The modern mystic Muhammad Izhar ul Haq’s journey through time and verse in Urdu poetry is unique and timeless. He is the living legend of notable poets from Urdu languages and traditions who skilfully blend modern themes with traditional and historical styles.
Muhammad Izhar ul Haq born on 14 February 1948, in Jhelum district in Pakistan and his name is not unfamiliar in the literary world. Izhar’s poetry and writings have been recognised and appreciated in various part of the intellectual and literary world. He has contributed significantly to enriching the literary landscape with his unique style and perspective.
His literary journey began in his early years, and overtime, he honed his craft to become a respected figure in the modern world of Urdu Poetry. His collection has been praised for their linguistic beauty and philosophy depth, making him a prominent voice in contemporary literature.
Muhammad Izhar ul Haq transformed the conventional for of the ghazal, where each verse typically stands alone, into something more cohesive. One can see his mastery and the elegance of his style.
Izhar’s themes and expressions are reminiscent of glorious pasts, much like the treasures of ancient wisdom. He often uses words related to subjects like slaves, armies, fortresses and various historical and geographical references such as olives, silk, Greek, horses, and cities like Baghdad, Granada, Alexandria, Basra, Samarkand, Bukhara.
The atmosphere of his poetry is not traditional; it deviates from it. It comes in an environment where the river flows, the king and minsters are slaves, the enemies are beheaded, the fort, the shelter, the army, the hunter, the rider of the horse, and the stranger.
Without a doubt, Izhar ul Haq’s diction is different. Based on the credibility of diction, he is considered a unique poet of his time. He often included references that required deeper understanding and interpretation.
Izhar ul Haq contribution extended beyond poetry, he also been involved in literary criticism and cultural discourse, further establishing his reputation as a great thoughtful and influential writer. Izhar work continues to inspire and engage readers, leaving a lasting impact on the modern literary community around the world.
The following books are among Muhmmad Izhar ul Haq’s most notable works in Urdu literature:
- Ay Aasman Neeche Utar
- Pani Pe Bicha Takht
- Meri Wafat
- Tiklu Kay Kaarnamay (children)
- Deewar-e-Aab
- Aashiq Mast Jalali
- Kai Mosam Guzar Gay Mujh Par
- Talik Nawai (Columns)
- Samandar, Jazeeray aur Judaiyan
Currently, Muhammad Izhar ul Haq is visiting his son, Dr Asrar ul Haq, a heart surgeon based in Melbourne.
Let us turn our attention to a few heartfelt verses from Izhar’s works.
نے عقل کی گھاٹی سے نہ تقدیر سے پہنچا
اس اوج پہ میں اسم کی تاثیر سے پہنچا
تارِرگِ جاں اور چھنک کاسئہ سر کی
بخشش کے لیے راہِ مزا میر سے پہنچا
ماں ! کھول دے جنت کے دریچے کہ دمِ مرگ
فرزند عجب حسرت< دل گیر سے پہنچا
پہرا تھا کڑا شہر کے دروازوں پہ جس وقت
پیغام عدو کو مرے اک تیر سے پہنچا
شہتوت کا رس تھا نہ غزالوں کے پرے تھے
اس بار بھی میں جشن میں تاخیر سے پہنچا
۔۔۔۔۔۔۔۔
دیا ہتھیلی پہ رکھ کے چلنا راس نہ آیا
سو اب ہتھیلی دیے کی لو دھری ہوئی ہے
بدن ہے پنجر مگر تروتازہ ہے محبت
لپٹ کے مجھ سے یہ بیل کیسی ہری ہوئی ہے
حکایتیں ایک پوٹلی میں الگ بندھی ہیں
اور ایک زنبیل سسکیوں سے بھری ہوئی ہے
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