Shaayar Badayuni seems to equate life to a riddle--one that resists both comprehension and articulation. He denies the possibility of understanding or explaining its nature and its purpose, rejecting rational inquiry into life as futile. In the second line, he seems to say that any supposed understanding is but the imagination (khwaab) of a fellow with a fertile imagination, affectionately called here as a madman (deewana).

Oppression, Rebellion & Freedom

Creativity, Philosophy & Enlightenment

Quick Facts<ul><li>Born: January 12, 1931; Kohat, British India (now in Pakistan)</li><li> Died: August 25, 2008; Islamabad, Pakistan</li><li> Pen Name: Ahmad Faraz</li><li> Full Name: Syed Ahmad Shah</li><li> Notable Awards: Sitara-i-Imtiaz (returned), Hilal-i-Imtiaz, posthumous Hilal-e-Pakistan</li><li> Profession: Poet, Professor, Chairman of Pakistan Academy of Letters</li><li> Languages Known: Urdu, Pashto, Persian, English</li><li> Spouse: Amna Faraz</li><li> Children: Shibli Faraz (son, politician)</li></ul>Ahmad Faraz was one of the most beloved Urdu poets of the modern era. Often described as the “second Faiz,” he blended romance, rebellion, and raw honesty in verses that touched both the heart and the conscience.He was born as Syed Ahmad Shah in Kohat in 1931. As a young student, he was drawn to poetry and literature, especially the works of Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Allama Iqbal. While studying in Peshawar, he wrote his first ghazals, and it became clear that a powerful new voice was emerging in Urdu literature.Faraz's poetry was deeply romantic in tone but never shy of addressing political and social issues. His verses often spoke of love lost, longing, and betrayal, but also of injustice, censorship, and freedom. One of his most famous lines, “Ranjish hi sahi, dil hi dukhane ke liye aa,” became a classic, sung by Mehdi Hassan and remembered by generations.Unlike many poets, Faraz was openly critical of authoritarianism. In the 1970s, during General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime, he faced political backlash for his bold views. He was arrested, his books were banned, and he eventually went into self-imposed exile. As a sign of protest, he returned the Sitara-i-Imtiaz award he had received from the government.Despite the political pressure, his popularity only grew. Faraz held positions like Chairman of the Pakistan Academy of Letters and continued to write, publish, and recite his poetry at mushairas across the world. His collections like Tanha Tanha, Be-awaz Gali Kuchon Mein, and Narbada became bestsellers.In his personal life, Ahmad Faraz was married to Amna Faraz, and they had children together. His son, Shibli Faraz, later entered politics and served as a federal minister in Pakistan.Faraz passed away in 2008 in Islamabad, but his voice continues to echo. His poetry is still recited in gatherings, shared on social media, and printed on walls and pages as a symbol of beauty, courage, and expression.Ahmad Faraz believed that poetry should speak for the people. And he lived that belief till his very last breath.

Azhar Inayati, born on April 15, 1946, in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a prominent Urdu poet associated with the Rampur School of poetry. He began composing poetry at the young age of 12 and was deeply influenced by his mentor, Mahshar Inayati. Azhar Inayati's work is marked by his mastery of the ghazal form, and his poetry often explores themes of love, social issues, and personal introspection.

Inayati is not only known for his written work but also for his melodious recitations (tarannum), which have left a lasting impression on audiences at various mushairas (poetry gatherings). His notable collections include Apni Tasveer (1989), Pehchaan (2002), and Azhar Inayati Aur Ghazal (2006). As an advocate by profession, Inayati balanced his legal career with his literary pursuits, gaining recognition for his thoughtful and reflective poetry​.

His poetry delves into the human condition, often reflecting on the complexities of life, relationships, and societal norms. Azhar Inayati remains a beloved figure in the world of Urdu poetry, celebrated for his lyrical expression and emotional depth.

(Source: Aggregated from multiple Gen-AI sources.)

Love, Passion and Longing

Beauty, Charm & Union

Hopes, Aspirations & Dreams

Life, Living & Dying

Nature, World & Universe

Padma Bhushan

Sahitya Akademi Award

Quick Facts<ul><li>Born: January 17, 1945; Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India</li><li> Pen Name: Javed Akhtar</li><li> Full Name: Javed Akhtar</li><li> Notable Awards: Padma Shri (1999), Padma Bhushan (2007), 5 National Film Awards, 15 Filmfare Awards</li><li> Profession: Poet, Lyricist, Screenwriter</li><li> Languages Known: Urdu, Hindi, English</li><li> Spouse: Shabana Azmi (actress), formerly married to Honey Irani (screenwriter)</li><li> Children: Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar</li><li> Known For: Iconic film lyrics, screenwriting, literary activism</li></ul>Javed Akhtar is one of India's most respected literary and cinematic voices. His deep understanding of Urdu poetry and his influence on Indian film storytelling have made him a household name.He was born in Gwalior in 1945 to a literary family. His father, Jan Nisar Akhtar, was a well-known Urdu poet. Surrounded by books, poetry, and strong ideas, Javed developed a deep love for language and expression. After moving to Mumbai, he faced financial struggles but never gave up on writing.His big breakthrough came when he partnered with Salim Khan, forming the famous Salim–Javed screenwriting team. Together, they changed the face of Hindi cinema with classics like Sholay, Zanjeer, Deewaar, and Don. Their scripts introduced complex characters and bold storytelling that audiences had never seen before.After the duo split, Javed focused on lyric writing. His songs carried meaning, elegance, and emotional depth. He wrote for films like Dil Chahta Hai, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Border, and Jodhaa Akbar. Each song reflected his poetic roots and his ability to connect with the audience through everyday language and emotion.Javed was first married to Honey Irani, a talented screenwriter. They had two children, Farhan and Zoya, who both went on to become prominent voices in Indian cinema. Later, Javed married actress Shabana Azmi, and together they became one of India’s most respected artistic couples.Apart from his film work, Javed Akhtar is known for speaking on social justice, democracy, and secularism. He often uses poetry to share his views on modern India and the responsibilities of artists in society.Even today, Javed Akhtar continues to inspire. Whether through a song, a poem, or a powerful speech, his voice remains thoughtful, sharp, and deeply human.

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Ashaar (couplets) on other themes

Ashaar (couplets) by others

No Shaayar Found