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"THE JOURNEY CONTINUES...( ART RELATED ) " BOOK LAUNCHING CEREMONEY
9-04-2019
During an exciting significant event sponsored by the Canada Urdu Association & Pakistani Students' Association, a special Book Launching Ceremony also took place at UBC on September I, 2019. The unique program entitled " Jushan-e- Urdu " contained from the colloquial to the poetic ; A celebration of Urdu language, heritage and culture. An unprecedented exhibition of Art work, literature, poetry and music etc., were presented. There was an incredible Qawwali performance. One of the highlight was also the first time showing of a unique Art work piece in BC. The grandson of Allama Iqbal, Mian Iqbal Salahuddin graciously presented a gift to Farooq Rai for his significant contribution with the golden replica of Allama Iqbal's own handwriting, a message to youth in Urdu poetry. The light illuminated background scenery along with Alama's own handwriting display, drew special attention from the large gathering.
A well respected Canadian of Pakistan origin Farooq Mumtaz Rai's second book. " The Journey Continues.. (Art Related) "and accompanying large Album was launched during a special ceremony. The limited edition coffee table book is not for sale but being donated to certain bodies. On the urging of the youth , based on the book a special docufilm with the English translation has been prepared for a wider circulation.
The honour was bestowed to the President UBC Pakistani Students Association, Rabe Arshad , the President of the Canada Urdu Association, Huma Shoaib and to Ms. Ayesha Malik vice Council General of Pakistan to perform the book launching ceremony . On the stage the ceremonial unveiling of Farooq's two paintings also took place which were presented as commemorative gifts to the two presidents of the sponsoring Associations for their tremendous contribution. Farooq who has a long affiliation with the UBC dating back to 1964 presented his first book, " Pakistan to Canada : A journey " along with a poster of " The first significant Pakistani event in BC- March 1967 " , to the president of UBC students Association.
Incidentally " The Journey Continues...( Art Related) " and the accompanying video with English translation was previously launched at the renowned Dabistan e Iqbal in Lahore, Pakistan, on February 23, 2019. ( see Dabistan e Iqbal Facebook ). The Book Launching Ceremony was performed by Mian Iqbal Salahuddin , grandson of Allama Iqbal . The docufilm " The Luminary " was also premiered during this auspicious occasion. This docufilm will be shown in BC.
During the last year exhibitions of Farooq's Art work at the renowned World Festival, the Richmond Art Gallery profile stated that; " Farooq Rai, an artist considers the message of Peace & Harmony important and it is the theme of his unique collage art work exhibitions. While in this pursuit he also is highlighting Pakistan's cultural and literary heritage.
Farooq's passion and sincere commitment to raising awareness and goodwill in Canadian society has been well appreciated during his art work exhibitions through out the Lower mainland.
Rai was appointed as the first Assistant Deputy Minister, and Head of Ministry responsible for Multiculturalism and Immigration in 1994. Also a writer and advocate in the community."
Rai states, “I hope opportunities to extend message of goodwill with our fellow Canadians will lead to us feeling more positively connected to each other. We need to diffuse intolerance with a positive and informed response. One of the contributing factors for positive change is effective education and art also can play a role of facilitating in the process of sharing about ourselves. With better understanding and interaction we will overcome prejudices while striving for harmony and peace. We the Canadians of Pakistan original are committed and actively involved in making our country ever stronger, safer and prosperous.”
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