Noor Zaheer is a well known writer, researcher, translator and theatre activist based in London. Married to legendary broadcaster Yavar Abbas, she is the youngest daughter of legendary writers Sajjad Zaheer and Razia Sajjad Zaheer, founders of Progressive Writers Association (PWA) in the 1930s. 

Noor Zaheer is in conversation with broadcaster Pervaiz Alam, discussing her books, politics, PWA, Urdu’s most controversial book Angarey, Rawalpindi Conspiracy Case of 1951, leading to Indian citizenship for Zaheer. For the first time we hear an insider’s view. 

“My father Sajjad Zaheer and poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz were initially involved in discussions regarding leading an agitation against PM Liaquat Ali Khan’s government in Pakistan but were never a part of the Rawalpindi Conspiracy Case of 1951. They were framed,” says Noor Zaheer.   

Noor for the first time reveals contents of Razia Sajjad Zaheer’s unfinished novel on the life of poet Majaz. And, finally, she talks about her marriage with Yavar Abbas, who would be celebrating his 104th birthday in October, 2024.

This podcast with Noor Zaheer was recorded on Saturday, 31 August, 2024, in London.