Daily Archives: September 30, 2024

Laiq Zada Laiq (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz; Kamal-e-Fun Award 2021)

Laiq Zada Laiq (15 Jan 1959 – 30 October 2023) was a literary legend whose vast contributions to Pashto literature and drama have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Pakistan. Born in Madyan, Swat, Laiq was more than a poet—he was a creative force who reshaped the narrative of Pashto-language literature through his poetry, fiction, and plays. His remarkable career spanned several decades, during which he authored over 500 radio plays, 12 TV dramas, 120 stories, and 36 books. His works are a rich treasure trove that continues to inspire and influence generations of writers and artists.

Laiq’s literary accomplishments were recognized with the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz and the Kamal-e-Fun Award in 2021, the highest literary honor in Pakistan. A scholar at heart, Laiq pursued education with the same fervor as his literary pursuits. After graduating from Jahanzeb College, Swat, he went on to earn a master’s degree in Urdu and Pashto literature from the University of Peshawar and another in political science from the University of Karachi. His academic background equipped him to take on the role of director at All Pakistan Radio, where his creative genius flourished, influencing the world of radio dramas and expanding the reach of Pashto literature.

Laiq Zada Laiq’s legacy lives on through his works, which continue to inspire aspiring writers, dramatists, and poets. His unique ability to capture the essence of the Pashto spirit, combined with his dedication to enriching the cultural and intellectual life of Pakistan, ensures that his impact will be felt for generations to come.

Khurshid Bano (Women Rights Activist)

Khurshid Bano, co-founder of women-led organization Da Hawa Lur, is a dedicated female committed to combating gender discrimination and violence against women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Her organization provides crucial support to women facing violence, offering free legal, psychological, and capacity-building services, especially to those displaced by conflict in Pakistan. Her activism extends beyond Da Hawwa Lur as she is also a key member of the Pakistan Alliance against Sexual Harassment, actively working on the implementation, drafting, and lobbying for laws against sexual harassment.

Khurshid Bano has been a committed advocate for women’s rights since 1986. During her tenure as a technical supervisor for the government of KP, she made history by becoming the first female union leader elected in KP in 1988. Her election as a union official was driven by a strong commitment to improving the conditions of marginalized groups, particularly women. By 1994, she had ascended to the role of General Secretary of the women’s wing of the Pakistan Workers Federation in KP, furthering her impact on the labour rights movement.

In her continuous efforts to empower women, Khurshid also launched the first KP Working Women Union. This union addresses the challenges faced by women across various professions, advocating for issues such as equal pay, workplace harassment prevention, safety, security, and health. Additionally, her peace-building initiatives have trained 500 individuals through the ‘Peace by Peace’ campaign, equipping grassroots communities with the knowledge and skills to contribute to a more peaceful Pakistan. Khurshid Bano’s relentless dedication has significantly advanced the cause of women’s rights and empowerment in KP and beyond.