Today marks the 65th death anniversary of the renowned humorist, educationist, critic, diplomat, and writer, Patras Bokhari.
Born as Syed Ahmed Shah on October 1, 1898, in Peshawar, he received his early education from Mission High School Peshawar. He later pursued his graduation at the historic Government College, Lahore (now a university).
Furthering his education, he went to Cambridge to study English literature. Bokhari served as a literature professor at Government College Lahore for several years, eventually becoming its principal in 1946.
His career also saw him as the Controller General of All India Radio in 1940, receiving a prestigious award from the British government in 1945. In 1950, he represented Pakistan as a permanent delegate at the United Nations.
Bokhari's enduring contributions include remarkable essays in literature that remain relevant even after six decades. Works like ‘Marhoom Ki Yaad Mein’, ‘Kuttay’, Lahore ka Jughrafiya’, and ‘Cinema ka Ishq’ are esteemed pieces, integrated into the curriculum of both India and Pakistan.
His collection of essays, 'Patras Kay Mazameen', published in 1927, is regarded as a valuable asset in Urdu humor.
Prof Patras Bokhari passed away on December 5, 1958, in New York due to a cardiac arrest. The Pakistani government honored his immense contributions by posthumously awarding him the Hilal-e-Imtiaz.
