Poetry, satire and music enthralled the audience
A cultural evening full of poetry, satire, humour and music enthralled the audience at the Pakistan High Commission in London on 29th November 2016. The evening featured renowned Pakistani poets, Amjad Islam Amjad and Anwar Masood, and famous singer Rajab Ali.
Amjad Islam Amjad read out some of his popular poems and won a thunderous applause from the audience. His recital comprised romantic poetry, poems for Pakistan and some serious poetry reflecting his outlook on life. His popular romantic poems particularly resonated with the young audience and students.
Similarly Anwar Masood, known for his humorous and satirical poetry, amused the audience amid cheers and laughter. Listening to him was quite a treat for the audience in a chilly evening of London. The guests particularly enjoyed his poems, Banyan (vest), Kofta (meatball) and Ambri (mother).
Famous Pakistani singer, Rajab Ali of Gawaliar Gharana made the evening memorable with his melodious voice. His famous songs, ghazals and qawwali created a beautiful atmosphere. The audience were particularly thrilled by his
singing of: Zindagi apni guzar jai gi aram ke saath; Woh dil he kia tere milne ki jo dua na kare; and, Assi aan qalandri dewane lajpaal de.
Welcoming the guests, H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK said: “Amjad Islam Amjad is one of those few iconic figures of Pakistan who is recognized worldwide for his poetry and scholarship. Similarly Anwar Masood is also an acclaimed personality in the world of humorous poetry, which made him popular everywhere. Rajab Ali of Gawaliar Gharana, is a great singer who is loved by all due to his melodious songs. He has played an important role in introducing Pakistani music abroad.”
The High Commissioner appreciated the role of Pakistani diaspora in the UK and invited them to fully participate in the celebrations planned by the High Commission for the 70th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan next year.
Underscoring the interest of the world in Pakistan, the High Commissioner informed the guests about successful visit of British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson MP to Pakistan recently. On this occasion, he also reiterated Pakistan’s diplomatic, political and moral support for the Kashmiris.
People from all walks of life from British and Pakistani society were in attendance. The world famous Kathak dancer Nahid Siddiqui and a delegation of women entrepreneurs from Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WCCI), also attended the event.
The guests were served with traditional Pakistani cuisine and Kashmiri tea.
