Book launch celebrates Irfan Siddiqui’s literary legacy

Jhelum  –  Writers, intellectuals, poets and political figures gathered at Book Corner Jhelum to pay tribute to late Senator Irfan Siddiqui at the launch of Irfan Bhai Aur Mein, a book by renowned educationist and writer Dr Shahid Siddiqui.

The event brought together prominent literary and political personalities to reflect on the life and work of the veteran Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader, whose career spanned teaching, journalism, poetry, playwriting and parliamentary politics.

Senator Pervez Rashid, Dr Khurshid Nadeem, Dr Najeeba Arif and Dr Rakhshanda Batool shared their impressions of the book, highlighting Siddiqui’s literary style, intellectual depth and contributions to public discourse. Their remarks explored different aspects of his life and work, as well as the influence he continued to exert on those familiar with his writings and ideas.

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Speaking at the launch, Dr Shahid Siddiqui said the book sought to document lesser-known aspects of Irfan Siddiqui’s life, tracing his journey as a teacher, playwright, columnist, poet and parliamentary leader. He highlighted the late senator’s perseverance and dedication to his principles, describing his life and work as an important part of Pakistan’s literary and intellectual heritage.

The book is divided into two parts. The first recounts Dr Shahid Siddiqui’s personal memories and experiences of the late senator, offering insights into his character, outlook and personal relationships. The second brings together a selection of Irfan Siddiqui’s columns, poetry and dramas, providing readers with an overview of his literary and creative work.

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Senior PML-N leader Senator Pervez Rashid said the book stood out for its account of aspects of Siddiqui’s personality that had received relatively little attention. He said the late senator had confronted difficult circumstances with courage and resilience. Drawing a comparison with celebrated Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib, Rashid observed that Siddiqui’s writing displayed a similar economy of expression, a quality for which Ghalib remains widely admired.

Dr Khurshid Nadeem, chairman of the Rahmatul-lil-Alameen wa Khatam-un-Nabiyyin Authority, said reading the book had stirred a range of emotions. He praised Siddiqui’s distinctive writing style, noting its ability to hold readers’ attention and draw them into his work.

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Dr Najeeba Arif, former chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, described the publication as a memoir. She said Siddiqui had consistently sought to strengthen the institutions and fields in which he worked, reflecting his commitment to their development.

Gagan Shahid thanked the participants for attending the launch and paying tribute to the late senator. He said Siddiqui had served as a mentor to many and had encouraged others to raise standards in book publishing.

The publication also features excerpts from a column on Irfan Siddiqui by Arshad Mahmood Malik, a recipient of the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz and a speechwriter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. A longtime associate and disciple of the late senator, Malik offers a personal perspective on Siddiqui’s character and influence.

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Speaking to The Nation, Malik said his association with Siddiqui had spanned three decades, giving him an opportunity to observe the veteran politician’s literary pursuits, intellectual outlook and personal qualities at close quarters. He described Siddiqui as kind-hearted and committed to guiding younger people, helping them develop their abilities as a teacher and mentor.

Malik added that Siddiqui’s encouragement had enabled young people to broaden their intellectual horizons and develop their potential. His commitment to nurturing talent, he said, had left a lasting impression on those who had benefited from his guidance.

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