In the midst of the clamor surrounding elections, Javeed Kamal stood apart, unwavering in his dedication to the promotion of the Urdu language. True to his name, he did a ‘kamal’ and orchestrated a remarkable event that drew together a diverse group of Urdu enthusiasts. Among them were professors, academics, journalists, and poets, converging to reflect on the current state of affairs concerning Urdu.

The occasion that brought these minds together was the joint celebration of the birth anniversaries of three distinguished personalities—Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first education minister, renowned poet Allama Iqbal, and the valiant Tipu Sultan, who fiercely resisted the advancement of British forces. As disparate as their fields of influence were, a common thread wove through their legacies—their profound love for their community and a deep attachment to the Quran.

The programme was organized by Javeed Kamal’s quarterly journal, Rekhtanama,  and Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu, Hyderabad. Earlier, there was a bit of confusion when police mistook the programme to be an election meeting. The cops marched into the unassuming confines of the Urdu Hall at Himayathnagar and sought clarification from the event organizers about the nature of the gathering. The police officers were visibly relieved when they realized that they had stumbled upon a cultural affair rather than a politically charged meeting. Without a word, they silently withdrew from the auditorium, leaving the Urdu enthusiasts to continue their programme.

Speakers highlighted the indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape left by Maulana Azad. His commitment to education as a means of societal upliftment mirrored his love for the diverse communities that composed the tapestry of the nation. Azad’s vision transcended political boundaries; he sought to empower the masses through the enlightenment of knowledge.

Allama Iqbal, the celebrated poet-philosopher, contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Urdu-speaking world. His poetry resonates with profound spirituality, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Quran. Iqbal envisioned a society where individuals, irrespective of their background, could find unity through a shared appreciation of their spiritual essence, the speakers said.

Tipu Sultan, the valiant warrior, symbolized resistance against colonial forces. His fierce determination to protect his people from British oppression emanated from a sense of duty rooted in his attachment to the Quranic principles of justice and freedom. Tipu Sultan’s legacy echoed the sentiments that love for one’s community could fuel the courage needed to confront formidable challenges.

Javeed Kamal’s initiative to commemorate these three iconic figures served as a poignant reminder of the enduring values that bind the Urdu-speaking community. The gathering provided a platform for introspection, discussion, and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and linguistic tapestry that is Urdu.

Students of Central Public School, Khilwat, paid a poignant tribute to Allama Iqbal. Attired in period costumes they recited the timeless verses of Iqbal’s poem, Ya Rab Dile Muslim ko wo zinda tamanna de, in the context of the challenges being  faced by the community.

Several speakers, including Prof. S.A. Shukoor lamented the gradual detachment of Muslims from their own mother tongue. “What will be the future of Urdu after our generation? ”, wondered Prof Amina Teheseen of Moulana Azad National Urdu University.

The programme saw the exceptional contribution of individuals from different walks of life to Urdu being recognised. Mementoes and awards were given away to many an unsung hero. Some of the awardees were: Sufi Sultan Shattari , Tameez Ahmed Perwaz (Allama Iqbal award for poetry), Muhammad Osman Shaheed, Dr. Islamuddin Mujahid (Tipu Sultan award for oratory), Dr. Majid Daagi (Abdul Raheem Khan award  for literature), Maulana Ghyas Ahmed Rashadi (Zaheeruddin Ali Khan award for social work), Mushtaq Ahmad Saharwardi, Dr. Shaikh Zeenat Parveen (Dr. Mumtaz Mehdi award for humour and satire), J.S. Ifthekhar and  M.A. Majid (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad award for journalism).

The programme stood as a testament to the enduring power of language, culture, and shared values in transcending the noise of electoral politics. In celebrating the legacies of Azad, Iqbal, and Tipu, the Urdu enthusiasts not only honored the past but also kindled a flame of inspiration for the future of Urdu language and culture.

In the midst of the clamor surrounding elections, Javeed Kamal stood apart, unwavering in his dedication to the promotion of the Urdu language. True to his name, he did a ‘kamal’ and orchestrated a remarkable event that drew together a diverse group of Urdu enthusiasts. Among them were professors, academics, journalists, and poets, converging to reflect on the current state of affairs concerning Urdu.

The occasion that brought these minds together was the joint celebration of the birth anniversaries of three distinguished personalities—Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first education minister, renowned poet Allama Iqbal, and the valiant Tipu Sultan, who fiercely resisted the advancement of British forces. As disparate as their fields of influence were, a common thread wove through their legacies—their profound love for their community and a deep attachment to the Quran.

The programme was organized by Javeed Kamal’s quarterly journal, Rekhtanama,  and Anjuman Taraqqi Urdu, Hyderabad. Earlier, there was a bit of confusion when police mistook the programme to be an election meeting. The cops marched into the unassuming confines of the Urdu Hall at Himayathnagar and sought clarification from the event organizers about the nature of the gathering. The police officers were visibly relieved when they realized that they had stumbled upon a cultural affair rather than a politically charged meeting. Without a word, they silently withdrew from the auditorium, leaving the Urdu enthusiasts to continue their programme.

Speakers highlighted the indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape left by Maulana Azad. His commitment to education as a means of societal upliftment mirrored his love for the diverse communities that composed the tapestry of the nation. Azad’s vision transcended political boundaries; he sought to empower the masses through the enlightenment of knowledge.

