Pak Tea House Lahore Hosts Grand New Year Mushaira

Pak Tea House Lahore Hosts Grand New Year Mushaira

A celebrated evening of poetry, tradition, and literary unity under the banner of the Progressive Writers’ Association

On a cold and fog-laden January evening, when winter had firmly tightened its grip on the city of Lahore, the historic Pak Tea House once again became a sanctuary of warmth, intellect, and poetic expression. The renowned literary hub hosted a New Year Mushaira, reviving the city’s timeless tradition of poetry and reaffirming Lahore’s status as the cultural heart of Pakistan.

The prestigious literary gathering was held on January 7, 2026, under the auspices of the Progressive Writers’ Association. Eminent scholar, critic, and academic Prof. Dr. Saadat Saeed presided over the event, lending intellectual depth and dignity to the evening. The proceedings were conducted by noted poet Maqsood Khaliq, who guided the program with poise and literary command.

The successful organization of the mushaira was the result of the tireless efforts of Abid Hussain Abid, along with Maqsood Khaliq and the entire organizing team, whose dedication and coordination transformed the evening into a memorable literary experience.

A defining highlight of the night came when internationally acclaimed poet Farooq Taraz recited his celebrated ghazal, “Kabhi Tujh Ko Pa Kar Raqs Kiya.” His powerful delivery held the audience in rapt attention, followed by prolonged applause that echoed through the hall, affirming the enduring impact of sincere and lived poetry.

The event was further honored by the presence of Mian Shahbaz, an international media and community figure serving as Commissioner for Human Relations, Alameda County, California, and Chief Editor of Pakistan Times USA. His participation added a global dimension to the gathering, symbolizing the strong connection between literary communities in Pakistan and the overseas Pakistani diaspora.

More than a poetry recital, the New Year Mushaira evolved into a confluence of words, emotions, friendships, and shared cultural memory. The historic walls of Pak Tea House stood witness to an evening where poetry was not merely recited, but deeply felt—an experience that will resonate long after the winter fog has lifted.

Participating Poets

Talha Ghafoor, Raees Mobeen, Liaqat Lahori, Rizwan Rizvi, Irfan Ali, Ali Josh, Dr. Tahir Shafi, Yousaf Punjabi, Ansar Munir, Wasif Akhtar, Faisal Chishti, Sarfaraz Safi, Azhar Abbas, Aftab Javed Jamshad, Imam Shahid, Ashraf Ragib, Tehseen Abid, Abid Hussain Abid, Shafiq Ahmad Shafiq, Prof. Razi Haider, Rana Tasveer, Farooq Taraz, Nasir Baloch, Ashraf Javed, Prof. Dr. Abdul Karim Khalid, Baqi Ahmad Puri