The Travelogue Dosti Ka Safar: An Analytical Study of Iranian Society, Culture, and Feminist Perspectives in Urdu Travel Writing سفرنامہ ’’دوستی کا سفر‘‘:ایرانی معاشرت، ثقافت اور تانیثی زاویۂ نظر کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

In Urdu literature, the tradition of feminist writing is flourishing. Alongside contributing to other genres of literature, women are also excelling in the creation of travelogues, standing shoulder to shoulder with men. Among the women who have added unique insights to Urdu travelogues from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, one prominent name is Atiya Parveen. In her travelogues, she reflects on society, women’s rights, honor killings, violence against women, the complexities of societal behavior, and several other topics. This research paper presents an analytical and critical review of Atiya Parveen's travelogue Dosti ka Safar , which recounts her travels in Iran. The purpose of this study was to examine how Iranian social life, culture, and the strengths and weaknesses of Iranian society are depicted in this travelogue. To achieve these objectives, the researcher adopted a standard research methodology to analyze the travelogue and concluded that the author has portrayed Iran’s culture, social life, historical sites, and the beauty of Iranian society in a compelling manner. Atiya Parveen has highlighted Iran’s museums, cultural centers, libraries, universities, and tourist sites, capturing her impressions of Iran’s history, geography, culture, and customs, and has discussed both the strengths and weaknesses of Iranian society. Thus, this travelogue serves as a valuable document on Iranian society and its cultural heritage.