Last week, we convened to commemorate at Majid Nizami Hall in the Nawaiwaqat office to celebrate a monumental occasion, the 70th birthday of Saeed Aasi. As an exemplary journalist and role model, Saeed Aasi has chronicled our times with integrity and courage and inspired many aspiring journalists. This occasion was a tribute to his significant contributions and lasting influence.
Saeed Aasi, born on August 24, 1954, in Pakpattan Sharif, is a distinguished journalist, columnist, poet, writer, trade union leader, and social worker. He was raised in a family with strong literary and scholarly traditions. His father, Choudhary Mohammad Akram, was a gold medallist worker of the Pakistan movement and nurtured Saeed's passion for Urdu and Persian literature, while his grandfather, Maulvi Abdul Kareem, served as an Islamic scholar in District Sahiwal. This rich intellectual background naturally steered him toward journalism, allowing him to seek the truth and amplify marginalized voices.
He began his education at Govt. Primary School Ghalla Mandi Pakpattan and completed his Matriculation in 1969 from Govt. High School Pakpattan, where he was admired for his intellect and discipline. After finishing his intermediate studies at Govt. Faridia College Pakpattan in 1971, he pursued further education in Sahiwal, graduating from Govt. College Sahiwal in 1974. His writing talent became evident during his intermediate years when he turned an Urdu exam into poetry, earning top marks and recognition. This success fuelled his focus on literature, leading to his prominence in both Urdu and Punjabi literature, and his eventual role as Vice President of the "Punjabi Adabi Sangat" literary organization.
Saeed Aasi initially planned to become an economist but pursued an L.L.B. at Punjab University Law College instead, fulfilling his father's wish for him to become a lawyer. He completed his degree in 1977 but only briefly practiced law in 1980, choosing instead to focus on journalism. During his law studies, he launched the popular magazine "STUDENT," which ended after four issues due to funding constraints. He later served as the editor of the college magazine "Al Meezan" and worked part-time as a Sub Editor for the Daily Wifaq.
During his early career as a journalist, Saeed Aasi encountered many obstacles in an environment that was frequently hostile to emerging voices. Despite this, his determination and resilience propelled him forward. He began his professional journey at the leading newspaper, Daily Nawaiwaqat, where he covered stories important to the community. Here, he honed his skills, emphasizing accuracy, fairness, and empathy. Over the years, his reputation for integrity and bravery grew as he reported from conflict zones and areas of crisis, often at great personal risk. His fearless reporting shed light on injustices affecting marginalized communities and held those in power accountable. A defining aspect of his career has been his unwavering commitment to truth and ethical journalism, standing firm against misinformation and sensationalism.
Beyond his professional achievements, Saeed Aasi has also been a mentor to many young reporters and columnists, including myself. He has always believed in the importance of nurturing new talent and has dedicated a significant portion of his career to teaching and guiding the next generation of journalists. His mentorship has not only imparted technical skills but has also instilled the values of integrity, empathy, and perseverance. He has motivated many to follow journalism passionately through lectures, workshops, and personal mentorship.
As we marked this milestone, it was also a moment to reflect on Saeed Aasi's personal journey. Senior journalist Mujeeb Ur Rehman Shami highlighted his life of sacrifice and dedication, often prioritising others' needs. Despite his profession's pressures, he maintained balance, nurturing relationships with supportive family and friends. His wisdom and dignity go beyond his career. Known for his kindness and humility, he has positively influenced many, both in and out of journalism. His bravery is evident in his stories and everyday actions, standing up for what is right and helping others.
His 70th birthday was celebrated with heartfelt gratitude and admiration from Nawaiwaqat COO Lt. Col. (R) Syed Ahmad Nadeem Qadri, Mujeeb Ur Rehman Shami, Chief News Editor Dilawar Choudhary, Marketing Head Bilal Mehmood Butt, former justices Rana Muhammad Arshad Khan and Hasnat Ahmad Khan, GC Sahiwal Principal Dr. Mumtaz Ahmad Wattoo, GC Sahiwal Alumni Association Founder President & columnist Atif Mehmood, famous advocates of high court Munir Ahmad Khan and Zaheer ul Hassan Zahoor, former secretary information Punjab and famous poet Shoaib bin Aziz, former DG PILAC Dr. Sughra Sadaf, Dr. Javed Iqbal Nadeem, Professor Dr. Naseem Baluch, literary head Saiban Hussain Majhrooh, ex-nazim Mian Babar Fareed Malika, former PTV producer Riaz Masood, columnists Baidar Sarmadi, Fazal Hussain Awan, Farukh Marghoob, Tariq Mahmood, Ustad Inayat Abid, Professor Atif Butt, Dr. Saleem Akhtar, Usman Masood, Khawar Abbass Sindhu, ex-student leader Imtiaz Hussain Awan, Mian Moeen ul Hassan Wattoo and many friends and families. His family, particularly Shoaib Saeed and Shazia Saeed, did an outstanding job of welcoming everyone and took on many responsibilities, notably making the guests feel at home.
All participants acknowledged Saeed Aasi's significant contributions, which shaped our understanding of the world, influenced public opinion, and inspired many to seek truth and justice. As we celebrated his journey, we also look forward with hope, embracing the values he championed, which will guide future journalists. His legacy attests to journalism's power to effect change and the lasting impact of a life committed to truth.
At 70, Saeed Aasi shows no signs of slowing down. His passion for storytelling and commitment to ethical journalism remain as strong as ever. He continues to engage with issues that matter, lending his voice and expertise to the ongoing discourse. His presence serves as a reminder that journalism is not merely a profession but a calling one that demands courage, integrity and an unrelenting pursuit of truth. He has set a standard of excellence and has inspired a generation to follow in his footsteps. We honoured his contributions and celebrated a life well-lived, knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come. Happy 70th birthday to a true role model, a beacon of wisdom, and a pillar of integrity. Saeed Aasi’s journey is a testament to the power of journalism and the lasting impact of a life dedicated to truth. I could author a whole book to detail Saeed Aasi, but I recommend visiting https://www.saeedaasi.com/enu/intro.php to learn more about him.
