New Delhi, September 8, 2025: Jamia Millia Islamia’s Department of Urdu witnessed a historic and emotional evening on September 4, 2025, with the inauguration of the Shamim Hanfi Seminar Hall, dedicated to the memory of the renowned writer and intellectual, Professor Shamim Hanfi. The inauguration was carried out by the Vice Chancellor of JMI, Professor Mazhar Asif.
A Tribute to Shamim Hanfi
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Professor Asif expressed his joy, stating that naming the newly constructed and beautifully designed seminar hall after Professor Hanfi was a fitting tribute to his intellectual and cultural stature.
Chief Guest, Professor Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar of JMI, described the moment as deeply meaningful. He emphasized how remembering great literary figures like Shamim Hanfi enriches moral values and strengthens the cultural and spiritual heritage of the nation. He added that Hanfi’s contributions to literature and knowledge will always remain a source of pride for Jamia Millia Islamia.
Words of Remembrance
Professor Kausar Mazhari, Head of the Department of Urdu, credited the realization of this project to collective effort, passion, and dedication. He remarked that Shamim Hanfi’s legacy would forever remain integral to the department’s history. Professor Iqtedar Muhammad Khan, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Languages, remembered Hanfi’s writings as a timeless influence, adding that despite his absence, the literary fragrance of his thoughts continues to inspire the Jamia community.
Acknowledging the support of the university leadership, Professor Mazhari noted the essential cooperation of Vice Chancellor Professor Mazhar Asif, Registrar Professor Mehtab Alam Rizvi, and Dean Professor Iqtedar Muhammad Khan in the successful completion of the seminar hall.
Ceremony Highlights
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Professor Sarwarul Huda, who shared cultural and historical insights into Shamim Hanfi’s life and works. A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by Professor Shehzad Anjum, who congratulated both the university administration and the Urdu Department. The session began with a recitation by Dr. Shah Nawaz Fayaz.
An emotional touch was added by the presence of Professor Hanfi’s wife, Saba Shamim, his daughter, Ghazala Shamim Siddiqui, and son-in-law, Surosh Sahib, who attended the event.
Distinguished Attendees
The gathering was graced by several faculty members, including Head of the Department of Arabic Professor Naseem Akhtar, Head of the Department of Persian Professor Syed Kaleem Asghar, Professor Ahmad Mahfooz, Professor Imran Ahmad Andleeb, Dr. Shah Alam, Dr. Khalid Mubashshir, Dr. Musheer Ahmad, Dr. Syed Tanveer Hussain, and Dr. Muhammad Muqeem. A large number of guest teachers, research scholars, and students also participated, making the event memorable.
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