Grand Urdu Mushaira in Ajman celebrates Pakistani poetry and music in UAE
Top envoy praises cultural unity through shared language, rhythm, and expression
DUBAI: An evening steeped in verse and melody unfolded at the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel over the last weekend, as the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Radiance Events and the hotel itself, hosted a grand Urdu Mushaira.
The event titled Abhi Kuch Log Baqi Hain drew poetry lovers, expatriates, and dignitaries from across the UAE.
The Mushaira was followed by a soulful Ghazal Night featuring classical maestro Ustad Shafqat Salamat Ali Khan, adding a musical flourish to the already electric atmosphere.
Leading voices take the stage
The evening was presided over by celebrated poet Abbas Tabish, with seasoned hosts Ambareen Haseeb Amber and Shakeel Jazib lending a graceful rhythm to the programme. The poetic line-up brought together some of the most recognised names in contemporary Urdu literature: Dr. Sabahat Wasti, Ahmad Ata, Ahmed Salman, Saima Aftab, Ali Zaryoon, Umair Najmi, Rakib Mukhtar, Zia Mazkoor, Tabish Zaidi, Malik Irfan, Raza Ahmad Raza, Sulman Jazib, and Syed Jarrar.
The event showcased a rich tapestry of poetic expression – from nostalgic couplets to thought-provoking verses on identity, love, and social reflection – resonating deeply with the diverse audience.
Cultural diplomacy in action
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, attended the event as Chief Guest. In his remarks, he praised the poets for promoting Pakistan’s cultural narrative abroad and reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting literary and artistic endeavours in the region.
“Art and literature serve as powerful instruments of soft diplomacy,” said Ambassador Tirmizi. “Our poets help project the richness of Pakistan’s heritage to a global audience.”
Dr. Bu Abdullah, Chairman of the Bu Abdullah Group, and Dr. Rashid Alleem were also among the notable guests in attendance, underlining the event’s cultural significance.
Appreciation and support
Special thanks were extended by the organisers, Awais Ahmad Bhatti and Hammad Hassan Bhatti, to the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai for their continued facilitation.
Iftikhar Hamdani, General Manager of Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, received commendation for hosting the event and was presented with an honorary shield in recognition of his venue’s support of cultural initiatives promoting Pakistani identity in the UAE.