Preservation of civilization, keeping alive the memories of the past and protection of historical monuments in the fast changing world is the responsibility of society.
These thoughts were expressed by the dignitaries who addressed the gathering at Indira Priyadarshini Auditorium, Public Garden yesterday on the occasion of the releasing ceremony of the album “Ask-e-Hyderabad” (Image of Hyderabad).
The album was compiled by Allama Ajaz Farukh and edited and published by Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, Editor of Siasat Urdu Daily.
Nawab Shah Alam Khan, Chairman, Anwarul uloom Educational Society released the Album. He told that this Album contains everything, which is to be preserved.
He declared that Siasat is not only a newspaper but it is also a movement, which is engaged in social service.
Applauding the services of Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, he said that the cultural heritage of Hyderabad has been presented in this Album in such a way that it is a gigantic task. He congratulated Allama Ajaz Farukh on compiling this album.
By seeing this album, one can assess the quantum of work and skills that have been employed in compiling this marvelous book.
Mr. Zahid Ali Khan, Editor of Siasat presided over the function. Prof. Syeda Jafer, Prof Rahmath Yousufzai, Mr. Ibrahim Bin Abdullah Masqathi, MLC and Mr. Amer Ali Khan, News Editor of Siasat were the guests of honour.
Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Zahid Ali Khan recollected the advice given by late. Mr. Abid Ali Khan, founder Editor of Siasat that he had advised him to preserve the civilization of Hyderabad and Urdu Language.
He termed the friendship of Mr.Abid Ali Khan and Mr. Mahbood Hussain Jigar as exemplary. He told that Nawab Shah Alam Khan and the members of his family are the representatives of Hyderabadi culture who have been maintaining the old traditions through their sophistication and affection.
He recalled that in the past, Siasat has published two books to preserve the Hyderabadi culture and to pass it on to the younger generation, which includes “Images of Hyderabad” published in 1994 compiled by late Dr. Afzal Mohammed.
Siasat also published “Qalamrooye Deccan”(Deccan Empire) afresh. He appreciated the efforts and devotion with which Allama Ajaz Faruk has compiled this book. It is a major gift for the people of Hyderabad. He said that it is our obligation to preserve the cultural heritage of Hyderabad. He lamented that many of such monuments have been ruined which include King Kothi, Falaknuma and Hyderabad House in New Delhi.
King Kothi was the palace of the Nizam VII of Hyderabad, half of which has now been converted into a hospital. Govt. of India acquired Hyderabad House in New Delhi and converted it into a Guest House for V.I.P’s. We could have protected these monuments but we didn’t do it.
Highlighting the social service activities of Siasat, Mr. Zahid Ali Khan told that under the auspices of Abid Ali Khan Educational Trust, Urdu is being taught to beginners. So far, 12 lakh children have learnt Urdu. He stressed the need to make people conscious about social, educational and economic development.
It is true that we have ruled this country for 800 years but we have to see the backwardness of our community during the part 60 years. The purpose of this album is to highlight the glorious past to provide an opportunity to the younger generation for planning for the future developments.
Prof. Syeda Jafer in her address declared the album “Ask-e Hyderabad” a great cultural gift for the people of Hyderabad. She stressed the need to preserve the monuments of the past. She appreciated the aesthetic sense of Allama Ajaz Farukh. She said that every city has a history and it is the responsibility of its citizens to pressure it.
Mr. Ibrahim Bin Abdullah Masquati in his speech said that when the future generations see this album, they would be surprised. He told that by compiling this album, the editors have done a great service.
Speaking on this occasion, Allama Ajaz Farukh paid a tribute to Siasat, which always exhibits its attachment for Hyderabadi culture. He also paid a rich tribute to the yeomen services of late. Mr. Mahboob Hussain Jigar. He said he has no parallel. He congratulated Mr. Zahid Ali Khan for the keen interest he has taken in publishing this album.
Prof. Rahamath Yousufzai highlighted the contents of the album and said that it contains 613 rare photographs. It is a gigantic treatise, which should be preserved.
The function started with the rendition of “Hamd” written by Mr. Himayathullah. The famous ghazal singer Mr. khan Ather also presented Nawab Mir Osman Ali khan’s “Naath”. Mr. Aslam Farshorie conducted the meeting.
Siasat presented five awards to the following in recognition of their devoted services.
Mr. Zahid Ali Khan presented Abid Ali Khan Award to famous Dakhini Urdu poet Mr. Himayathullah. Mr. Amer Ali Khan gave Mahboob Hussain Jigar Award to renowned Arabic calligrapher, Mr. Nayeem Saberi. Nawab Shah Alam Khan presented M.F Hussain Award to famous Artist, Mr. Shaik Mohammed Abdul Lateef Quadri.
Famous ghazal singer, Mr.Vithal Rao received Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Award from Mr. Amer Ali Khan. Prof Syeda Jafer gave Dr.Zeenath Sajida Award to noted Urdu writer Ms.Fatima Alam Ali Khan. These awards contained a citation, a shawl and a cash prize of Rs.11, 000.
Certificates of merit were given to senior photojournalist, Mr. Mohammed Abdul Haque Mr. Abdul Rahim Khan and Mr. Syed Murtuza Abbas also received certificates of merit for their help in the preparation of this album.
Mr. Zahid Ali Khan presented mementos to the guests of honour. Mr. Mir Shujaath Ali, Manager of Siasat proposed vote of thanks.
At the end of book releasing ceremony, a cultural programme was organized in which noted ghazal singer of Hyderabad, Mr. Vithal Rao rendered famous Urdu ghazals.
A large number of audience attended the function.
–Siasatnews