Shola

Dwarka Das, known by his pen name Shola, was born on 13 August 1910 in Lahore. He emerged as a significant Urdu poet during a period when literary expression crossed both communal and cultural boundaries. His chosen name, Shola, which means “flame,” suggests a warmth and intensity that shines through his work.

Shola’s poetry includes fourteen ghazals and a couple of nazms. His verses often explore themes of longing, heartbreak, memory, and personal struggle. One of his well-known phrases evokes the fragility of the heart, as in “dil-e-be-mud’aa ka mud’aa kya,” which captures the notion of being heartbroken without a clear cause. Another memorable line, “apnon ke sitam yaad na ghairon ki jafa yaad,” reflects the emotional ambiguity of suffering—sometimes wounds from loved ones cut deeper than those from strangers.

Over the years, several audio recitations of his work have allowed listeners to connect with his emotional intensity and musicality. His collections include titles such as Mera Malik Ram, Mere Murshid, Shola Zaar, and Shola-e-Zar, demonstrating both devotional and reflective inclinations.

Despite limited biographical detail, Shola’s poetry continues to be valued for its emotional authenticity. His voice remains present in Urdu literary circles through recitations and shared couplets that evoke timeless feelings. He died in Delhi on 10 April 1983, leaving behind a modest yet meaningful body of work.

Shola’s legacy lies in his ability to convey deep emotional states with simplicity and lyrical grace. His verses stand as quiet testaments to the personal dimensions of Urdu poetry, bridging emotion, spirituality, and human experience.