As a first formal literary initiative under the auspices of renowned poet and writer, Iftikhar Arif, the Department of Urdu Language and Literature of National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Islamabad, arranged a ‘Mehfil-e-Mushaira’ in which a galaxy of local poets recited their poetry. The mushaira was presided over by Urdu and Punjabi poets Anwar Masood, Dr Tauseef Tabsum and Shabnam Shakeel while Dr Abdil Sial steered it as the stage secretary. More than 24 poets of the twin cities entertained audience of a jam-packed hall with their poetry. Dr Abid Sial set the example and stole heart beats with his poem “Umer-e-khasara bakht ko unka hisab kon day, batain jo besamar rahin, lamhay jo raigan gaiay” and then there was a long list of poets whose poetry made the listener frenzied and there were uncontrolled streams of appreciations. Manzar Naqvi earned applause from young students and faculty members over his poetry. Dr Ahsan Akbar recited his famous poetry while Iftikhar Arif also recited some beautiful collection of his poetry on the demand of audience.
