Srinagar,29 June 2024: Fiction Writers Guild held its 299th session on Saturday in Srinagar, dedicated to the late playwright and author Showkat Shehri. Despite the sweltering heat, theater enthusiasts, guild members, and fans gathered at the Guild City office to pay tribute to the influential literary figure.
Former DDK director Shabir Mujahid, filmmaker and playwright Fayaz Dilber, and Dr. Nazir Mushtaq, the Guild’s president, were among the dignitaries present. The session featured speakers who praised Shehri’s significant contributions to drama across radio, television, and stage. Theater enthusiast Shabir Hakak reflected on his collaborations with Shehri, while journalist Riyaz Masroor shared memories of acting in Shehri’s scripts for Doordarshan.
G.N. Shahid discussed their joint projects and read excerpts from Shehri’s book on drama writing. Shabir Mujahid lauded Shehri’s dramatic techniques and knowledge, noting, “His mastery of global theatrical trends was remarkable.” Colleague Riyaz echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Shehri’s expertise in theater and visual arts.
Shehri’s brother, Dr. Manzoor Nazar, shared personal anecdotes from their youth, while Fayaz Dilber recalled Shehri’s insights into various literary genres. In addition, Shaista Bukhari captivated attendees with her Kashmiri story.
Other attendees included Mushtaq Ahmad Mushtaq, Dr. Nazir Mushtaq, Riyaz Masoom, Rehana Shajar, Er. Shafi Ahmad, Jahangir Ahmad Bhat, Suhail Salim, and Shabir Hakak. The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Zubair Qureshi
