Zahid Hassan, a prominent name in Punjabi literature both as a novelist and a poet. His work is a sign of authoritative reference in contemporary Punjabi literature. With his writings, he has laudably placed Punjabi literature with the world's highly-regarded literary traditions. He has dedicated his life for literary accomplishments as well as research. His novels, in particular, are recognized for their depth and breadth, thus warranting analysis by critics globally.
Most critics do agree that Zahid Hassan successfully filled the critical lacuna in Punjabi literature, i.e. long-felt deficiency in prose spanning over centuries. As a poet, the depth of his talent led celebrated poet Munir Niazi to hail him as the "John Keats of Punjabi".
His profound literary contribution has earned him numerous literary awards; it can proudly be said that there is hardly any major award in the Punjabi literary landscape that he has not been credited with. These include, among others, the Prestigious National Award by the Pakistan Academy of Letters and Masood Khaddarposh award. His novel Tusi Dharti (You are the Earth) received the highly prestigious global "Dhahan International Award" in Canada.
Apart from literary pursuits, Zahid Hassan has assumed a couple of responsibilities too; one as Secretary of the distinguished & historic literary body Halqa-e Arbab-e Zauq (club of literary friends). He also heads Kahani Ghar (Story House), an institution providing a platform for comprehensive discussions and literary pursuits focused on the Punjabi short story, thus nurturing the next generation of writers
