Mir Mohsin Ali Saudi Gazette RIYADH — He came. He saw. He conquered. The youngest poet of “Shaam E Imran,” Mushaira (poetic symposium), at a mere 28 years of age proved that the fine art of Urdu poetry rendition is not just for the old and wise. Imran Pratapgarhi's confident style and flawless diction had the 1,200-plus audience wanting for more even as he left the microphone after returning to it twice on popular demand. The poetry soiree, organized by the Bihar Foundation, Riyadh Chapter, lasted well into the wee hours of the morning as poet after poet took center stage to recite their new “kalams” (couplets), some winning thunderous applause while others only evoking a lukewarm response from the audience. Islam, corruption in India, problems of Burma Muslims and praise for the relations between Indian mothers and sons were the recurring themes in the mushaira. Pratapgarhi capitalized on the anti-Modi sentiment among the Indian Muslims in his powerful verses. Narendra Modi, prime minister of India is a controversial figure. Pratapgarhi, who holds a Ph.D in Hindi, looked anything but an Urdu poet. But looks can be deceiving. His unique style of delivery of couplets laced with occasional political incorrectness easily got him the maximum “daad” (appreciation). Star poets A.M Turaz and Shahed Adeeli, both of whom have come to perform for the first time in Riyadh, too were in their element as they mesmerized the audience with their deep yet clear couplets and tarannum recitation (in a melodious tone). Local poets, Kursheed Nayyar, Dr. Shafeeq Nadwi, Zafar Mahmood, with their own style of mushaira, have a natural flair for humor. The laugh-a-minute session of was proof to this. Three of them drew the audience's attention with the usual staple of romantic rhetoric. The Mushaira started in all its traditional glory — with the flicker of the ceremonial lamp, a Naat rendition, followed by recitals by Adeeli, who presided over the mushaira. Riyadh's Kursheed Nayyar recited his ghazals (a form or poetry which is little longer than other forms of poetry and contains more words) and regaled the audience with plenty of couplets in praise of Allah and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and family relations. Zafar Mahmood too recited ghazals that were well received. Organizer and Chairman Obaid ur Rahman gave a brief detail of the Bihar Foundation and its activities while thanking all sponsors and those who helped organize this mushaira. HE urged all NRB's (non resident Biharis) to register with Bihar Foundation so they can get benefit of government schemes. He also praised the initiative taken by poet Pratapgarhi to open a school in his native city and urge people to support the poet in fulfilling his educational project. Saleem Pervaiz, deputy speaker of Bihar Assembly, was the guest of and he presented a memento to Pratapgarhi from the government of Bihar. Nadeem Tarin and Rashid Ali Sheikh, guest of honor, presented mementos to the sponsors Mohammed Rafeeq (Mumtaz Restaurant) Mohammed Shabaz Farooqui, General Secretary Bazme-e-Ittehad Syed Moazzam Ali, Al-Wefaq Shaheqa, Medina Hypermarkets. An audience of over 1,200 (both males and females) from all states of India enjoyed the mushaira in Daratul Amkeen Hall here. Niyaz Ahmed vice chairman Bihar Foundation proposed vote of thanks. Mir Firasat Ali Khusro conducted the proceedings of the mushaira, while Shahid Kaunain conducted the proceedings of the program.
