Urdu Poetry by Akbar Ilah Abadi

Ghazal: Bazar Se Guzra Hoon Kharidaar Nahi Hoon
Recitation: Raheel Farooq

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AKBAR ALLAHABADI

Akbar Allahabadi, born Syed Akbar Hussain on November 16, 1846, in Bara near Allahabad, is celebrated as a master of satire and humor in Urdu poetry. His work reflects the moral, cultural, and political dilemmas of his time, offering profound commentary on the clash between indigenous values and the rising influence of Western culture. With sharp wit and an unmatched command of language, Akbar used everyday imagery and symbolism to critique societal trends, blending humor with deep insight.

Akbar’s poetry bridged classical tradition and modern innovation, exploring themes of reform without abandoning his roots. From ghazals to blank verse, his versatile compositions introduced fresh styles and perspectives to Urdu literature. His sharp satire spared no one, addressing leaders, colonial rulers, and elites with a humor that carried wisdom and critique alike.

Beyond poetry, Akbar served as a respected judge, earning the title "Khan Bahadur." His personal life, marked by joy and tragedy, shaped his creative genius. He passed away on September 9, 1921, in Allahabad, leaving a legacy of timeless relevance and inspiration in Urdu poetry.

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Full Text of the Urdu Ghazal in Roman Transliteration (Courtesy: Rekhta):

duniyā meñ huuñ duniyā kā talabgār nahīñ huuñ
bāzār se guzrā huuñ ḳharīdār nahīñ huuñ

zinda huuñ magar ziist kī lazzat nahīñ baaqī
har-chand ki huuñ hosh meñ hushyār nahīñ huuñ

is ḳhāna-e-hastī se guzar jā.ūñgā be-laus
saaya huuñ faqat naqsh-ba-dīvār nahīñ huuñ

afsurda huuñ ibrat se davā kī nahīñ hājat
ġham kā mujhe ye zo.af hai bīmār nahīñ huuñ

vo gul huuñ ḳhizāñ ne jise barbād kiyā hai
uljhūñ kisī dāman se maiñ vo ḳhaar nahīñ huuñ

yā rab mujhe mahfūz rakh us but ke sitam se
maiñ us kī ināyat kā talabgār nahīñ huuñ

go dāva-e-taqvā nahīñ dargāh-e-ḳhudā meñ
but jis se hoñ ḳhush aisā gunahgār nahīñ huuñ

afsurdagī o zo.af kī kuchh had nahīñ 'akbar'
kāfir ke muqābil meñ bhī dīñ-dār nahīñ huuñ

#Urdu #Poetry #Literature

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