Sahir Ludhianvi

Sahir Ludhianvi, born Abdul Hayee in 1921 in Ludhiana, was one of the most powerful voices in modern Urdu poetry. His chosen pen name, “Sahir,” meaning magician, reflected the way his words could enchant, provoke, and inspire.

He was raised by his mother, Sardar Begum, after a troubled family separation. Her resilience left a deep mark on Sahir’s worldview. He grew up with a keen awareness of injustice, oppression, and the struggles of ordinary people. These experiences shaped both his poetry and his lifelong respect for women.

As a young man, Sahir published his first poetry collection, Talkhiyaan (Bitterness), in 1945. The book announced him as a bold voice of the Progressive Writers’ Movement, which sought to use literature as a force for social change. His verses were filled with criticism of war, poverty, and inequality, but they also carried the pain of love and longing.

After Partition, Sahir briefly lived in Lahore but left for India when political pressures made it difficult to stay. He eventually settled in Bombay, where he became one of the most celebrated lyricists in Hindi cinema. He wrote for films like Pyaasa, Phir Subah Hogi, Kabhi Kabhie, and Naya Daur. His lyrics stood apart because they were not just romantic lines for songs, but thoughtful poetry that questioned social norms and touched universal emotions.

He worked with leading composers such as S.D. Burman, Ravi, and Khayyam, yet he remained fiercely independent. Sahir insisted that lyricists be given screen credit and proper royalties, setting a precedent in the industry.

In his personal life, Sahir never married, though his name is forever linked with poet Amrita Pritam, whose writings describe her deep but unfulfilled love for him. His bond with singer Sudha Malhotra was also significant, though he chose solitude in the end.

He was honored with two Filmfare Awards for Best Lyricist and the Padma Shri in 1971. Yet, Sahir lived simply, surrounded by books, music, and poetry.

Sahir passed away suddenly in 1980 at the age of 59. His death was a great loss to literature and cinema, but his words continue to live on. His songs are sung across generations, and his poetry still challenges readers to think deeply about love, loss, justice, and humanity.

Sahir Ludhianvi was more than a poet of romance or rebellion. He gave Urdu poetry a sharp, fearless voice, and left behind verses that remain timeless.