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Daastan organized book launch events for the book “From Partition to Pioneer”.
It is a compelling biography of the respected medical pioneer Dr. Bashir Ahmed. It’s truly a privilege for Daastan to bring this book to life.
Before we talk about book launches, let’s take a moment to remember and honor Dr. Bashir Ahmed.
Dr. Bashir Ahmed
Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmed, a pioneer of neurosurgery and a great leader in medical education in Pakistan. His success is a result of his dedication and vision.
As a medical pioneer, he built strong neurosurgery departments & introduced new methods, such as stereotaxic surgery, to the country. At Lahore General Hospital, he helped develop one of the largest brain treatment centers in the region. His lifelong commitment transformed healthcare in Pakistan and shaped the future of countless doctors.
He passed away in 2014, but his legacy continues to inspire the medical community & he remains a true icon of excellence in the field of neurosurgery.
“Partition to Pioneer” is a compelling biography that pays tribute to his remarkable life.
From Partition to Pioneer
From Partition to Pioneer is an inspiring biography of Professor Dr. Bashir Ahmed, telling the story of his remarkable life. Emerging from the challenges of the 1947 Partition, he went on to establish modern neurosurgery in Pakistan.
This book honors his lasting legacy and lifelong service to the nation. Daastan is honored to have published this important biography of Pakistan’s Medical pioneer.
Book Launch Events of “From Partition to Pioneer” by Daastan
Book Launch at PINSCON 2025
On 20th October, the first book launch and inauguration ceremony of “From Partition to Pioneer” was successfully held at PINSCON 2025, the international neuroscience conference hosted at the Bashir Ahmed Auditorium of Punjab Institute of Neurosciences (PINS) in Lahore. The event was led by Prof. Dr. Asif Bashir, Executive Director of PINS.
At the event, Prof. Dr. Asif Bashir expressed that this moment was significant for PINS. He pointed out that having experts from different countries highlighted the influence of his father’s work. He also emphasized their commitment to continuing his mission and preserving his legacy.
Syed Babar Ali, a well-respected industrialist and the founder of LUMS, took the stage as the chief guest, honoring Prof. Bashir Ahmed for his invaluable contributions to neurosurgery and his service to the nation.
The event also welcomed distinguished guests:
- Azmat Mahmood, Secretary of Health, Punjab.
- Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayaz, Vice Chancellor of King Edward Medical University (KEMU).
- Prof. Dr. Bilal S. Mohydin, Interventional Cardiologist, CEO of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, & President of the Pakistan Cardiac Society.
- Prof. Farooq Afzal, Principal of Ameeruddin Medical College (AMC).
- Prof. Fadi Charbel, Chairman of Neurosurgery at the University of Illinois, USA
- Prof. Khalid Mahmood, President of the Pakistan Society of Neurosurgery.
- Prof. Qasim Bashir, renowned neurophysician.
The book launch was further enriched by the presence of many brilliant doctors,
- Prof. Essa Muhammad
- Prof. Riaz Raja
- Prof. Pervez Hassan
- Prof. Al-Fareed Zafar
- Prof. Nazir Ahmed
- Prof. Anwar Chaudhary
Along with a significant number of retired neurosurgeons, professors, postgraduate residents, nurses, and paramedical staff from all over the country.
Book Launch at ThinkFest
On 20th January 2026, the second launch of “From Partition to Pioneer” was held during a special session at ThinkFest. The event featured several distinguished speakers who shared their thoughts on Dr. Bashir Ahmed’s remarkable life and achievements. They spoke about his journey from the difficult days of Partition to his important contributions to Pakistan.
The event was moderated by Raza Rumi, a distinguished Pakistani policy expert and journalist, currently serving as Editor at The Friday Times, Chief Editor at Naya Daur Media, and Lecturer at the City University of New York.
Dr. Faiza Bashir, a professor at Edward Medical College and the daughter of Dr. Bashir Ahmed, began the discussion with a brief overview of “From Partition to Pioneer.” She highlighted her father’s life journey, his major achievements in medicine, and the events that shaped his legacy.
Speakers talked about Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmed’s inspiring journey, from the challenges of the 1947 Partition to becoming a leader in modern neurosurgery in Pakistan. They explained that the book is not only about medical history but also about strength, vision, and service to the nation.
Prof. Dr. Bilal S. Mohydin, an interventional cardiologist, CEO of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology in Lahore, and President of the Pakistan Cardiac Society, spoke about the lasting impact of Dr. Bashir Ahmed. Talking about Dr.Bashir Ahmed, he said:
“After many, many sacrifices, Bashir Ahmed not only rose to the highest ranks, he did everything, and when I say everything, I mean really everything for his country.”
Talking about the book “ From Partition to Pioneer”, he said:
“And if we talk about what this book offers, it provides hope, guidance, and inspiration. This book teaches that the things that you think are impossible can actually become possible with your hard work and determination.”
Prof. Dr. Asif Bashir and Prof. Dr. Qasim Bashir, his sons, were present to honor their father’s life and achievements. The launch was attended by Dr. Bashir Ahmed’s family, including his wife & grandchildren. Their presence highlighted the strong legacy and lasting impact of Dr. Bashir Ahmed on the Pakistani nation.
The session stressed the importance of preserving such legacies for future generations and ended with a book signing and meaningful interaction with the audience.
Book Launch at Lahore Literary Festival
On 8th February 2026, the launch ceremony of “ From Partition to Pioneer” took place at the Lahore Literary Festival. It was an inspiring tribute to the legend of Pakistan, “Prof. Dr. Bashir Ahmed”, highlighting his inspiring journey, contribution, and lasting impact on medicine, education, and nation-building.
The honourable guests of this launch are:
- Prof. Ghaus M. Malik, Neurosurgeon and Executive Vice Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan.
- Nayyar Ali Dada, renowned Pakistani architect, designer of Alhamra Arts Council, Serena Hotel Islamabad, Expo Center Lahore, and Shakir Ali Museum, and recipient of the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Sitara-e-Imtiaz, and ARCASIA Gold Medal.
- Ali Kazim, bureaucrat; former Deputy Commissioner, Deputy Director, Director of Lahore Arts Council, Director Industries, Secretary Health, and Secretary to the Governor of Punjab.
- Prof. Dr. Bilal S. Mohydin, Interventional Cardiologist, CEO of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, & President of the Pakistan Cardiac Society.
Prof. Ghaus M. Malik completed his House Officership with Prof. Bashir Ahmad in Neurosurgery. Along with Prof. Bashir Ahmad and Prof. Iftikhar Raja, he co-founded the Pakistan Society of Neurosurgeons, strengthening the foundation of neurosurgical education in Pakistan. As a close colleague and friend of Dr. Bashir, he also shared valuable insights on the journey “From Partition to Pioneer,” reflecting on his professional legacy and contributions to the Nation.
The launch at the Lahore Literary Festival really highlights the book’s significance, extending far beyond just the field of medicine.
Available online at Meraqissa and in Lahore at Ferozesons Bookstore and Anees Book Corner.
If you wish to stock this book, please email at merasawal@daastan.com
