By Mohammed Saifuddin
Riyadh: Community leaders, cultural activists, literary figures, and members of the media fraternity in Riyadh paid glowing tributes to the distinguished services and lasting contributions of renowned journalist K. N. Wasif, who is returning to India after spending over three decades in Saudi Arabia.
The International Journalists Fraternity Forum (IJFF), KSA Chapter, organized a grand and emotionally charged farewell in honor of its advisor and senior journalist. Speakers recalled Wasif’s illustrious career as both a writer and photojournalist, highlighting his invaluable role in documenting the social, cultural, and developmental journey of Saudi Arabia and the Indian diaspora.
K. N. Wasif began his journalistic career with Siasat Urdu Daily in Hyderabad and later worked with Deccan Chronicle and The Indian Express before moving to Saudi Arabia. After arriving in Riyadh in 1992, he joined the construction magazine Albina, where he served until 2010. During this period, he visually chronicled Saudi Arabia’s rapid infrastructural growth across several cities through his lens.
A passionate traveler and photographer, Wasif devoted his vacations to documenting India’s historical monuments. This remarkable collection culminated in the coffee-table book “India’s Architectural Heritage,” released in 2022 at the Indian Embassy auditorium by the then Indian Ambassador, Dr. Ausaf Saeed. Several photographs from the collection were exhibited across Saudi Arabia, drawing wide appreciation. A second edition of the book is expected to be released soon. His efforts were repeatedly recognized by the Indian Embassy, as the exhibitions played a significant role in promoting Indian tourism among Saudi and Indian audiences.
Throughout his stay in Saudi Arabia, Wasif also penned a weekly column for Siasat Urdu Daily, focusing on the activities and challenges of Indian expatriates. He holds the rare distinction of publishing this column continuously for more than 25 years.
The farewell event featured heartfelt speeches, poetic tributes, and musical performances reflecting themes of friendship and separation. Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardee and noted social worker Shihab Kottukad, the chief guest, emphasized that highlighting expatriate issues through journalism is as impactful as social service. He credited Wasif’s writings with bringing several community concerns to the attention of Indian Embassy officials.
Guest of Honor and prominent businessman Dr. Idrees Saleem Gaur described Wasif as a “warrior of the pen” and a true hero who courageously confronted social issues through his writing. Another Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardee, Dr. Anwar Khursheed, also paid tribute to Wasif’s long and dedicated service.
Eminent Urdu poets Iftekhar Raghib, Abdulrahman Umri, and Hassan Arifi presented moving poetic tributes. Amid thunderous applause, poet Iftekhar Raghib coined the acronym “Kohi-Noor Wasif,” for K N Wasif symbolizing his brilliance and rare stature.
Several prominent personalities, including Former President, Jamia Millia Islamia Amumni Association Riyadh, Syed Aftab Ali Nizami, Rajasthan community Riyadh team member, Nisar Bharu, All India Steering Committee member, DTM Mohammed Mubeen, Vicr President, All India United Society, Nayeem Abdul Qayyum, Joint Secretary IJFF and President Bazme Faroghe Urdu, Basith Abu Maaz, Joint Secretary IJFF, IISR Managing Committee member and President Global Jharkhand Welfare Association, Mrs. Shahzeen Eram, Arabic Journalist Saud Rahman, Dr. Dilshad Ahmed, Editor TimesofNRIs.com Dr. Sayeed Mohiuddin, Dr. Tanveer Alam, and others, spoke on the occasion, praising Wasif’s humility, discipline, punctuality, and unwavering commitment to journalism.
In a gesture of honor, the IJFF team and dignitaries presented Wasif with the traditional Saudi Bisht. Floral bouquets, shawls, and specially prepared garlands were also offered by various organizations and well-wishers including Shahzeen Eram, Basith Abu Maaz and All India United Society team. IJFF Executive Member Farooq Raza presented specially curated tradional folral garlands to the dignitaries.
Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali, President of IJFF KSA Chapter, welcomed the gathering and recalled his long association with Wasif, expressing gratitude for his guidance and support dutong his journey of social work. Ismail Hasan Amer, Treasurer of IJFF, proposed vote of thanks, while Abdulrahman Umri recited verses from the Holy Quran. Musical renditions by Omer Baig, Dr. Sayeed Mohiuddin, and Ismail Hasan Amer added a memorable touch to the evening. IJFF Vice President Mohammed Saifuddin conducted the proceedings.