Allama Iqbal, the celebrated poet-philosopher, contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual heritage of the Urdu-speaking world. His poetry resonates with profound spirituality, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Quran. Iqbal envisioned a society where individuals, irrespective of their background, could find unity through a shared appreciation of their spiritual essence, the speakers said.

Tipu Sultan, the valiant warrior, symbolized resistance against colonial forces. His fierce determination to protect his people from British oppression emanated from a sense of duty rooted in his attachment to the Quranic principles of justice and freedom. Tipu Sultan’s legacy echoed the sentiments that love for one’s community could fuel the courage needed to confront formidable challenges.

Javeed Kamal’s initiative to commemorate these three iconic figures served as a poignant reminder of the enduring values that bind the Urdu-speaking community. The gathering provided a platform for introspection, discussion, and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and linguistic tapestry that is Urdu.

Students of Central Public School, Khilwat, paid a poignant tribute to Allama Iqbal. Attired in period costumes they recited the timeless verses of Iqbal’s poem, Ya Rab Dile Muslim ko wo zinda tamanna de, in the context of the challenges being  faced by the community.

Several speakers, including Prof. S.A. Shukoor lamented the gradual detachment of Muslims from their own mother tongue. “What will be the future of Urdu after our generation? ”, wondered Prof Amina Teheseen of Moulana Azad National Urdu University.

The programme saw the exceptional contribution of individuals from different walks of life to Urdu being recognised. Mementoes and awards were given away to many an unsung hero. Some of the awardees were: Sufi Sultan Shattari , Tameez Ahmed Perwaz (Allama Iqbal award for poetry), Muhammad Osman Shaheed, Dr. Islamuddin Mujahid (Tipu Sultan award for oratory), Dr. Majid Daagi (Abdul Raheem Khan award  for literature), Maulana Ghyas Ahmed Rashadi (Zaheeruddin Ali Khan award for social work), Mushtaq Ahmad Saharwardi, Dr. Shaikh Zeenat Parveen (Dr. Mumtaz Mehdi award for humour and satire), J.S. Ifthekhar and  M.A. Majid (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad award for journalism).

The programme stood as a testament to the enduring power of language, culture, and shared values in transcending the noise of electoral politics. In celebrating the legacies of Azad, Iqbal, and Tipu, the Urdu enthusiasts not only honored the past but also kindled a flame of inspiration for the future of Urdu language and culture.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 25,2023

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 It was a phone call from a friend that alerted them to the impending danger. Inayat Mirza’s heart raced as he answered the phone, his friend’s urgent tone sending shivers down his spine. Nasir always dropped in and the duo would go to Pragathi Press where they worked. On Monday morning when Nasir saw flames rising from his friend’s apartment, he immediately telephoned Inayat. The news of flames devouring their apartment ignited panic in the latter. Peering through the window, his eyes widened at the sight of a menacing red ball of fire dancing wildly.

Without losing time, Inayat sprang into action – his mind racing ahead of the spreading inferno. His first instinct was to protect his parents and other family members. Everyone was busy in the morning chores on that fateful day when a blazing fire claimed nine lives in the Bazar Guard area. As the flames started leaping up, Inayat and his elder brother, Yasar Mirza, evacuated their father, Mirza Yousuf Baig and an infant through the kitchen window broken open by the local youth. A ladder arranged by someone proved to be a lifeline to safety. Yasar carried his ailing mother safely out while other family members, including women and children, ran down the stairs even as the fire engulfed their building.

“It was a miraculous escape. Allah saved us all,” says 70-year old Yousuf Baig, his voice choked with gratitude and awe. While many perished in the fire mishap, all the ten members of Yousuf Baig’s family escaped unhurt. The family, of course, lost two bikes in the blaze but it is not unduly perturbed about it.

Even as the Mirzas were in panic, they had the presence of mind to respond to the desperate calls of their Hindu neighbour, Jai Prakash, who lived on the left side of the building which bore the brunt of the fire. While Jai ran down with his son as flames and fumes started rising, his mother, wife and youngest son escaped through Mirza’s house. “While panic gripped us, our neighbours banged the door and we let them in as our house was relatively safe,” says Yaser. Jai, who deals in tea powder, is grateful to the Mirzas for helping his family. “They are nice people,” he says.

There was no time to collect anything. The Mirzas ran out leaving the house unlocked. “Jaan bachi to lakhon paye,” remarks Yousuf Baig, who runs the popular pharmacy, City Medical Hall, in Bazar Guard.

As they reached the ground, the fire’s roar behind them served as a relentless reminder of what could have been. There was utter chaos outside with screams and shrieks rending the thick cloud of smoke. The family reunited on the pavement and couldn’t help but reflect on the fragility of existence.

Though the Mirzas survived the disaster, the tragic loss of fellow inhabitants in the devastating fire has cast a long shadow over the family. The once familiar surroundings now echo with haunting memories. The collective grief of the community permeates the air, making it impossible for the Mirzas to reconcile with the painful reminders that linger in every corner.

After shutting down their pharmacy for two days, the Mirzas are now back in business. But they have now decided to move out from the area perhaps to distance themselves from the heart-wrenching images of the tragedy.

J.S.Ifthekhar,

Hyderabad based journalist.

Article published in Siasat.com portal.

Dated November 16,2023

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