Hazara University holds conference honouring poet Ghulam Muhammad Kasir

MANSEHRA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Jun, 2026) The Department of urdu at Hazara University, Mansehra, organized a day-long conference in honour of renowned Urdu poet Ghulam Muhammad Kasir, where scholars, academics, poets, and literary figures paid rich tribute to his outstanding contributions to Urdu literature.

The conference was attended by members of the late poet’s family, including his son Imad Kasir and brother-in-law Khawar Ahmad, alongside professors, researchers, writers, and literary enthusiasts from across Pakistan.

The event comprised three sessions. Addressing the inaugural session, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ikramullah Khan, Dean of the Faculty of Arts Prof. Dr. Shakir Ullah, and Chairman of the Department of Urdu Prof. Dr. Altaf Yousafzai highlighted the objectives and significance of the conference.

Paying glowing tribute to Ghulam Muhammad Kasir’s literary services, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ikramullah Khan praised the Department of Urdu for organizing the event and congratulated Prof. Dr. Altaf Yousafzai and his team on their efforts.

“Poets never truly die; they continue to live in the hearts of people through their words and poetry,” the VC remarked, adding that Kasir’s remarkable literary work continues to inspire generations of readers.

Dean of the Faculty of Arts Prof. Dr. Shakir Ullah delivered a detailed presentation on the life and literary journey of Ghulam Muhammad Kasir. He said that the national poet began his literary career in the remote town of Paharpur in Dera Ismail Khan and gradually rose to international recognition through the strength of his poetry.

Born on September 4, 1944 in Paharpur, DI Khan, Kasir first gained national attention when legendary poet Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi introduced him through the prestigious literary journal Fanoon in 1977.

Thereafter, his poetic voice reached audiences far beyond his hometown through national mushairas and literary programmes on radio and television.

Welcoming the participants, Prof. Dr. Altaf Yousafzai highlighted the aims of the conference and shed light on Kasir’s literary legacy.

“What made Kasir Sahib unique was his ability to combine traditional poetic elegance with modern themes,” he said.

“His poetry explored love, human relationships, social concerns, and the complexities of contemporary life, offering readers a rare balance of intellectual depth and emotional warmth.”

Speakers observed that one of Kasir’s greatest strengths was his ability to express profound ideas in simple language. His poetry reflected the struggles, hopes, and aspirations of ordinary people, making it both accessible and deeply meaningful.

The second session featured scholarly papers examining various aspects of Kasir’s life, personality, and literary achievements.

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Dr. Khalid Sohail Malik of Peshawar presented a comprehensive paper on Kasir’s contributions to drama writing, while Khawar Ahmad discussed different dimensions of the poet’s personality and literary legacy.

Speaking on the occasion, Imad Kasir thanked the university administration, the Department of Urdu, and the organizing committee for holding the conference in memory of his father. He highlighted the distinctive qualities of Kasir’s poetry and personality.

Speakers described Ghulam Muhammad Kasir as one of the most celebrated poets of modern Urdu literature, admired for his simplicity of expression, emotional depth, and eloquent portrayal of love and human emotions. His poetry addressed themes ranging from romance and unfulfilled desires to social injustice and inequality, making his work timeless and widely relatable.

They said that Kasir used his pen as a voice for truth, justice, and freedom, while remaining deeply connected to the realities of society. His verses continue to be quoted and recited throughout the Urdu-speaking world, securing his place among the foremost literary figures of his generation.

Renowned Pashto poet Dr. Abaseen Yousafzai said Kasir’s courage and commitment to his beliefs elevated him beyond the role of a poet, making him a respected intellectual whose work continues to inspire readers and writers alike.

The session was chaired by Prof. Dr. Arifa Shehzad, holder of the Jameel Jalibi Chair at the Department of Urdu, University of the Punjab.

In her presidential address, she appreciated the scholarly contributions presented during the conference and shared her views on Kasir’s poetic achievements.

At the conclusion of the academic session, certificates were distributed among paper presenters, members of the organizing committee, media representatives, and conference participants.

The second part of the event featured a multilingual Mushaira, where prominent poets recited poetry in Urdu as well as regional languages including Hindko, Pashto, and Gojri.

The mushaira was presided over by noted poet Khawar Ahmad, while renowned Pashto poet Dr. Abaseen Yousafzai attended as chief guest. Guests of honour included Dr. Ishaq Wardag, Dr. Shahab Safdar, and Punjab Assembly member Dr. Suraiya Naseem.

The guests, scholars, and poets commended the excellent arrangements and hospitality of the organizers and congratulated Prof. Dr. Altaf Yousafzai and his team on successfully hosting the event.

The conference attracted a large number of students whose enthusiastic participation contributed significantly to its success.

Concluding the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ikramullah Khan once again congratulated the Department of Urdu for organizing a meaningful conference in honour of one of Pakistan’s most distinguished literary figures.

APP/fam