At the Pre-Book Conference, organized by the Institute of Liberal Arts and Alkitaab readers from all walks of life came together to celebrate the power of storytelling in the vibrant halls of UMT ILA in the heart of Lahore. Four authors from the Daastan had their writings included at the event, which was a monument to the power of words and the endless creativity of writers.
The conference kicked off with an air of anticipation as attendees eagerly awaited the opportunity to delve into the worlds created by the featured authors. Among them were Huma Aslam, author of “Amicable Nature of Lahore,” Ahmed Sheikh, author of “In Search of Her Soul,” Syeda Khair-ul-Bariyah, author of “Peregrination of the Soul,” and Isabel Ayesha Khalid, author of “The Song of Waves and A Lover’s Journey to Nowhere.” Each author brought their unique perspective and storytelling prowess to the forefront, captivating the audience with tales that ranged from the enchanting streets of Lahore to the depths of the human soul.
As the authors took center stage to discuss their works, the audience was treated to a literary feast that transcended the boundaries of genre and culture. Huma Aslam’s exploration of Lahore’s rich cultural heritage in “Amicable Nature of Lahore” struck a chord with attendees, eliciting nostalgia for the city’s vibrant past.
Ahmed Sheikh’s introspective journey in “In Search of Her Soul” resonated with those grappling with questions of identity and purpose, while Syeda Khair-ul-Bariyah’s poetic musings in “Peregrination of the Soul” transported listeners to realms of introspection and self-discovery. Meanwhile, Isabel Ayesha Khalid’s poignant narrative in “Nostalgia” and other writings evoked emotions of love, loss, and longing, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of experiencing her work.
Amidst the literary discussions and book readings, the event was graced by the esteemed presence of Prof. Abid Shirwani, who honored the occasion as the Chief Guest. His inspiring words served as a reminder of the profound impact literature has on shaping our understanding of the world and connecting us to our shared humanity. The success of the Pre-Book Conference would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Mam Nadia Khan, the founder of AlifKitaab Reading Club, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event.
As the conference drew to a close, attendees left with hearts and minds enriched by the experience, eager to continue their literary journey. For Daastan Publishing, the event served as a reaffirmation of their commitment to supporting emerging authors and celebrating the diversity of voices in the literary landscape. With Syed Ommer Ameer and Rida Ashraf at the helm, Daastan remains dedicated to providing a platform for writers to share their stories with the world, one book at a time.
In conclusion, the Pre-Book Conference was a testament to the transformative power of literature and the unifying force it wields in bringing people together. As we reflect on the memories shared and the connections forged, let us continue to celebrate the richness of our literary heritage and embrace the stories that unite us all.
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