Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, Literary Committee “Sheher o Sukhan,” hosted the book launch of renowned writer Rana Mehboob Akhtar’s book “Sindh Gulaal” at the Josh Malihabadi Library. Distinguished writer and critic Professor Sahar Ansari presided over the ceremony. The event also featured literary figures, including prominent writer Madad Ali Sindhi as the guest of honor, along with notable speakers like renowned author Noor-ul-Huda Shah, poetess Dr. Fatima Hassan, and Dr. Ambareen Haseeb Ambar. Meanwhile, Shakeel Khan moderated the event.
In his presidential address, Professor Sahar Ansari praised “Sindh Gulaal” as a monumental work reflecting Sindh’s history, culture, and literature. He remarked that the book takes the reader on a journey through the deep waters of Sindh and captures its spirituality, philosophy, and the resonance of Shah Latif’s poetry. He further noted that the author had written extensively about the history of Mohenjo-Daro and the legacy of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, emphasizing the intellectual depth that the book offers to its readers.
Prominent writer Madad Ali Sindhi shared his admiration for the book, stating that whenever he finds a book he enjoys, he finishes it in one sitting. He confessed that “Sindh Gulaal” had so captivated him that he couldn’t put it down. He emphasized the long history of Sindh, stretching back over 7,500 years, although only the last 3,500 years are documented. Shah Latif was not just a poet but also a thinker who wrote extensively about Sindh’s land. Rana Akhtar’s Book also captures Sindh’s essence. He also suggested that if anyone translates the book, he would personally request the Cultural Department to publish it. Renowned author Noor-ul-Huda Shah discussed how “Sindh Gulaal” was a literary effort and a testament to the everyday lives of the people of Sindh. She pointed out that the history of Sindh is often not properly captured by royal historians, but Akhtar’s book captures the true essence of Sindh’s history from a grassroots perspective. She reflected on how Sindh is mentioned in its poetry, either as a mother or a beloved, and how the resistance spirit in Sindhi culture is mirrored in the book, with Shah Latif’s poetry being a prime example of such resistance.
Dr. Fatima Hassan also praised the book, commenting that Akhtar’s writings take readers on a tour of Sindh’s historical landmarks while each line conveys the depth of Sindh’s civilization, culture, and philosophy. Dr Ambareen Haseeb Ambar emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating great works of literature, asserting that without acknowledging such works, we would be deprived of enriching literature. She also elaborated that Sindh is not just geography but a dream—a land where the past, present, and future harmonize in a beautiful philosophy that this book reflects. She described it as an exquisite literary effort that offers insights into Sindh’s songs, culture, and creative spirit.
In his speech, Rana Mehboob Akhtar, the book’s author, expressed his deep love for the land of Sindh. He stated that the book was not merely an account of Sindh’s history but also an effort to preserve its cultural heritage. Akhtar observed that, based on the current state of Sindh, one might fear that if things continue as they are, the world may soon witness another Mohenjo-Daro.
