Neelam Bashir


Neelam Bashir is a Pakistani fiction writer, novelist, poet, travelogue writer, critic, and researcher who writes in both Urdu and Punjabi. She is known for her candid and fearless writing on sensitive social issues, particularly those concerning the female experience in a patriarchal society.

Early life and education

Neelam Ahmad Bashir was born in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, on January 17, 1950. She is the eldest daughter of the acclaimed journalist, writer, intellectual, and filmmaker Ahmad Bashir and his wife Mehmooda Begum. Her paternal aunt, Parveen Atif, was also an Urdu short story writer. Her sisters are the well-known television personalities Bushra Ansari, Sumbul Shahid, and Asma Abbas.
She grew up in a liberal and culturally rich household in Lahore, where her parents encouraged their children to be expressive and intellectually curious. She received her early education from Lady Griffin Railway Girls High School, graduating in 1966. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lahore College for Women in 1970 and a master's degree in psychology from University of the Punjab in 1972.
After her marriage to Dr. Siraj Siddiqui in 1972, she moved to the United States, where she lived for fourteen years. She reportedly faced challenges pursuing her writing during this period due to her husband's disapproval. Upon returning to Pakistan, she established herself in the literary scene. She credits the renowned Urdu writer Mumtaz Mufti as a significant mentor who inspired her to pursue writing professionally.

Career

Bashir is a prominent figure in contemporary Urdu literature. Her work is noted for its exploration of the complex issues related to the female psyche and social realities. She approaches her subjects with a modern, liberal, and impartial perspective, advocating for principles of feminism and humanism.
Her writing is often described as bold, honest, dynamic, and insightful, tackling controversial subjects without fear. She delves deep into the inner complexities of her characters, looking beyond external markers to explore their humanity. Her book Chaar Chand, a collection of autobiographical sketches about her life, family, and friends, is particularly noted for its candidness.
In addition to her literary pursuits, she has also worked in the advertising industry, writing Urdu copy, and has compiled a book of her parents' memoirs. Her work has been translated into other languages, including Hindi and Arabic.

Personal life

Neelam Ahmad Bashir married Dr. Siraj Siddiqui in 1972 and subsequently moved to the United States with him. She divides her time between Pakistan and the United States, as all three of her children reside in the US. She has one son, Humayun Sheikh, who has children including Saif Sheikh and Shiraz Nasir. She has two daughters.

Awards and recognition