Saeedul Haq

ISLAMABAD: Promotion of the teachings of Sultan Bahu and other such saints were need of the hour to put an end to extremism in the country and the region, opined intellectuals gathered here at the Pakistan Academy of Letters to pay tribute to the Sufi Poet. Speakers at the reference said that the poetry and teachings of Sultan Bahu advocated against the injustices and exploitation as well as inculcated tolerance and friendliness among the masses. The reference was organized under the aegis of the Pakistan Intellectuals Forum (PIF), Islamabad. Speaking at the occasion, Chairman PIF, Hashim Abro said that Sultan Bahu propagated the importance of the harmonious coexistence. He added that through the message of the Sufi Poet, we could ultimately change the destiny of our country and society but also of the whole mankind.

Chairman Sindh Institute of Sufism, Khadim Hussain Soomro said that the most pressing task today was the elevation and reformation of his or her inner spiritual life, strive to resist injustice and exploitation and work toward the betterment of all people as illustrated Sultan Bahu and other Sufis of the Indus Valley.

The Chief Guest, Professor Saeed Farani also expressed his opinions. He said that hatred, prejudice and materialism caused turbulence and war. He advised that we should open our hearts and minds and strictly adhere to the teachings of Sufis like Sultan Bahu to educate and enlighten our young generation with that rich human legacy. He elaborated that the messages in the Sufi poetry were the beginning of perpetual peace and tolerance in the society.
Kaneez Fatima, a seasoned broadcaster, opined that Sufis played a vital role to humanize the society therefore there was a dire need today to promote their teachings in our society. She also paid rich tribute to the work of Sultan Bahu, which not only promoted harmony among the masses but also enriched the Punjabi language.

A considerable number of writers, researchers and intellectuals were present at the event and exchanged their views about the mystical poet, Sultan Bahu, his noble person and poetry.