Mazhar Imam

Biography

Mazhar Imam was one of the leading modern Urdu poets of the post-independence era, remembered for both his experimentation with form and his literary criticism. Born in Darbhanga, Bihar, in 1930, he completed his education at Magadh University and later Aligarh Muslim University, where he studied Urdu literature. His academic background gave him a strong foundation in both classical and modern traditions.

He began his career in teaching but soon joined All India Radio, where he worked for many years as a broadcaster. His profession allowed him to stay closely connected with literature, music, and intellectual debates, while his writing continued to evolve.

Mazhar Imam is credited with introducing the “Azad Ghazal,” a free-verse variation of the traditional ghazal that gave poets more liberty with meter and rhyme. While some traditionalists resisted the idea, his innovation marked an important step in modernist Urdu poetry, showing that the ghazal could adapt to new times without losing its essence.

His collections, including Pehli Sada, Rishta Goonge Safar Ka, and Faasle, reflect themes of loneliness, dislocation, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. His poetry carried both lyrical grace and intellectual sharpness, making him a unique modern voice.

He also wrote essays and criticism, contributing significantly to the analysis of modern Urdu poetry. His balanced approach made him respected among both readers and scholars.

Mazhar Imam passed away in 2012 in New Delhi. He is remembered as a reformer who honored tradition but was not afraid to experiment, ensuring Urdu poetry’s relevance in the modern era.