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TRIBUTE TRIBUTE

Tribute to Syed Javaid A. Kazi

MFIAP, ESFIAP, FRPS, FPSA, MUSPA,

Pride of Performance Medal (2006)

18/2/1945 - 12/3/2025
Pakistan’s Pioneer of Light, Devotion, and Dialogue Photographic Art (AFPA). For many, he was Pakistan’s gentle ambassador who was always ready
with a soft smile and a portfolio of soulful images that sparked conversation long after the events
concluded.
By friends and colleagues from the Photographic Society Dr. Kazi was a recipient of numerous international titles and fellowships, including FRPS (UK),
of Pakistan and FIAP Community. FPSA (USA), MUSPA, AFIAP, EFIAP, ESFIAP, and several honorary fellowships from photographic
Author: Ms Zoone Hasan, Niece of Syed Javaid A. Kazi societies across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. His prints were frequently exhibited and awarded
Tribute The international photographic community lost one of its most cherished members in salons and exhibitions worldwide. Between 1988 and 1992, he was listed among the Top 25 Tribute
Monochrome Exhibitors in the World by PSA, a rare and prestigious achievement for a photographer

with the passing of Dr. Syed Javaid A. Kazi on 12 March 2025 in Islamabad, Pakistan. A man of rare from the Global South.
brilliance, humility, and conviction, Kazi sahib, as we affectionately called him, was more than a He also co-authored several landmark books documenting Pakistan’s religious and architectural
master photographer; he was a cultural custodian, a mentor to generations, and a bridge between heritage, including Churches of Pakistan, Sikh Heritage of Pakistan, Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan, and
Pakistan and the global world of photography. Hindu Heritage of Pakistan. Through these efforts, he became a quiet force for interfaith harmony and
cultural diplomacy, his lens offering viewers a glimpse of Pakistan beyond the headlines: textured,
Kazi was Pakistan’s only recipient of the MFIAP layered, sacred.
(Master of the Fédération Internationale de l’Art
Photographique) distinction which was awarded in the What set Kazi apart, perhaps more than his accolades, was his integrity. He believed that
year 2000 for his powerful monochrome series “Faces photography had the power to preserve memory, heal divides, and elevate everyday lives into
of Mysticism”, a hauntingly beautiful visual exploration stories worth telling. He
of spiritual life in Pakistan. His deep understanding of held the belief that a
light, form, and emotion transcended technical mastery, country’s soul could be
it reflected a lifelong devotion to truth and human safeguarded in the silent
connection. details of a photograph.
His photographic journey began in the hills of Those who had
Murree, where as a child he learned darkroom techniques the privilege of knowing
under a local photo studio owner. He was given his him speak of a man who
first camera, a Kodak Baby Brownie, at the age of four. was patient in critique,
That spark of curiosity eventually led to a lifetime of generous in praise, and
dedication. His images, deeply Pakistani in aesthetic humble in triumph.
yet universal in spirit, gained recognition worldwide. He never sought the
From intimate portraits of Sufi fakirs and rural workers spotlight; he let his work
to carefully composed studies of churches, gurdwaras, speak for him, and it did,
and temples across Pakistan, his work was consistently in galleries, catalogues,
marked by sincerity, restraint, and reverence. camera clubs, and quiet
Dr. Kazi served as President of the Photographic Dr. Syed Javaid A. Kazi living rooms across the
globe.
Society of Pakistan (PSP) for over four decades and Dr. Syed Javaid A. Kazi at his exhibition with FIAP President Emile Wanderscheid
played an instrumental role in nurturing the photographic arts across the country. He organised The FIAP family
many exhibitions in Pakistan as well as international exhibitions for participants all over the globe. mourns the loss of a true friend and visionary. In his absence, we remember not only his photographs,
He co-founded the Islamabad Camera Club and spent much of his life mentoring emerging talent, but also his kindness, mentorship, and steadfast commitment to the values FIAP holds dear:
advocating for photographic education, and encouraging visual documentation of Pakistan’s cultural excellence, unity, and artistic dialogue across borders.
heritage.
As we prepare this tribute, we do so with deep gratitude for his work, his friendship, and his
But it was within the FIAP community that Dr. Kazi found his global family. He represented belief that photography is not just an art form, but a responsibility. His legacy endures in every frame
Pakistan as FIAP Liaison Officer and whilst we don’t know exactly when he commenced this role, he he composed and every life he touched.
was known to already be the Liaison Officer nearly three decades ago. He regularly attended FIAP Dr. Syed Javaid A. Kazi’s camera may be at rest, but his light continues to guide us.
Congresses, where his presence, always gracious, observant, and dignified, was warmly received
by delegates from across continents. He also later served as Director at the Asian Federation of

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