Happy birthday, Gulzar! Here are the popular poet's top books
Gulzar is one of the most notable and coveted poets, authors, lyricists, and screenwriters and has dazzled the Hindi and Urdu cinema with his vision that touches one's heart. A recipient of many reputed national and international accolades, his sensitive and lyrical compositions are truly timeless. On his birthday, let us acknowledge his five best books ever.
'Mirza Ghalib: A Biographical Scenario'
Mirza Ghalib: A Biographical Scenario is one of the most precious and beautiful works by Gulzar. Readers around the world have it that Ghalib's life, even though it is not something too happy, in Gulzar's words it is nothing short of an Urdu connoisseur's delight. It is comprehensive, beautifully narrated, and a paradise for all those who romance poetry.
'100 Lyrics'
This fine print is an escapade into the world of music for those who have been a fan of Gulzar's choicest compositions and lyrics. From his first song Mora gora ang lai le sung by legend Lata Mangeshkar to the Oscar-winning Jai Ho, it has some of the most classic and popular song lyrics from his five-decades-long career.
'Two'
Awakening, thought-provoking, and moving are the first few words that spring into our minds when we speak of this book. Two was Gulzar's first-ever novel. It talks about the Partition and how it affected the lives of common people. It is a powerful read that highlights the tragedy of how people could never find another home owing to the constant unrest.
'Baaghbaan'
Baaghbaan is the coming together of Gulzar and Rabindranath Tagore. Drawing inspiration from the latter's poems, the former offer a beautiful and unique insight into Bengal with his heart-touching words and translations. All in all, it is worth reading, especially for those who are interested in poetry and literature in equal measure. Check out more such book recommendations.
'Footprints on Zero Line: Writings on the Partition'
Here's another fantastic read on Partition. In this book published in 2017, he shares his personal experiences and the horrors he witnessed during the tragic event. Even decades later, the author feels the consequences of the Partition and how it is still affecting his life and that of others too. It also serves as a reminder for the modern world to not repeat it.
