Qamar Jalalvi

Biography

Qamar Jalalvi, born Abdul Kareem in 1917 in the town of Jalali near Aligarh, was a highly popular Urdu poet of the twentieth century. His pen name “Qamar” became synonymous with ghazals that carried a melodious flow and emotional depth, making him one of the most admired poets in mushairas across India and later Pakistan.

He began writing poetry at an early age and quickly developed his own style, marked by simplicity of diction and clarity of thought. Unlike poets who relied heavily on ornate expressions, Qamar preferred to keep his verses accessible while still maintaining the grace of classical tradition. His poetry touched on themes of love, separation, human longing, and the bittersweet experiences of everyday life.

After the partition of India in 1947, Qamar Jalalvi migrated to Pakistan and settled in Karachi. There, he became a regular presence at mushairas, where his ghazals were warmly received by audiences. His recitation style and lyrical quality made his work memorable and easy to connect with, allowing him to build a devoted following.

In addition to his poetry for literary gatherings, Qamar Jalalvi also wrote lyrics for songs, some of which were used in films and popular music of the time. His ability to combine literary beauty with mass appeal distinguished him from many of his contemporaries.

Although not heavily decorated with formal awards, his real recognition came from the widespread appreciation of his verses among ordinary readers and poetry lovers. Even today, his ghazals continue to be recited in gatherings and remembered in collections of twentieth-century Urdu poetry.

Qamar Jalalvi passed away in 1968 in Karachi, leaving behind a legacy of poetry that remains beloved for its elegance and emotional resonance. He is remembered as a poet who kept the ghazal close to the hearts of the people, ensuring its place as a living tradition in both India and Pakistan.