By Abdul Samad
KARACHI: An annual “Terhi” Na’atia Mushaira, infused with devotion to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was held in Karachi in memory of the late poet and literary figure Naseer Koti, drawing poets, scholars and lovers of devotional poetry from across the city.
Organized by Bazm-e-Naseer Koti, the event took place on other day at the auditorium of the Government Degree College for Boys in North Nazimabad. The mushaira was based on a celebrated line from Naseer Koti’s well-known Na’at, “One who loves the Prophet is united with the Prophet,” which served as the thematic refrain for the evening.
The gathering was held with notable literary dignity and spiritual reverence. It was presided over by the internationally recognized poet Sajid Rizvi, while the distinguished literary critic Allama Faisal Aziz Bandagi attended as chief guest. Renowned poet Qamar Warsi was honored as Sahib-e-Aizaz.
The spiritual patronage of the event was provided by Sufi scholar Haji Sufi Kamal Mian Jameeli Sultani. He started the program by reciting his own Na’at on the given Terha, which was warmly received by the audience. He later spoke at length about Qamar Warsi’s poetry, his latest collection Mas’haf-e-Ishq-e-Nabi, and his wider literary and spiritual contribution.
The ceremony began with recitation from the Holy Quran by young qari Faizan Khan Zai, followed by a soulful Na’at rendered by acclaimed Na’at Khwan Ahezam Qadri. A formal launch of Mas’haf-e-Ishq-e-Nabi followed, with tributes paid to both Qamar Warsi and late Naseer Koti, including remarks by Koti’s grandson Abdullah Khan Koti. A note of thanks was given by Koti’s disciples, including Dr Abdul Samad Noor Saharanouri, Adnan Aks, and others.
The mushaira then continued with poets presenting Na’atia kalaam on the prescribed line, culminating in a presidential address by Sajid Rizvi, who praised the organizers for sustaining a tradition rooted in faith, literature and collective remembrance. The event concluded with a collective prayer for the country, the Muslim ummah and departed figures of literature.
