Syeda Amtul Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The Urdu Academy here recently organized a literary program dubbed "Aoa Urdu Seikhien (Let's learn Urdu)," an initiative to promote the Urdu language at a local restaurant here. The program was dedicated to prominent community member and Urdu language journalist Sharif Aslam. Aslam, who was known for his sense of humor, passed away on December 14 at the age of 85. In the inaugural address, secretary of Urdu Academy Saleem Farooqi paid rich tribute to Aslam by recalling his memories. He said: "Sharif Aslam was a great human being with an honest heart and mind; he always helped promote Urdu language." President Bazm-e-Ittihad Ahmeduddin owaisi, who came from Madina, said: "Aslam lived in people's hearts; he always worked for promoting Urdu language." Ahmed praised Urdu Academy's efforts and requested to arrange a special program to tribute Sharif Aslam every year. President of Urdu Academy Jamal Qadri also addressed the gathering and spoke about Aslam's love for Urdu. Qadri made an announcement that one of the programs from Urdu Academy's quarterly programs will be dedicated to Aslam. Later, a presentation, prepared by Azmat Imran, Fawad anwar and Saif Qadri, displayed snapshots of Aslam's speeches, poetry and jokes. Many students and Urdu language learners attended the program. It was the fourth quarterly scheduled program to promote Urdu language, which was divided into four different competitions. Selected couplets from Aslam's book, jokes, famous sayings and word puzzle were main segments of the program. Winners were presented with a prize. More than 50 participants took part in the competition. The program commenced by a special supplication to late King Abdullah and for the success and prosperity of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and present King Salman. Program organizer Mohammed Faheem recited some of Aslam's favorite couplets. Aslam's sons Dr.Aman Aslam, Dr.Imran Aslam and Shafiq Aslam along with his brother Muhammad Ali and other family members attended the event. Treasurer of Urdu AcademyMohammed Abdul Salam also spoke at the event.
