Hurmatul Ikaram

Syed Ansar Hussain, better known by his pen name Hurmatul Ikaram, was born on 2 December 1928 in Mirzapur. Though he belonged to an Azamgarh family, he was born and spent much of his life immersed in the cultural energy of Calcutta (now Kolkata). This city’s rhythms and textures find resonant voice in his poetry.

Hurmat’s verses are infused with a sense of place and longing. His poetry collections—Ujaalon ke Geet, Shahper, Jalwa-i-Numoo, and Shaakh-e-Aagahi—offer lyrical glimpses into both personal reflection and urban moods. Among his most cherished works is the poem “Kalkatta: Ek Rubaab,” which continues to echo across fans of Urdu literature for its powerful imagery and emotional depth.

He passed away on 4 January 1983, leaving behind a body of work that captures the poetic soul of his time. Though detailed personal history about his early life and education remains limited, his work survives through its emotional clarity, its nuanced portrayal of Calcutta, and its lasting appeal.

Hurmatul Ikaram’s poetry holds a modest yet luminous place in Urdu literature. His lines invite readers into a sensuous interplay between city and soul, memory and expression, making him a distinct voice remembered for both place and feeling.