” was held at the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) in collaboration with Bazm Tasleem Adab. The event brought together distinguished scholars, poets, intellectuals, and literary enthusiasts, who hailed the book as a remarkable addition to Urdu literature.
The ceremony was presided over by renowned poet and intellectual Iftikhar Arif, with Ms. Najiba Arif, Chairperson of PAL, as special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Iftikhar Arif said the book reflects the natural relationship between Rumi and Tagore, weaving themes of spirituality and monotheism. “This book has an appeal that draws us towards Rumi and Tagore. It is an important effort that will benefit readers, especially the younger generation,” he remarked.
Ms. Najiba Arif described the book as “not just a book to read, but an absorbing book in which a reader becomes immersed.” She praised Shah Jamal’s ability to combine scientific research with the mysticism and spirituality of Rumi and Tagore.
Dr. Farooq Sattar called the book a “valuable addition to Urdu literature,” noting that it explores themes of monotheism and spiritual connection with the Creator. “Shah Jamal has opened new windows of reading and thinking for our culture, literature, and youth,” he said.
Former MNA Shakeel Baloch lauded the young writer’s achievement, saying it will be remembered in golden words in literary history. Professor Rashid Noorani emphasized that Shah Jamal has presented the timeless connection between Rumi and Tagore in a unique style never attempted before.
Other speakers, including Colonel Zahid Iqbal, Professor Mahmood Ejaz Butt, Dr. Rashid Jamal, Professor Dr. Fawzia Sahar Malik, Lubna Qureshi, and Taslim Ikram, praised the depth of Shah Jamal’s work, comparing it to the intricacy of the Taj Mahal and highlighting his remarkable ability to interweave the philosophies of Rumi, Tagore, and Khalil Gibran.
The event concluded with heartfelt thanks from Bazm Tasleem Adab in memory of its late founder Taslim Ikram.
Shah Jamal Hashmi’s “Rumi and Tagore’s Blessings” was widely hailed as a masterpiece of Sufi thought and literary artistry, cementing his place among promising young voices in Urdu literature.
