Karachi: Karachi Gymkhana Library and Literary Committee hosted a distinguished literary gathering at Sapphire Hall to discuss the latest work of esteemed journalist Mazhar Abbas, “Journey Through Chaos.” The event was graced by notable personalities, including Muhammad Ahmed Shah, the President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, and senior journalists Owais Tohid and Fazil Jamili. The conversation was guided by journalist Amber Shamsi.

Muhammad Ahmed Shah spoke highly of Abbas, emphasizing their 45-year friendship and Abbas’s unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. Shah recounted Abbas’s courage in reporting during General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law, highlighting his dedication to presenting diverse perspectives, a trait attributed to his strong familial upbringing.

Owais Tohid shared personal stories, portraying Abbas as a humble leader in journalism, known for his sincere and straightforward approach. Tohid praised Abbas for his impactful work in print journalism and his subsequent role as a respected television analyst, underscoring his ability to vividly depict Pakistan’s political landscape.

Fazil Jamili echoed these sentiments, suggesting that Abbas embodies genuine journalism in Pakistan. Jamili remarked on Abbas’s career, which began during the repressive era of Zia’s martial law, a time marked by censorship and political turmoil. He described Abbas’s evolution from a reporter to a columnist and television analyst, emphasizing his integrity and contentment in life.

During the event, Mazhar Abbas reflected on his career journey, attributing his love for writing and speaking to his roles as a columnist and analyst. He recounted his early engagement with newspapers and political discussions, which shaped his perspectives. Abbas shared insights from his interactions with prominent political figures and revealed that his first published article was on hockey.

Mazhar Abbas dedicated his book to journalism giants Idrees Bakhtiar and Iqbal Jafri, noting that it represents a fraction of his extensive experiences. He shared anecdotes involving political leaders like Benazir Bhutto, Imran Khan, and others, offering a glimpse into his personal and professional relationships.

The event highlighted Mazhar Abbas’s significant contributions to journalism and provided a platform for celebrating his latest literary work, which captures the complexities of Pakistan’s political history.