Mumbai, February 12 – Akhlaq Mohammed Khan, better known by his takhallus Shahryar, redefined Urdu shayari with his profound simplicity. On the eve of his 12th death anniversary on February 13, we delve into how a strategic change in nomenclature propelled him from obscurity to immortality.
Hailing from Bareilly in 1936, Shahryar’s childhood mirrored the ordinariness of middle-class India. Academic pursuits at AMU ignited his love for Urdu, leading to early publications under his birth name. These works resonated with raw authenticity, depicting societal woes and interpersonal nuances in unadorned language.
Sensing the need for a distinctive persona, he embraced ‘Shahryar’ – the urban sovereign. This shift marked a renaissance in his oeuvre. His ghazals, now branded with royal flair, connected viscerally with the masses, distilling complex feelings into deceptively simple expressions that lingered in memory.
Bollywood beckoned next, with Umrao Jaan’s soundtrack catapulting him to fame. Iconic tracks such as ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ and ‘In Aankhon Ki Masti’ showcased his lyrical prowess, blending classical Urdu with cinematic appeal. These weren’t mere songs; they were cultural milestones.
Accolades followed: the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award and Padma Shri in 2008. Shahryar departed this world in 2012, but his verses remain a living testament to his mastery. Today, as fans recite his lines, he truly reigns as the undisputed king of hearts.