PESHAWAR – A remarkable literary event unfolded at the University of Peshawar, where eminent scholars, critics, and academics gathered to celebrate the contributions of Dr. Fasihuddin Ashraf, a distinguished police officer and a prolific writer. Dr. Fasihuddin, who currently serves as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and Commandant of the Police Training College, was honored for his intellectual pursuits and literary achievements. The occasion marked the launch of his latest book, Zooq-e-Perwaaz (The Delight of Journey), a travelogue that has been published by Progressive Books, Lahore. The book launching ceremony, held at the Department of Social Work, was graced by the presence of renowned literary figures, professors, and researchers from various academic disciplines. Among them were Professor Nasar Ali Sayid, Professor Khalid Sohail Malak, Professor Sadia Khalil, Professor Tehseen Bibi, Professor Hussain Sherazi, Professor Ishaque Wardag, Professor Ejazul Hasan, and Dr. Imran Ahmad Sajid. The distinguished scholars critically examined the book’s content, style, and linguistic depth, praising its refined diction and engaging narrative. Presiding over the event was the esteemed Professor Dr. Tajjuddin Tajwar, who acknowledged the book as a significant contribution to Urdu literature. During the discussions, scholars hailed Zooq-e-Perwaaz as a groundbreaking work in the travelogue genre. They emphasized its role in enriching Urdu literature, particularly in capturing national and international socio-political landscapes that impact Pakistan and its citizens. The book is a unique blend of travel experiences, scholarly insights, and global perspectives, offering readers a deep understanding of cultures, histories, and contemporary issues. Dr. Fasihuddin Ashraf, while addressing the gathering, shared anecdotes from his extensive travels across the world. He recounted his participation in over 40 international conferences spanning from 2005 to 2019, where he engaged in insightful discussions on various academic, social, and geopolitical topics. These experiences, he explained, formed the foundation of Zooq-e-Perwaaz, compiling his intellectual journeys and observations into a thought-provoking narrative. A significant announcement was made during the ceremony: Zooq-e-Perwaaz has been selected as a reference book for MPhil research at the University of Peshawar and Women University Mardan. This recognition further underscores the book’s academic value and its potential to inspire future researchers in the field of literature and social sciences. The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, where students, research scholars, and faculty members engaged with the author, discussing the book’s themes, literary approach, and its broader impact on Urdu literature. Attendees expressed admiration for Dr. Fasihuddin’s ability to seamlessly blend his professional career in law enforcement with his passion for literature and research. The launch of Zooq-e-Perwaaz stands as a testament to the power of intellectual curiosity and literary expression. It highlights how individuals from diverse professional backgrounds can make meaningful contributions to academia and literature. With this book, Dr. Fasihuddin Ashraf has not only shared his personal journey but also enriched Urdu literary heritage, leaving an indelible mark on the world of travel writing and research.
