Pakistani professor calls for promotion of Persian language

In an interview with IRNA Zeeshan ul Hassan, also the Assistant Director History and Archeology Walled City of Lahore Authority, said that without a proper understanding to the Persian language, it is difficult to get in depth knowledge about the socio-cultural norms of the sub-continent.

He said that Persian used to be the language of official works, arts, culture, spirituality, research, teaching and education in the sub-continent and it needs to be given attention again.

“We have one thousand years of history of Persian in this area,” he said. The expert said that even after the creation of Pakistan, Persian language used to be taught to the students up to six grade for years. 

Expressing his views, the cultural figure said that there are many institutes or research canters working with the cooperation of Iran in Pakistan for the promotion of the Persian language. He said that many scripts of our history are still needed to be translated from Persian language into Urdu language and this shows that Persian languages has its deep roots in our history. 

He added that learning Persian language could also play an important role in bringing the people of Iran and Pakistan closer to each other. “We share common history, common religion and common cultural values,” said the professor. 

The Persian expert believes that Iranian government should extend more cooperation to Pakistani research centers for promotion of Persian language here. He said that government of Pakistan also needs to pay more attention to importance of cultural activities specially teaching Persian in Pakistan. 

The national anthem of Pakistan known as 'Pak Sarzamin' (pure land) includes over 90 percent of Persian words and phrases and the language is being taught in some universities of the country.