LAHORE: The formal launching of the Faiz Ghar, also known as the Faiz Museum, was held in Model Town on Sunday in the presence of late poet Faiz’s family, friends and admirers.

A recitation of Faiz’s poetry by young singers marked the beginning of the ceremony.

Faiz Museum: The Faiz Museum is a project of the Faiz Foundation Trust (FFT) to promote progressive and humanistic ideas of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, one of the leading poets of the country. An 11-member Board of Trustees would run the museum. There are 10 patrons of the board from India, United States, Pakistan, Russia, Hong Kong and Canada. The museum contains important belongings and memorabilia related to Faiz that was donated by his family. Various international awards, including the Lenin Peace Prize, that were awarded to Faiz were put on display at the museum. His photographs, letters, and the original manuscripts of his poems have also been put on display. The museum will remain open for visitors and admirers of the poet. The museum will hold activities to promote progressive ideas of humanism, peace, tolerance and love. From March 15 onwards, a sitting for children between the age of five years and 12 years would be held at the museum on every Sunday. The children will be narrated various informative stories. The museum would also hold a workshop for young writers and poets during which writers and poets from across the country would be provided with an opportunity to learn from their seniors. A group of 20 writers and poets would be formed for a three-month session. To be a part of the group, one must have published a book of one’s own poetry. Young singers would also be given an opportunity to perform at the museum and lectures on literature and art would also be organised.

Speakers: Writer Asghar Nadeem Syed said numerous poets had emerged during the past 10 years who still required a vision that only the Faiz Museum could provide them. He said it was regrettable that none of the local universities offered a discipline of creative writing. Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Secretary General IA Rehman said Faiz was gifted with an excellent character apart from being a legendary poet. He recalled Faiz’s struggle for democratic norms, humanity and literature. He said Faiz had advised people during his last days, that realistic writers should observe the phenomenon of change and should never lose hope. Hameed Akhtar, a friend of Faiz, used the analogy of a shadowy tree to portray Faiz’s quality of being there for his friends. Cherishing old memories, Dr Syeda said Faiz was the only person who used to argue with his employer over being paid too much. He said Faiz had something in common with Ghalib and Iqbal – he closely associated himself with Muslim traditions and took pride in it. Moneeza Hashmi, Faiz’s daughter, said the museum would promote the works of young writers and singers. Noted artist Salima Hashmi said the museum had been set up to cater the needs of those who wished to know more about Faiz.

By Ali Usman