Syed Shams Uddin
The meteoric rise of Zafar Waqar Taj in the realm of Shina poetry stands as a testament to his remarkable talent and mastery of the craft, earning him recognition and acclaim far beyond the borders of his native region. Notably, Taj’s proficiency extends seamlessly to both Shina and Urdu poetry, a rare duality indicative of his exceptional literary acumen. Yet, his apparent preference for Shina over Urdu reflects his deep connection to his roots and his alignment with the growing cultural resurgence among the people of the region.
Taj’s poetical compositions are a compelling blend of profound thought, vivid imagination, nuanced insight, and a delicate sensitivity, all of which underscore his stature as a poet of considerable depth. His ability to weave diverse customs, traditions, and themes into his poetry further highlights his versatility and his skill in connecting the universal with the regional.
The event in New York, organized by the Gilgit-Baltistan diaspora under the banner of Soni Geleet, was a powerful acknowledgment of Taj’s unwavering dedication to promoting the Shina language—a language that faces the pressing challenge of revitalization in contemporary times. Taj’s passion for Shina resonates profoundly in his work, as he has elevated the language to sublime heights through his meticulously crafted verses.
In a linguistic landscape where regional languages often struggle for preservation, Taj’s efforts to breathe life and dignity into Shina stand as both a cultural and literary triumph. His artistry not only enriches the poetic heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan but also inspires a renewed sense of pride and purpose among the people of the region.
In summary, the event held in honor of Zafar Waqar Taj underscores the universality of his appeal as a poet whose remarkable versatility, skill, and dedication have earned him a distinguished place in the literary world. His commitment to promoting the Shina language, alongside his contributions to Urdu poetry, has cemented his reputation as a cultural luminary.What holds immense significance in Shina poetry is its remarkable evolution, transitioning from the rustic simplicity of the past to a refined and sophisticated art form. This transformation is a testament to the talents of the current generation of poets from the region, who have infused the poetry with greater depth, intricacy, and modern sensibilities. Their contributions have elevated Shina poetry to new heights, blending traditional themes with contemporary expression, thereby preserving the essence of the language while expanding its creative boundaries.
As widely reported on social media, this grand and distinguished gathering was organized under the auspices of Karwan-e-Ilm-o-Fun aur Soni Watan Gilgit in New York City. The event celebrated the life and work of the renowned poet and bureaucrat, bringing together prominent poets and writers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds across Pakistan.
The participants lauded Zafar Waqar Taj for his invaluable contributions to both Urdu and Shina literature. The evening came alive with poetic recitations, where Taj’s verses captivated the audience, earning widespread acclaim. The ceremony reached its crescendo with a standing ovation, as attendees expressed their admiration and fervently requested more of his inspiring poetry.
This memorable occasion not only honored Taj’s literary achievements but also highlighted his pivotal role in advancing the Shina language, reinforcing its cultural significance and inspiring future generations.
In his heartfelt address, Zafar Waqar Taj extended his profound gratitude to the event’s organizers, with special acknowledgment to Nasim Gilgiti, Momin Shah, Ansari, Tahir Khan, Atiq, Jameel Usman, Rauf Raaz, and all the dedicated collaborators who ensured the event’s resounding success.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Taj remarked:
"It fills my heart with joy to witness that the spirit of appreciating our culture and arts remains alive and vibrant, even amidst the bustling life of America."
The event not only honored the literary brilliance of Zafar Waqar Taj but also celebrated the enduring power of art and culture. It stood as a poignant reminder of how poetry and literature can transcend geographic and cultural divides, bringing communities together in a shared spirit of admiration and mutual respect. This gathering highlighted the ability of literature to serve as a bridge across distances, nurturing a collective sense of pride and belonging.
A window to Northern Areas-I, The Muslim dated July 4, 1997. By Syed Shamsuddin Most of our people even today seem quite oblivious of the geo-political position of Northern Areas while the exact historical background concerning Gilgit-Baltistan and where these must stand politically remains yet another subject of discussion. Not to speak of a layman, a person of the stature of Chief Executive of the country, once inquired whether the Northern Areas an integral part of the north west frontier province (NWFP). This happened when he rule the country in the aftermath of martial law. Yet another minister on Kashmir and Northern Areas, during the democratic government that followed, was pleased to tell a member of the northern areas council that he owed his minisitership not to them (Northern Areas people) but to the turbaned man of his constituency, standing at the door of his official chambers. There is infact, dearth of substantial historical evidence as to when exactly man ...
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