The Indian Panorama

Tag: Zafar Iqbal

  • Bridging Heritage and Harmony: AAA-DC’s 49th International Mushaira

    Bridging Heritage and Harmony: AAA-DC’s 49th International Mushaira

    MARYLAND (TIP): The Aligarh Alumni Association of Metro Washington (AAA-DC) hosted its 49th annual International Mushaira on October 20, 2024, in the spacious auditorium of Gaithersburg, Maryland. This celebrated event featured the distinguished poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, recipient of the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India and a former Member of India’s Parliament. Other esteemed poets who shared their work included Abdullah Abdullah, Ahmad Salman, Ashfaq Hussain, Masood Ahmad, Mohammed Jaweed, Nikhat Iftikhar, Nusrat Mehdi, Sabiha Saba, Shakeel Azmi, and Vinita Tiwari.

    Another view of the gathering

    Over the years, AAA-DC’s Mushaira has evolved into a cherished cultural tradition for the South Asian diaspora in the Washington area, serving as a bridge to linguistic and literary heritage. The event fosters a dynamic exchange where renowned poets perform alongside emerging voices, sustaining the vibrancy of Urdu poetry. Originally conceived to celebrate Aligarh Muslim University’s (AMU) legacy in Urdu literature, it now draws a global audience, inviting Urdu poetry lovers to savor the beauty of ghazals and nazms.

    Book launching

    A hallmark of the Mushaira is its diverse lineup, featuring poets from India, Pakistan, Europe, the United States, and beyond. Legendary poets like Faiz Ahmad Faiz, Ali Sardar Jafri, Kaifi Azmi, and Ahmad Faraz have graced the event in past years, alongside an array of accomplished poets such as Ahmad Salman, Alok Srivastava, Ambreen Haseeb Ambar, Amjad Islam Amjad, Anwar Masood, Ashok Narain, Dilwar Figar, Gulzar Dehelvi, Hasan Kamal, Iftikhar Arif, Kaleem Aajiz, Khumar Barabankvi, Khushbir Singh Shaad, Khwamkhwa Hyderabadi, Lata Haya, Makhmoor Saeedi, Malikzada Manzoor Ahmad, Munawwar Rana, Nida Fazli, Parveen Shakir, Popular Meerathi, Razi Raziuddin, Sabiha Saba, Saghar Khayyami, Salman Akhtar, Sampat Saral, Satya Pal Anand, Shaharyar, Wali Aasi, Wasim Barelvi, Zehra Nigah, and many others. This blend of voices has cemented the Mushaira’s status as one of the most prestigious South Asian cultural gatherings.

    Nuzaira Azam and Javed Akhtar with Zafar Iqbal standing behind

    The event typically attracts a large audience of Urdu poetry enthusiasts, including dignitaries and representatives from various cultural organizations. Among the attendees were Indian Embassy officials in Washington, Anup Srivastav and Mohammad Bilal Ahmad, along with representatives from groups including the Association of Indian Muslims (AIM), Federation of Aligarh Alumni Associations (FAAA), Global Organization of People of Indian Origin-Metro Washington (GOPIO-DC), Hyderabad Association of Metro Washington Area (HAWMA), Montgomery Nawabs, National Council of Asian Indian Associations, Inc. (NCAIA), University of Karachi Alumni Association (UKAA), and students from the University of Maryland College Park and Baltimore County. Additionally, AAA honors individuals who contribute to Urdu’s promotion, such as Sanjeev Saraf of Rekhta.org, and includes a traditional rendition of AMU’s anthem, Yeh Mera Chaman Hai, adding a nostalgic touch to the gathering.

    A highlight of the evening was Javed Akhtar’s launch of Dr. Abdullah’s new poetry collection, Reyt Ki Lahrein Aur Ankahi Batein. Akhtar commended Dr. Abdullah’s dedication to preserving AMU’s heritage and praised his efforts in uniting alumni from diverse backgrounds, fostering a profound sense of connection and pride in shared roots.

    This year’s AAA Annual Mushaira delighted attendees with its much-anticipated return to an in-person format. Dr. Ishrat Husain, Mr. Kaleem Kawaja, Ambassador Islam Siddiqi, and many others expressed their appreciation for the live gathering. An enthusiastic audience of over 250 gathered in person, marking a joyful return to an in-person Mushaira after several virtual years. Attendees noted the inclusive spirit, with non-Muslim audience members comprising a substantial portion, and poets skillfully incorporating themes from Hindu epics. The significant participation of women poets further added to the event’s success, reflecting the inclusive and diverse nature of the Mushaira and creating an atmosphere of cultural pride and literary richness.

