JEDDAH — “We, the Muslims, have a rich tradition of Naat poetry. Even many non-Muslim poets have composed famous Naats in India. Almost all the modern and classical languages have this glorious tradition. In the Arabic language, Naat is usually referred as Madih (praise), or simply as Nasheed (poetry),” said Syed Farid Maharaj chairing a dinner that was hosted for him by Khalid Javed. Many famous socialites, poets and journalists attended the event. Famous Naat singer Ahmad Raza Hashmi recited several Naats of famous Pakistani and Indian poets. Syed Farid Maharaj, who hails from a noted family of the famous city Ajmer, Rajasthan, is an economist and has a sound knowledge of different South Asian religions. He is one of the pioneers of promoting interfaith dialogue. His knowledge of history along with the deep love of spirituality helps him a lot in bridging the gap among different faiths. Some examples of the Naats: Mujh men Unki sana ka saliqa kahan Wo Shahe Dojahan Wo kahan main kahan (Poet: Riyazuddin Suharwardi) Unki shobha shobha saari, Unki khushboo pyari pyari Do jug men Unki sardari, sub chakar bedaam (Poetess: Mumtaz Gangohi) Dil thikana mere Huzoor ka hai Jalwakhana mere Huzoor ka hai (Poet: Khalid) He recited a Punjabi Naat of famous poet Zahoori too.
Syed Farid, who was employed in Saudi Arabia since 1981 until 2013, belongs to the family of Sheikh Moinuddin Chishti of Ajmer. He has been instrumental in eliminating the differences between Hindus and Muslims by projecting Islam's message of tolerance and peace. The program began with the recitation of a few verses from Holy Qur'an by Syed Jawad Anwar Shah. Azhar Ilyas Chishti, Aziz and Syed Zulwiqar in their address praised Syed Farid's efforts. The spirit of hospitality shown by Khalid's sons Muhammad Jamal Khalid, Muhammad Bilal Khalid and Muhammad Hassan Khalid was lauded by the attendees of the program. The vote of thanks was proposed by Khalid Jawed. Sayeed Akhtar, an intellectual and poet, offered the supplication.
