By: shazia saddique
The Lahore Arts Council, in collaboration with Azra-e-Sukhan, hosted an evocative literary evening in remembrance of the celebrated poet Tajammul Kaleem. This voice once touched the unseen corners of human emotion and now echoes in the eternity of verse. The event, held at Alhamra, unfolded as a garden of remembrance, where each word blossomed into a bloom and each stanza breathed a breath of homage.
As fragrances of poetry filled the air, Chairman Alhamra, Razi Ahmed, and Executive Director Alhamra, Tauqeer Haider Kazmi, shared their thoughts, stating, “To remember those who served literature and culture with distinction is not only our tradition—it is our honor. Alhamra remains steadfast in preserving the voices that shaped our collective soul.”
The evening gathered an impressive constellation of poets and admirers, with heartfelt tributes offered by Zahid Basheer and Tehzeeb Hafi, key figures of Azra-e-Sukhan, who emphasized their mission to nurture literary excellence and reconnect younger generations with Pakistan’s rich poetic heritage.
Titled “Beyad-e-Tajammul Kaleem,” the gathering featured powerful recitations by leading contemporary poets, including Ikram Arfi, Tehzeeb Hafi, Syed Ali Shah Rukh, Zahid Basheer, Nadeem Ahsan Shah, Saif G, Habiba Shehzadi, Bao Ali Shakir, Rai Zaheer, Syed Ali, Mudassir Noul, and Ali Josha, whose verses moved the audience with emotion and resonance.
A highlight of the evening was the soulful debut of the song “Main Mar Jana Aaye,” based on Tajammul Kaleem’s iconic poem, rendered by vocalist Imran Ali Jafri, with music composed by Syed Ali Shah Rukh. The performance captured hearts and left the audience in a state of quiet, awe-inspiring wonder.
As the evening unfolded, it became more than a tribute—it became a revival. The air shimmered with the scent of verse, hearts lit with the glow of memory, and literature found new roots in the soil of reverence. The night will be remembered not just for the poetry, but for the grace with which it was spoken.
