Hindi, Urdu litterateurs get Kaifi Azmi awards

LUCKNOW: The annual Kaifi Azmi award function in remembrance of Urdu poet and lyricist Syed Athar Husain Rizvi, popularly known as Kaifi Azmi, was held at Ravindralaya here on Sunday.
The award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 51,000, a shawl and a memento, was awarded to those personalities, who have made a significant contribution in the fields of Hindi and Urdu literature, culture and journalism.Arun Kumar Kori, minister for culture, who was the chief guest on the occasion, gave away the awards.
Shakeel Siddiqui, a writer of a number of articles and short stories on socially relevant issues, received the Kaifi Azmi award for his contribution in Hindi literature. He has also translated many Urdu books into Hindi, and thus functioned as a bridge between the lovers of the two great Indian languages. Shakeel Siddiqui, who has written scripts for several television films, has a long association with the progressive literary movement, and is an active member of National Council of Progressive Writers' Association.
Another literary personality, Prof Ali Ahmad Fatmi, got the award for his contribution in Urdu literature. At present, head of Urdu department in Allahabad university, Prof Fatmi is an author of many books, including 'Hamasr Urdu Novel' (Contemporary Urdu novel), `Firaq Gorakhpuri--ek mutalaa' (Firaq Gorakhpuri--a study) and many more.
Usha Ganguli, a well known theatre activist, director and actor, was awarded for her work in the field of culture. Famous for her work in Hindi theatre in Kolkata, she is also known for her her productions plays like Rudali, Court Martial, Mahabhoj etc. Usha, also a recepient of Sangeet Natak Akademi award, founded popular Rangakarmi Theatre group in 1976.
Kulsum Talha, a freelance journalist and writer, awas awarded the the Kaifi Azmi award for her contribution in the field of journalism. Besides working with top daily English dailies, she has also been associated with Doordarshan and All India Radio where she had scripted programmes on women, youth and social issues. She also regularly contributes to BBC, German Radio, Voice of America and Associated Press.
Later, a play 'Hum Mukhtara' was staged by Rangkarmi, a Kolkata based theatre group.