Guidebook in Sindhi for pilgrimage to Iraq, Iran launched.

Byline: M.B. Kalhoro

LARKANA -- A galaxy of well-read literati and other literature buffs praised the style and knowledge of short story writer Mukhtar Janveri that reflected in his travelogue Hal heineen seen hot'dai (Go to your loved one with heart) at its launch here on Sunday and termed it a guidebook for those intending to visit Iran and Iraq for pilgrimage.

The author has frequently travelled to the two countries in 1991, 1995, 1997, 2002, 2012 and 2016.

The speakers at the ceremony noted that the author precisely narrated his observations, feelings and experiences to guide readers about the history of various shrines and cautioning them against certain risks.

The ceremony was organised by the Larkana Arts Council's literature committee and presided over by trilingual poet Ahmed Sultan Khoso, the Additional CommAissioner-I of Larkana, Akhtar Janveri, a renowned Sindhi short story writer and elder brother of author Mukhtar Janveri. Dr Bashir Ahmed Shah, Nisar Khokhar and Prof Mukhtiar Samoo were the guests of honour.

Prof Samoo described Mukhtar Janveri as a 'very knowledgeable person' and his style as 'very interesting', pointing out that the author presented a brief history of sacred places in Iran and Iraq which would be of great interest and benefit for pilgrims. The intending pilgrims must read this book before setting out to these countries to know about the places, the society, the way of life and system in these countries, he said, adding that the book also contained knowledge of the holy personalities buried there.

Akhtar Janveri, also a former DIG, said perhaps it was the maiden attempt made by anyone in Sindh to pen down a travelogue enriched with deep and minute information about the land, society and shrines in the two countries. 'Prior to this book, such journeys were compiled in book shape but they do not focus on portraying such a complete picture,' he said.

He observed that the author appeared more studious and particular to his point of view. 'Hopefully, he will continue to enrich the Sindhi literature with his next books,' he said.

Dr Bashir Ahmed Shah, who has tremendously contributed to the studies on Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, said that going through the book would tell us how difficult was the journey. 'Surmounting all impediments, the author has successfully and scientifically taken along the readers to...