Ruby Husain Hyder of Aalmi Akhbar writes about Zafar Masud’s meeting with Mr. Safdar Hamadani and Mrs. Mahpara Safdar in London.
Ruby is a writer and contributor for Aalmi Akhbar, an international Urdu news and literary portal. She is known for her reports and articles that often cover literary events, historical figures, and community-focused stories.
One of her notable recent contributions is an article detailing the launch of the book “Seat 1C” by Zafar Masud, the President and CEO of the Bank of Punjab.
Summary of the Article “Zafar Masud Seat 1C”
In her reporting, Hyder covers a literary gathering hosted by the well-known media couple, Mr. Safdar Hamadani and Mrs. Mahpara Safdar. The event was held in honor of Zafar Masud to mark the release of his book, which chronicles his life and his miraculous survival as one of only two survivors of the tragic PIA Flight PK-8303 crash in Karachi.
Key themes in her writing about Masud include:
- Resilience and Survival: She highlights Masud’s candid reflections on being pulled from the wreckage and his journey through physical and psychological recovery.
- The Narrative of “Seat 1C”: She describes the book as a “raw, painful, and deeply human account” that turns a tragic experience into a narrative of strength.
- Literary Community: Her writing often focuses on the intersection of leadership and literature, noting the presence of distinguished community members and poets at such events.
Other Topics by Ruby
Beyond her coverage of Zafar Masud, Hyder contributes a variety of informative and historical pieces to Aalmi Akhbar, such as:
- Islamic History: She has written about Rufaida Al-Aslamia, recognized as the first professional nurse in Islamic history.1
- Cultural Heritage: Her articles frequently explore historical landmarks, such as the Masjid al-Qiblatayn in Medina.
- Social & Historical Reports: She covers significant milestones, including the history of the census in Pakistan and global historical events like D-Day.
Her style is characterized by a blend of reportage and storytelling, focusing on preserving cultural heritage and highlighting individuals who have made significant impacts on society.
Full Article: Zafar Masud Seat 1C
An event was graciously hosted by the renowned and respected couple, Mr. Safdar Hamadani and Mrs. Mahpara Safdar, at their residence in honour of Mr. Zafar Masud. The hosts are widely admired for their generosity, hospitality, and deep passion for literature, poetry, and the arts.
The gathering was attended by a distinguished audience, including councillors and notable members of the community, many of whom shared a common appreciation for literary and cultural pursuits. The occasion marked the launch of Mr. Zafar Masud’s book.
Guests had the opportunity not only to enjoy the warm hospitality and fine cuisine, but also to meet the author himself – Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of The Bank of Punjab and one of two miracle survivors of the tragic PIA Flight PK-8303 crash in Karachi carrying 100 people.
During the event, Mr. Masud spoke candidly about his survival—how he was pulled from the wreckage after falling into a burning car, rescued by local residents, and later treated for fractures, burns, and severe psychological trauma. Despite these challenges, he emerged stronger, turning his extraordinary experience into a powerful narrative.
From this miracle was born his book, Seat 1C, a raw, painful, and deeply human account of survival and resilience. The book is available on Amazon.
Written By Ruby Husain Hyder, Published in Aalmi Akhbar on December 22, 2025
Read more: Zafar Masud Book Seat 1C in London — Aalmi Akhbar
About Aalmi Akhbar
Aalmi Akhbar (English: World News) is a prominent international Urdu-language news and literary portal that serves as a bridge between the global Urdu-speaking diaspora and their cultural roots. Headquartered in London, it has established itself as more than just a news site; it is a digital sanctuary for Urdu literature, intellectual discourse, and community reporting.
Origins and Leadership
The portal was founded in 2008 by Safdar Hamadani, a veteran journalist, poet, and broadcaster with decades of experience at Radio Pakistan and the BBC Urdu Service. Safdar Hamadani serves as the Editor-in-Chief and is a celebrated literary figure known for his Marsiya (elegies) and journalism. He launched the platform to provide a space where high-quality Urdu journalism could thrive without the constraints of traditional print media. He is joined by Mahpara Safdar, an iconic broadcaster and former PTV newscaster who serves as the Editor of Current Affairs. Her involvement has helped the site maintain a reputation for linguistic precision and professional integrity.
Content Pillars
Aalmi Akhbar is distinct for its balanced mix of hard news and soft literary content. Its sections are carefully curated to cater to both the intellect and the daily information needs of its readers. In the realm of News and Current Affairs, the portal provides global coverage with real-time updates on international politics, focusing heavily on Pakistan, India, and the Gulf. It also maintains a strong diaspora focus, acting as a megaphone for the Urdu-speaking community in the UK, North America, and Europe by covering local events and community milestones.
The Literature (Adabiyat) section is equally robust, featuring works from legendary poets alongside emerging voices. It serves as a common platform for Ghazals, Nazms, and short stories. Furthermore, the portal is a primary source for reports on literary gatherings and book releases, such as the launch of Zafar Masud’s Seat 1C. Beyond news and poetry, the site offers Social and Cultural Reports that dive into Islamic history, biographies of Sufi saints, and the evolution of Urdu journalism. A dedicated health and lifestyle section provides medical insights ranging from traditional remedies to modern scientific breakthroughs.
Cultural Significance
In an era where digital content is often brief and fast-paced, Aalmi Akhbar remains committed to literary depth. It serves as a digital archive for Urdu culture, preserving the nuances of the language that are sometimes lost in mainstream media. The portal is particularly valued for its neutral but insightful stance, providing a platform for diverse opinions and fostering a sense of unity among Urdu speakers worldwide. Many readers view it as a digital “Mushaira” (literary symposium) that never ends.
Digital Reach
Operating as an e-newspaper, Aalmi Akhbar utilizes social media and multimedia reports to stay relevant. Its multimedia section includes video reports and interviews, ensuring that the rich tradition of Urdu broadcasting continues in a modern format. By blending traditional journalistic values with digital accessibility, it continues to reach thousands of readers across the globe.