The University of Agriculture Faisalabad has set up Waris Shah Chair in order to conduct value research onWaris Shah, who is ‘Shakespeare’ of Punjabi Literature, and to spread his message, said UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan.

The University of Agriculture Faisalabad has set up Waris Shah Chair in order to conduct value research onWaris Shah, who is ‘Shakespeare’ of Punjabi Literature, and to spread his message, said UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan.He addressed the gathering of ongoing five-day drama festival staged by the Office of Senior Tutor, UAF in which national theatres including Azad Theater, Ajoka Theater, Sangat Theater, Mass Theater and Art Club, UAF are taking part. On the third day, tens of hundreds of people thronged the University to witness the classic performance of drama titled Heer presented by Sangat Theater. The rich tribute was paid to Heer Waris Shah. UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan, while applauding the contribution of Waris Shah, said that there is no doubt that he (Waris Shah) was Shakespeare of the Punjab. He said the ideas presented by saints like Waris Shah, Baba Farid and Bulleh Shah would help solve social problemsthat persist today. He said that besides its socio-cultural and literary importance, Waris Shah not only spoke about cultural aspects of the Punjab but also voiced regarding decadent traditions, the exploitations of clergy and the feudal class as well. Senior Tutor Prof Dr Aslam Pervez said that drama festival was an effort to promote our culture. He stressed the need to raise the awareness among the youth about our rich culture, norms and values. He said that the Office of the Senior Tutor was making all out efforts to promote the literary activities and to sharpen the God-given skills of the students. Art Club Incharge Dr Atif Riaz and Huma form Sangat Theatre also spoke on the occasion.