Urdunama

This Urdunama episode is a tribute to a legend, a poetic journey that will leave you mesmerized and wanting more. We lost Munawwar Rana on 14 January 2024. A luminary in the realm of Urdu literature, Rana's profound verses resonated with the depths of human emotion, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of readers and listeners alike. Born in Rae Bareli, India, in 1949, Munawwar Rana's poetic jo...

In this special episode of Urdunama, Fabeha delves into the captivating realm of 'kitaab', the very essence of knowledge and imagination. Join us as we explore the world of books as a metaphorical embodiment of knowledge, wisdom and life in general. Listen till the end as Fabeha reads poetry by Ahmad Faraz and Ejaaz Tawakkal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the first Urdunama of 2024, Fabeha Syed ignites a conversation about 'Aghaz,' the Urdu word for 'beginning.' 'Aghaz' is not just a starting point, but a potent spark that ignites possibilities, fuels dreams, and propels us forward into the unknown. Listen till the end as she reads poetry by Ahmad Faraz and Kafeel Aazar Amrohvi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed unfurls the intricate layers of the Urdu word 'Ilzaam', meaning 'blame' or 'accusation'. It's a word that carries a weight of suspicion, hurt, and sometimes even injustice. Fabeha opens the episode with a personal anecdote, recalling a familiar scene: her mother's accusing gaze as a misplaced winter scarf sparks a flurry of 'Ilzaam'. This relatable moment s...

Fabeha Syed explores the poignant concept of 'Adhoora,' or 'unfinished,' in Urdu poetry. This evocative term captures the incompleteness and impermanence that are inherent aspects of human existence. Through the verses of renowned poets like Jan Nisar Akhtar and Javed Akhtar, we'll delve into the various shades of Adhoora. The episode is also joined by our in-house 'tuntuna' man Prateek Lidhoo for...

In this captivating episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed embarks on a journey through the ever-changing landscapes of Mausam (weather in Urdu), exploring its profound influence on Urdu poetry. Mausam is not merely a physical phenomenon; it is a living, breathing entity that weaves itself into the very fabric of Urdu verses. Poets have long drawn inspiration from the transformative power of weather, us...

In this week's episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the depths of the Urdu word 'Deedar,' a term that signifies a profound 'sight' or 'vision' often associated with the beloved. Deedar is a word that carries immense weight and longing, representing both the physical act of seeing and the spiritual yearning for connection. Syed will explore the different ways in which Deedar is used in Urdu...

In this week's episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores the Urdu word "azmaish," meaning "test" or "trial." Azmaish is a powerful and evocative word, with many different meanings and connotations. It can refer to a literal test, such as an exam or a challenge, but it can also be used to describe more abstract concepts such as temptation, adversity, or even spiritual growth. Syed will discuss the...

In this week's episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores the Urdu word 'deewana,' meaning 'mad.' Deewana is a powerful word, with a rich and complex history. It can be used to describe someone who is passionate, obsessed, or even out of their mind. Syed will discuss the different ways in which deewana is used in Urdu poetry and will read some of her favorite poems by Ahmad Faraz, Khushbir Singh Sh...

In today's Urdunama, Fabeha explores the Urdu word 'saaya,' meaning 'shadow.' Saaya is a complex and evocative word, with many different meanings and nuances. It can refer to the literal shadow of a person or object, but it can also be used to describe more abstract concepts such as protection, support, or even melancholy. Fabeha digs deep into her personal life and talks about motherhood, and par...

Your beloved show has been away for a few weeks because of a new addition to the Urdunama family. This week marks the debut of Fabeha's son Musa on the show, as she joins back to talk about a fundamental concept of 'shak', or doubt. The episode starts with "I think, therefore I am", a quote by French philosopher René Descartes, and how the fact that we can doubt and question things around us makes...

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores the meaning of the Urdu word 'aitbaar', which means faith or trust. She discusses how important it is to have trust in others, and how this can lead to stronger relationships, communities, and societies. Fabeha reads out poems by Urdu poets like Gulzar, who have beautifully captured the essence of trust. She also shares her experiences of how trust...

