The Lahore Arts Council Alhamra hosted a dignified and heartfelt tribute in honour of the eminent scholar Bapsi Sidhwa, celebrating her remarkable literary legacy and enduring influence.
The ceremony was organised in collaboration with Kinnaird College, OX, ICPWE and Alhamra, bringing together distinguished academics, writers, researchers and admirers of Sidhwa’s work.
Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed graced the event and, in his reflections, stated that although Bapsi Sidhwa is no longer with us, her vibrant voice, incisive wit, intellectual depth, and powerful literary contributions remain alive in the hearts of readers across the world.
The ceremony’s guests of honor included Professor Naveed Shehzad and Perin C. Boga, while Principal Kinnaird College Dr Iram Anjum, along with several renowned speakers, also attended the gathering. Other notable guests included Sir Athar Tahir, Amna Umar, Owais Rana, Dr Zakia Rasheed, and many celebrated writers and scholars. Professor Waseem Anwar, Director ICPWE, offered an illuminating discourse on Sidhwa’s life, creative vision and her lasting global impact.
The symposium featured documentaries on Bapsi Sidhwa’s life and achievements, an elegantly performed stage sketch, and poetic tributes dedicated to her memory. Celebrated Kinnaird alumnae, including Faiqa Mansab, Dr Sarina Haque, Jameela Naqi, and Kinza Javed, enriched the event with their personal literary journeys, carrying forward the tradition that Sidhwa established with grace and brilliance.
Professor Shahid Imtiaz presented a well-researched academic paper, while a captivating cultural video added vibrancy and artistic depth to the ceremony. A significant scholarly segment of the symposium featured student research papers, presided over by Dr Amra Raza, Dr Rizwan and Dr Ammara.
Saira Dur and Dr Fatima Saeed delivered profound analyses that reflected their intellectual engagement with Sidhwa’s works, offering nuanced interpretations of her craft. The event drew a large audience and a dedicated book exhibition by various publishers added further literary richness to the occasion. Alhamra takes pride in commemorating the contributions of legendary writers such as Bapsi Sidhwa and remains committed to fostering an environment where literature, research and cultural expression continue to flourish.