Artists and people from different walks of life paid rich tributes to late Punjabi Sufi poet Waris Shah on Saturday by arranging an event titled Gaiki Heer Waris Shah in his honour at the Punjab Institute of Language, Arts & Culture (PILAC). He is first and foremost known as the author of Heer Ranjha whose verse is a treasure-trove of Punjabi phrases, idioms and sayings. His work not only received popularity in the subcontinent but across the borders as well. A group of senior artists presented a tableau on the theme of Heer Waris Shah in their traditional style which was highly appreciated by the audience. The devotees of Waris Shah across Punjab also participated in the event and presented his folk tales and messages to the people. Addressing the participants, PILAC Director General Sughra Sadaf said that the purpose of the event was to spread the messages and teachings of “our great Sufi poets to the young generation”. She said that PILAC will continue the series of such events in future for the public especially youth. On the occasion, Punjab Sensor Board Member Khawaja Abdul Hakeem Amir was the chief guest of the event. Film star Nisho Begum, Dr Tariq Sharif, actor Rashid Mahmood, singer Nasir Beraj, students and followers of Shah also participated. Published in Daily Times, September 30th 2018.