ISLAMABAD: There is an urgent need to translate literary works of Hazrat Sultan Bahu into English as his writings are a treasure of knowledge and wisdom.
This was pointed out by speakers during the launching ceremony of two books written by Bahu that were translated by Manzoor Ahmad Khan. The event was organised by the Muslim Institute.
The speakers were Chairman of Muslim Institute Sahibzada Sultan Ahmed Ali, Islamic Ideological Council Chairman Prof Dr Qibla Ayaz, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan Yerzhan Kistafin, former ambassador of Pakistan to Sri Lanka retired Maj Gen Dr Shahid Hashmat, former additional foreign secretary Afrasiah Mehdi Hashmi Qureshi, former vice chancellor of Rawalpindi Women University Prof Dr Alia Sohail Khan and translator of Bahu’s books Manzoor Ahmad Khan.
Mr Sultan said in the time of Bahu, Muslims were not enslaved by anyone and significant works were produced in the fields of literature, philosophy and economics.
‘Today, while translating them into English, we need free thought so that we can share our literature with others.
Manzoor Ahmad Khan’s translations are unique in this regard. It is generally believed that anyone who is fluent in two languages can play the role of translator, but translating literature based on mystical experiences is not an easy task because mere language skills are inadequate and the spiritual aspect of Islam helps one to reach the true spirit of these books,’ he said. Staff Reporter