Arts Council Hosts Launch of ‘Mere Zamanay Ki Karachi’ by Iqbal A. Rehman Mandvia

Government of Sindh presented an award to

Iqbal A. Rehman in recognition of contribution

to literature and Karachi’s cultural heritage

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi held a literary event to mark the launch of Iqbal A. Rehman Mandvia’s latest book Mere Zamanay Ki Karachi at Auditorium II. The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a Naat in praise of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Diverse panel of speakers celebrate Karachi’s literary voice
The session was presided over by Dr. Farhat Azeem and featured prominent speakers including Salman Siddiqui, Dr. Iqbal Hashmani, Shah Waliullah Junaidi, Ubaidullah Kehar, Shabbar Zaidi, and Gul Bano. The event was moderated by Shakeel Khan. As a gesture of Sindhi culture, Yahya Khan Tanoli and Chand presented the traditional Ajrak to the family of Iqbal A. Rehman.

Karachi as a living heartbeat of culture and identity
In her presidential address, Dr. Farhat Azeem praised the author, stating, “This crowd, these shining faces, and this sincere energy all declare that Iqbal A. Rehman is not just an individual but a caravan of thought. This is not merely a book launch but a profound intellectual dialogue. Karachi is not just a city—it’s an ideology that the author has beautifully captured in words.”

Speakers highlight research, passion, and literary depth
Dr. Iqbal Hashmani appreciated the meticulous research, noting that the author personally visited all the places mentioned in the book. Shah Waliullah Junaidi said the two books written by Iqbal A. Rehman on Karachi have solidified his intellectual identity, showing his deep emotional connection to the city. Ubaidullah Kehar remarked that the book is so immersive that one can begin from any page and instantly be absorbed. Gul Bano called it a mirror of Karachi’s past, filled with personal experiences and heartfelt observations.

Author expresses pride and gratitude
At the close of the ceremony, Iqbal A. Rehman expressed his gratitude, saying, “This is a moment of great pride and joy for me. I have poured my soul into this second book to preserve my love for Karachi in words, so future generations can understand its true spirit.”

Government honors literary contribution
On this occasion, the Civil Defence Department of the Government of Sindh presented an award to Iqbal A. Rehman in recognition of his valuable contribution to literature and Karachi’s cultural heritage.