Condolence Reference at the University of Chakwal
By Samandar Khan
A solemn condolence reference in memory of Professor Sufi Liaqat — a luminous presence in Chakwal’s intellectual, literary and cultural landscape was held on Wednesday, December 10, at Sethi Hall, University of Chakwal. The gathering served as a dignified tribute to a man whose life was a reflection of scholarship, aesthetics, compassion and an unwavering commitment to humanism.
Tributes honour Professor Sufi Liaqat at the University of Chakwal
The event was organised jointly by the Liaqat Ali Khan Music Society, Dhan Adabi Baithak, Awan-e-Adab Chakwal and Chakwal Awami Forum under the title “Geet-o-Guftaar” (Melody and Expression). It was attended by prominent school of thoughts, writers, lawyers, journalists, teachers and a large number of university students who came together to honour a figure whose contributions shaped generations.
Dr Noor-ul-Ain Khan, Adviser to the Liaqat Ali Khan Music Society and faculty member at the Department of Business Administration, delivered the welcome address. Speeches were later presented by Prof Sada Hussain, Prof (R) Ashfaq Ahmed Shani, Prof (R) Naeem Shahid, Prof (R) Shahid Azad, Arshad Butt, Prof (R) Akram Faizi, Advocate Almas Babar, Advocate Iftikhar Haider, Elia Hassan, Sajjad Saleem and Chaudhry Tahir Sikandar. The proceedings were conducted by Nabeel Anwar Dhakku.
Speakers reflect on the intellectual legacy of Professor Sufi Liaqat
The speakers were unanimous in their view that Professor Sufi Liaqat was not merely a teacher but a complete cultural institution, a rare personality in whom learning, aesthetics, independence of thought and deep humanism coexisted effortlessly. They recalled him as a man who “kept the alley of reproach alive,” whose life may have been simple yet whose intellectual breadth was vast.
Books were his constant companions. Once he opened one in the morning, he remained immersed in its world until late at night. His reading spanned philosophy, comparative religion, world literature, poetry and classical music. The Qur’an with translation and commentary, texts from various schools of thought, the Bible, Guru Granth Sahib, the Mahabharata, and works of great global thinkers all formed part of his intellectual universe.
Professor Sufi Liaqat’s teaching shaped three generations
Speakers particularly noted that Professor Liaqat helped connect three generations of Chakwal to the world of books. His teaching method was distinctive: he understood the temperament of each student and transformed reading into an intimate experience. He encouraged students to maintain diaries, mark meaningful passages and record their reflections — a practice that cultivated critical thought and introspection. Many of his former students still describe themselves as his “intellectual progeny.”
His individuality and refined aesthetic sense were also fondly remembered. With open buttons, rolled-up sleeves, stone rings, a chain around his neck and a glow of curiosity in his eyes, he carried a sense of rebellion with elegance. Often labelled irreligious or even communist, he was, in truth, a man of profound belief in humanity. Despite limited means, he quietly supported the needy — including members of the transgender community — without seeking recognition.
Music performances highlight artistic side of Professor Sufi Liaqat
Adding a melodic dimension to the evening, Hassan Liaqat — the son of the late professor — captivated the audience with his singing and harmonium performance. Other vocalists, including Kameel Haider, Muhammad Daud and Mishal, also enthralled the gathering. Tabla player Zaheer Ahmed added rhythmic depth to the performances, while the ceremony concluded with a flute recital by Sajjad Saleem and Shehzad Bangash, earning warm applause.
Alongside his excellence as an educator, his deep love for classical music was highlighted with reverence. His devotion to the flute, ragas and melodic expression reflected a spiritual discipline. Learning music with humility under Ustad Ghulam Haider and later becoming a reference point for others spoke volumes about his dedication. His flute performances mesmerised audiences, and he passed this artistic passion on to his children and students alike.
Enduring influence of Professor Sufi Liaqat remembered
The gathering also reflected on the hardships he endured throughout life — the loss of loved ones, illness and prolonged suffering. Yet he never relinquished his intellectual freedom, dignity or gentle smile. His courage in the face of adversity left a lasting impression on all who encountered him.
Speakers agreed that personalities like Professor Sufi Liaqat depart physically, but they continue to live on through their students, their books, their music and their ideas. The condolence reference at Sethi Hall was, in essence, a renewal of commitment to the values he championed, the pursuit of knowledge, beauty, inquiry and humanism.
Professor Liaqat Ali Khan, who passed away on December 4, 2022, remains deeply respected in academic and literary circles. Remembered as a towering intellect, a gifted flutist and an accomplished poet who wrote under the pen name “Sufi,” he leaves behind a legacy that continues to illuminate hearts and minds.
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