BGSB University Organizes Symposium on Comparative Literature ; Prof. Muzaffar Alam: “Comparative study paves the way for the evolution of literary thought”

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RAJOURI APRIL 21:-The Department of Arabic at Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) on Saturday hosted a thought-provoking symposium on Comparative Literature, drawing attention to the growing significance of cross-cultural literary analysis in the modern world.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Muzaffar Alam from the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Hyderabad, who underscored the importance of comparative literary studies in shaping intellectual and literary discourse. “In today’s interconnected world, comparative studies have become crucial for the evolution and enrichment of literature,” Prof. Alam said. He highlighted how literary masterpieces across Arabic, Persian, English, and French traditions often explore strikingly similar themes, despite the authors having no direct connection.

Presided over by Dr. Rafiq Anjum, the event also featured Dr. Asif Malik Alimi and Dr. Liaqat Nayyar as guests of honour. The program was conducted by Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum, Head of the Department of Arabic.

Dr. Malik praised the Department for choosing a topic of such scholarly depth. “Comparative study fosters academic and cultural universality,” he noted, emphasizing that this approach allows for deeper analysis of literature in terms of its historical, cultural, and thematic dimensions.

In his address, Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum drew literary parallels between Allama Iqbal and celebrated Arabic poet Ahmed Shawqi, showcasing how their works resonate with mutual philosophical and stylistic influences.

Dr. Muhammad Affan explored the interplay between Arabic and French fiction, while Dr. Manzar Alam extended the concept of comparative study to Islamic jurisprudence, referencing the works of Ibn Rushd.

Highlighting the broader implications, Dr. Rafiq Anjum described comparative literature as a relatively new yet vital academic pursuit. “Despite the challenges in defining its boundaries, comparative studies serve to expand literary horizons and nurture humanitarian values,” he said, while also cautioning against the potential risk of literary plagiarism.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Affan. It witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty and students of Arabic, Urdu, Persian, Gojri, and Pahari departments. Notable attendees included Dr. Kausar, Dr. Ramzan, Dr. Akhtar, Dr. Kambe, Dr. Waqar Siddiqui, among others.