Literature, Poets, Writers and Intellectuals: Shaping Society’s "Social Software"
Literature, poetry and intellectual work play an important role in shaping society by helping people understand and interpret the world around them. This was the central theme of a literary gathering held in Islamabad to launch Peghla Toba, the latest collection of poetry by Pashto poet, writer, translator, researcher and journalist Rashid Khattak.
Published August 20, 2026 | 04:46 PM
The event, jointly organized by the Pakhtun Intellectual Forum Islamabad, Charsadda Literary Movement, and the Pakistan Academy of Letters, brought together poets, writers, journalists, academics, and literary enthusiasts from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Charsadda, Quetta, and other parts of the country.
Keynote speaker Tayyabullah Khan, a renowned poet and prose writer, introduced Rashid Khattak’s life, literary contributions, research, and poetry. He highlighted various aspects of Khattak’s work and his contribution to Pashto literature.
Literary critic Dr Arshad Pasheeman noted that Rashid Khattak’s poetry reflects themes of love and peace. He drew parallels with Sufi poetic tradition, highlighting Khattak’s use of creative and contemporary expressions to convey messages of peace and harmony.
Social activist Farhat Fatima, a Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists office-bearer, emphasized Khattak’s utilization of simile, metaphor, and realism in his poetry and writings. She stressed the relevance of themes like peace, harmony, and love within contemporary society.
Poet and intellectual Raziq Faheem praised Khattak for exploring diverse themes and developing a distinctive poetic style. He observed that the poet’s use of symbols and imagery effectively portrays social realities and experiences in his homeland.
Iqbal Hussain Afkaar, a leading member of the Pakhtun Intellectual Forum, presented a paper on Rashid Khattak’s life and literary work, receiving praise from attendees.
Abdul Rauf Rafiqi from Iqbal Academy congratulated Rashid Khattak on the new collection. He noted that Khattak’s work reflects contemporary issues and the realities of the present era.
Professor Dr Kumail Qazalbash, speaking about Khattak’s translation work, praised his notable translations.
