ISLAMABAD, September 3: Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) hosted a Naatia Mushaira in Islamabad, bringing together leading poets and academics for an evening dedicated to expressing love and reverence for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through poetry.
The event aimed to deepen students’ connection with the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet ﷺ while promoting Islamic values, cultural awareness, tolerance, compassion and ethical conduct.
The Mushaira was jointly organised by AIOU’s Department of Urdu and FM Radio 91.6.
Renowned writer and poet Muhammad Izhar-ul-Haq presided over the event, while Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Dr Syed Muhammad Amir Shah and noted poet Akhtar Usman attended as chief guests. Professor Dr Abdul Aziz Sahir and Arsh Hashmi participated as guests of honour.
Prominent poets, including Qayyum Tahir, Dr Kashif Irfan, Dr Qasim Yaqoob, Dr Abid Sial, Dr Shaza Akbar, Dr Asad Munir, Dr Junaid Azar, Rifaqat Razi, Farzand Ali Hashmi and Dr Arshad Mahmood Nashad, presented Naatia poetry in praise of the Holy Prophet ﷺ.
Their emotionally rich and devotional verses created a deeply spiritual atmosphere, with the audience warmly applauding the recitations throughout the gathering.
Dr Mehnaz Anjum conducted the proceedings.
Welcoming the participants, Chairman Department of Urdu Dr Arshad Mahmood Nashad said such gatherings provide a meaningful platform to express devotion to the Holy Prophet ﷺ while introducing younger generations to the values of compassion, tolerance, humanity and exemplary character embodied in Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ.
Addressing the gathering, Professor Dr Syed Muhammad Amir Shah said the advent of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ transformed human society by replacing ignorance, injustice and oppression with the principles of justice, brotherhood and humanity.
He said the life of the Holy Prophet ﷺ remains the finest model for all humanity and that following his teachings can help build a peaceful, tolerant and morally responsible society.
Dr Amir Shah added that universities should complement academic learning with literary, religious and cultural activities that contribute to students’ intellectual, moral and spiritual development.
The event was held as part of AIOU’s ongoing academic, literary, cultural and educational activities under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nasir Mahmood.
The university said such initiatives are intended to provide students with quality education while also nurturing ethical values, appreciation for literature, religious understanding, tolerance and positive social behaviour.
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