GenNow not shying away from literature: Pakistani scholar

LN MALLICK

DOHA PAKISTAN’S noted scholar Professor Nasim Shahid does not subscribe to the common belief that present-day students have little interest in literature.

“It is wrong to suggest that students today shy away from reading books. I disagree with the general notion that they are less inclined towards the study of literature,” said Shahid in an interview with Qatar Tribune.

A well-known poet, writer, critic and columnist, Shahid was in Doha recently on the invitation of Ehsaas, a sociocultural organisation of expatriate Pakistanis, to give a talk at an inter-school debate. His column “Unkahi” has been appearing in the Daily Pakistan since 2000. He noted that contrary to the common notion the number of literary books produced by young writers is increasing by the day. “The amount of literature produced by young writers clearly shows their love for Urdu literature,” remarked Shahid, who is head of the Urdu Department, Government Emerson College, Multan.

Shahid has a large fan following on internet. Shahid, who is author of many well-acclaimed books, pointed out that lack of recognition was the main factor that discouraged the writers to produce their work. “Selection criteria for national awards needs to be changed,” remarked Shahid citing the examples of literary stalwarts like A B Ashraf who taught at Ankara University but his services were never acknowledged at the highest level as well as Aslam Ansari, who was only honoured after his death.

Shahid stressed that a committee of experts should select award winners and quota system must be abolished as it deprived many deserving candidates of the honour.

Underlying the importance of literature in students’ life, Shahid said through reading and reacting to literature, students can learn to see their situations more objectively as they tend to see things in black and white. Literature helps the person to put aside feelings of hostility and inhibits the habit of acting impulsively. He noted that there was dearth of talent among the Pakistani youth, be it literature or any other field.

“They just need a platform to unravel their hidden talent,” said Shahid. Terming his visit to Qatar highly successful and memorable, Shahid said, “I am returning home with sweet memories of Qatar where I made scores of friends in a few days’ time.”

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