Hazara Calligraphers Shine at International Competition
Three talented calligraphers from Haripur, Pakistan, have achieved remarkable recognition at an international calligraphy competition held in the United States, The Express Tribune reported. The event, organized by the Islamic Arts Society, featured participants from 22 countries and focused on the theme “Expression of Devotion and Love for the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his family).”
The competition, which marked its fifth year, was conducted as a virtual exhibition in Houston, Texas. It was divided into two categories: Traditional and Modern Calligraphy. Among the standout participants were students of renowned calligrapher Ustad Muhammad Ilahi Bakhsh Matti. Waqar Ahmed and Saad Mahmood secured the second and fourth prizes, respectively, in the traditional calligraphy category, while Syed Zameerul Hassan Shah earned third place in the modern calligraphy category.
The winners expressed immense gratitude to their mentor, Ustad Matti, who is internationally acclaimed for his exquisite calligraphy, including the masterpiece inscribed on the National Assembly building of Pakistan. They highlighted Ustad Matti’s dedication to nurturing the art of calligraphy in the region, ensuring that future generations continue this cultural legacy.
Despite their success, the trio pointed out that many talented artists remain unrecognized due to a lack of government support. Committed to their craft, they pledged to continue making Pakistan and Hazara proud through their artistic endeavors.
