‘Khusro’s message of tolerance needs to reach all individuals’

LAHORE: The Pakistan Civil services Academy, Lahore organized an event titled "Saz-e-Sham'a Khusro" in memory of Hazrat Amir Khusro. The event was attended by the teaching staff, guests, and trainee officers of the Civil Services Academy.

Hazrat Amir Khusro is one of the most monumental and influential figures in the history of the Indian subcontinent, whose legacy remains unforgettable even after centuries. His poetry teaches tolerance, and the message of peaceful coexistence, spiritual nourishment for a pluralistic society, and social sanctity present in his work is essential for promoting social harmony and societal tolerance today. This message needs to reach every individual.

The event was presided by Zia, probationary officer of 52nd CTP. In the event, it was emphasized that the eradication of extremism, a social attitude based on moderation, love for humanity, and peaceful coexistence are not only the primary objectives of the Civil Services Academy but also among the top priorities of the State of Pakistan. In this regard, it is important that we remain connected to the poetry and noble qualities of Amir Khusro's pathway.

Amir Khusro's poetry blends diverse forms like dohas, ghazals, and rubaiyat, reflecting Sufi thought, love, nature, and Indian culture. His contributions to literature, music, and Sufism, along with his influence on civil service officers, continue to inspire social reform and intellectual growth. Due to his originality of thought, the elevation of imagination, the universality of his poetry, and its global significance, Iqbal said of Amir Khusro:

"Rahi na Aibak o Ghori ke ma'arake baqi,

Hamesha taza o sheereen hain naghma Khusro."

Similarly, in the world of poetry and literature, the great Mirza Ghalib, who acknowledged Amir Khusro's unique status and dominance, not only bows to him but also recognizes his greatness.

"Ghalib mere kalaam mein kyun kar maza na ho,

Peeta hoon dho ke Khusro sheereen sukhan ke peer."

The intricacies of Sufism, understanding the secrets of true love, immersion in divine love, and, above all, mastery of various poetic forms are prominent qualities of your poetry. Your distinguishing feature is that you encapsulate a world of meaning in a small verse.

"Deeda az behar tu khoonbar shud, ae mardum-e-chashm,

Mardumi kun, masho az deeda-e-khoonbar juda."

The famous Ghazal singer Ustad Ali Raza presented the mystical poetry of Amir Khusro and other Sufis at the event with his enchanting voice. His singing added charm to the occasion and thoroughly entertained the participants.