Book Launch: Celebrating Non-Muslim Cricketers of Karachi at Arts Council

 By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi recently held a significant book launch ceremony for “Karachi ke Ghair Muslim Cricketers,” authored by senior journalist and researcher Shah Waliullah Junedi. The event took place in the Haseena Moin Hall and was organized by the council's Special Events Committee.

The ceremony was presided over by Khawaja Razi Haider, the former Director of the Quaid-e-Azam Academy. Among the distinguished speakers were renowned international cricket commentator Qamar Ahmed, former Pakistan cricket team captain and manager Moin Khan, senior journalist Mazhar Abbas, and several others, including the author himself, Shah Waliullah Junedi. The event was hosted by Muhammad Iqbal Latif and Shakeel Khan from the Special Events Committee.

In his address, Khawaja Razi Haider mentioned historical figures such as Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar and Shaukat Ali, emphasizing that they shared a deep appreciation for cricket. He highlighted that Quaid-e-Azam had made a promise to protect non-Muslim minorities in Pakistan, a commitment upheld throughout history. Haider congratulated Junedi on his significant work and expressed hope for his continued intellectual journey.

International cricket analyst Qamar Ahmed noted that cricket transcends religious boundaries. He recalled the inclusion of Parsi cricketers in the Indian team during their 1988 tour of England, stating that cricket gained prominence in the 18th century, primarily due to its association with gambling. He regarded Junedi’s book as a pivotal contribution, praising the author's comprehensive research, particularly focusing on Sindh's historical role in cricket's evolution.

Former Pakistan captain Moin Khan commended Junedi's dedication, stating, “Writing and researching cricket is no small feat. Junedi deserves recognition for his hard work, and this book should be translated into English to share these cricketers' stories with a global audience.”

Senior journalist Mazhar Abbas expressed that few reach Junedi's level of achievement in cricket literature. He lamented the decline of cricket grounds and the cricket board's shifting focus, reflecting on his experiences at the historic Parsi Ground. He acknowledged Moin Khan’s contributions to the sport, noting the importance of nurturing talent.

Muhammad Iqbal Latif, Chairman of the Special Events Committee, highlighted the Arts Council's commitment to promoting culture globally under President Muhammad Ahmed Shah’s leadership. He announced that plans for the upcoming “World Culture Festival” in October are progressing smoothly and noted the impressive turnout for the book launch as a positive sign for cricket's enduring legacy.

Abdul Rasheed Shakoor praised the Arts Council’s ongoing support for quality writers, stating, “Shah Waliullah's book presents a unique and well-researched subject. Documenting the history of Karachi’s cricketers is no simple task.”

In his closing remarks, Shah Waliullah Junedi expressed heartfelt thanks to the Arts Council and its President for hosting the event. He reflected on the growth of cricket during the British colonial era in Karachi, acknowledging the active participation of Jewish and Hindu communities in the sport.