Staff Reporter
Peshawar:
With the arrival of spring in the city of flowers, Peshawar, literary activities have reached their peak. In this connection, a graceful ceremony was held yesterday at the Khattir Ghaznavi Auditorium of Abaseen Arts Council amid light drizzling rain and pleasant weather, where the launch of renowned writer Faiza Shehzad’s first book “Main Bolun Keh Na Bolun” (“Should I Speak or Not”) took place.
The land of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has always been fertile in literary terms, producing many distinguished writers and poets. Karwan-e-Hawa Literary Forum, a representative organization of women writers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been continuously serving literature for the past twelve years. Under the leadership of Chairperson Bushra Farakh, the forum maintains a tradition of launching books written by its female members every year on March 8, and this year as well, fourteen books were unveiled.
Faiza Shehzad, who serves as President of APOWA KP Chapter and General Secretary of Karwan-e-Hawa, has long been associated with writing and has gained recognition in literary circles through her contributions to various anthology publications. She began her writing career as a columnist, and her column titled “Patli Tamasha” has appeared in Jazba Post Chicago, American Times, and the daily newspaper Kasauti.
Her debut book “Main Bolun Keh Na Bolun” surprised literary circles because, by stepping into the field of satire and humor, she earned the distinction of being the first female humor writer from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The chief guest of the ceremony was Director Culture Haleema Iqbal, while guests of honor included Dr. Ejaz Khattak, Mushtaq Shabab, and Bushra Farakh. The event began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Syed Hamid Mahmood, followed by a naat presented by Tabinda Farakh. The proceedings were hosted by renowned presenter Professor Malik Arshad Hussain.
Speakers including Dr. Zigham Hassan, Fazal Kabir, renowned actor Najeebullah Anjum, Mushtaq Shabab, Naz Parveen, Bushra Farakh, and Dr. Shaheen Umar paid rich tribute to the author’s efforts. They noted that Faiza Shehzad has presented social characters and issues in a humorous style using simple and accessible language, allowing readers to feel part of the narrative. Her writings reflect wit, spontaneity, and keen social observation, offering a refreshing experience in today’s stressful environment.
According to the speakers, the author has moved beyond traditional approaches by humorously portraying not only women’s issues but also the everyday struggles of men, particularly writers and poets. She has also beautifully compared past and present eras, maintaining readers’ interest throughout.
Director Culture Haleema Iqbal congratulated Faiza Shehzad, stating that such positive and humorous literary events are encouraging for society, and the Culture Department will continue to extend full support to similar activities in the future.
A large number of distinguished guests from various walks of life attended the ceremony, making the event memorable. The gathering concluded with refreshments, where guests were served hot tea and snacks.
