Veteran author Jameel Usman unveils new books at star-studded KPC event

Jameel Usman is a US-based Pakistani fiction writer, short story author, children's novelist, and poet who writes in both Urdu and English.

Karachi: In an era where reading habits are in sharp decline and publishing a book has become a financial burden in Pakistan, books are getting heavier to print and lighter in readers’ hands. Yet last evening at the Karachi Press Club, poet, journalist and fiction writer Jameel Usman sb did exactly that — launching two Urdu books, Naqshe Kohan and Nisf Sadi Ke Qisse.

Jameel Usman is a US-based Pakistani fiction writer, short story author, children’s novelist, and poet who writes in both Urdu and English. Settled in the New York City Metropolitan Area, his literary work spans contemporary fiction, children’s educational literature, and humorous storytelling.

Among his notable works: Shahi Tukray, one of his most praised short stories; The Cloud, his debut English-language science fiction novel for children aged 10 to 15, published by Dorrance Publishing, about a patriotic scientist who invents a defense system against nuclear war; Boojho To Janen, a collection of humorous anecdotes and satire published by Ferozsons; and Dada Jaan Ke Zamanay Mein, a children’s storybook, also published by Ferozsons. His other books include Tasweer-e Karwan, Jilawatan Kahania, Bisat, and many more.

Today, as shrinking bookshops, rising printing costs, and digital distractions pull people away from books, the large gathering at KPC Auditorium stood as a quiet act of defiance. It was a reminder that stories — and the people who write them — are still fighting to be heard.

The event, hosted by Mr. Nadeem Hashmi, was presided over by Mahmood Sham Sb, an institution of journalism in himself and former Group Editor of Jang. Mr. Ikhlaq Ahmed graced the occasion as Guest of Honor.

Naqshe Kohan explores cultural and historical themes, while Nisf Sadi Ke Qisse (Tales of a Half Century) brings together Jameel’s published afsanas written over the last 50 years. The collection reflects the changing social and political landscape of Pakistan.

In a poignant moment, Jameel Usman sb himself read an excerpt from his book in a heavy voice, narrating the story of two brothers parted by circumstances. The elder leaves for the USA to join the Voice of America, while the younger remains behind in Pakistan — a tale of separation, sacrifice, and the cost of migration.

Presiding over the event, Mahmood Sham sb praised Jameel’s contribution to Urdu literature and journalism.

“Today we are living in an era where again we have to cite our views through metaphors, like George Orwell did — ‘Big Brother is watching’,” he said.

Reflecting on the times, Sham added, “There was a time when people used to migrate to save lives, not reputation.”

He continued, “Jameel Sb has the art of narrating a story as if you are watching it yourself. You can sense the words he uses to sketch the script. He is blunt and brutal when it comes to the climax of an afsana. He has the ability to see beyond the wall.”

Recalling his long association with the Karachi Press Club, Sham noted, “It has been 50 years. KPC, even in the days of martial law, was the most liberated place. But it does not seem to be so anymore,” he sighed.

He called the two books complementary — Naqshe Kohan mapping our roots, and Nisf Sadi Ke Qisse documenting the lived experience of five decades through fiction.

The most moving tribute of the evening came from the author’s younger brother, Irshad Usman, who is also a fellow at my university. With visible pride, he recalled growing up in the shadow of a man who chose truth over comfort.

“My brother didn’t just write,” he said. “He lived it. He carried the weight of every story home, and still woke up the next day to chase the next one. Today, he is not just launching a book. He is handing over 40 years of lessons to the next generation. He never taught us with lectures. He taught us by example — that your name is all you own in this profession. This book is not about fame. It’s about faith, struggle, and staying standing when the hard times come.”

Guest of Honor Mr Ikhlaq Ahmed also spoke about the challenges facing Urdu publishing and lauded Yusuf for his perseverance. He noted that Jameel’s work frequently touches upon deep social realities, historical events, and keen human observation.

Writer and scholar, Ms Gul Bano highlighted Jameel’s earlier work, saying his book on the fall of Dhaka reflects the pain of migration. “His book ‘Jilawatan Kahania’ depicts the real stories of those who migrated from Dhaka to West Pakistan in 1971,” she said. “His narrative and writing help build the character of an individual raised to contribute to society.”

Mr. Tabeer Aghai also addressed the gathering and stressed the importance of preserving Urdu fiction as a record of social memory.

The evening concluded with a book signing and a discussion on the future of Urdu literature in Pakistan.

The writer is a senior journalist and columnist, having experience of working with all major English media houses. Feedback: mediawomen2014@gmail.com