December 27 marks the birth anniversary of Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib, one of the greatest poets of Urdu and Persian literature. Born in Agra in 1797, Ghalib’s unparalleled contributions to poetry and prose continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Ghalib’s mastery extended beyond poetry; his letters to friends and disciples are celebrated for their literary brilliance. Known for his wit and humor, many anecdotes and quips about Ghalib’s life are fondly recounted to this day.
Belonging to a family of soldiers, Ghalib married into a Delhi family at the age of 13, settling in the city that became his home. Despite facing financial hardships and the sorrow of losing his children, Ghalib’s work reflects profound depth and human insight.
In 1855, following the demise of poet Ustad Zauq, Ghalib was appointed as a court poet to Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar. He received honorary titles such as Najm-ud-Daula, Dabeer-ul-Mulk, and Nizam-e-Jang from the royal court.
Ghalib is celebrated for his ability to weave complex ideas into simple yet profoundly moving verses. His poetic style, characterized by elegance and simplicity, remains unmatched. Ghalib’s prose, particularly his letters, introduced a conversational and natural tone to Urdu writing, setting a new standard for generations to come.
On February 15, 1869, Mirza Ghalib passed away in Delhi, where he lies buried. His legacy, however, continues to enrich the world of literature and culture, immortalizing him as a towering figure in the annals of history.
