Description
Join Adeel Hashmi and Mira Hashmi, distinguished actors and grandchildren of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, for a powerful evening celebrating the life and legacy of one of Urdu’s greatest poets. The first half features dramatic readings of Faiz’s poetry and letters, interwoven with live musical renditions of his verses.
The second half of the evening will be led by Priti Kaur, an acclaimed UK-based ghazal artist with a deep and nuanced understanding of the genre. With years of formal training and a repertoire that spans classical and contemporary styles, Kaur has brought the works of iconic poets and composers to audiences across India and the UK.
In this special mehfil-style performance, she will present a curated selection of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s ghazals, long central to her emotionally resonant style, offering an evening of intimate musical storytelling rooted in tradition and reverence.
About the Performers
Adeel Hashmi
Hailing from a distinguished lineage of artists who have been pioneers of art education in Pakistan, Adeel is deeply engaged with both performing arts and art education. Upon completing his Masters in Fine Arts (Filmmaking) in the USA, Adeel embarked on his media career in 2002. His television work quickly garnered acclaim, paving the way for his dual roles as writer and actor.
In 2015, he established Pakistan’s premier annual literary event, The Faiz Festival, in honour of his grandfather, the renowned poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Adeel is also a dedicated coach and mentor, specialising as a communications trainer who guides professionals in eloquence, emotional intelligence, and authenticity. His expertise frequently earns him invitations to speak at events in Pakistan and internationally.
As a passionate stage performer and admirer of literature and art, Adeel is excited about engaging with artists and writers beyond his immediate artistic sphere. He views these interactions as opportunities to broaden his horizons and enrich the scope of literary festivals in Pakistan, where he plays a pivotal role as a curator. Additionally, he is eager to explore new art forms, conversations and ideas that await his discovery.
Priti Kaur
Priti Kaur is a UK-based Indian vocalist whose versatility spans ghazals, semi-classical, devotional, Sufi, and popular music traditions. Raised and musically trained in India, she sings in multiple languages and brings depth and insight to a repertoire shaped by tradition and lived experience.
She holds a degree in Hindustani classical vocal music from Khairagarh University, one of the country’s leading institutions for the performing arts, and is a former All India Radio ghazal artist. A winner of the Sa Re Ga Ma Punjabi singing competition, Priti has performed extensively across the UK and South Asia. She is known for her expressive style, deep connection to poetic music, and ongoing work as a recording artist.
Mira Hashmi
Mira Hashmi is a lifelong cinema fan, and also taught undergraduate film studies for over twenty years. She is the author of Gulzar’s Ijaazat: Insights into the Film (2019). Mira currently resides in the UK with her husband and children.
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