The Lahore Arts Council (LAC) recently organized a special ceremony to honor and celebrate the enduring legacy of one of Urdu language's most iconic scholars, Shanul Haq Haqqee. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to his monumental contributions as a lexicographer, poet, and translator.
A Life Dedicated to the Urdu Language
The ceremony, held at the Alhamra Arts Center, brought together intellectuals, writers, and admirers of Haqqee's work. Speakers illuminated the various facets of his prolific career, which spanned several decades. Shanul Haq Haqqee is perhaps best known for his life's work: the authoritative "Standard Twentieth Century Dictionary, Urdu into English." This comprehensive dictionary remains a cornerstone resource for students, writers, and linguists.
Beyond lexicography, Haqqee's talents were vast. He was an accomplished poet, a respected critic, and a prolific translator. His translations brought world literature to Urdu readers, including works by Shakespeare and other literary giants. His own poetic collections, such as "Mauj-e-Nai" and "Shab-o-Shair," are celebrated for their depth and craftsmanship.
Preserving a Cultural Treasure
Speakers at the LAC event emphasized that Haqqee's work was not merely academic; it was an act of cultural preservation. In an era of rapid linguistic change, his meticulous documentation of Urdu words, their origins, and precise meanings has helped safeguard the language's richness and integrity. His dictionary is often described as a treasure trove for the Urdu language, ensuring that its vast vocabulary and nuanced expressions are accessible to future generations.
The tribute highlighted how his scholarly rigor set a new standard for Urdu lexicography. He approached language with both scientific precision and a deep love for its literary beauty, a combination that made his work both authoritative and accessible.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
The ceremony concluded with a strong consensus on the need to keep Haqqee's legacy alive. Participants suggested that his work, especially the dictionary, should be introduced more actively to younger students and researchers. By honoring figures like Shanul Haq Haqqee, institutions like the Lahore Arts Council play a crucial role in connecting Pakistan's cultural present with its illustrious past.
Events like this serve as a vital reminder of the intellectuals who have shaped national identity through language. The tribute to Haqqee was not just a look back at history, but a reinforcement of the importance of linguistic scholarship for Pakistan's cultural future.
