ISLAMABAD: Civil society, journalists, writers and friends paid glowing tributes to late Muneer Ahmed Qureshi, commonly known as Munnu Bhai, at a reference held in his memory at Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) here on Monday.
Munnu Bhai’s writings, plays, columns and poetry reflect the true face of the society, who valiantly continued his struggle for human rights, and stood against dictatorship and tyranny with courage and determination, said renowned poetess Kishwar Naheed.
She said that Munnu Bhai, like a doctor, had sensed the pain of the oppressed class, which reflects in his writings, columns and poetry. “We have to keep the thoughts and works of Munnu Bhai alive and keep continuing his struggle for the betterment of the society,” she added.
Hamid Mir, a senior journalist and anchor person, said that Munnu Bhai’s love for humanity demanded that everyone should make Munnu Bhai’s mission and struggle as his own. Recalling his memories and days spent in the company of the late writer, Hamid Mir said that there is great contribution of Munnu Bhai in his becoming a good columnist.
He said that the deceased was very courageous and brave, as he wrote so many plays, columns and poetry against tyranny and dictatorship.
SDPI Executive Director Dr Abid Qayum Sulehri said that sustainable development is not possible without the creation of good literature, which raises voice for social justice, equality, peace and harmony. Literature is incomplete without Munnu Bhai’s writings, he said, adding that social justice within and across generations was imperative for sustainable development.
Speaking on the occasion, eminent writer and historian Ahmed Salim said that Munnu Bhai was very outspoken and played a very significant role in social justice through his work. His writings are based on facts and depict the ground reality, he said, adding, “We should continue Munnu Bhai’s struggle for social justice, and equality.”
Veteran journalist and writer Fareeda Hafeez said that there cannot be another Munnu Bhai, as his work is matchless. She further said that there is a constructive criticism in his writings and poetry.