Heritales

Often hailed as the epitome of romance, Agra conceals within its ancient walls a treasure trove of fervent verses and resplendent poetry. If cities were pages of a book, Agra would undoubtedly be a masterpiece of poetry—encompassing centuries of tales, customs, and sentiments within its embrace. It’s the kind of poetry that evokes inexplicable emotions in its bustling streets yet leaves a serene aftermath. A muse that nurtures love and erects marvels like the Taj Mahal, Agra beckons to great minds, inspiring them with its vibrant persona. As Ghalib beautifully articulated, it’s a sight to behold—a spectacle immortalized in the lyrical compositions of literary luminaries such as Meer Taqi Meer, Abdul Rahim Khanakhana, Nazeer, Maikash Akbarabadi, and the legendary Mirza Ghalib.

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Established in 1504 by Sikandar Lodi of the Delhi Sultanate, Agra flourished under Mughal rule and was christened Akbarabad. Under Emperor Akbar’s reign, known for his ethos of secularism and religious harmony, Agra became a melting pot of diverse cultures and beliefs. This harmonious blend is palpable in the city’s architecture, culinary heritage, local communities, and notably, its linguistic tapestry adorned with poetic metaphors and witty idioms.

As you embark on an extraordinary journey through the old city, prepare to unravel its clandestine narratives woven by the wordsmiths who once called Agra home. Organized by Sahapedia as part of its esteemed initiative, ‘India Heritage Walks,’ this poetic sojourn on December 15 promises to unveil the soul-stirring poetry of Agra while traversing its time-worn alleys and exploring its cultural nuances.

Channeling the spirit of poet Meer Taqi Meer, immerse yourself in Agra’s distinctive legacy as you wander through its labyrinthine streets, adorned with ancient temples, grand havelis, and majestic ruins, each echoing tales of grandeur, tolerance, and unity. Guiding you on this enlightening odyssey is Agra native, Anal Jha—a multifaceted artist, musician, and poet, whose passion for Hindi and Urdu poetry has been a source of solace in times of adversity.

In the labyrinthine corridors of literary exploration, Anal found himself grappling with the enigmatic world of poets—a realm adorned with myriad styles and genres, each weaving tales from disparate landscapes. Despite warnings echoing the sentiments of ancient patriarchs, cautioning against the intoxicating allure of poetry as a deviation from the path of reason and truth, Anal remained steadfast in his pursuit. Immersed in the melodious cadence of Jagjit Singh and Ghulam Ali, he found solace in the verses of Ghalib, Nazir, and Meer, each offering glimpses of a world tinged with longing and nostalgia.

Now, as you traverse the hallowed streets of old Agra, let Anal be your guide through the tapestry of poetic genius that adorns this historic city. Delve into the diverse genres and styles of each poet, unraveling the layers of cultural legacy preserved within their verses. From the bold and evocative prose of Nazeer Akbarwadi to the intricate philosophical metaphors of Meer, each poet bears witness to the pulse and rhythms of their era.

Discover the soul-stirring Hindu poems of Abdul Rahim Khanakhana, resonating with timeless wisdom and spiritual fervor. Immerse yourself in the haunting melodies of Ghalib and the ethereal compositions of Sufi poet Maikash Akabarabadi, each verse a testament to the enduring power of poetic expression.

As you walk in the footsteps of these literary luminaries, let their words guide you through the hidden alleys and forgotten corners of old Agra, where every brick and cobblestone bears witness to the passion and poetry of generations past. Let their verses breathe life into the ancient streets, painting a portrait of a world steeped in beauty, longing, and timeless grace.

Commencing at 5 pm from Jama Masjid, the three-hour exploration will lead you to Kala Mahal, the birthplace of the esteemed poet Ghalib, where the essence of his formative years lingers. En route, you’ll visit the ancestral homes of Rahim and Meer, gaining insights into their lives and poetic legacies. Pause at the revered Maikash Akbarabadi’s Tomb, as Faiz Ali Shah Niyazi, his great-grandson, sheds light on his profound contributions to the Urdu language. Join Professor Prem Shankar, a distinguished Hindi scholar from the Dayal Bagh Educational Institute, as he delves into the poetic realm of Agra’s luminaries. Witness the artistry of calligrapher and poet, Sala Uddin Sahab, as he breathes life into these timeless verses. Conclude your expedition by engaging with contemporary poet Nadeem Sahab, who draws inspiration from Agra’s enduring allure.

Embark on this enchanting voyage through Agra’s poetic heritage, where each step unveils a verse, igniting the poet within you. As Maikash Akbarabadi aptly proclaimed: