Jigar Moradabadi

Biography

Jigar Moradabadi, born Ali Sikandar in Moradabad in 1890, is remembered as one of the great masters of the Urdu ghazal. He had a natural gift for rhythm and melody, and his poetry carried a lyrical beauty that touched audiences across India. His verses were rich with romance, longing, and tenderness, making him one of the most beloved poets of the 20th century.

Jigar’s early years were shaped by a love for literature. He adopted the pen name Jigar, which means heart or soul, a fitting choice for a poet whose work was full of passion and emotional depth. His style combined classical elegance with a natural musicality that made his poetry especially powerful when recited aloud. He quickly became a celebrated figure in mushairas, where audiences admired his effortless command over language and rhythm.

His collection Diwan-e-Jigar brought him recognition, and his verses often blended themes of love and devotion with a spiritual undertone. Though deeply romantic, his poetry also carried elements of philosophy, reflecting on the mysteries of life and the human condition. He was often compared to his contemporaries like Fani Badayuni and Asghar Gondvi, yet he carved a unique place for himself with his softness of tone and flowing expression.

In his personal life, Jigar faced struggles, including periods of heavy drinking. However, he later overcame these challenges and lived a more balanced life. His poetry during this later phase reflected greater maturity and depth, while still retaining its romantic charm.

He passed away in 1960 in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Though decades have passed since his death, Jigar Moradabadi’s ghazals continue to be recited and cherished, carrying forward the legacy of romance, music, and beauty in Urdu poetry.

Jigar’s gift was simple yet rare. He could make words sing, and that is why his poetry still feels alive today.