SALU Khairpur
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, organized a special lecture of scholar Dr Shazia Pittafi on “Shah Latif, Sindhi Society and Standard of Language” at the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Chair, hosted by the Department of Sindhi. The event brought together distinguished scholars, faculty members and students to reflect on the timeless wisdom of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and the importance of preserving Sindhi language and culture.
In his presidential address, Vice Chancellor Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk described Shah Latif as a timeless intellectual and cultural guide whose poetry continues to illuminate the path of society across generations. He emphasized the need for students to learn from the experiences of their elders and prepare themselves for future challenges. He highlighted that Shah Latif’s poetry serves as a guiding light, offering wisdom that should be understood, implemented and shared for collective benefit.
The Vice Chancellor urged students, particularly those studying artificial intelligence, to consider establishing a technology-based museum dedicated to Shah Latif’s work. He suggested that the museum could feature exhibits related to various Surs and highlight Shah Latif’s observations about birds, trees and other elements of nature that are now rarely found.
“If you do it, you will be remembered for such an innovative museum,” Professor Khushk stated, encouraging students to develop plans for the initiative. He assured support from the University and other organizations for such a project, which could also include basic information about the Sindhi language, descriptions and musical recordings.
Guest Speaker Dr. Shazia Pitafi, Associate Professor, Department of Sindhi, and Director, Dr. Nabi Bux Khan Baloch Chair, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, delivered the main lecture. She emphasized that Shah Latif is loved by all, regardless of their background, and highlighted his crucial role in sustaining and enriching the Sindhi language.
Dr. Pitafi stressed that society cannot progress without individual development and that collective growth is deeply reflected in Shah Latif’s poetry. She observed that his message encourages individuals to step beyond their comfort zones, face challenges with courage and act with the resources available rather than waiting for ideal circumstances.
She described Shah Latif as a poet of the common people whose poetry gives voice, strength and dignity to ordinary individuals. She further noted that despite the prominence of Persian during his era, Shah Latif contributed immensely to the development and richness of Sindhi. Referring to the character of Marvi, she highlighted courage, resilience and unwavering attachment to one’s identity and homeland.
Dr. Allah Wassayo Soomro Head of Sindhi Department and host of the event delivered the welcome address, while traditional Ajrak shawls were presented to the distinguished guests as a mark of respect.
Speaking on the occasion, renowned writer Mukhtiar Malik described Shah Latif as a powerful symbol of Sindh’s intellectual and spiritual identity and reflected on the contemporary relevance of his poetry.
Prof Dr. Ibrahim Kharal termed Shah Latif’s poetry a profound expression of human emotions, social consciousness and the realities of life.
Acadmician Dr. Ruqia Aamer highlighted Shah Latif’s enduring message of love, tolerance, humanity and social harmony, while Ex Chairman department of Sindhi Dr. Mahar Khadim underscored the philosophical depth of his thought and his extraordinary contribution to the enrichment of Sindhi language and literature, describing his poetry as a continuing source of guidance for every generation.
Dr. Sahib Oad, Waseem Kalhoro, Aijaz Mahar, Zawar Muhram Ali Abro and Altaf Ali Abro were also present on the occasion.
The lecture series continues to provide an important platform for academic discourse on Shah Latif’s thought, preservation of the Sindhi language and promotion of Sindh’s rich literary and cultural heritage.
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