Journeys into Civilizations: Dr. Z.A. Qureshi’s Travelogues Launched at China Window Peshawar

A memorable literary evening filled with intellectual depth, cultural reflection, and scholarly dialogue unfolded at China Window in Peshawar, where two remarkable travelogues by noted broadcaster, educationist, and author Professor Dr. Z.A. Qureshi were formally launched in the presence of distinguished personalities from academic, literary, media, and social circles.

The books, Pearls Scattered Beneath the Sky and The Land of Peaceful Mornings and Rising Sun, were unveiled during an elegant ceremony organized under the auspices of China Window, a cultural institution increasingly recognized for promoting intellectual exchange and literary engagement in the region.

The event was chaired by eminent scholar and former Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology Professor Dr. Qibla Ayaz, who joined other distinguished guests in unveiling the books. Scholars, writers, lawyers, journalists, students, and admirers of literature attended the gathering in large numbers, transforming the evening into a celebration of ideas, civilizations, and human experiences.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Dr. Z.A. Qureshi reflected on the journeys that inspired his writings. He shared that years of professional responsibilities and international travel allowed him to closely observe diverse societies, cultures, and civilizations across the world. Those experiences, he said, gradually transformed into literary narratives carrying memories, emotions, reflections, and intellectual observations.

He remarked that travel literature is far more than the description of landscapes or monuments; it is a mirror of human behavior, social values, historical consciousness, and cultural identity. According to him, a meaningful travelogue enables readers not only to see distant lands but also to understand the soul of civilizations and the shared emotions that connect humanity across borders.

Describing his books, Dr. Qureshi said that Pearls Scattered Beneath the Sky captures scattered memories and reflections gathered from different corners of the world, while The Land of Peaceful Mornings and Rising Sun explores the beauty, traditions, and cultural richness of Asian societies through an insightful and humane perspective.

In his presidential address, Professor Dr. Qibla Ayaz praised China Window for creating an intellectual space where literature, culture, and scholarship continue to flourish. He observed that travel writing acquires lasting value when it combines honesty of observation with literary grace and intellectual depth. He noted that Dr. Qureshi’s writings possess both scholarly richness and artistic elegance, making them a valuable addition to contemporary travel literature.

Former Chairman of the Department of International Relations at University of Peshawar, Professor Dr. Adnan Sarwar, said that powerful travelogues carry readers beyond geography and allow them to emotionally travel alongside the writer. He added that Dr. Qureshi’s narratives blend information, emotion, cultural awareness, and intellectual insight in a manner that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

Supreme Court advocate Moazzam Butt paid tribute to Dr. Qureshi’s distinguished contributions during his association with Pakistan Television and described him as a dignified intellectual whose writings reflect maturity, honesty, and refined observation. He said the books beautifully combine literary expression with discussions on history, civilizations, social attitudes, and international relations, while references to ancient Buddhist heritage further enrich their significance.

Senior journalist Amjad Aziz Malik remarked that China Window has evolved into a vibrant platform for academic, literary, educational, and cultural dialogue, strengthening understanding between civilizations and promoting friendship between Pakistan and China. He described Dr. Qureshi as a sensitive observer whose words inspire readers to think deeply and engage with the world through compassion and awareness.

Director of China Window Naz Parveen said the author’s travelogues vividly portray the cultures and social life of countries including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. She added that the narrative style is so engaging and immersive that readers feel themselves traveling alongside the writer through distant lands and civilizations.

The evening concluded on a warm and appreciative note as participants expressed hope that such literary and cultural gatherings would continue to nurture intellectual traditions and positive social values. On behalf of China Window, Professor Dr. Qibla Ayaz presented a commemorative shield to Professor Dr. Z.A. Qureshi in recognition of his valuable literary and intellectual contributions.