The launch ceremony of the Punjabi translation of renowned Sindhi writer, columnist, and social reformer Muhammad Khan Abro’s autobiography titled “Had Beeti” was held in Lahore in a grand and well-attended event. The gathering brought together a large number of prominent writers, intellectuals, journalists, and political and social figures from across Pakistan. The Punjabi translation has been rendered by Dr. Sughra Sadaf.
The ceremony was attended by several notable personalities including Qamar Zaman Kaira, Chaudhry Manzoor, senior journalist Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, renowned filmmaker Syed Noor, political analyst Hafeezullah Niazi, Mian Habib, Asif Affan, Dr. Jawaz Jafri, Shireen Masood, Rukhsana David, Hajveri Bhatti, Azka Masood, Qurratul Ain Haider, Yousaf Punjabi, Aslam Shahid, Anwar Chandio, Naseer Ahmed, Amjad Islam Amjad, Sheikh Habibullah, Nabeel Najm, Dr. Tariq Sharif Zada, Hamza Qarmat, Maqsood Ahmed Butt, Shoukat Memon, Ghaffar Chhachhar, Chakar Shoro, Qazi Rafiq, and Yaser Shoro, among others.
Addressing the ceremony, PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira said that the book would play a significant role in bridging the gap between the people of Sindh and Punjab, as the author has documented various aspects of Sindh through personal observation, including issues of nationalism, labor struggles, social conditions, and cultural traditions.
Dr. Sughra Sadaf emphasized that “Had Beeti” should be included in Punjab’s academic curriculum so that the younger generation may gain insight into Sindh’s society, culture, and history, while also learning how dedication and hard work help individuals achieve success.
Political figure Hafeezullah Niazi described Muhammad Khan Abro as a role model from Sindh whose work will serve as a source of inspiration for readers in Punjab as well. Similarly, Chaudhry Manzoor stated that the publication of a Sindhi writer’s book in Punjabi is a matter of pride not only for the author but also for the people of Punjab.
Senior journalist Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami remarked that after 1947, Punjabi nationalism weakened when people, in the name of religion, turned against one another, while Sindh maintained its social harmony and did not witness such divisions.
Renowned filmmaker Syed Noor said that a full-length film could be made on the book and expressed his desire to undertake the project if given the opportunity.
Other speakers noted that the Sindhi people maintain a deep connection with their language, culture, and land, whereas Punjabi society is gradually drifting away from its linguistic roots. They stressed that Punjabis should learn from Sindhis how to love and preserve their land, rivers, and language.
The event was held at a private club in Lahore’s Gulberg area and was attended by a large number of civil society members, writers, poets, and individuals from various walks of life.
The ceremony concluded with a tribute to Muhammad Khan Abro’s literary contributions, along with the hope that his works will continue to be translated into multiple languages and reach readers across the country.