Indian gets Pak’s highest civilian awards

A noted Urdu litterateur Shamsur Rahman Faruqi from Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh has been chosen by Pakistan for one of its highest civilian awards Sitaara-e-Imtiyaz.

Faruui has received this information from Iftikhar Arif, noted Urdu poet and Pakistani scholar who heads the National Language Authority.

Born in 1935 Shamsur Rahman Faruqi is an eminent Urdu critic, poet and theorist. He is regarded as the founder of the new movement in Urdu literature and has formulated fresh models of literary appreciation.

He has done his post graduation in English from Allahabad University in 1955 and worked as a civil servant in the Indian Postal Department and other departments of the Government of India from 1958-1994 and became Chief Postmaster-General and Member, Postal Services Board, New Delhi.

Full report here Samachar Today

Indian scholar chosen for Pak civilian honour

An Allahabad-based Urdu litterateur has been chosen by Pakistan for one of its highest civilian awards "Sitaara-e-Imtiyaz".

"I was pleasantly surprised when I received a call on August 15 from Iftikhar Arif, noted Urdu poet and Pakistani scholar who also heads the National Language Authority which is a body devoted to promote the cause of Urdu.

"He told me that just a day ago, the Pakistani government had taken the decision to confer this award on me," renowned Urdu literary figure Shamsur Rahman Faruqi told agency in Allahabad.

Faruqi said the award presentation ceremony was likely to take place in March next year and the authorities have informed him that a formal invitation will soon be send wherein details of the programme will be given.

Full report here Zeenews

A treasure trove of knowledge

Even as satellite channels have made inroads into our living rooms, the charm of reading books have not diminished as there are scores of book lovers who daily visit Allahabad Public Library to satiate their literary taste buds.

The library, standing majestically amidst the lush green environment of the historic Company Garden, is a treasure trove of knowledge. It is the biggest library in Uttar Pradesh.

Keeping in tune with the modern times, the library has added books on newer subjects, keeping in view the needs of the readers.

Full report here Times of India