Intellectual tradition termed must for progress of society.

MARDAN -- Speakers at a literary festival here on Tuesday said that no society in the world could make progress without a robust intellectual tradition.

The first-ever Mardan Literary Festival was started in Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan (AWKUM) that would continue for two days.

The speakers highlighted the importance of literature and arts in shaping various narratives in a society. They advised the youth to develop reading habit.

Renowned writers and academicians from Mardan, Peshawar and Islamabad talked to students and youth about the importance of arts, literature and history of Mardan and its surrounding areas.

Dr Rashid Ali spoke about addressing social conflicts in an educated and ethical manner while Dr Sohail Khan shared his views with the audience about the historical evolution of Pashto poetry in Mardan.

Moazzam Khattak and Fazal Sattar spoke about on the role of literature and arts in shaping various narratives in a society. 'No society in the world can prosper without a robust intellectual tradition,' they said.

The books of writers from Islamabad and Peshawar were also launched on the occasion. Rashad Bokhari launched his novel title 'Bhatyaran' while Zafar Imran launched his book of modern Urdu short stories 'Aina Numa.'

Their sessions were followed by questions and answers by...