Five Decades of Excellence: Mahboob Ali

24/09/2021

Chughtai Public Library organized the launch of its first publication "Five Decades of Excellence: MAHBOOB ALI" written by Prof. Dr. Shaukat Mahmood. The event was attended by eminent painters of the country, writers, journalists, and people associated with the education sector and students.

Guest of Honors including Muhammad Tehseen (Director South Asia Partnership Pakistan), Prof. Dr. Sumera Jawad (Principal, College of Art & Design, Punjab University), Ms. Tania Sohail (Artist & Director of Shakir Ali Museum), Dr. Muhammad Haroon Usmani (Chief Librarian, Punjab University), and Prof. Dr. A. S. Chughtai appreciated the art of Mehboob Ali's Woodcut. 

Prof. Dr. Shaukat Mahmood, the author of the book, said that the art of making prints from woodcuts started in China in the 5th century and as soon as it reached Japan. This art helped a lot in the propagation of Buddhism. Pakistani artists probably did not get attracted to this art. There is only one Mujahid in this art and he is Mehboob Ali.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Akhtar Sohail Chughtai, Founder of Chughtai Public Libraries, said that Mehboob Ali is a man of promise. His work has opened up many new avenues for generations to come in woodcut art. Rehana Kausar, Consultant, Chughtai Public Libraries, while introducing all the projects under the auspices of the library, said that Chughtai Public Libraries has been striving for the last seven years in building a healthy society. And the publication of this book is a link in that chain.

The event was attended by key dignitaries from the politics, arts, and literary community. Everyone applauded the art of Mahboob Ali and the efforts of Chughtai Public Library for Pakistan. The event concluded on a high note with a tea & networking session at the end.