LAHORE — Syed Salman Gilani, a well-known poet, naat reciter and literary figure, has died at the age of 74 after a long illness, his family said on Saturday. Gilani passed away in Lahore while receiving medical treatment for heart and liver-related complications at Sheikh Zayed Hospital, relatives told media.

Gilani was widely recognised in Pakistan’s literary and religious circles for his devotional poetry and naat recitations that were frequently shared at religious gatherings and public events. Through his work, he connected with audiences using simple language, humour and reflections on faith and social themes.

Family members said the poet had been unwell for some time and his condition had worsened before his death. Funeral prayers were scheduled to be held in Lahore after the Zuhr prayer at Jamia Ashrafia, where relatives, students and figures from the country’s cultural community were expected to attend.

Leaders and peers in literary and religious communities expressed condolences on his passing, highlighting his contributions to poetry and religious expression. Gilani’s body of work includes devotional verses, humorous poems and reflections that resonated across generations.