Karachi: (www.thenewslark.com) (TNL Special Correspondent):
A dignified and intellectually enriching book launch ceremony was held today at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, marking the official unveiling of the book “Naql Makaniyan aur Be-Sar-o-Samaniyan” authored by Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar Hussain Abidi. The event attracted a large and distinguished gathering from various walks of life, including scholars, writers, diplomats, civil servants, media professionals, educationists, social workers, and representatives of cultural and literary circles.
The ceremony reflected a rare blend of scholarship, الفكر (intellectual depth), culture, and national consciousness, making it not just a book launch, but a meaningful forum for dialogue on migration, history, humanitarian values, national responsibility, and youth guidance. The venue, Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, known for its contribution to arts, culture, and intellectual discourse, provided an ideal setting for such a thought-provoking literary event.
Opening of the Ceremony
The formal proceedings began with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Master Syed Sheharyar and Syeda Mariam had the honor of performing the Tilawat-e-Kalam-e-Pak, setting a spiritual and solemn tone for the ceremony. Their recitation was received with deep respect and appreciation by the audience, creating an atmosphere of reverence and reflection.
The proceedings were conducted by renowned anchor and intellectual figure Agha Shirazi, who performed the duties of Nizamat in his traditional, graceful, and dignified style. His command over language, cultural finesse, and balanced expression added elegance and coherence to the event. His hosting ensured a smooth flow of the program while maintaining the intellectual seriousness of the subject.
About the Book
The book “Naql Makaniyan aur Be-Sar-o-Samaniyan” (Migrations and Displacement) is a comprehensive and reflective work that explores the history, philosophy, and realities of migration. It traces the concept of migration from the earliest times, beginning with Hazrat Adam (AS), continuing through the migrations of the Holy Messengers of Allah, the historical journeys of saints, and the spread of Islam into the subcontinent. It also documents the great migration of 1947 during the creation of Pakistan, highlighting the sacrifices, suffering, resilience, and courage of the refugees (Muhajireen).
Beyond history, the book also covers:
The hardships faced by displaced communities
The moral, social, and humanitarian dimensions of migration
The exemplary role of the Pakistan Army in natural disasters and humanitarian crises
The sacrifices of security forces in relief operations
The responsibilities of the state and society toward refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs)
Practical guidance for youth who aspire to migrate abroad, encouraging conscious, informed, and responsible decision-making rather than emotional and impulsive choices
The book thus combines history, ethics, national service, humanitarian values, and youth guidance into a single intellectual framework, making it a unique and multidimensional contribution to Urdu literature and national discourse.
Address by the Author
Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar Hussain Abidi, the author of the book, warmly welcomed the guests and expressed his gratitude for their presence. In his address, he thanked the audience for their participation and support, emphasizing that the book is not merely a historical narrative but a reflective journey through human struggle, sacrifice, resilience, and responsibility.
He stated that the book presents:
The historical background of migrations
The sacrifices of refugees
The humanitarian services of the Pakistan Army in natural disasters
And practical guidance for youth who wish to go abroad as immigrants
He emphasized that young people must make decisions based on awareness, wisdom, and long-term vision, not emotional reactions or temporary frustrations. He urged the youth to understand both the opportunities and challenges of immigration and to remain connected with their national identity, values, and responsibilities.
He described the book as a “ دعوتِ فکر ” (call to reflection) rather than mere storytelling, aimed at shaping conscious citizens rather than emotional migrants.
Message of the Governor of Sindh
Federal Secretary Mr. Tariq Mustafa read out the official message of the Governor of Sindh, Mr. Kamran Khan Tessori. In his message, the Governor paid tribute to the عظیم قربانیاں (great sacrifices) of the refugees during the creation of Pakistan and acknowledged their historic role in building the foundations of the new state.
The Governor appreciated Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar Hussain Abidi’s intellectual and literary efforts in documenting this important subject and praised the book for addressing migration not only as a historical event but as a continuous human and social phenomenon. He termed the book a valuable contribution to national literature and collective memory.
Distinguished Speakers and Guests
Several prominent personalities addressed the gathering and shared their views on the book, including:
Ambassador Dr. Jamil Ahmed Khan, who highlighted the global relevance of migration and displacement and praised the book for presenting a balanced narrative that connects history with contemporary realities.
Renowned TV anchor Mr. Umar Khan, who described the book as an important intellectual contribution that bridges history, social responsibility, and youth awareness.
Mr. Shakeel Khan and other respected speakers, who termed the book a “documentary and intellectual asset” for future generations.
Director Sports Syed Habib read out the message of Mr. Munawar Mahesar, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Sindh, in which he appreciated the book’s focus on youth guidance and its relevance to young generations facing uncertainty and identity challenges.
Many other dignitaries, scholars, writers, journalists, and social figures also shared their reflections, praising the book’s vision, depth, and national relevance. The speakers unanimously acknowledged that the book is not only literature but also a source of social awareness, national consciousness, and moral guidance.
Cultural and Intellectual Significance
The ceremony reflected a strong blend of culture, الفكر, ادب (literature), and قومی شعور (national consciousness). The presence of diverse segments of society highlighted the broad relevance of the book’s theme. Migration, displacement, and identity are not just historical topics but living realities affecting millions of people worldwide.
The event successfully transformed a book launch into a serious intellectual discourse platform, where history, faith, humanitarian values, national service, and youth responsibility were discussed in a meaningful and dignified environment.
Vote of Thanks and Conclusion
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar Hussain Abidi expressed special gratitude to Syed Ahmed Shah, Chairman of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, and his entire team for their cooperation, hospitality, and support in organizing the event. He praised the Arts Council as a model institution for the promotion of arts, culture, literature, and الفكر in Pakistan.
He acknowledged the Arts Council’s role in preserving cultural identity, encouraging intellectual dialogue, and providing platforms for meaningful literary and social engagement.
Overall Impact
The book launch of “Naql Makaniyan aur Be-Sar-o-Samaniyan” was not merely a ceremonial event but a powerful intellectual gathering that highlighted:
The continuity of migration in human history
The dignity and sacrifice of displaced communities
The humanitarian role of national institutions
The responsibility of society toward refugees and IDPs
The need for conscious, informed decision-making among youth
The ceremony successfully conveyed the message that migration is not just a movement of bodies, but a journey of identity, values, faith, struggle, and responsibility.
The event concluded on a note of احترام، وقار، اور فکری بالیدگی (respect, dignity, and intellectual maturity), leaving a lasting impression on the participants and reaffirming the role of literature as a tool for national awareness and social reform.
