The Valedictory Function of Nawa-e-Urdu, Seven-Day Urdu Programme dedicated to Mirza Ghalib (8th November 2019 to 14th November 2019) was organized on 15-11-2019 by Bazm-e-Adab, Dept. of Urdu, Hamidia Girls’ Degree College, Prayagraj. The Chief Guest of the Programme Prof. R.L. Hangloo, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Allahabad congratulated the college for celebrating this week dedicated to Ghalib. He emphasized that Ghalib witnessed the changing scenario of India from Mughal period to British raj and its effect on people. He was the poet of both special and common people. Ghalib is not only a poet but an institute who was a lesson for everyone and is relevant in every era. He further stressed that works of Ghalib depict the Indian Culture and should be translated in every language. Appreciating Urdu language he emphasized that it is a cultured and polite language. He also encouraged the students to study science and computer as it will provide exposure and awareness regarding development of modern world. Prof. Hangloo also presented some couplets from his collection of poems ‘Hasratein’. Valedictory address was delivered by Prof. A.A. Fatmi, Former Head, Dept. of Urdu, University of Allahabad. In his scholarly address he highlighted the greatness of Ghalib’s works and said that Ghalib was a humanist. Ghalib was a poet of profound thinking, scientific approach and he raised many questions embedded in philosophy which lead us into a journey of search. Prof. Fatmi stressed that Ghalib was a universal poet. The fact that so many movies and dramas were produced on his life and works prove the stature of Ghalib. The couplets of Ghalib focus on man’s yearnings, dreams and aspirations.

Prof. Anand Shanker Singh, Chairperson, College Consolidation Committee, University of Allahabad also spoke on this occasion. Appreciating Urdu language he said that it is a cultured language. It is our responsibility to protect all languages as they symbolize culture and civilization. Guest of Honour, Prof. Shabnam Hameed, Head, Dept. of Urdu, University of Allahabad presented many couplets of Mirza Ghalib and explained them in their proper perspectives. She appreciated the efforts of the college for progress and promotion of Urdu language. Mrs. Tazeen Ahsanulla, Manager, HGDC welcomed the guests and said that it is a matter of pride for the college that Prof. Hangloo graced the valedictory function as the Chief Guest. Through her inspirational words she stressed that students should follow their culture wherever they go. Highlighting the progress of the college she said that the college has taken strident steps towards promotion of vocational education by introducing M.Voc. Earlier welcome address was delivered by Dr. Yusufa Nafees, Principal of the college. She presented a brief history of the college to the guests and thanked Vice-Chancellor for his support to the college.

The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor inaugurated an exhibition of Ghalib’s couplets organized by Urdu Calligraphy Centre. A compilation of Ghalib’s couplets written by Urdu calligraphy students titled ‘Shokhi-e-Tahreer’ was also released. The 2018-19 edition of International Urdu Journal ‘Naqsh-e-Nau’ was also released on this occasion. He also visited Qutub Gallery in the college library where books on Ghalib and Iqbal were exhibited. Medals were distributed to the meritorious students by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor. Mrs. Zareena Begum, Associate Professor, Dept, of Urdu, HGDC presented a self-composed poem in honour of Vice-Chancellor. She also delivered vote of thanks. The programme was conducted by Mrs. Naseha Usmani, Associate Professor, Dept. of Urdu, HGDC.