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed talks about the poetry of Irshad Kamil. Kamil is one of the most popular Indian poets of recent times, and his work has been featured in many successful Hindi films. He has worked with music directors like AR Rahman, Vishal-Shekhar, Pritam, and many more. Fabeha discusses Kamil's unique style of writing, which combines simple language with complex emotions....

Raksha Bandhan is a time for sisters to express their love and concern for their brothers. It is also a time for brothers to reaffirm their commitment to protecting their sisters. The festival reminds us of the power of love to protect us from harm. The Urdu word 'hifazat' means 'protection' or 'safeguarding.' It is a sentiment that is central to the festival of Raksha Bandhan. Listen to this podc...

Join Fabeha Syed on this episode of Urdunama as we delve deep into the concept of "tamasha" or spectacle. From Imtiaz Ali's storytelling to the nuances of human behavior, Fabeha guides us through the many meanings of "tamasha". It's not just about entertainment; it's about the myriad ways we perform for the world and even for ourselves, often forgetting our true essence. Tune in!  Learn more about...

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the magic of Urdu poetry, this episode of Urdunama is your golden ticket. Fabeha Syed and Dr. Saba Mahmood Bashir are here to blow your mind, ignite your passion for words, and leave you with that warm, fuzzy feeling only poetry can deliver. From poetry challenging social norms to children's poetry about flowers blooming in 'chaddis', we're cover...

On this episode of Urdunama, we explore the poetry around badan, meaning the body and it's connection with attraction, intimacy and sensuality. Featuring nazms, songs and shayari by Nida Fazli, Rahat Indori, Jan Nisar Akhtar and more; tune into this special episode of Urdunama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Urdu word dilchasp is derived from the Persian roots dil (heart) and chasp (to please). The word literally means "heart-pleasing" or "heart-warming." Dilchasp can be used to describe anything that is pleasing or enjoyable, such as a beautiful sight, a delicious meal, or a kind gesture. The word can also be used to describe a person who is charming or witty. In Urdu poetry, dilchasp is often us...

Anand Bakshi was born on 21 July 1930. In this episode of Urdunama, host Fabeha Syed talks about the lyrical legacy of Anand Bakshi. She reads out some of her favorite songs by Bakshi, including 'Chingari Koi Bhadke' from Amar Prem, and 'Mehandi Lagake Rakhna' from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Syed also discusses Bakshi's contribution to Hindi cinema, and how his songs have touched the hearts of m...

In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores the intricacies of the Urdu word Fanaa. Fanaa is a complex idea with a rich history. It can mean to be annihilated, to be destroyed, or to be consumed by something else. But it can also mean to be transformed, to be liberated, or to be at peace. Fabeha discusses how the word has been used in literature, poetry, and music. Listen till the end!  Lear...

Welcome the monsoon season this year with a cup of chai or coffee, a plate of steaming hot pakoras and this episode of Urdunama on 'abr' meaning 'clouds'. Fabeha reads out some poetry, nazms and shayari by Faiz, Gulzar, Mirza Ghalib and others.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Anjaam' meaning consequences or results; is a word that you might spot in a lot of iconic shayaris, nazms and ghazals. Tune into this episode of Urdunama, where I talk about all kinds of endings- good, bad, and the unsaid. P.S. This episode also has an interesting anecdote from Sahir Ludhianvi's love life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Urdunama, we want to trip on Hemant Kumar's legendary career. June 16 is Hemant Da's birthday. His soulful, yet intense music has had a lasting impact on Indian culture, and his songs continue to be enjoyed by people all over the world. Let us celebrate the legend with a musical medley of his biggest hits, reading some of the amazing Urdu poetry he lent his voice to. Thank you H...

All the artform is the expression of the artist behind it. And it's the way of izhaare-e-khayal or the expression of thought that paves the way to that art's success. The art that we focus on in this series is poetry. From Mirza Ghalib to Shakeel Badayuni, here is how to express when in love or distress. Tune in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Masla' is used to refer to a problem, an issue, or a matter that requires attention or resolution. It embodies the notion of a challenge or complication that demands careful consideration, analysis, and often, deliberation among individuals or groups. 'Masla' can encompass various aspects of life, including personal, social, political, or even spiritual matters. Tune in to this episode of Urdunam...