Literary icons and colleagues remember late academic, call her death an ‘irreplaceable loss’
Arfa Syeda Zehra, one of Pakistan’s most influential educators and human rights defenders, died in Lahore on Monday at the age of 83.
Known for her extensive knowledge of Urdu and literature, Dr. Arfa was a recognized scholar on the history and social issues of South Asia, addressing complex subjects with clarity.
She studied at the Lahore College for Women and then at the Government College University, where she received her doctorate. in history from the University of Hawaii.
Dr. Arfa served as Principal of the Lahore College for Women and was also appointed Professor Emeritus at Forman Christian College.
Through bold statements and passionate advocacy for the promotion of women’s rights, historical awareness and ethical governance, Dr. Arfa has also become a celebrity guest on talk shows and conferences.
Securing respect and admiration, she also secured roles at government level – as special advisor to the Prime Minister on education and national cohesion and as chair of the National Commission on the Status of Women.
Dr. Arfa even gained international fame as the holder of a UNESCO Chair on Cultural Heritage. She used this position to fight for the protection and preservation of Pakistan’s intellectual and literary traditions.
A respected teacher, literary scholar, scholar and reformer, Dr. Arfa’s passing marks the loss of a voice deeply respected for her contributions to women’s empowerment, educational reforms, language rights and equitable social development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over his death and paid tribute to his contributions to knowledge, teaching, research, and especially to its promotion and development of the Urdu language.
Muhammad Ahmed Shah, Chairman of the Arts Council, termed the death of Dr Arfa a great tragedy for Pakistan and said that she, like Zia Mohyeddin, was a unique person who will never be forgotten.
Remembering Dr. Arfa’s somewhat sarcastic tone when discussing complex issues, Shah noted that she particularly resonated with the younger generation.
He announced that a session would be held at the 18th Aalmi Urdu Conference to commemorate the life, achievements, personality and legacy of Dr Arfa.
Noted playwright, poet and writer Noorul Huda Shah also termed Dr Arfa’s death as an irreplaceable loss to the country.
Stating that she had known Dr. Arfa personally for many years, Noorul Huda recalled how Dr. Arfa captivated the audience with his humor, simplicity and informal way of speaking.
Ameena Syed, founder of the Karachi Literature Festival, called Dr Arfa a “murshad” (teacher or guide) and said she was grieved by the loss.
Appreciating the way Dr. Arfa discussed spiritual, philosophical and societal issues with grace and simplicity, Syed remarked that Dr. Arfa left behind a void that cannot be filled.
