The Poetry of Gulzar and the Influence of Ghalib: A Comparative Study

The Poetry of Gulzar and the Influence of Ghalib: A Comparative Study

Introduction 

Poetry is one of the most beautiful and expressive forms of art, and Indian poetry has a rich tradition and heritage. Two of the most famous poets in the Indian literary landscape are Gulzar and Ghalib. While Gulzar is a contemporary poet, Ghalib belongs to the 19th century. However, both poets share a deep love for language, a keen observation of human emotions, and an ability to evoke powerful imagery through their words. In this article, we will delve into the poetry of Gulzar and the influence of Ghalib on his works.

Gulzar: The Contemporary Poet 

Gulzar, whose real name is Sampooran Singh Kalra, is a well-known poet, lyricist, and filmmaker. He was born on August 18, 1934, in Dina, Jhelum district, British India (now in Pakistan). He started his career as a lyricist in 1963 with the film Bandini and went on to write songs for over 200 films. His songs are known for their simplicity, sensitivity, and profound meaning. He has also written several books of poetry, including "Raat Pashmine Ki", "Kharashein", "Raavi Paar", and "Neglected Poems".

Gulzar's poetry is deeply rooted in the Indian tradition and culture. His poems often depict everyday life, nature, love, and human emotions. He is a master of words and has the ability to express complex emotions in simple yet powerful language. His poems are marked by their simplicity, clarity, and depth.

In his poem "Kitaabain Jhankti Hain Band Almari K Sheeshoon Se", Gulzar talks about the power of books and how they can transport us to different worlds. He says:

"Kitabon se meri, shabdon se mere Ek basti ban gayi thi Main us basti ka ek nagarik tha Mujhe apni hi basti mein gum kar diya"

(Translation: "With books and words, I built a world I was a citizen of that world And it engulfed me in its own way")

This poem is a reflection of Gulzar's own love for books and how they have influenced his life and poetry. It also highlights his ability to create powerful imagery through his words.

Gulzar's poems often have a philosophical undertone and reflect on the meaning of life and existence. In his poem "Bichde Sabhi Baari Baari", he talks about the transience of life and how we are all just passing through. He says:

"Kuchh aur zamaney ki baat thi Kuchh abhi ki hai Baat abhi khatm na hui hai Khatm na hogi kabhi"

(Translation: "Some things belonged to a different time Some belong to the present The conversation is not over yet It will never end")

This poem highlights Gulzar's ability to express complex ideas in a simple and poignant manner.

The Influence of Ghalib on Gulzar's Poetry Mirza Ghalib, born on December 27, 1797, in Agra, was a renowned poet of the 19th century. He is known for his exquisite use of language, profound thoughts, and ability to express human emotions. Ghalib's poetry has had a significant influence on Indian literature and poetry. He is considered one of the greatest poets of the Urdu language.

Gulzar has often spoken about his love for Ghalib's poetry and how it has influenced his own works. In an interview with Filmfare magazine, Gulzar said, "I have always been deeply influenced by Ghalib's poetry. His language, his use of words, and the way he expressed human emotions have been a constant source of inspiration for me."

Ghalib's poetry is marked by its intricate language, complex thoughts, and an ability to express human emotions in a profound manner. Gulzar's poetry, on the other hand, is known for its simplicity and clarity. However, despite these differences, Gulzar's poetry has a certain Ghalib-esque quality to it. This is because Gulzar has borrowed certain themes and motifs from Ghalib's poetry and incorporated them into his own works.

One of the most significant influences of Ghalib on Gulzar's poetry is the use of "ghazal" as a poetic form. "Ghazal" is a form of poetry that originated in Arabia and was later adopted by Persian and Urdu poets. It is a form of poetry that consists of rhyming couplets and a refrain, with each couplet expressing a complete thought. Ghalib was a master of the "ghazal" form, and his poetry is considered a benchmark for Urdu "ghazals". Gulzar, too, has written several "ghazals" in his career, and his use of this form can be attributed to the influence of Ghalib's poetry.

Another significant influence of Ghalib on Gulzar's poetry is the use of metaphor and symbolism. Ghalib's poetry is known for its use of metaphors and symbols to express human emotions and thoughts. Gulzar, too, uses metaphors and symbols in his poetry to evoke powerful imagery and express complex ideas. For example, in his poem "Aankhain Khuli Rahein Toh", Gulzar uses the metaphor of an open eye to express the idea of being aware and awake. He says:

"Aankhain khuli rahen ya ho band Deedar unka hota hai Kaise kahoon main o yaara Yeh pyaar kaise hota hai"

(Translation: "Whether the eyes are open or closed I still see them How do I explain, my friend How love happens")

This use of metaphor and symbolism to express human emotions is a hallmark of Ghalib's poetry, and Gulzar's works reflect a similar sensibility.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Gulzar is a contemporary poet who has made significant contributions to Indian literature and poetry. His poetry is marked by its simplicity, clarity, and profound meaning. The influence of Ghalib on Gulzar's poetry is evident in his use of "ghazal" as a poetic form, the use of metaphor and symbolism, and the themes and motifs that he has borrowed from Ghalib's poetry. Despite the differences in their poetic styles, Gulzar's works reflect a deep admiration and respect for Ghalib's poetry. The poetry of Gulzar and the influence of Ghalib on his works are a testament to the richness and diversity of Indian literature and poetry.