**Pakistan Academy of Letters Pays Tribute to Patras Bokhari in Special Literary Session**
The Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) held a commemorative session at its Islamabad headquarters to honor the enduring legacy of Syed Ahmad Shah Patras Bokhari, the iconic Urdu humorist, writer, broadcaster, and diplomat. The event gathered notable figures from the literary and governmental spheres, highlighting Bokhari’s multifaceted contributions to Urdu literature and culture while marking the inauguration of PAL’s newly renovated conference hall.
Prominent scholar, writer, and Senator Irfan Siddiqui presided over the session, with Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, serving as chief guest. Distinguished guests included Farah Naz Akbar, Parliamentary Secretary for National Heritage and Culture, and Asad Rehman Gilani, Federal Secretary of the same division. The session began with the inauguration of PAL’s upgraded conference facility, where Dr. Najeeba Arif, PAL Chairperson, acknowledged Bokhari’s intellectual, literary, and diplomatic achievements. She expressed gratitude to the National Heritage and Culture Division for funding the renovation, and especially to Senator Siddiqui for his ongoing support of literary institutions.
In his keynote address, Senator Siddiqui delivered a comparative analysis of Patras Bokhari and fellow satirist Farhatullah Baig, underlining Bokhari’s mastery of satire and insightful humor in Urdu literature. Sharing personal anecdotes and rare stories from Bokhari’s life, Siddiqui emphasized the government’s commitment to preserving and supporting institutions like PAL.
The event featured two particularly acclaimed segments. The Swaang Theatre group staged a dramatic interpretation of Bokhari’s celebrated essay, “Sowere Jo Kal Aankh Meri Khuli,” earning enthusiastic applause and prompting Minister Khichi to announce a special reward for the performers. Another highlight was an in-depth conversation between Dr. Farrukh Nadeem and Ayaz Bokhari, Patras Bokhari’s grandson, which illuminated lesser-known aspects of Bokhari’s literary genius and diplomatic career. Attendees were also shown documentaries chronicling Bokhari’s illustrious life journey.
The gathering concluded with reflections on Bokhari’s vital role in shaping the tradition of Urdu humor and satire, underscoring the importance of introducing such luminaries to new generations. The session was attended by numerous literary luminaries and members of Patras Bokhari’s family, making it a memorable occasion in the cultural calendar of Islamabad.
