ASAD - 55

Originally posted on rec.music.indian.misc in 1995

A Chitra Singh GHazal goes like ...

raat bhi, neend bhi, kahaani bhi
haaye, kya cheez hai, jawaani bhi

This is a typical crisp creation by Firaq. His poetry was nurtured by many diverse influences. He admired Mir and Momin, the kings of classical 'nazaakat'. This is evident from the following Sher.

hizr = judaai

hizr me aaTH pahar ka rona
baat itni_si, gham itna_sa !

He was also influenced by English Romantic Poetry. In addition, he had full respect for ancient Hindu Culture and thoughts as found in Sanskrit Literature. Consequently his style acquired a unique flavour.

He tried to bring the Urdu Poetic Diction close to the Indian Soil, by blending with Hindi words and indigenous imagery. His Ghazals have a native Indian flavour and very important - soft, subdued music. In contrast, he has been criticized for a coarse sensuality in his treatment for women and love.

All the properties described in the above paragraph can be found in this one Sher.

ladakpan ki ada hai jaan-levaa
GHazab ye chhokari hai haath-bhar ki

But normally he does not allow his sensuousness to sink into vulgarity. That's why, he always features on the list of all time greats !

Tomorrow, something about his life.

- Abhay.
ASAD _also_ stands for "A Sher A Day" !