Jazib Quraishi

Biography

Jazib Quraishi is a distinguished Urdu poet and critic whose career reflects the transition of Urdu literature into the modern era. Born in Lucknow in 1940, he migrated with his family to Pakistan during the partition, eventually settling in Karachi. Growing up in a city that became a cultural and intellectual hub, he was drawn into literary circles from an early age. His talent soon found expression in mushairas, where his poetry earned appreciation for its freshness of imagery and modern sensibility.

Quraishi’s poetry developed during a period when Urdu literature was moving beyond purely classical forms toward progressive and modernist themes. He became associated with the literary group Halqa-e-Arbab-e-Zauq, an influential circle that played a key role in shaping post-independence Urdu poetry. His verses often reflect themes of identity, displacement, and the human condition, shaped by the socio-political realities of a newly independent nation.

Stylistically, Jazib Quraishi maintained the richness of the ghazal form while experimenting with freer structures and themes suited to modern times. His work bridges the beauty of classical diction with the urgency of contemporary issues, making him accessible to both traditionalists and progressive readers. He infused his poetry with deep emotion, yet kept it grounded in intellectual engagement, often touching upon questions of justice, freedom, and human dignity.

Beyond poetry, Quraishi also contributed essays and critiques that enriched Urdu literary discourse. His dual role as a poet and critic gave him a unique position in the literary landscape, as he could both create art and reflect on its evolution. His writings reveal a keen awareness of how literature interacts with society, politics, and cultural change.

Throughout his career, Jazib Quraishi received recognition in Pakistan for his literary achievements. He participated in major poetry gatherings and was respected among peers for his balanced outlook that valued tradition while embracing change. His work has been published in collections that continue to be read by students, scholars, and lovers of Urdu poetry.

Even in later years, Quraishi remained committed to the idea that poetry is both a personal expression and a social responsibility. His verses stand as a reminder of how literature can respond to the complexities of history and human experience while retaining beauty and lyricism.