“puchhte hain wo ki 'ghaalib' kaun hai
koi batlao ki hum batlaen kya”
On February 15, 2025, we commemorate the 156th death anniversary of Mirza Ghalib, the literary giant whose poetry continues to resonate across all generations. Born as Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan in 1797, in Kala Mahal, Agra into a family of Mughals. He got married at a very young age to Umrao Begum when he was just 13 years old and Umrao Begum herself was pre-teen. Ghalib’s verses captured the complexities of love, loss, philosophy, and the human condition, making him one of the greatest poets of Urdu and Persian literature.
A Poet Beyond Time
Ghalib's poetry surpassed its era, speaking to the intellect and the soul. His ghazals remain timeless, deeply introspective, and filled with a longing that is as relevant today as it was in his time. His use of intricate and deep metaphors and philosophical depth set him apart from his contemporaries.
One of his most quoted couplets reflects his existential musings:
"Hazaaron khwahishen aisi ki har khwahish pe dam nikle,Bohat nikle mere armaan lekin phir bhi kam nikle."
The Struggles and Triumphs of Ghalib
Ghalib lived through tough times—the decline of the Mughal Empire, British colonization, and personal hardships. Despite his literary genius, he faced financial difficulties and a lack of official patronage. He and his wife Umrao Begum lost all of their 7 kids when they were infants and later on when they adopted their nephew Arif, he also died at a very young age, which left both of them devastated and alone. However, his works, including the famed Diwan-e-Ghalib, cemented his place in the pantheon of great poets.
His letters, written in an informal and conversational style, offer a glimpse into his wit and wisdom, making him one of the first literary figures to bring conversational Urdu prose into prominence.
Ghalib’s Relevance Today
Even 156 years after his passing, Ghalib’s poetry finds a home in contemporary culture. From literature to Bollywood lyrics, his words continue to be a source of inspiration. For example, in 2015 Varun Grover the lyricist used some of Ghalib’s work to pay him a tribute in the movie “Masaan”. His musings on heartbreak, ambition, and destiny reflect the emotions of people across generations. Even today’s Generation ‘Gen Z’ also loves him and adores his work and to some extent, they are also inspired by his writings.
As we remember him today, let us revisit his poetry, not just to admire his linguistic brilliance but to find meaning in his reflections on life. His verses remind us that emotions and experiences are universal, and true art remains eternal.
"Dard se mere hai tujh ko be-qarari hae hae
kya hui zalim teri ghaflat-shiari hae hae."
Such was the honesty of his words—raw, profound, and everlasting.
Let us honour Mirza Ghalib by keeping his poetry alive, finding solace and meaning in his words, and cherishing the legacy he left behind.
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