Jamia Millia Islamia Hosts Inaugural Prof. Gopi Chand Narang Memorial Lecture
The Premchand Archives and Literary Centre at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) organized the first-ever Prof. Gopi Chand Narang Memorial Lecture on February 26, marking a significant academic tribute to the late scholar. The event drew a large gathering of students, researchers, and faculty members in the main hall of the Archives, highlighting its importance in the university's literary calendar.
Lecture Delivered by Prof. Kausar Mazhari
The memorial lecture was delivered by Prof. Kausar Mazhari, Head of the Department of Urdu at JMI, who spoke on the topic 'Matn Aur Qir’at Ka Bahmi Rishta' (The Mutual Relationship Between Text and Reading). Prof. Mazhari, an eminent writer, scholar, critic, and poet, is widely acclaimed for his profound contributions to Urdu Nazm and literary criticism. He impressed the audience with his intellectual honesty, critical depth, and simple yet commanding speaking style, enlightening attendees with his expertise on the subject.
Event Inauguration and Acknowledgments
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Shahzad Anjum, Director of the Archives, who expressed gratitude to the university administration for their support. He thanked Vice Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif and Registrar Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi for their patronage of academic activities at the Archives, which enhance debates and discussions among scholars, students, and faculty. Prof. Anjum also extended his appreciation to Prof. Mazhari for accepting the invitation to chair the session.
Prof. Iqtidar Mohd. Khan, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities & Languages at JMI, extended his good wishes for the organization of the lecture. He emphasized that the services and contributions of patrons and well-wishers, like Prof. Narang, should not be forgotten, underscoring the event's role in honoring academic legacies.
Presidency by Prof. Khalid Mahmood
The lecture was presided over by Prof. Khalid Mahmood, Former Head of the Department of Urdu at JMI, who shared his close relations and long experiences with Prof. Gopi Chand Narang. Having worked as a colleague with Prof. Narang in the Urdu department, Prof. Mahmood highlighted Narang's vital role in strengthening the academic culture at JMI. He noted that Prof. Narang broadened the intellectual horizons of scholarship at the university and inspired a generation of scholars to think comparatively and critically, leaving a lasting impact on Urdu studies.
Significance of the Event
This inaugural memorial lecture serves as a tribute to Prof. Gopi Chand Narang's enduring legacy in Urdu literature and academia. By bringing together experts, students, and faculty, the Premchand Archives continues to foster a vibrant academic environment. The event not only commemorates a distinguished scholar but also promotes ongoing intellectual engagement and critical discourse within the university community, setting a precedent for future academic endeavors at Jamia Millia Islamia.
