Urdu vibes only: Hyderabad’s Sundays just got literary
The Abul Kalam Azad Oriental Research Institute at Public Garden turned into a literary haven as lovers of Urdu gathered to share and enjoy various genres of the language, known as Asnaf-e-Sukhan
Hyderabad: Sunday mornings are usually reserved for family time. Some prefer to loll up in bed, while others remain glued to their favorite TV shows. But this Sunday, a group of individuals chose a different path.
They came together to celebrate the beauty of Urdu literature – through stories, essays, sketches, and letters. The Abul Kalam Azad Oriental Research Institute at Public Garden turned into a literary haven as lovers of Urdu gathered to share and enjoy various genres of the language, known as Asnaf-e-Sukhan.
The event was organised by Anjuman-e-Rekhta Goyan, an initiative aimed at reviving interest in the Urdu language and its rich literary heritage. The driving force behind this effort is Dr. Javeed Kamal, a retired Urdu professor and passionate advocate of the language. The session was conducted by Dr. Humaira Sayeed.
What truly captivated the audience was the dramatic reading of different forms of Urdu literature: the Khaka (sketch), Afsana (short story), Inshaiyya (essay), and Khutoot (letters).
One highlight was the humorous essay by satirist, Mushtaq Ahmad Yousufi, titled Aur Aana Ghar Mein Murghiyon Ka. Delivered with flair by Wajid Mohiuddin, the piece had the audience in fits of laughter. The essay humorously explores the chaos of rearing hens at home — from their unpredictable egg-laying habits to the mess they create.
The Khaka titled Naam Dev Mali by Moulvi Abdul Haq, read by Saima Mateen, also left a deep impression. It narrates the story of a humble gardener, Dev Mali, who faces a moral dilemma rooted in his honest and devoted nature.
The iconic short story Idgah by Munshi Premchand recounted the touching tale of four-year-old orphan Hamid, who on Eid chooses to buy a pair of tongs for his grandmother instead of sweets or toys, so she doesn’t burn her fingers while making rotis.
A romantic letter by Safia Akhtar, wife of poet, Jan Nisar Akhtar, was read by Rafia Nausheen, bringing a lyrical charm to the session.
Adding a humorous twist to current affairs, photo-journalist K.N. Wasif entertained the audience with his witty segment Khabar Pe Shosha. His clever use of real news paired with idioms like “Tabele ki bala bandar ke sar” was both insightful and amusing.
The Urdu Asnaf-e-Sukhan programme is a weekly affair. You can catch it every Sunday from 10.30 a.m to 12 noon at the Abul Kalam Azad Oriental Research Institute, Public Garden.
