KARACHI A special launch ceremony for the much-anticipated book Seat 1C by prominent banker Zafar Masud was held in Karachi, drawing attention to the profound themes of trauma, survival, and the strength of the human spirit.
In his memoir, Masud shares deeply personal reflections on how life-changing events shape individuals, using his own miraculous survival from the PIA Flight 8303 crash on May 22, 2020 as a central narrative. The tragic incident claimed the lives of 97 people when the aircraft crashed into a residential area near Karachi airport, just seconds before landing. Masud was one of only two survivors of the crash, along with fellow passenger Zubair.
Speaking at the event, Zafar Masud emphasized the importance of addressing mental health from multiple perspectives. Dont look at mental health from just one angleit has many facets, he said. When someone experiences a traumatic event, dont ignore it. Even if you’re strong, seek help.
He highlighted the crucial role of positive action in overcoming trauma, saying, Fate and hope are important, but to truly recover from trauma, one must take constructive steps. Dont ignore your personal responsibilities under the weight of societal values and traditions.
Seat 1C stands as a testament to resilience, offering readers a rare window into the internal struggles and emotional recovery following a near-death experience. It encourages dialogue around trauma recovery, mental health awareness, and the value of seeking supportespecially in societies where such conversations are often stigmatized.
The event was attended by members of the literary community, mental health advocates, and admirers of Masuds strength and storytelling.
