Faiz in Delhi (1969)

Prior to 1971, there was a renaissance of cultural activity at the Pakistani High Commission in Delhi, centering around many memorable events, graced inter alia by the Bachchans, organised by Mrs Ruhafza Hyder, wife of then High Commissioner Sajjad Hyder.

Foremost among these was Faiz Ahmad Faiz's visit. Whilst at the residence, Begum Akhtar recited his kalaam. At the Chancery, he was the chief guest at the event commemorating Bangla poet Qazi Nazrul Islam.

In this photograph, he is surrounded by artists and High Commission staff and their families. Seen on his left are Rehana, the school principal, and future banker Saad Salman Hyder.

– Rehana Hyder