9th Gwadar book fair kicks off

QUETTA: The 9th Gwadar Book Fair, organized by the Rural Community Development Council (RCDC) Gwadar, officially began on Thursday and will continue until February 16.

The opening ceremony was attended by Mohammad Tahseen, Chairman of PPAF, Deputy Commissioner Gwadar Hamood-ur-Rehman, former MPA Mir Hammal Kalmati, Khuda Bakhsh Hashim, Vice Chancellor Professor Abdul Razzaq, AR Dad, and Nafeesa Rashid, who inaugurated the event by cutting the ribbon.

On this occasion, a special song based on the poetry of renowned Balochi poet Ata Shad was presented to commemorate his birthday.

Vice Chancellor of Gwadar University, Professor Dr. Abdul Razzaq Sabir, in his address, stated that the book festival would prove to be an important milestone in fostering a reading culture among youth and promoting intellectual development. He emphasized that the nations worldwide that have thrived are those that have given importance to books and reading.

On the first day of the book fair, various activities were held, including a theater performance by Khairjan Art Academy on local issues.

Additionally, Dr. Ammar Ali Jan gave a detailed talk on “The Changing Global System and Balochistan.”

Mohammad Tahseen and Dr. Ammar also shared their thoughts on the impact of climate change on marginalized communities and state priorities. Munir Momin and AR Dad discussed Ata Shad’s poetry, with the session being moderated by Saba Gulzar. The book fair also featured the launch of Gulzar Gichki’s book “Zahirook,” in which the author, along with famous singer Naseeb Mazar and musician Ustad Baqi, spoke about the book.

Dr. Fazal Khaliq, recognized for his outstanding services and research in Balochi language and literature, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award, and AR Dad had an in-depth conversation with him. A large number of citizens, students, teachers, and women actively participated in the 9th Gwadar Book Fair. The event will continue for the next three days, providing opportunities for literary discussions and reading for book enthusiasts.