Urdunama

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the word 'jafa', which translates to 'oppression'. The term carries both socio-political and romantic connotations, often used to describe the cruelty inflicted by a beloved or an oppressive ruler. Stay tuned as Fabeha shares poetry by Ahmad Faraz, among others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before we start, apologies for being MIA for the last two weeks. Fabeha and Musa have some news for you! In this episode of 'Urdunama', Fabeha Syed dives into the mystical world 'Barzakh'. Often interpreted as the barrier or partition between the physical and spiritual realms, 'barzakh' carries deep significance in literature, philosophy, and spirituality. Taking a cue from the Fawad Khan and Sana...

Dive into the world of 'hunar' in this episode of Urdunama, as Fabeha Syed explores the Urdu word that embodies talent, skill, and the pursuit of mastery. What does it mean to have hunar', and how does it shape our identities and contributions to the world? Whether you're an artist, a craftsman, or someone working on yourself, this episode is a celebration of the creative spirit within us all. Lea...

No one is perfect. We all have quirks and flaws that make us human. In this episode of Urdunama, let us embrace our shortcomings to become a better human being. Listen as Fabeha Syed dives into the profound depths of the Urdu word 'aib'. From the unfaithfulness of the 'mahboob', to intense ideas of social harmony, the word encapsulates many different meanings in Urdu poetry. Learn more about your...

Often used to describe a state of discontent or weariness, 'bezaar' carries with it an emotion that goes beyond mere displeasure. In this episode of Urdunama, we explore its literary roots, its appearances in poetry and prose, and how it encapsulates the quiet, often unspoken feelings of dissatisfaction that we all experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we delve into the depths of 'zindaan' – the Urdu word for prison. But our exploration goes beyond the literal confines of bars and walls. Join us as we examine the various forms of prisons that can trap the human spirit. From the physical cells of incarceration to the intangible chains of fear, regret, and societal expectations, we discuss how these 'zindaans' impact our lives and...

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores the theme of separation in Urdu poetry. Often associated with lovers, 'furqat' and the breaking of relationships bring profound sorrow to the heart. Listen till the end to immerse yourself in the beautiful verses of Jaun Elia, Hafiz Hoshiyarpuri, and other renowned poets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this introspective episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the 'aalam', or universe of Urdu poetry. Exploring some profound ideas by Faiz Ahmad Faiz, Bahadur Shah Zafar, and Allama Iqbal, we understand how great thinkers have reflected about the world. From dark matter to the longing for a beloved, the world is full of surprises and lessons. We also visit a poignant scene from the hit TV s...

After a nail-biting counting day, let us lighten things up and contemplate the consequences of our choices. In this episode of 'Urdunama', Fabeha Syed talks about the Urdu word 'nateeja'. From psychology to philosophy, and quantum physics, see how the beautiful idea of 'nateeja' relates to the Schrödinger's cat thought experiment. Join Fabeha on this thought-provoking and captivating journey into...

Join Fabeha Syed as she dives into the rich and evocative world of the Urdu word 'nadaamat,' which translates to 'regret.' Discover how poets have woven this bittersweet emotion into their verses, capturing the delicate dance between longing and lessons learned. Whether you're a lover of language or a seeker of soul-stirring poetry, this episode promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for...

Silence in class! After a deep dive into Sanjay Leela Bhansali's hit web series 'Heeramandi', Fabeha Syed continues her Urdu class on this episode of 'Urdunama'. Through an engaging narrative and the enchanting recitation of Urdu poetry, discover how 'lahja' shapes communication and adds depth to our linguistic heritage. Urdu's phonetics and tone are integral to its charm and expressiveness, makin...

Time to fire up your epiglottis! In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the linguistic nuances of Urdu in the much-discussed web series 'Heeramandi'. While the series has garnered attention for its bold storytelling and captivating visuals, the portrayal of Urdu within it has sparked debates and discussions. Join us as we dissect the accuracy of the Urdu dialogue, exploring its authe...

