Bazm honors Chishti for his literary services

JEDDAH — Bazm- E-Ittehad, Jeddah, has presented its prestigious “Salar-E-Millat Adabi Award 2016” to Hasan Chishti, a proud Osmanian and distinguished literary figure, for supporting and advancing the cause of the Urdu language and tradition throughout his admirable career starting in Hyderabad, India, before spreading to Saudi Arabia and the United States. At a largely attended Mushaira here, the award was bestowed on him in absentia as he could not attend the function. His award was received by Nayeem Bazidpuri, a well-known poet of Saudi Arabia. This award to Chishti is a continuation of many recognitions and honors he has received. About Urdu language Chishti said: “Once upon a time Britons used to say that the sun never sets on the British Empire. Now we can proudly say the same thing about Urdu language. It does not belong to a village, a city, a country, a nation or a religion, but it has become an international language now. Urdu is not only a language but it is the name of a culture and it is our duty to preserve it.” Chishti appreciated the efforts of Bazm-E-Ittehad to bring the Urdu lovers on a common platform, forgetting their differences. He also thanked Ahmaduddin Owaisi, president, and all the members of the Bazm for this award. Born in Hyderabad, India, Hasan Chishti obtained his BA degree from Osmania University and served the same university in various capacities for about 27 years. After his retirement in 1978 he was associated with King Abdul Aziz University for one year, after which he held an executive post in a Saudi-owned company for about 8 years. In 1986 he migrated to Chicago and worked for a reputable real estate company, Khan & Associates, and also Pentagon Industries for about 5 years before he started his own business in 1991 with his sons Javeed and Wajid, both computer engineers. He is happily married to Zeenath Hasan for 57 years. — SG