– Shakilur Rahman
New Delhi, May 17: The 18th Mahfoozur Rahman Memorial Lecture Series was held at the Constitution Club of India, commemorating the contributions of the late Mahfoozur Rahman to journalism. Professor Abdul Haq, chair of the program, remarked, “Even after 18 years, the importance of Mahfoozur Rahman for his writings that created national and community awareness is being acknowledged.” The event was organized by Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan.
Dr. Shams Iqbal, Director of the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language, served as the chief guest and was honored with a memento by the ceremony’s attendees. In his address, Dr. Iqbal lauded the social and journalistic contributions of Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan and expressed his hope to continue working for society with a focus on promoting Urdu and improving public welfare.
Guest of Honor, Professor Akhtarul Wasey, highlighted the enduring significance of Mahfoozur Rahman’s contributions, stating that his services “will be written in golden letters.”
Journalist Masoom Moradabadi, in his keynote address, emphasized the pivotal role Urdu journalism has played in promoting the Urdu language and its script. He noted that journalism has always been a cornerstone for Urdu, with writers establishing a dialogue with the public through newspapers and magazines.
Moradabadi further criticized the lack of support for Urdu newspapers and magazines from both governmental and non-governmental organizations responsible for promoting the language. He revealed that the budgets of Urdu academies, organizations, and councils are often spent on activities that have only a formal connection to the promotion of Urdu. He urged these institutions to address the declining state of Urdu publications to help them overcome their current challenges.
Distinguished guest Syed Farooq praised the function and stressed the importance of learning Persian, Arabic, and other languages related to Urdu alongside Urdu itself. Guest and poet Dr. Majid Deobandi also shared his views during the event.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Syed Ahmed Khan.
