In a saddening turn of events, the literary world mourns the loss of the eminent Urdu poet Munawwar Rana, who breathed his last at the age of 71 on January 14, 2024, succumbing to a prolonged illness. Rana, who had been undergoing extensive treatment at Lucknow’s PGI Medical, finally succumbed to a cardiac arrest at 11:30 pm.

Born on November 26, 1952, in Raebareilly, Uttar Pradesh, Rana spent a significant portion of his life in Kolkata. His unique perspective and eloquence in expressing emotions, particularly centered around the theme of motherhood, set him apart in the world of Urdu poetry.

Rana’s contribution to Urdu literature was acknowledged with the prestigious Urdu Sahitya Academy Award in 2014, a testament to his mastery of the language and the depth of his poetic expressions. His notable work, “Muhazirnama,” a ghazal based on the Partition, gained widespread acclaim for its poignant portrayal of the human experience during those tumultuous times.

What set Rana’s ghazals apart was the seamless blend of Urdu and Awadhi language, creating a lyrical and melodic quality that resonated with audiences across linguistic boundaries. His commitment to his roots was evident in his vocal advocacy for the development of Uttar Pradesh, a cause he championed throughout his career.

Munawwar Rana’s passing marks the end of an era in Urdu poetry, leaving behind a legacy of profound verses that touched the hearts of many. As the literary community and his admirers come to terms with this loss, they remember him not just as a poet but as a storyteller who wove emotions into words, etching his name in the annals of Urdu literature.