Pakistan's research scholar Erudite critic, research scholar and former chairman of Karachi University's Urdu department Prof. Dr Syed Abul Khair Kashfi was known for his extensive reading and sharp wit. Having obtained degrees in linguistics from Columbia University Kashfi who had vast experience of teaching Urdu at a higher level also taught at Osaka University for a short period. His books that made ripples in the literary circles include 'Jadeed Adab Ke Do Tanqeedi Jaeze' and 'Hamare Ahad Ka Adab Aur Adeeb' He won many accolades for his literary pursuits, including 'Dawood Literary Award' and 'National Seerat Award'. Born in a family that had a tradition of scholarship and literary tastes Syed Abul Khair was the son of Saqib Kanpuri, a known poet of his time in the Indian sub-continent.