OPF Chairman Stresses Sufi Teachings at Awards Ceremony Recognizing National Icons

Islamabad: Chairman Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) Syed Qamar Raza Naqvi said that Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar taught humanity the values of love, tolerance, and service to mankind. He added that if the teachings of saints are adopted in practical life, half of society’s problems would automatically be resolved.

He expressed these views while addressing the concluding ceremony of “Sham-e-Qalandar”, jointly organized by the National Press Club and Daily Sada-e-Sach at the Mehdi Hassan Auditorium, Radio Pakistan, Islamabad where awards and honors were distributed among outstanding individuals from various fields across the country.

The evening began with soulful qawwali performances by Jawad Ali Malang and Bakht Ali Dhudial, which were taken to spiritual heights by renowned Pakistani qawwal Arif Feroz Khan. His distinctive style filled the gathering with deep spiritual emotion, leaving many in the audience moved to tears.

Addressing the ceremony, the OPF Chairman said that personalities like Arif Feroz Khan are a national pride who have spread the true message of Islam and introduced many non-Muslims to its teachings. He emphasized that the awards presented to high-achieving individuals from diverse fields are not merely honors but beacons of guidance for the entire nation, reminding everyone that true success lies in service and dedication.

Chief Editor Daily Sada-e-Sach, Syed Tabassum Abbas Shah, and President National Press Club, Azhar Jatoi, welcomed all participants. Prominent personalities and experts from various walks of life attended the ceremony. Chairman OPF Syed Qamar Raza Naqvi was the Chief Guest and Prime Minister’s Focal Person for the Youth Programme Syed Zeeshan Ali Naqvi attended as Special Guest.

During the awards ceremony, honors were conferred upon distinguished individuals for their exceptional services. Arif Feroz Khan (Qawwal) was awarded the title “Safeer-e-Mawaddat” for conveying the true message of Islam to non-Muslims. Renowned geologist Dr. Rafiq-ul-Hasan Baqri, author of over 100 books and discoverer of several oil and gas reserves, was also honored.

Dr. Hussain Ahmed, a PhD scholar who did PhD on Hazrat Ameer Kabeer Syed Ali Hamdan (Shah Hamdan) from NUML University, and Dr. Shahid Abbas, recognized globally for research in allergy, vaccines, and modern medicines, received awards for bringing international recognition to Pakistan.

Former Director General Federal Directorate of Education Dr. Ali Ahmed Kharal was honored for improving educational standards in the federal capital. Environmental writer Chaudhry Muhammad Arshad was recognized for raising awareness about climate change in Pakistan and abroad.

Raja Haroon Hafeez received an award for his valuable services in sports nationally and internationally, while businessman Chaudhry Farrukh Raza was honored for organizing Pakistan’s largest celebration on the birth of the grandson of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Dr. Abbas Shah was awarded the title “Health Ambassador” for successfully treating thousands of patients and encouraging medical tourism to Pakistan. For promoting the message and remembrance of Imam Hussain (AS) among youth, Syed Joun Ali Kazmi (Salar Karwan-e-Shah-e-Chiragh) was awarded “Salar-e-Pakistan.”

Prime Minister’s Focal Person Syed Zeeshan Ali Naqvi received the title “Youth Ambassador” for his continuous efforts toward youth development beyond political affiliations. Chairman OPF Syed Qamar Raza Naqvi was conferred “Overseas Ambassador” for his services to overseas Pakistanis and for improving Pakistan’s global image.

Jawad Ali Malang and Bakht Ali Dhudial received “Young Singer Awards.” Principal Information Officer Press Information Department Mubashir Hassan was honored as “Best PR Professional” for strengthening government-media relations, while Ali Nawaz Malik received the “Best Press Minister” award for effectively highlighting Pakistan’s stance abroad and countering negative propaganda.

Awards were also announced for Provincial Secretary Information & Culture Syed Tahir Raza Hamdani, Director General Radio Pakistan Saeed Ahmed Sheikh, DG PID Lahore Shafqat Abbas, and Director Minister Office Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Amir Raza Malik for their services. Additionally, President PFUJ Afzal Butt was honored for his notable services for press freedom, Dr. Syed Nasir Ali Shah was honored for services in cardiac care, Dr. Tafazal Malik for rehabilitation of disabled patients in Pakistan and USA and Director Federal Government Employees Housing Authority Syed Kazim Abbas for his outstanding public service.

The event was gracefully hosted by Tassawar Zaman Babar who was also awarded Best Compere in recognition of his professional and dignified conduct.

The gathering not only highlighted spiritual devotion but also celebrated individuals who have made significant contributions to human welfare and societal development, a purpose highly appreciated by the participants.