    Javed Akhtar presided over the Mushaira, which was skillfully moderated by A. Abdullah.

    (Based on a Press Release issued by Zafar Iqbal, Ph.D. 1509 Coat Ridge Road,
    Herndon, VA 20170. Cell: 240-328-0162

    Volunteers

  • My Guru, Professor Talwar

    Dr. Zafar Iqbal with Prof. Talwar

    By Zafar Iqbal, PhD

    موت کیا ہے انہی اجزاء کا پریشان ہونا  زندگی کیا ہے عناصر میں ظہور ترتیب

    ज़िन्दगी   क्या  है  अनासिर  में  ज़ुहूर -इ  तरतीब,        मौत  क्या  है  इन्ही  अज्ज़ा  का  परेशां  होना

    Zindagi kya hai anasir mein zuhur-e tarteeb     Maut kya hai inhi ajza ka pareshan hona

    Life is an arrangement of components in a proper form whereas the disintegration of this arrangement of component is death.

    On my first day as a student at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, a reference to a Lakhnavi poet evoking the biology of life kindled a deep sense of pride within me, hailing as I did from Lucknow. This marked the commencement of Professor G. P. Talwar’s insightful lectures on biological sciences for the institute’s incoming medical students. Through the evocative verses of Urdu poet Pandit Brij Narain Chakbast Lakhnavi, he adeptly navigated the complexities of life and death.

    Years later, in 1974, during a visit to Lucknow from the USA, I had the honor of being interviewed at the All-India Radio Station Lucknow by the esteemed Ms. Uma Chakbast, fondly known as Uma didi. Amidst our conversation, she touched upon the status of Urdu in the USA. Intrigued, I ventured to ask her about her potential lineage to the renowned poet Chakbast. Her eyes sparkled with pride as she affirmed her connection to the illustrious poet, her grandfather. I fondly recalled my experience of Professor Talwar’s enthralling lecture on life’s biology. Later, during a visit to her home, I gratefully received an autographed copy of the book “Subh-e-Watan,” a compilation of Chakbast Lakhnavi’s works by Uma didi.

    Dr. Talwar not only shaped my academic journey but also introduced me to a plethora of extracurricular activities unparalleled in other institutions. We were enveloped in a rich tapestry of liberal arts and cultural endeavors, enriched further by enlightening lectures from luminaries such as M. F. Hussain, Satish Gujral, and the spiritual sage Mahesh Yogi. Under Dr. Talwar’s guidance, I took charge of creating vibrant posters to promote these events.

    From a scientific standpoint, our biochemistry department blossomed into a national epicenter for groundbreaking research and strategic planning. Esteemed academicians from diverse regions and returning Pool Officers from international assignments frequently graced our department. While my primary role was to assist with their presentations, I confess to occasionally rearranging slides in jest when the visitors overlooked the decorum expected towards students.

    My hostel afforded picturesque views of lush lawns, bustling with joggers in the morning and cricket enthusiasts as the day progressed. An annual spectacle was the cricket clash between the faculty and postgraduate students. A particularly memorable match showcased Professor Talwar’s formidable batting skills. To everyone’s surprise, I, an inexperienced bowler, was entrusted with the task and remarkably dismissed Professor Talwar in just two deliveries. Though my peers humorously speculated about the potential postponement to my PhD due to this unexpected triumph, Dr. Talwar’s encouraging pat on my back was a moment I cherish to this day.

    As time unfurled, Dr. Talwar moved on to establish the National Institute of Immunology, dedicating himself to pioneering research on leprosy and other endemic diseases in India. He subsequently founded the Talwar Foundation, a testament to his commitment to nurturing young researchers and scientists. Dr. Talwar remains an unwavering inspiration, continually pushing the frontiers of scientific inquiry and fostering the next generation of scientific visionaries. In a heartfelt interview on Rajya Sabha TV, he emphasized the importance of resilience, sincerity, and steadfast determination in pursuing one’s aspirations.

    Among the plethora of accolades celebrating his scientific contributions, the Padma Bhushan Award bestowed upon him by the Government of India holds a special place.

    In profound reverence and homage to Professor Raghupati Sahai Firaq Gorakhpuri, I’ve respectfully adapted one of his couplets to commemorate Dr. Talwar’s illustrious legacy.

    aane vaalī nasleñ tum par faḳhr kareñgī ham-asro

    jab bhī un ko dhyān aa.egā tum ne ‘Talwar’ ko dekhā hai

    Forthcoming generations will be proud of you, my colleagues, Whenever they would comprehend that you saw Talwar.

