Arts Council Karachi Hosts Launch of “Wujood” and “Maujood”, Celebrating Mir Ahmed Naveed’s Philosophical Poetry

Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi hosted a prestigious book launch ceremony for renowned Urdu poet and thinker Mir Ahmed Naveed, unveiling his philosophical collected works in two volumes titled “Wujood” and “Maujood” at Haseena Moin Hall, Ahmed Shah Building.

The event was presided over by eminent scholar Professor Sahar Ansari, while Arts Council President Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Muhammad Ahmed Shah, Haider Abbas Rizvi, Ambareen Haseeb Amber, and other literary figures addressed the gathering. The session was moderated by Shakeel Khan, and introductory remarks were delivered by Iffat Naveed, who also recited selected poetry.

In his presidential address, Professor Sahar Ansari said that Mir Ahmed Naveed consciously distanced himself from urban chaos to develop a distinct poetic identity. He noted that Naveed’s poetry contains strong autobiographical elements and reflects deep philosophical inquiry, moving beyond traditional literary boundaries.

Muhammad Ahmed Shah described Naveed as a long-time companion and recalled their early literary association. He said the poet began questioning established ideas from a young age and possesses immense creative intensity. Shah further observed that Naveed’s poetic style resembles classical masters such as Mir Taqi Mir and shows influences of Mirza Ghalib, adding that he would remain a major Urdu poet even without philosophical framing.

The poet himself expressed gratitude, recalling Shah’s support since childhood and reciting his poetry, which received warm applause from the audience.

Haider Abbas Rizvi called him a “universal poet” and noted that the collected works include nearly 750 ghazals, each with distinct emotional and stylistic depth. He remarked that combining the spirits of Mir Taqi Mir and Mirza Ghalib could still resemble Naveed’s poetic voice.

Poet Ambareen Haseeb Amber praised the volumes as a significant literary contribution, highlighting their exploration of modern existential struggles and intellectual consistency. Iffat Naveed added that while the poet may not always receive due recognition locally, his work is widely respected for its depth and discipline.

Writer Nasira Zuberi said that art cannot be separated from the artist, and described Naveed’s poetry as intellectually layered, making it both accessible and complex at the same time.

The ceremony concluded with strong appreciation from attendees, marking the publication of “Wujood” and “Maujood” as a notable addition to contemporary Urdu literature.