Quick Facts

• Born: December 5, 1898; Malihabad, United Provinces, British India
• Died: February 22, 1982; Islamabad, Pakistan
• Pen Name: Josh Malihabadi
• Full Name: Shabbir Hasan Khan
• Notable Awards: Sitara-i-Imtiaz (1959), King George V Silver Jubilee Medal
• Profession: Poet, Editor, Scholar
• Languages Known: Urdu, Persian, Arabic, English
• Marital Status: Married
• Children: Three sons
• Known For: Revolutionary poetry, progressive thought, powerful oratory

Josh Malihabadi was not just a poet. He was a storm of words. Known as the "Shair-e-Inquilab" or Poet of Revolution, he gave Urdu poetry a bold, fearless voice during times of political and social upheaval.

He was born as Shabbir Hasan Khan in Malihabad, near Lucknow, in 1898. Raised in a family of scholars and poets, Josh was surrounded by literature from the start. He received a rich education in Persian, Arabic, and Urdu, and later attended Aligarh Muslim University. His early poetry reflected the romantic tradition, but over time, it evolved into a passionate call for freedom and reform.

Josh worked briefly at the Osmania University in Hyderabad, translating scientific works into Urdu. However, his rebellious writing and outspoken nature clashed with royal authority. After publishing a poem that questioned British rule, he was dismissed. From that point on, Josh dedicated himself to the independence movement through his pen.

He became editor of the Urdu journal Kaleem, which became a platform for progressive thought. His poetry during this period stirred emotions and awakened political consciousness. Josh's words were so fiery that even those in power took notice. He was often watched closely by colonial authorities.

In 1956, years after India gained independence, Josh made the difficult decision to migrate to Pakistan. The move shocked many, as he was seen as a staunch Indian nationalist. He continued to write and publish in Pakistan, where he remained a respected figure. His autobiography, Yaadon ki Baarat, is considered one of the finest memoirs in Urdu literature.

Though he held strong views, Josh was known for his generosity, wit, and magnetic personality. He believed poetry should inspire courage and change, not just offer beauty. His work celebrated human dignity, free thought, and intellectual rebellion.

Josh Malihabadi passed away in 1982 in Islamabad. His grave bears the words he lived by: “Speak the truth, even if your voice shakes.”

His poetry still thunders through the pages of Urdu literature. Josh was not afraid to challenge kings, governments, or tradition. He wrote with conviction, and that conviction lives on.