ISLAMABAD: For the first time in the nation’s history, a distinctive event was held on National Minorities Day, commemorating the visionary address by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that assured equal rights and religious freedom for minorities. This milestone was celebrated with a Poetic Symposium, organized by WE News, showcasing the profound love for the country expressed through poetry.
The event, titled ‘Hum Sab Ka Pakistan’, took place at The Black Hole Auditorium in Islamabad on Independence Day and National Minorities Day. Poets from diverse minority communities, including Hindus, Christians, and other non-Muslims, gathered to present their works. Nazir Qaiser, a renowned Urdu poet from the Christian community, presided over the symposium, while Pandit Suraj Narayan, a Hindu poet from Kohat, served as the guest of honor. The proceedings were initiated by Shehbaz Chauhan, who also hosted the gathering.
Chauhan’s opening poem reflected the deep emotional connection to the country:
“There is a promise from the heart and mention from the tongue,
I live and die for Pakistan, and I am for Pakistan.”
Poets from across the nation paid tribute to the homeland in their unique styles. Their contributions varied—from recounting their roles in Pakistan’s formation to celebrating the revered relationship between SP Singha and Quaid-e-Azam. Some poets highlighted the beauty of the land, while others vowed to sacrifice their lives for the country. Their verses also prayed for the prosperity of Pakistan, symbolized by the green and white of the national flag.
WE News Chief Editor Ammar Masood welcomed the poets and audience, emphasizing that the symposium’s purpose was to highlight the voices of minorities, which are often overlooked. He noted that although similar events are organized nationwide on Independence Day, this festival was unique in its focus on representing minority communities comprehensively.
President of the Mushaira, Nazir Qaiser, praised WE News for this innovative initiative, describing it as a ‘new dream’ to unite the diverse minorities, languages, and provinces of Pakistan. He acknowledged the significant contributions of minorities in various fields, including literature, medical science, and the military, and stressed that this event would play a crucial role in recognizing their services.
Poet Aftab Javed advocated for the regular holding of such Poetic Symposiums, believing they provide valuable insights into minorities’ perspectives on the country. Poetess Mehnaz Benjamin supported this view, noting that the initiative would enhance harmony among minorities and promote literature.
The significance of August 11 was highlighted, marking the day in 2009 when the Pakistani government declared it as National Minorities Day. This date is historically important as it commemorates Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s address guaranteeing equal rights to followers of all religions. This day recognizes the invaluable contributions of Hindu, Sikh, and Christian communities in Pakistan’s development and defense, acknowledging their enduring role in the country’s progress.
