Literature – Delhi’s Shankar-Shad Mushaira Celebrates Urdu Poetry Tradition
Literature – Delhi’s rich literary tradition came alive over the weekend as renowned Urdu poets gathered for the 57th edition of the Shankar-Shad Mushaira, hosted at the Modern School campus on Barakhamba Road. The annual event once again drew poetry lovers from across the city, offering an evening steeped in language, emotion, and cultural continuity.
A Confluence of Veteran and Emerging Voices
The event brought together some of the most respected names in Urdu poetry alongside emerging talents. Esteemed poets such as Javed Akhtar and Waseem Barelvi shared the stage with literary figures including Sheen Kaaf Nizam, Rajesh Reddy, and Shakeel Azmi. Their presence ensured that the evening reflected both experience and depth.
Alongside these established voices, a new generation of poets added fresh energy to the gathering. Performers like Sunil Kumar Tang, Shabeena Adeeb, Charan Singh Bashar, and Zubair Ali Tabish delivered compositions that resonated strongly with the audience. Among the younger contributors, Hina Haider Rizvi stood out, representing a promising future for Urdu poetry.
Poetry Beyond Entertainment
Organised by the Shankar Lall Murli Dhar Memorial Society in collaboration with DCM Shriram Industries Ltd, the Mushaira was more than just a cultural event. It served as a platform to preserve and promote the Urdu literary tradition while encouraging new voices to participate in the art form.
This year’s edition also introduced a new feature—the Shankar Shad Shayari Contest—which aimed to recognise emerging talent. The announcement of contest winners added an element of anticipation and celebration to the evening, further strengthening the event’s commitment to nurturing poetry at all levels.
Words That Inspire a New Generation
During the event, Javed Akhtar addressed young poets and aspiring writers, offering guidance that resonated with many in attendance. He encouraged them to write with honesty and conviction, emphasizing that genuine expression is the foundation of meaningful poetry. His words underscored the importance of staying true to one’s inner voice rather than seeking external validation.
This message aligned with the broader spirit of the Mushaira, which has long been a space where ideas, emotions, and creativity converge. By connecting established poets with newcomers, the event continues to play a vital role in sustaining the literary ecosystem.
Emotional Connection at the Heart of Poetry
Waseem Barelvi reflected on the deeper impact of poetry, highlighting its ability to create a shared emotional experience. He noted that once a poem is recited, it takes on a life of its own, belonging to those who find meaning in it. According to him, this emotional exchange is what gives poetry its enduring power.
His perspective captured the essence of the evening, where listeners responded not just with applause but with a sense of personal connection. The Mushaira created a space where individual experiences merged into a collective understanding through words.
A Cultural Retreat for the Audience
Madhav Bansidhar Shriram, Chairman of the organising society and Managing Director of DCM Shriram Industries Ltd, described the event as a refuge for those seeking relief from the pressures of daily life. The calm and reflective environment of the Mushaira offered attendees a chance to pause and engage with literature in a meaningful way.
Continuing a Living Legacy
Now in its 57th year, the Shankar-Shad Mushaira remains a significant cultural fixture in Delhi’s calendar. By bringing together generations of poets and audiences, it continues to uphold the legacy of Urdu poetry while adapting to contemporary times. The addition of new initiatives like the Shayari Contest signals a forward-looking approach, ensuring that the tradition remains relevant and vibrant.
As the evening concluded, the gathering left behind a lasting impression—one that reaffirmed the enduring appeal of poetry and its unique ability to connect people across generations.