Remembering Munawwar Rana: A Maestro of Urdu Poetry

Munawwar Rana, the eminent Indian Urdu poet, left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his profound verses.

Born on November 26, 1952, in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India, Rana’s poetic journey was destined to captivate hearts.

Munawwar Rana News

He passed away in the hospital on Sunday night and will be buried on Monday, as shared by his daughter Sumaiya Rana.

Tabrez Rana, the poet’s son, mentioned, “He was unwell for about 14 to 15 days. Initially, he was admitted to Medanta in Lucknow and later shifted to SGPGI, where he passed away around 11 pm today.”

Munawwar Rana in Aurangabad

Early Life and Influences

Growing up in the cultural tapestry of Raebareli, Rana’s roots were embedded in the soil of creativity. However, destiny led him to Kolkata, West Bengal, where he would spend a significant part of his life. This cultural diversity deeply influenced his poetic expressions.

Poetic Mastery

Rana’s poetic style was a unique blend of Urdu and Awadhi, steering clear of Persian and Arabic influences. This intentional choice made his poetry resonate widely with Indian audiences, leading to his immense popularity in poetic gatherings beyond Urdu-speaking regions.

Ghazals as a Medium

The poet adorned the literary landscape with numerous ghazals, each carrying his distinctive style. A recurring theme in his couplets was the profound reverence for “mother,” portraying her as the central figure in his expressions of love. Tapan Kumar Pradhan’s English translations allowed a broader audience to appreciate the beauty of Rana’s Urdu ghazals.

A Versatile Urdu Poet’s Journey

He learned poetry from renowned poets Ali Abbas Khan Bekhud and Wali Aasi. His significant work ‘Maa’ stands out, where he used the Ghazal genre to praise the virtues of a mother. Other notable works include ‘Muhajirnama,’ ‘Ghar Akela Ho Gaya,’ and ‘Peepal Chhaon.’ His poetry has been translated into Hindi, Urdu, Gurumukhi, and Bengali.

In 2014, Rana received the Sahitya Akademi Award for his book ‘Shahdaba,’ but he returned it in 2015 as part of a writers’ protest. The poet is survived by his wife, four daughters, and a son.

Conclusion: A Literary Luminary Lives On

As we reflect on Munawwar Rana’s life, we celebrate the literary legacy he left behind. His verses continue to echo through the corridors of Urdu literature, transcending linguistic boundaries. The poet’s journey, marked by creative brilliance and personal trials, remains a testament to the enduring power of words.

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