Traditional Annual “Nashtar” (nëx̌tar) Poetry Gathering Held in Paktia

The Paktia Provincial Directorate of Information and Culture organized the traditional annual Nashtar (nëx̌tar) poetry gathering in the province’s Jirga Hall.
The event was attended by Mawlawi Atiqullah Azizi, Deputy Minister of Art and Culture at the Ministry of Information and Culture; Mr. Muhajir Farahi, Deputy Minister for Publications; Alhaj Mullah Mehrullah Hamad, Governor of Paktia Province; as well as officials from various provincial departments, poets, writers, and poetry enthusiasts from across the country.

During his remarks, Mawlawi Atiqullah Azizi stated that, after many years, significant progress is being made across the country in promoting poetry, literature, culture, and national values, with ongoing efforts to enhance their quality further. He praised the efforts of Paktia’s poets and cultural figures, urging them to reflect the directives of the Esteemed Amir al-Mu’minin (may Allah protect him) in their poetry and gatherings, and to avoid actions contrary to Islamic and cultural principles.

Mawlawi Sawab Jan Islamiar, Director of Information and Culture for Paktia, said that the purpose of organizing the gathering was to implement the 22nd decree of the Esteemed Amir al-Mu’minin (may Allah protect him) regarding the organization of poetry events, to safeguard Islamic and national values through the power of the pen, to bring together poets from different parts of the country, to keep the field of literature vibrant, and to nurture poetic talent. He added that compared to previous years, poetry gatherings have become more organized and have attracted greater public participation.

Poets and lyricists expressed their happiness over the organization of the event and thanked the relevant authorities for providing an excellent platform for poetry and literary gatherings. In their recitations, they highlighted themes of implementing the rulings of Islamic Sharia, strengthening the Islamic system, fully adhering to the directives and guidance of the Esteemed Amir al-Mu’minin (may Allah protect him), and promoting unity and patriotism through the language of poetry.

It is worth mentioning that the Nishtar traditional annual poetry gathering is organized every year by the Paktia Directorate of Information and Culture, with the participation of thousands of poets and attendees.

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