Islamabad (Web Desk): The 17th death anniversary of renowned Urdu poet Ahmed Faraz is being observed today (Monday).
Born on January 12, 1931, his birth name was Syed Ahmad Shah. Early in his literary journey, he adopted the pen name Ahmad Shah Kohati, but later changed it to Ahmed Faraz on the advice of the iconic poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz.
Faraz began writing poetry during his student life, and his debut collection titled Tanha Tanha was published while he was still pursuing his graduation.
Over the years, he brought a new vibrancy to Urdu poetry, enriching the language with his expressive and accessible style.
He authored numerous poetry collections, including Jana Jana, Pas-e-Andaz-e-Mausam, Nayaft, Be Awaaz Gali Kuchon Mein, Sab Awazain Meri Hain, and Ghazal Bahana Karun.
Faraz is celebrated as one of the most significant voices in modern Urdu literature, widely admired for the graceful simplicity and emotional depth of his verse.
Throughout his illustrious career, he received several prestigious honours from the government of Pakistan, among them the Adamjee Literary Award, the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, and the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, in acknowledgment of his contributions to Urdu literature.
Ahmed Faraz passed away on August 25, 2008. He was laid to rest in Islamabad. His poetry continues to inspire readers and admirers across generations.
