Iqbal Azeem

Biography

Iqbal Azeem was a noted Urdu poet born in 1913 in Meerut, India. He was among the generation of poets who grew up in pre-independence India and later migrated to Pakistan after the partition in 1947. His literary journey was shaped by both his academic background and his passion for Urdu poetry, which he enriched with humor, simplicity, and accessibility.

He completed his studies at Aligarh Muslim University, where he developed a strong foundation in Urdu literature. After moving to Pakistan, he settled in Karachi and began teaching. He served as a professor and played a role in nurturing young students with an interest in poetry and language.

As a poet, Iqbal Azeem was widely admired for his humorous verses. He had the ability to use wit and satire to highlight social realities while entertaining his audience. His poetry carried an easy flow, making it popular not only in literary circles but also among general readers. Along with humor, he also composed ghazals and nazms that revealed depth and sensitivity.

He also made significant contributions to children’s literature, writing poems that were simple, rhythmic, and appealing for young readers. This aspect of his work expanded his reach and influence, ensuring his poetry was remembered across generations.

Iqbal Azeem participated in mushairas and literary gatherings, where his humorous poetry often stood out and delighted audiences. His light-hearted yet thoughtful style gave him a unique place among his contemporaries.

He continued to write and inspire until his passing in 2000 in Karachi. Though not always in the limelight, his poetry reflects a blend of humor, culture, and warmth that remains valued in Urdu literature. His work represents the richness of a poet who could balance wit with literary depth, leaving behind a legacy of joy and reflection.