In this episode of the 'Urdunama' podcast, we delve deep into the profound word 'vajood' and its intricate significance in Urdu poetry. Join us as we unravel the layers of meaning behind this evocative term, exploring its portrayal of existence, identity, and the human experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Urdunama gets real. Our host, Fabeha Syed dives into a feeling we all know too well: 'mayoosi', or despair. If you've ever felt that things are not going your way, this episode is for you.  Taking shade under the wisdom of poets like Sahir Ludhianvi, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Firaq Gorakhpuri, let us heal together. Tune in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apologies are in order! Urdunama is making a comeback after a two-week hiatus as Fabeha was busy with mommy duties. In this episode, we delve into the concept of the self. We explore how the Urdu language evokes notions of freedom and self-worth, and discuss the subtle distinction between being firm in one's principles and being 'khuddar'. Listen till the end as Fabeha reads poetry by Javed Akhtar...

'Hoshwalon ko khabar kya, bekhudi kya cheez hai'. This ghazal by Nida Fazli has been a constant in many 90s kids' playlists. Sung by the great Jagjit Singh, the song was picturised on Aamir Khan for the 1999 film 'Sarfarosh'. In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed discusses the everyday, yet essential Urdu word 'khabar' and its significance in the Indian context. From street conversations to new...

'Mere hazrat ne Madine mei manaayi Holi'. This line by Gauhar Jaan perfectly encapsulates the spirit of 'Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb', which is entrenched in the Urdu language. Welcome to this special episode of Urdunama, where Fabeha Syed delves into the vibrant world of Nazeer Akbarabadi's poetry, particularly focusing on his evocative verses celebrating the festival of Holi. From the joyous splashes o...

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed discusses the word 'khafa', with a smile on her face, of course! The Urdu word means 'displeased', 'upset', and 'offended'. As she reads poetry by Javed Akhtar, Bashir Badr and Anwar Shuoor, we unpack the complexities of releationships, and understand how 'naraazi' can help us heal. Listen till the end! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/a...

This week on Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the magic of the word 'chaand' (moon) in Urdu poetry and literature. We'll explore how this celestial body has inspired countless verses and metaphors, capturing the essence of love, longing, and beauty. The episode features a special musical segment by a listener Prakhar Kaushik, who serenades us with a soulful rendition of the classic ghazal 'Yeh Ra...

This episode of Urdunama celebrates the life and work of the iconic ghazal singer and composer, Pankaj Udhas. We lost the legend on 26 February 2024 to Pancreatic Cancer. He was born on 17 May 1951 in Gujarat, and made a name for himself in both film and independent music. Fabeha Syed will delve into the captivating world of his ghazals, exploring their emotional depth and the unique style that ca...

This episode of Urdunama delves into the depths of a single Urdu word, 'beqarar,' capturing the essence of restlessness, yearning, and disquiet. It's a word that paints not only human emotion but also the beating heart, the pangs of love, and the very pulse of life. Join Fabeha Syed as we embark on a journey exploring the various facets of 'beqarar' in Urdu poetry. We'll witness how this word blos...

In the previous episode, Fabeha Syed read through some bars of Faiz Ahmed Faiz's prison poetry, witnessing the resilience of his spirit, and the power of his voice against oppression. But in this Urdunama, we venture into a gentler landscape, the blossoming gardens of Faiz's romantic poetry. Fabeha will guide you through Faiz's masterful use of metaphor and imagery, unveiling the depths of his emo...

Join Fabeha Syed on a journey into the unyielding spirit of Faiz Ahmad Faiz, where prison walls could not confine his verses, and bars became echoes for his revolutionary voice. Faiz Ahmad Faiz was born on 13 February 1911 in Sialkot, present-day Pakistan. Dive deep into the poet's life, from his early activism to his periods of incarceration, exploring how confinement fueled his most powerful and...

Jagjit Singh was born on 8 February 1941. This episode of Urdunama pays homage to the legendary ghazal singer, whose soulful voice painted a thousand emotions with every rendition. We delve into his illustrious career, exploring his unique style that captivated audiences worldwide. Join us on a musical journey through the maestro's most cherished ghazals, brought to life in a medley by Prateek Lid...

Did you know that some of the most beautiful poetry about Lord Ram has been written in Urdu?  While the Ram Temple consecration was a watershed moment for many Hindus across the country, we felt that the mainstream news coverage was limited to party politics and communal remarks. But in this episode of Urdunama, we want to use Ram as a unifying force. Let us embark on a fascinating journey to expl...