Hyderabad: Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, Editor of Siasat Urdu Daily told that Dr. Iqbal was the greatest poet of Urdu during the past century. His thoughts and views are the source of inspiration for the present generation. His poem “Tarana-e-Hindi”, “Sare Jahan se Acha Hindustan hamara” although written in the pre-independence India, it is a still popular song in the entire Urdu world. He was addressing a gathering organized by famous Ghazal Singer, Khan Ather to mark the birthday of Allama Iqbal at Mahboob Husain Jigar Hall, Siasat office complex yesterday.
Mr. Syed Iftekhar Husain, Secretary of Faiz-e-Aam Trust, Mr. Syed Shah Noorul Haque Qadri, former Chairman of Urdu Academy, Mr. Anjani Kumar Goyel, Mr. Sufi Sultan Shuttari and others attended the function as guests of honour. Mr. Abid Siddiqui made a comprehensive speech on Dr. Iqbal and conducted the meeting.
Continuing his speech, Mr. Zahid Ali Khan told that if the couplets of Dr. Iqbal are deep-seated in the hearts of people, incidents like Dadri won’t occur in the country. He recalled that during his visit to Pakistan, he had the honour of paying homage to Dr. Iqbal at his tomb in Lahore. On his return, his Pakistani host desired him to give Lata Mangeshkar to Pakistan, he then responded spontaneously that if he returns Allama Iqbal to India, he would be ready to give Lata Mangeshkar to Pakistan.
Mr. Zahid Ali Khan further told that it is not easier to render the poetry of Dr. Iqbal on musical instruments but Mr. Khan Ather has made an attempt to render it which is laudable. Mr. Zahid Ali Khan also pointed out that during Dr. Iqbal’s stay in London, his son, Mr. Javeed Iqbal desired to get a violin from London. He then wrote “Javeed Nama” which is full of admonitions and advise to his son. A large number of audience attended this musical program.
–Siasat News