Anwar Maqsood Speaks “War Kills More Than Enemies It Destroys Futures”
With cross-border conflict heating up, renowned playwright and cultural figure Anwar Maqsood spoke a moving word at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi. Speaking to media, authors, and leaders of civil society, he spoke in strong terms of the ruinous costs of conflict particularly on civilians who find themselves trapped in the middle.
War begins with words and finishes in graveyards,” Maqsood said, highlighting the fact that even naval victories are empty when innocent lives, particularly those of children, are lost. His words cut through the din of propaganda and nationalism, offering a deeply human perspective on a dangerous political buildup.
Operation Sindoor’s Aftermath: Beyond the Battlefield
India’s recent offensive, labeled Operation Sindoor, killed 31 Pakistani civilians and wounded dozens of others. In response, Pakistan’s military shot down 5 Indian planes, dismantled naval objectives along the Line of Control, and brought down 77 Indian drones over hundreds of days.
While appreciating the strength of Pakistan’s military, Maqsood reminded the kingdom that real strength is in unity, awareness, and love for humanity. “I don’t have a gun,” he declared, “but I have a pen and that’s enough.”
“Modi Must Realise This Isn’t the Way Forward”
In an unusual but blunt appeal to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maqsood urged him to reconsider his attitude towards Muslims no longer merely in Pakistan but within India itself. “Winning elections is no longer enough if you lose your humanity,” he suggested, alluding to India’s increasing inner and external polarisation.
He condemned Indian media for inciting warmongering and disinformation, stating, “India’s media can by no means change,” in an apologetic tone full of sadness rather than spite.
A Call for Peace, Not Provocation
In spite of the gloomy atmosphere, Maqsood’s message had once not been one of despondency but of hope. He envisioned a future where communicate supplants drone fire, and empathy quiets enmity. “Times have changed. No one wishes warfare anymore. We choose to go forward,” he concluded a sentiment resonating in the hearts of thousands and thousands on either sides of the border.
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