Qasmi, Zafar Iqbal, others honoured

LAHORE: Noted columnist, writer, poet and humorist Atta Ul Haq Qasmi has been awarded the “Urdu Adab-o-Sahafat Award” in recognition of his services in the fields of literature and journalism.

He was given away the award in a prestigious ceremony held at the Auditorium –E Library at Gaddafi Stadium, Ferozpur Road, on Friday. Atta Ul Haq Qasmi is a larger than life figure on the literary and journalistic horizon of Pakistan. He also performed his duties on many important official posts besides serving as chairman of PTV and Alhamra Arts Council.

Noted poet Zafar Iqbal was presented the Life Achievement Award in the category of poetry. Assad Rehman was conferred upon the Life Achievement Award in the field of fiction. Others who received the Life Achievement Award included Salman Faris in the category of young poet. Meanwhile, a mushaira was also held at the end of the award ceremony.