By Syed Zia ur Rahman, YaHind.Com
Hyderabad: Two books by Chicago-based journalist and author Abdul Quadeer Siddiqui, popularly known as A.Q. Sid, were formally released at a well-attended function held on Sunday, 23 August, at the Media Plus auditorium here.
The books launched were Secrets of God, written in English, and Barf Pighalne Tak, a collection of Urdu short stories.
Veteran journalist and former Telangana MLC Syed Aminul Hasan Jafri was the Chief Guest and presided over the function. Dr. Mohammed Safiullah, Honorary Managing Trustee of The Deccan Heritage Trust, Hyderabad, and Dr. Shujath Ali Sufi, former Joint Director, Doordarshan, were the guests of honour. Convener Syed Khaled Shahbaz conducted the proceedings, and Co-Convener Rafeeq Shahi proposed the vote of thanks.
Secrets of God was reviewed by Dr. Islamuddin Mujahid, while Rafia Nausheen presented a review of Barf Pighalne Tak. Both reviewers offered detailed observations on the content, style and treatment of the respective works.
Speaking as a special invitee, Dr. Shujath Ali Sufi expressed his disagreement with the title Secrets of God and elaborated on the reasons for his reservation. Presiding as Chief Guest, Syed Aminul Hasan Jafri partially endorsed his argument.
Responding to the discussion, the author explained his reasons for choosing the subject. A.Q. Sid clarified that the book was not written for any one religion but was addressed to followers of all faiths. He urged the audience to read the book in full before arriving at any conclusion about its title or its contents.
A.Q. Sid, who has served for many years as the Chicago correspondent of India Post, is known for his research-based writing. Secrets of God draws upon verses from the Old Testament, the Bible, the Quran and the Vedas to examine questions concerning the oneness of God, the purpose of messengers and miracles, and the concepts of fate and destiny, approaching each theme through reasoned analysis. Barf Pighalne Tak brings together his Urdu short stories.
Copies of both titles were displayed and made available at the venue. The programme was attended by literary figures, media persons and members of the community, reflecting continued interest in bilingual writing that bridges the English and Urdu literary traditions.
