Lahore, The Punjab University Urdu Development and Translation Centre recently organized a seminar titled ‘Shakespeare and Urdu literature.’ The event featured notable scholars and academics, including Prof Dr. Shahab Yar Khan from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and highlighted the profound impact of Shakespeare on world literature, including its influences on Urdu drama.
According to University of the Punjab, the seminar brought together distinguished guests like Dean Faculty of Arts and Humanities Prof Dr. Amra Raza, Director Urdu Development and Translation Centre Prof Dr. Zahid Munir Aamir, and former Director of Iqbal Academy Pakistan Muhammad Sohail Umar. Dr. Shahab Yar Khan, in his address, emphasized Shakespeare’s unparalleled influence in the literary world, citing the Urdu drama ‘Waris’ as an example of Shakespeare’s impact on regional literature. He remarked on the universal appeal of Shakespeare’s works and their adoption across different cultures.
Prof Dr. Zahid Munir Aamir welcomed the attendees and spoke about the necessity of strengthening dialogue between civilizations and international relations. He delved into the history of Shakespeare’s introduction in Urdu literature, discussing the early translations and the motivations behind them. He notably referred to Allama Iqbal’s poem for Shakespeare as the greatest tribute to the English playwright.
Prof Dr. Amra Raza expressed her appreciation for the event’s organizers, praising the Urdu Development and Translation Centre’s efforts in promoting literature. Sohail Umar highlighted the contributions of Dr. Shahab Yar Khan to European literature.
The seminar also featured tributes to Shakespeare by students and faculty members. Participants like Dr. Shahzeb Khan, Dr. Anila Saleem, Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, and others contributed to the ceremony, which celebrated the enduring legacy of Shakespeare in literature worldwide. The event concluded with Dr. Zahid Munir Aamir presenting publications as gifts to the distinguished guests, underscoring the seminar’s success in fostering a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare’s works in the context of Urdu literature.