Acclaimed Urdu writer and poet Aftab Iqbal Shamim passes away

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 28 July 2024 |  JP Staff Report

Aftab Iqbal Shamim, an influential figure in Urdu literature, has died this week. Known for his poetry and academic contributions, his legacy will endure.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—A significant chapter in Urdu literature has ended with the passing of Aftab Iqbal Shamim. The eminent writer, journalist, educator, and intellectual passed away this week.

Born on February 16, 1936, in Jhelum, Shamim pursued higher education in Rawalpindi and was associated with various newspapers and Radio Pakistan.

In 1972, he joined the Department of Urdu at Beijing University, China, where he taught for several years. Shamim was considered one of the prominent poets of Urdu Nazm (poetry). His notable poetry collections include Farda Nizaad, Zaid Se Mukalma, Gum Samandar, and Mein Nazm Likhta Hoon.

In recognition of his contributions, the Government of Pakistan awarded him the Presidential Pride of Performance on August 14, 2005. He resided in Islamabad, where he continued to inspire through his literary works and intellectual pursuits until his final days.

KEY POINTS:

• Aftab Iqbal Shamim was born on February 16, 1936, in Jhelum.
• He taught at Beijing University and contributed to various media outlets.
• His poetry collections include Farda Nizaad and Mein Nazm Likhta Hoon.
• Shamim was awarded the Presidential Pride of Performance in 2005.
• He resided in Islamabad, influencing literature until his last days.