On this Friday, the 98th birth anniversary of the distinguished poet Nasir Kazmi is being observed, paying homage to his lasting contributions to Urdu poetry.
Born as Syed Nasir Raza Kazmi on December 8, 1925, in Ambala, eastern Punjab, Nasir Kazmi embarked on his poetic journey in 1940, drawing inspiration from the style of the legendary Akhtar Sherani.
Following the partition in August 1947, Kazmi migrated from Ambala to Lahore. During his literary career, he served as the Editor of esteemed literary magazines ‘Auraq Nau’ and ‘Khayal’. Additionally, Nasir Kazmi remained closely associated with Radio Pakistan, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Known for his melancholic style, Kazmi employed simple yet profound words in his poetry. Themes such as ‘Chand’ (moon), ‘Raat’ (night), ‘Baarish’ (rain), ‘Mausam’ (season), ‘Yaad’ (memory), ‘Tanhai’ (solitude), and ‘Darya’ (river) were infused with life through his unique poetic expression.
The impact of Nasir Kazmi’s work extended beyond the realm of literature, as iconic singers like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Noor Jahan immortalized his ghazals through their renditions.
Despite his untimely demise on March 2, 1972, due to stomach cancer in Lahore, Nasir Kazmi’s legacy lives on. Four books showcasing his poetic brilliance were published posthumously, ensuring that his words continue to resonate with admirers of Urdu poetry.