  • Zafar Iqbal

    Hope for better days ahead

    Zafar Iqbal and his wife Nuzaira Azam.

    We experienced many joys and sorrows in the year 2022. The Covid-19 pandemic is almost over. The James Webb Space Telescope, which was launched on 25 December 2021 arrived at its destination in January 2022. It was a pleasure to know that an Indian lady astrophysicist played a key role in this project. We are seeing a slow but steady decline in nationalist propaganda in the USA. Many people-centric policies have been successfully passed by Congress. Let’s hope for better days ahead.

    Zafar Iqbal, Ph.D.

    Retired Scientific Advisor at the US Department of Veterans Administration.

  • Awan-e Urdu Florida Organized a literary hangama to pay tribute to legendary Urdu humorist poet Akbar Allahabadi

    Awan-e Urdu Florida Organized a literary hangama to pay tribute to legendary Urdu humorist poet Akbar Allahabadi

    Poets:Ahmed KassooTanhaa, Saadia Khawar Ali, Nuzaira Azam, Salahuddin, Sarfraz Ahmad, Zafar Iqbal.
    Volunteers

    ORLANDO (TIP): Awan-e Urdu Florida Organized a literary hangama to pay tribute to legendary Urdu humorist poet Akbar Allahabadi on May 14, 2022, in Orlando, FL. The event was also celebrated as Eid Milan after a hiatus of over two years due to the pandemic. Awan-e Urdu President Mr. Ahmed KassooTanhaa welcomed the audience and gave a brief overview and history of Awan-e Urdu. He said that the organization has been in existence for more than 20 years in Central Florida, with over 100 members. It is a non-profit organization promoting the Urdu language, literature, and poetry and preserving the Subcontinent’s culture. Although the association has many recognized poets and writers in its membership, it invites poets, writers, and artists from other cities and countries to perform at its events. It also organizes the release of books published by its members. A senior member of the organization pointed out that they have launched at least five books of Urdu poets who currently reside or have resided in Central Florida.

    Dr. Sarfraz Ahmad presented a brief account of the life, works, and accomplishments of Akbar Allahabadi. He said, “Syed Akbar Hussain Akbar Allahabadi (1846-1921) was an Urdu poet in the genre of satire. His poems are a true reflection of his time, giving a comprehensive account of all the moral, cultural, political, and psychological dispositions of the people living in Northern India.” His poetry is a melting pot of revolutionary, classical, innovative, and meticulous creative faculties. He added that Akbar appeared revolutionist and reformer, even though he was fond of traditional values.

    Akbar is considered the expert in satire and humor in Urdu poetry. His keen eyes noticed the quickly changing world and the emergence of new classes. Some looked down on their Indian traditional values as Westernism grew in popularity. To devote his poetry to the service of his country and nation, he uniquely developed a style in which there is outward mockery and humor but inside counsel and criticism. Dr. Sardar Akhtar Aziz and Mr. Salahuddin Siddiqui also presented their commentaries about Akbar’s poetry. This session was devoted to the selected poetry of Akbar Allahabadi recited by several members of the audience. Prof. Syed Khawar Ali, Dr. Sameena Beg, Ms. Ghazala Syed, Mr. Shaikh Naeem, Dr. Shaheda Akhtar, Dr. Mirza Suleman Beg, Mr. Syed Shahab Salim, Mr. Zahid Tufail, Ms. Shaila Siddiqi, Ms. Sadia Ali, Mr. Ghalam Qadir Qureshi, Ms. Sairab Ansari, and Ms. Kausar shared their presentations with the audience.

    The guest of honor, Ms. Nuzaira Azam, a well-known journalist, and writer, came from Washington, DC. She talked briefly about her experience as a political reporter and her books, KhwabBadosh and Anahita ki Janam Basti.

    The second poetic session was devoted to the random recitation of non-specific ghazals, verses, and personal poetry presented by audience members. A Bhojpuri geet sung by Ms. Nuzaira Azam was highly appreciated. Ms. Sadia Khawar Ali and a few other audience members also participated by reciting their favorite poetry.

    The event, attended by more than 70 Urdu enthusiasts from Orlando and nearby towns, was hosted by Mr. and Ms. Waqar Siddiqui and their family friends at their beautiful residence by the lake in Orlando. The attendees were hugely impressed by their warm hospitality and delicious food.

    (Report by Zafar Iqbal, Ph.D. He can be reached at 240-328-0162. Iqbal.Zafar1509@gmail.com. )