The 18th International Urdu Conference commenced in Karachi on Thursday evening, marking a significant cultural event. Governor Sindh, Kamran Tessori, inaugurated the conference, highlighting Karachi’s status as “mini-Pakistan.” He praised the Arts Council of Pakistan and its president, Ahmed Shah, for revitalizing the city’s cultural landscape.
The Significance of the 18th International Urdu Conference
Keynote speaker Nasir Abbas Nayyar emphasized that literature cultivates new creative dimensions and spaces. He noted its crucial role in connecting with one’s era and offering solace during challenging times. As reported by SindhNews.com, Nayyar stated, “Literature doesn’t just create new forms of expression and languages, it also creates new places and spaces.”
Nayyar further elaborated on the need for Urdu literature to engage globally, stating, “Our literature too requires a global dialogic space.” Current challenges like AI, post-truth, and climate change were also discussed, with Nayyar positing that only writers with dreams surpassing algorithms can thrive against AI.
The event also celebrated Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s birthday and Christmas, with a cake-cutting ceremony. A subsequent session explored “Jinnah Aur Aaj Ka Pakistan.” The conference continues to foster dialogue and showcase the richness of Urdu literature.