shot-button
Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi

Poetic justice

Updated on: 26 April,2022 09:44 AM IST  |  Mumbai
Ayushi Khandelwal | ayushi.khandelwal@mid-day.com

Sign up for an interesting workshop taking you through the life history of Mirza Ghalib

Poetic justice

The poet’s mazar in Delhi. Pics Courtesy/Enroute Indian History

Sher-O-Shayari narrows the scope of understanding Ghalib. A fresh historical and cultural lens can help in understanding the man better,” says Anoushka Jain, founder of Enroute Indian History. This heritage education platform focuses on the dissemination of historical knowledge, and this week, they have focused on celebrating the life and works of the legendary poet Mirza Ghalib. The session, titled Ghalib: The bulbul of paradise garden, will include a virtual heritage walk and storytelling workshop.


Ghalib’s couplets framed inside his haveli in Delhi
Ghalib’s couplets framed inside his haveli in Delhi


The heritage walk will take participants into Ghalib’s haveli and mazar in Delhi and also head to a few other historical monuments that are connected with his life. “Ghalib was renowned for his cheeky, sarcastic and witty temperament that was often interpreted as downright obnoxious. We are going to talk and introspect some of the major life events that ultimately shaped his poetry and his signature ‘hazir jawabi’ [wit]. With a lot of enriching stories and anecdotes, participants will be able to witness Ghalib’s poetry at a deeply personal and empathetic level,” Jain assures us.


The heritage educator believes that Ghalib and his poetry have a timeless appeal that is relevant regardless of the day and age. He had concerns about politics, religion, conflicts, and finances that are relatable in today’s world. His work also helps gauge the deep undercurrents of politics of his time, Jain reasons.

Mirza Ghalib
Mirza Ghalib

When asked why Ghalib is called the ‘bulbul of paradise garden’, she explains, “The bulbul holds a special place in Urdu poetry; it is regarded as the muse of all poets.” A verse by Ghalib says, “Main andalib-i-gulshan-i-na afridah hoon,” which translates to I am the bulbul of a garden that is yet to be created. The essence of this is that Ghalib is doubtful whether the audience to which he is catering his work to, will be appreciative of it or not.

On: April 29, 6.30 pm to 8 pm
Log on to: insider.in (to register);  Google Meet (to attend)
Cost: Rs 300

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!

Register for FREE
to continue reading !

This is not a paywall.
However, your registration helps us understand your preferences better and enables us to provide insightful and credible journalism for all our readers.

Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK