ISLAMABAD: Advisor to Prime Minister on National History and Literary Heritage (NH&LH) Irfan Siddiqui on Wednesday said that the establishment of first-ever Calligraphy Wing is the first practical step towards preservation and promotion of Islamic art of calligraphy which will get the status of an institution in future.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of establishment of Calligraphy Wing, Irfan Siddiqui said that the creation of Calligraphy Wing at National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), under the patronage of the government, will serve as a catalyst for the promotion of this glorious and ancient art and inspire the younger generation to explore its intricacies.
“The art of calligraphy originated following the revelation of Islam. Calligraphy is not merely an art but it is a legacy of companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him),” he observed. The aspects of beauty, spiritualism, sacredness and respect are embedded in the art of calligraphy, he added.
He also said that Pakistani calligraphers have recognised themselves through their artistic abilities at national and international forum without any government patronage. He added that the NH&LH division has compiled a directory of Pakistani calligraphers with their details and pictures which will be printed within a month.
The directory will carry information about around 320 calligraphers and its objective is to give recognition to the calligraphers and encourage their artistic endeavours, he said.
The advisor to the prime minister said that the division has arranged national and international calligraphy exhibitions this year where the calligraphers from far-flung areas of the country showcased their art pieces and received appreciation. He added that the division will enhance cooperation with Iran, Turkey and other Islamic countries for the promotion of this art.
Speaking on the occasion, renowned calligraphers Khalid Yousafi, Muhammad Elahi Baksh Mati and Rasheed Butt appreciated the government efforts for establishing the wing and said, “This wing is not less than any dream for them.”
