Majrooh Sultanpuri - A Lifestory
Urdu'S Lyrical Voice, Weaving Emotions Into Timeless Poetry
Majrooh Sultanpuri, a towering figure in the world of Urdu poetry and Hindi film lyrics, was born as Asrar Hasan Khan in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, in 1919. He initially pursued a career in Unani medicine, even obtaining a degree. However, his passion for poetry soon eclipsed his medical aspirations. He adopted the pen name "Majrooh," meaning "wounded," reflecting the poignant and often melancholic themes explored in his work. His poetic talent was quickly recognized, and he began participating in mushairas (poetic symposiums), captivating audiences with his lyrical prowess and progressive views.
His foray into the world of Hindi cinema happened almost serendipitously. During a mushaira, he was noticed by producer A.R. Kardar, who, along with composer Naushad, invited him to write songs for the film Shahjehan (1946). This marked the beginning of a prolific and illustrious career that spanned over five decades. Majrooh Sultanpuri penned lyrics for hundreds of films, collaborating with legendary composers like S.D. Burman, R.D. Burman, LaxmikantPyarelal, and AnandMilind. His songs were known for their poetic depth, emotional resonance, and ability to capture the nuances of human relationships.
Beyond his contributions to film, Majrooh was a committed Marxist and a member of the Progressive Writers' Movement. His political beliefs often found expression in his poetry, leading to his imprisonment in 1949 for writing a poem critical of Jawaharlal Nehru. However, even behind bars, his spirit remained unbroken, and he continued to write. Majrooh Sultanpuri's impact on Urdu literature and Hindi cinema is undeniable. He received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1993, recognizing his lifetime achievements. He passed away in 2000, leaving behind a rich legacy of timeless songs and poems that continue to inspire and move generations.
