Poets honor a mind that shaped science, cherished words
KARACHI: The International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, organized its annual Mushaira (poetry recital), “Mehfil-e-Sukhan,” on Thursday evening in memory of the eminent scientist Prof. Dr. Saleemuzzaman Siddiqui.
Renowned Urdu poet Anwer Shaoor presided over the Mushaira, while prominent literary figure and poet Firasat Rizvi attended as the chief guest. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Director ICCBS, delivered the inaugural address. The event was elegantly moderated by Dr. Jafar Askari, and was attended by hundreds of students, scientists, teachers, and staff members.
In his address, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah said that the objective of the literary gathering was not only to commemorate the outstanding scientific contributions of Prof. Dr. Saleemuzzaman Siddiqui, but also to encourage students to cultivate an interest in poetry and literature to enhance their creative abilities.
He emphasized the deep connection between poetry and science, stating that many great scientists were also poetic thinkers. While science explains the universe, he noted, poetry interprets it—both serving as complementary ways of understanding reality.
Paying tribute to Prof. Siddiqui, Prof. Raza Shah described him as one of the most eminent scientists of his era who also maintained a profound association with literature and poetry. He highlighted Prof. Siddiqui’s pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s scientific landscape through the establishment of major institutions such as the HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry and PCSIR.
Speaking on the occasion, Firasat Rizvi referred to Prof. Siddiqui as a polymath whose expertise spanned chemistry, philosophy, literature, and languages. He urged students, particularly those in the physical sciences, to draw inspiration from Prof. Siddiqui’s multidimensional intellectual legacy. He also remarked that the ICCBS annual Mushaira has evolved into the largest literary gathering at the University of Karachi and one of the most well-organized Mushairas in the city.
Former Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, and senior poet Prof. Dr. Fayyaz Vaid stressed the importance of poetry recitals in keeping students emotionally connected to human values and sensitivity, while also paying homage to the late scientist.
Poets who recited their verses and enthralled the audience included Ms. Nasim Nazish, Khalid Moeen, Noman Jafari, Haider Hasnain Jaleesi, Kashif Hussain Ghair, Zaheer Abbas, Jauhar Abbas, Shahzaid Khan, Syed Faisal Mehmood, and Ms. Amood Abrar Ahmed.
