A night of literary brilliance

awards

Award shows serve as vital platforms for recognizing and celebrating outstanding talent, motivating artists to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. They also play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community within the artistic world, bringing together creators, enthusiasts, and patrons to honour and support the cultural achievements of a society.

The 11th UBL Literature and Arts Awards unfolded in a spectacular display of talent and creativity, where the essence of Pakistani literature and artistry shimmered brightly. Amongst a gathering of literary luminaries, cultural enthusiasts, and media personalities, the event celebrated the unparalleled contributions of Pakistani writers and artists.

From the enchanting world of children’s literature to the profound depths of poetry, and from the captivating narratives of fiction to the insightful exploration of non-fiction, the awards recognised excellence across a diverse spectrum of genres. Guided by the discerning eye of esteemed judges, the winners emerged as beacons of creativity, their works resonating with authenticity and brilliance. The jury members in the Urdu categories were Dr Asghar Nadeem Syed, Dr Arfa Syeda, Dr Anwaar Ahmed, Ms Kishwar Naheed and Dr Nasir Abbas Nayyar, while jury members for the English categories included Dr Nazir Mehmood, Dr Aroosa Kanwal and Mr Haris Khaleeq.

Ahmed Tariq and Marzieh Abbas were hailed for their contributions to children’s literature, while Mohsin Shakeel’s poetry stirred hearts with its lyrical beauty. Hashim Nadeem’s compelling drama script and Sabir Zafer’s evocative song lyrics captivated audiences, showcasing the depth and diversity of Pakistani talent.

In the domain of fiction and non-fiction, Haroon Khalid Akhter and Tariq Rehman were honored for their exceptional contributions in English, while Shaheen Abbas and Dr Aurangzeb Khan were celebrated for their outstanding works in Urdu. Ahmed Jehangir’s Urdu debut and Nayyer Mustafa’s online literature further enriched the literary scene, demonstrating the vibrancy and dynamism of contemporary Pakistani literature.

The crowning moment of the evening came with the presentation of the ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award to the venerable Zaheda Hina, whose illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the literary heritage of Pakistan.

As the night unfolded in a symphony of performances and celebrations, it was a testament to the enduring power of literature and arts to inspire, unite, and elevate society to greater heights.

- You! desk