Karachi, August 2 (IANS) — The Karachi Gymkhana’s Library and Literary Sub-committee hosted a notable event on Thursday, celebrating the launch of two anthologies by former senator Javed Jabbar, titled Steams and Shade & Light. The event took place in the Sapphire Hall and featured a series of reflections on Jabbar’s prolific writing career.
Associate Professor Dr. Erum Hafeez from Iqra University kicked off the evening by highlighting Jabbar’s influence on her academic and professional life. Describing him as her teacher, mentor, and inspiration, Dr. Hafeez praised Jabbar for his dedication to addressing serious issues with persistence and foresight. “His articles give me hope for the future,” she shared, underlining the impact of Jabbar’s work on her students and broader audiences.
Novelist and national affairs writer Taha Kehar also spoke highly of Jabbar’s contributions. “Senator Jabbar has devoted 52 years to writing with critical insight,” Kehar remarked. He contrasted Jabbar’s well-thought-out and foresighted pieces with the more fleeting nature of some contemporary publications, noting Jabbar’s ability to engage with issues in a profound and enduring manner.
Dr. Durriya Kazi, an art and culture scholar, complemented these remarks by emphasizing the thematic richness and optimistic tone in Jabbar’s writings. Reflecting on Jabbar’s prolific output, which spans 21 books since 1971, Dr. Kazi praised his commitment to truth and his optimistic outlook. She noted that Jabbar’s work shines a light on obstacles while always seeking to navigate them with integrity.
In his address, Senator Jabbar expressed gratitude towards his supporters, including Paramount Books, his family, and his parents. He fondly recalled how his mother, Zain Mahal Khursheed, encouraged him to write from a young age, and how his father, Ahmed Abdul Jabbar, fostered his love for reading. Jabbar also highlighted the pivotal role of his wife, Shabnam Jabbar, and their children, Mehreen and Kamal, in his life.
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Jabbar reflected on the nature of anthologies, suggesting that they offer a unique opportunity for writers to reassess their past work and experiences. He described the process as revealing a “paradox of duality,” where past and present thoughts intertwine to create new insights.
A key theme of Jabbar’s speech was the irony of escalating global law-making amidst widespread disregard for these laws. He pointed to the paradox of having an extensive body of international law, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, alongside instances of blatant violations. “We are privileged to live in an era of unprecedented legal frameworks,” Jabbar said. “Yet, there is a complete disregard for these laws, with powerful nations imposing sanctions and engaging in actions without international consent.”
Jabbar’s critique extended to geopolitical issues, citing examples like cross-border assassinations and controversial international relations. He expressed frustration over the lack of accountability and respect for international laws, contrasting these issues with the ongoing legal and political challenges faced by nations.
Turning to Pakistan’s domestic politics, Jabbar reflected on the recent elections, noting a significant shift in voter behavior. He praised the electorate for its engagement and resilience despite logistical challenges. “On February 8, Pakistan set a world record because the voters were looking for the party and the candidate,” Jabbar remarked. He highlighted the overwhelming voter turnout, which he attributed to the citizens’ determination and the complex symbols used by the Election Commission.
The event was moderated by Huma Ikramullah, Secretary-General of Religions for Peace Pakistan, and included additional commentary from Dr. Muhammad Nafees of the Karachi Gymkhana. The evening provided a platform for deep reflection on Jabbar’s work and broader issues of law, politics, and human rights.
In conclusion, Jabbar’s presentation underscored the enduring relevance of his work amidst global and national challenges. The juxtaposition of heavy law-making with instances of lawlessness served as a potent reminder of the complexities facing modern societies. The launch of Jabbar’s anthologies not only celebrated his literary contributions but also sparked important conversations about the intersection of law, politics, and human values.
