Adeem Hashmi

Biography

Adeem Hashmi, born as Fashih Uddin in Firozpur in 1946, became one of the most prominent modern voices in Urdu poetry. He spent his early years in Faizabad and later moved to Lahore, where he began contributing to literary magazines and developed his identity as a poet under the pen name Adeem Hashmi.

He was not confined to poetry alone. Adeem wrote across different platforms including radio and television, where his work gained wide popularity. His writing for the TV serial Aghosh and the long-running comedy Guest House showcased his ability to connect with everyday audiences. His radio songs and scripts carried the same poetic touch that marked his literary work.

As a poet, Adeem Hashmi created verses that combined deep emotion with a sharp understanding of society. His collections, including Tarkash, Mukalima, Chehra Tumhara Yaad Rahta Hai, Fasle Aise Bhi Honge, and Bahut Nazdik Aate Jaa Rahe Ho, earned him recognition as a poet who could balance intimacy with social consciousness.

During the martial law period in Pakistan, Adeem chose to live abroad, joining many progressive writers and artists in exile. This period gave his poetry an edge of defiance and resilience, qualities that stayed with him throughout his career.

Later in life, Adeem’s health declined due to heart disease. He traveled to the United States for surgery, accompanied by his friend and fellow poet Ifti Nasim. Sadly, he passed away during the procedure in Chicago on November 5, 2001. He was laid to rest there, far from his homeland, yet his words continue to resonate with readers and listeners.

Adeem Hashmi is remembered today as a poet who gave equal weight to personal emotions and social concerns. His contributions to both literature and popular culture through television and radio made him a unique figure in Urdu poetry. His voice still stands out as warm, human, and unafraid to tell the truth.