Paris Say Makkah Takk: Book Review

"Paris Say Makkah Takk" is a fascinating and inspiring biography of Dr. Laeeq Ahmad Babree, a brilliant scholar and poet who has left a lasting impact on the fields of literature, linguistics, and education. Authored by Dr. Amjad Ali Bhatti and Mrs. Khalid Laeeq Babree, this book provides a comprehensive account of Dr. Babree's life, from his childhood and early education to his remarkable achievements as a teacher, researcher, and author. The book begins by tracing Dr. Babree's childhood in Lahore, Pakistan, where he was born in 1931. Growing up in a family of educators, Dr. Babree was exposed to a rich intellectual and cultural environment from an early age. He was an avid reader and showed a keen interest in literature and languages from a young age. The authors vividly describe Dr. Babree's formative years, including his early schooling at the Government Islamia High School in Lahore and his undergraduate studies at the Government College (now University), Lahore. After completing his graduation, Dr. Babree joined the same institution as a lecturer. He soon established himself as a gifted teacher and researcher, earning a reputation as a respected scholar in the fields of linguistics and literature. In 1967, he was awarded a scholarship to pursue his doctoral studies in French at the University of Paris. This was a pivotal moment in Dr. Babree's life, as it marked the beginning of his lifelong passion for the French language and culture. The authors provide a detailed account of Dr. Babree's academic and professional journey, including his time as the first director of the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad. They also highlight his service at the prestigious Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where he worked as a professor of French and Linguistics. During this time, Dr. Babree made significant contributions to the development of the university's language and literature programs, and mentored several generations of students and scholars. One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Babree's life is his remarkable literary output. The authors highlight his prolific career as a writer, which includes over a dozen books in Punjabi, Urdu, English, and French. Dr. Babree's poetry, in particular, is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth. The authors provide a selection of his poems, which offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of his literary legacy. Throughout the book, the authors paint a vivid portrait of Dr. Babree's personality, highlighting his humility, kindness, and generosity. They describe him as a deeply spiritual person who was guided by his faith and values. Dr. Babree's commitment to promoting interfaith harmony and understanding is also highlighted, as he was a strong advocate for dialogue and cooperation among different religious and cultural communities. Overall, "Paris to Makkah" is a must-read biography that provides a fascinating insight into the life of a remarkable scholar and poet. Dr. Babree's story is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and dedication, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of students and scholars around the world. The authors have done an excellent job of capturing the essence of Dr. Babree's life and work, and this book is a fitting tribute to his remarkable achievements.