Presentation
By: Professor Dr. Muhammad Malik
Maulvi Abdul Haq once remarked that every individual’s life encompasses two dimensions: their personality and their work. The former fades with time as contemporaries depart this world, while the latter immortalizes them. Figures in science, literature, and art endure in collective memory long after their passing. Dr. Rashid Amjad aptly notes that quality literature transcends time. Professor Mirza Ghulam Rasool Azhar ( late)stands among such luminaries, distinguished both for his identity and his contributions. A master poet, his verses reveal profound linguistic artistry and artistic maturity. Kaliyat Azhar, his magnum opus, remained elusive to scholars and literary enthusiasts until recently. This exquisite compilation of his creative genius, experiences, and reflections begins with divine praise and reverence for the Ahl al-Bayt, followed by “Waraat al-Khayyat”—a poignant ode to the Hajj pilgrimage and the circumambulation of the Kaaba.
The collection unfolds with 83 ghazals, interspersed with two stanzas (qita’at), two poems (nazms), and a masnavi. Subsequent sections feature nine lyrical poems, some expansive in scope, concluding with Persian verses that mirror his refined intellect, artistic sensibility, and noble ethos. Professor Azhar was not merely a poet but a polymath—a man of exceptional character and erudition. His poetry marries artistic sophistication with scholarly depth, showcasing mastery over language, evocative imagery, and emotional resonance. A virtuoso of metaphor, he wields words to clothe emotions in lyrical elegance, epitomizing poetry as the art of adorning thoughts with language.
Mirza Sahib passed away in 1997. His personal library, rumored to house rare manuscripts and unpublished works, suffered losses due to neglect. Fortunately, Kaliyat Azhar, preserved in his diary through his exquisite calligraphy, survived. His younger daughter, a professor in Islamabad, safeguarded this treasure. Mirza Sahib’s penmanship, as captivating as his verse, adds visual splendor to the text. Now accessible to readers, Kaliyat Azhar invites judgment on its poetic merit and artistic depth. I believe this anthology will emerge as a rare gem, enriching Urdu literature and delighting discerning readers.
Selected Verses:
First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to Allah Almighty, by whose divine grace and boundless mercy this collection of poetry has been brought to publication.
I also wish to acknowledge all my cherished friends who contributed in any capacity to the realization of this work. While it is impossible to name everyone individually, I feel compelled to highlight a few individuals whose exceptional efforts made this endeavor possible:
Mr. Siddique Usman (my son), who shouldered the immense responsibility of overseeing this project from inception to completion, dedicating unwavering attention to every detail.
Mr. Qasim Bakti, whose creative expertise shaped the book’s title design and page layouts.
Professor Abdul Rehman, who responded to my requests with remarkable enthusiasm and meticulously edited the manuscript on multiple occasions.
Dr. Qamar Ghaznavi and Mr. Tariq Mahmood Bhatti, whose tireless efforts and guidance were instrumental in finalizing this publication.
Professor Asghar Naeem (Retired), who meticulously reviewed the manuscript and ensured its linguistic precision during the proofreading stage.
Through their collective contributions, this book has finally attained a form worthy of sharing with readers. May Allah reward each of them abundantly for their kindness and dedication.
