LAHORE, PAKISTAN – August 7, 2026 — Three Lahore based organisations - Anjuman Taraqi pagan Musanifeen, Pakistan (Progressive Writers Movement), Fikr o Amal and Naya Daur media, organized a panel discussion and Mushaira to pay tribute to late poet, writer and activist Fahmida Riaz. The event drew a wide audience including intellectuals, researchers, students, and human rights advocates, who gathered to honor and reflect upon the life, literary contributions, and progressive struggles of the renowned poet and activist Fahmida Riaz.
The panel discussion was moderated by Aftab Javed of Progressive Writers Movement. Ms. Huma Ejaz Zaman welcomed the guests on behalf of Fikr o Amal. Guest speakers Raza Rumi, Tanveer Jehan, Professor Naeem, Dr Saima Iram, Raza Naeem and Professor Sumaira spoke about the various dimensions of Fahmida Riaz's resistance poetry, highlighting her unflinching stance against sociopolitical injustices, her landmark contributions to Urdu feminist literature, and her enduring commitment to democratic principles and human rights.
The seminar also drew active participation from notable figures in the audience, including Mr Imtiaz Alam of South Asian Free Media Association. Their presence enriched the proceedings as attendees engaged in an interactive session exploring the ongoing relevance of resistance literature in contemporary society. The organizers affirmed their commitment to continuing to provide a platform for critical intellectual discourse in Lahore.
The seminar was followed by a Mushaira presided by eminent poet Yasmeen Hameed. Female poets presented their poems and ghazals as a tribute to late Fahmida Riaz.