In memory of Suhail Zaheer Lari, the American Institute of Pakistan Studies (AIPS) and the Lari family has established the Suhail Zaheer Lari Memorial Fellowship, it was announced here today, by the Lari family. The fellowship fund will support scholars who conduct research on Sindh, through an AIPS Long-term or Short-term Fellowship. The fellowship has been started in recognition of the late scholar’s leadership, dedication, commitment, and contribution to the study of Sindh, with the hope that students will continue to build on his valuable work.

Applicants can be pre-doctoral or post-doctoral scholars of South Asia but must be members of AIPS and affiliated with a US higher education institution. Interested individuals may apply for this opportunity through AIPS. For application deadline and eligibility questions, please contact aips@pakistanstudies-aips.org.

About Suhail Zaheer Lari

Suhail Zaheer Lari, a pioneering scholar, historian, author, philosopher, and photographer, effortlessly moving from one role to another, was devout in his deep love and commitment to his environment and his country. On his return to Pakistan from Oxford University, he joined the family business, but his true love remained scholarly and cultural pursuits.

He established the first art gallery in Karachi in 1966—a hub of creative energy and intellectual activity—and co-founded Heritage Foundation of Pakistan in 1980 to embark on preserving Sindh’s cultural heritage. A true pioneer, unfazed by conventional thinking, his independent and self-possessed streak inspired and encouraged many to explore different perspectives.

Always generous in sharing his ingenious, progressive thoughts and ideas, and vast knowledge, he was exceptional in supporting others move their own ideas forward. A voracious reader, his vast and eclectic library dominated his Karachi residence. He was a prolific author and left behind a treasure trove of books.