Zubair Qureshi
Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) and the Embassy of Ukraine in Islamabad hosted a ceremony marking the 150th birth anniversary of Lesya Ukrainka (Feb 25, 1871-Aug 1, 1913) a Ukrainian poetess of ‘love and humanity.’
Lesya Ukrainka is regarded one of the architects of modern Ukrainian literature as she translated the world classic literature into Ukrainian and broadened the literary horizons of her country with devotion to work and dedication in art. There is an element of hope instead of despair in her writings.
Ambassador of Ukraine, Markian Chuchuk was the chief guest on the occasion. While among the speakers include Parliamentary Secretary for National Heritage & Culture, Ghazala Saifi Chairman PAL Dr Yousuf Khushk Tetiana Chuchuk and others.
In her welcome address, spouse of the ambassador Tetiana Chuchuk expressed her gratitude to the guests and the speakers for gracing the occasion.
Dr Olena Bordilovska of the Ukrainian Embassy presented documentaries on the life and work of Lesya Ukrainka. Nadia Zulqarnain presented the Declamation of “Forest Song” in Urdu.
Prof Dr Sofia Yousuf and Prof Dr Safir Awan presented articles on the life and works of Lesya Ukrainka.
Musical performances were presented by the Ukrainian Embassy and Lok Virsa. Mureed Rahmoon, Joint Federal Secretary, National Heritage and Culture Division, expressed his gratitude. Munir Fayyaz was the moderator.
In his address as chief guest, Ambassador Markian Chuchuk said Urdu translation of Lesya Ukrainka’s poetry would open new doors for Pakistan and Ukraine.
The event has taken the friendship between Pakistan and Ukraine to the public level. I would like to thank the Chairman, PAL and all the dignitaries of the National Heritage and Culture Division for organizing such a wonderful event.
Ghazala Saifi said Pakistan and Ukraine were enjoying good relations from the last 28 years. We have a great potential for the development of bilateral relations.
The relations between Ukraine and Pakistan will develop further in the coming years. She said that it is an immense pleasure for me to speak on poetry and poets and specially to speak on such a globally acknowledged poetic figure like Lesya Ukrainka is yet a moment of great pride for me. Poets speak the language of love, peace and compassion.
Poets and poetry deal in truth, the truth of human feelings and emotions. Nations are formed in the imagination and vision of poets before appearing on the map of the world.
She said that during her 43 years sojourn in the world she composed such poems that are still read and appreciated everywhere in the world.
Dr. Yousuf Khushk, Chairman, PAL, said the Academy sought to enhance literary relations with all countries of the world. We will further strengthen literary ties with Ukraine.
