A conference was held on Sunday to honor Markhan Sheikh, recognized as the first female poet of the Sindhi language. The “Markhan Sheikh Literary Conference” was organized by the Laar Aurat Forum in partnership with the Sindh Culture Department in Badin.
During the event, speakers called for increased government support to research and preserve Sheikh’s six-century-old poetry. Notable attendees included Professor Hussain Musarat from the Women’s Action Forum, MPA Yasmin Shah, Professor Abdullah Mallah, Professor Dr. Tufail Ahmed Chandio, Khadim Talpur, President of the National Democratic Party, and Bakhtawar Jamali, President of the Laar Aurat Forum.
The speakers emphasized that Markhan Sheikh, who lived during the late Somroo and early Samma eras, was born in Shaikh Kiryu near Rupa Mari. Her poetry remains significant after 600 years, particularly among women in Sindh, as her verses are often sung at weddings and other celebrations.
Markhan Sheikh’s work is celebrated not only for its joyful themes but also for addressing social issues and public grievances. Much of her poetry was directed toward her mentor, Sheikh Kiryoo Bandari, reflecting her deep engagement with the struggles of her era.
The speakers urged the government to conduct thorough research on Markhan Sheikh’s contributions to Sindhi literature and to take essential steps to preserve her poetic legacy.
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