On the left frame: Indian Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, 3rd right, UAPF President Aijaz Ahmed Khan, 3rd left, ‘Parcham-E-Islam' author Yousuf Quadri, 2nd right, Aleem Khan Falki, 2nd left, Shamim Kausar, left, and Syed Jamalullah Qadri. — Courtesy photo Syeda Amtul Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — Giving Urdu language a great fillip, a US-based Indian of Hyderabadi origin, released his second volume of verses here amid a galaxy of Urdu and poetry lovers. The author received wide acclaim for penning these verses that reflect the glory of the language and the religion. Prominent speakers in the book release function of renowned writer Yousuf Quadri stressed on the fact that the use of Urdu to author “Parcham-E-Islam (The Flag of Islam) 21st Century's World Big Book” that comprises 11,111 pages not only elevates the language, and through it the culture and religion. The literary event was held under the aegis of the United Andhra Pradesh Forum (UAPF) Jeddah, an umbrella group of around 20 organizations in cooperation of Space Urdu Academy of America and Urdu Academy Jeddah at the Indian Consulate General premises here. Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the chief guest, praised the efforts of Yousuf Quadri for writing the book in Urdu language and UAPF's endeavor in releasing his book here. Kidwai said, “Urdu language is widely spoken; and is considered an elevated language for its polished linguistic and literary sensibilities all over the world, and thus it is preferred for Mushairas (poetry gatherings) often organized in the West and GCC countries too.” Outside South Asia, it is spoken by large numbers of migrant South Asian workers in the major urban centers in the Gulf and by large numbers of immigrants in Western countries. “I hope we will see the next volumes of his book in near future,” Kidwai added. Khaled Almaeena, Editor-in-Chief of Saudi Gazette and the guest of honor, emphasized that language is an expression of culture and has an identity in history. Almaeena, while commending the efforts of Quadri, said, “When you migrate from one country to another you take part of your culture with you and at the same time you lose part of your culture. What I've noticed is that people of subcontinent maintain their identity, they stick to their culture and their language, unlike other nationals. My advice to them is know your culture but also integrate like other nationals.” He added: “I also believe that Urdu language is very important because knowing Urdu also helps you to be aware of what's happening. Also, language is an expression of culture while a language also has its identity in history and it's important that we do not let our next generation, when we live abroad, become oblivious to the fact that once we had great literary stories.'' While emphasizing on the importance of language he said, “I really like to commend all the people who are doing great work to keep their language intact and also would like to give this advice to Arabs in America, to see their children and grandchildren keep their Arabic tradition and learn and foster the development of the language”. Aijaz Ahmed Khan, chairman of UAPF, after the release of the book said, “Urdu Academy Jeddah had spoken about the literary achievement of an Indian in America to UAPF and we decided to organize this function. We all are Indians and will always try to extend our efforts to the welfare of our country along with our state. UAPF is ready to welcome scholars, intellectuals, poets, writers and leaders from our country.” He thanked the Consul General for his support in organizing the function and Almaeena for his support to the community. Khan also stressed on the efforts and support of all UAPF organizations in making the event successful. Earlier, Syed Jamalullah Qadri, President Urdu Academy Jeddah, in his welcome speech said, “Efforts of developing Urdu language is always appreciated; we hope that “Big Book” will soon be included in Guinness Book of World Records. This book has not only made Hyderabadis proud but it matters a lot in the development of the Urdu language.” Mahtab Qadr program co-coordinator said; “Our culture is our identity and because of our culture and identity we are having an individual position among other communities, and writer Yousuf Quadri is pride of Hyderabad and his achievement is really commendable.” Chief Adviser UAPF, Dr. Syed Ali Mehmood, in his concluding remarks, applauded Quadri's extraordinary efforts, and offered Bazm-e-Ittehad Toronto's platform to release the book's third volume. Yousuf Quadri said: “He tried to cover main Islamic historical topics in his book, and tried to shorten a long story into a single line. Speaking to Saudi Gazette the author said he felt immense pleasure on releasing his book on this holy land, where people are very cooperative. He added, my book's title “Parcham-E-Islam” suits the holy land, and that's why I decided to release my book here. “I am very thankful to all people who supported me to make it possible,” he said. Earlier a guest poet from America Dr. Taufeeq Ansari presented some of his couplets and praised the efforts of Quadri. Dr. Muneer Uz Zaman Muneer, President of Space Urdu Academy of America, delivered a few words about the author of the book. The mega book is in both English and Urdu versions consisting of 11 volumes pertaining to different aspects of life — from the Islamic culture to historical facts of the present day, outlined in poetic idioms in general. To cover all the topics, Quadri has devoted nearly half century, more than three quarters of his life. “Dedicated to Allah” is the first section of his book. A thorough evaluation of the book was done by prominent members of the advisory board of UAPF that included Aijaz Ahmed Khan, Aleem Khan Falaki, Dr. Syed Ali Mahmood, Syed Jamalullah Qadri, Shameem Kausar, Mahtab Qadr, Hasan Bayazeed, Airf Qureshi, Yousufuddin Amjad, Hassan Kaldi, Mohammad Abbas Khan along with a few members of the core committee. Syed Khaja Viqaruddin, events manager UAPF, conducted the program and introduce all UAPF members to the stage with suitable couplets. Bouquets were presented to chief guest, guest of honor, author, guests who came from US and poets. Aleem Khan Falaki delivered the vote of thanks. Falaki also appealed all Indians for help to release two needy Indian young boys who are in jail since 10 years. “May 8 is the deadline for confirmation of financial help of this boy in consulate” he added.
