Srinagar, April 4, 2026 (Saturday): The 362nd literary session of the Fiction Writers’ Guild was held in connection with International Women’s Day at the Guild’s city office, Heera Manzil, Central Market, Abi Guzar, Lal Chowk, Srinagar. The event was organized by the Women’s Wing of the Guild.
The session was presided over by noted teacher and scholar Professor Hamida Nayeem, while eminent poet and writer Ms. Rukhsana Jabeen and distinguished academic Professor Sujan Kaur Bali attended as Guests of Honour. The proceedings were elegantly conducted by English language scholar Ms. Babra S.
At the outset, the Guild’s General Secretary Mr. Nasir Zameer welcomed the guests and participants, stating that the Guild has always been committed to promoting women’s empowerment and safeguarding their rights. He paid tribute to the dignity and contributions of women.
The session commenced with a piece titled “8 March – Women’s Day” by renowned fiction writer Dr. Nilofer Naz Nahvi, which was highly appreciated by the audience. This was followed by an English short story, “Voice Over the Call,” presented by emerging writer Ms. Rutba Nisar, who received both praise and constructive feedback.
Prominent Urdu fiction writer Ms. Rehana Shajar presented her short story “Kanz,” which was well received. Similarly, noted Kashmiri poet and writer Ms. Dolly Takoo Araul presented her Kashmiri composition “Dheen Thar,” earning much appreciation.
Eminent writer Mr. Maqbool Ferozi lauded the literary contributions of the Fiction Writers’ Guild and congratulated the Women’s Wing for organizing the event on International Women’s Day.
In her presidential address, Professor Hamida Nayeem remarked that while celebrating International Women’s Day, it is important to remember that women still do not enjoy equal rights and often have to make numerous compromises.
Ms. Rukhsana Jabeen noted that the Fiction Writers’ Guild is a non-partisan literary organization that remains far removed from all forms of politics.
Professor Sujan Kaur Bali highlighted that Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Punjabi poets have also acknowledged the greatness of women, emphasizing how one could harm a woman who has given birth not only to humans but even to deities.
Among the distinguished participants were Arshad Mushtaq, Shakeel-ur-Rehman, Nasir Sheikh, Dr. Shehzada Saleem, Dr. Abdul Majeed Bhadrawahi, Parvez Yaseen, Maqbool Ferozi, Syed Humayun Qaiser, Shaukat Shafi, Sufi Bashir Bashir, Ghulam Nabi Shahid, Javed Shabir, Safeer Ahmad Bhat, Ejaz Aslam, Fazil Qari, Jamsheed Rasool, Umair Ashraf, Masood Shadab, Jalal Ahmad, Wani Hafizullah, Shehnawaz, and Suhail Salim.
Students including Amina, Faizan Ahmad, Saqlain Ahmad, Sania, and Syed Saqlain also attended the session. Noted poet Mr. Masood Shadab recited a poem highlighting the dignity of women.
At the conclusion of the event, General Secretary Mr. Nasir Zameer extended a vote of thanks to all attendees.
Women’s Wing
Fiction Writers’ Guild
