goggly

Almost 10-12 years ago, on the eve of India/ Pakistan independence day, ZEE TV had organized a show by inviting people from both the countries. Participants comprised of Poets, Journalists, Politicians and General people. The program started in very cordial atmosphere but ended with utter confusion and chaos. Spirited individuals bitten by jingoistic national spirit started trading charges against each other. Amidst all that din, there was this poet from Pakistan who captivated me with his lines of अब के बिछडे हैं तो शायद कभी ख्वाबों में मिले, जिस तरह सूखे हुए फूलकिताबों में (After this separation, we may meet only in our dreams, like wilted flowers within the pages of a book). He was realistic to identify himself with Pakistan yet felt strongly about his Indian connection. I didn't read much about Ahmed Faraz except seeing him occasionally in the media। The news of his death made me read some of his poetry but it also led to another poet who made huge impact on me with his simpl...