56th Shankar-Shad Mushaira: Some traditions hold their ground no matter how much time passes and some legacies remain just as cherished as they were when they first began. The Shankar-Shad Mushaira is one such legacy, an evening where poetry finds its truest expression, words carry emotions and the beauty of Urdu literature comes to life. For those who have an ear for Shayari, this gathering is an experience to be treasured, one that poets and lovers of verse have celebrated since its inception in 1954.
The Vision Behind Shankar-Shad Mushaira
It began with Lala Shri Ram, a man who understood that poetry was not just about writing, but about bringing people together, preserving culture and giving voice to emotions. The founder of DCM conglomerate believed that literature was not confined to books but was a living, breathing force that connected generations. The vision, brought together some of the greatest literary minds of his time, Josh Malihabadi, Shankar Prasad, Prof. Mujeeb, Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, V. Shankar, and K.G. Syed to create something that would stand the test of time. Their collective efforts led to the formation of the Shankar Lall Murli Dhar Memorial Society, named after Shankar Lall ‘Shankar’ and Lala Murli Dhar ‘Shad’, two esteemed Urdu poets of the Delhi School and from that moment, the Shankar-Shad Mushaira was born, an annual event that would become an essential part of the world of Urdu poetry, standing today as the longest running public Mushiara.
Over the years, this stage has welcomed some of the greatest poets from both India and Pakistan, each leaving their mark with verses that still resonate with audiences today. Even during times of political divide, the spirit of the Mushaira never faded. After a brief hiatus, in 2006, with the firm support of DCM Shriram Industries Ltd, the tradition was revived once again, ensuring that this celebration of poetry continued to bring people together.
A Celebration Of Timeless Poetry
Now, as 5th April 2025 approaches, we once again gather for the 56th Shankar-Shad Mushaira. This year’s gathering promises to be as captivating as ever, featuring some of the finest Shayar’s of our time. The evening will be guided once again by Mr Iqbal Ashhar, whose eloquence and deep understanding of Shayari makes him the perfect host. Among those confirmed to share their latest works are Javed Akhtar, known for his thought-provoking poetry, Prof. Waseem Barelvi, a poet and lyricist whose words have shaped both literature and cinema, Azhar Iqbal and Nomaan Shauque, whose works reflect both modern sensibilities and deep-rooted traditions, Dr Gauhar Raza, a poet who expertly blends intellect with emotion, Sheen Kaaf Nizam, whose mastery over words is sublime, and Dr Popular Meeruthi, whose poetry balances humour with profound insight.
Adding further richness to the evening will be Ms Shabeena Adeeb, whose ghazals and nazms have touched the hearts of many and Ms Aleena Itrat, a powerful new voice in contemporary Urdu poetry, Mr Khushbir Singh Shaad and Dr Nusrat Mehdi known for their deeply evocative and moving shayari.
The Soul Of Delhi’s Cultural Fabric
For decades, the Shankar-Shad Mushaira has been a meeting ground for poets across generations, where emerging voices find a space alongside literary legends and every verse carries the weight of history while offering a glimpse into the future. Through the years, it has received the patronage of some of the most influential figures, including Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, and, of course, the descendants of Lala Shri Ram, Lala Murli Dhar, and Lala Bansi Dhar, who have together ensured that this tradition remains a significant part of Delhi’s cultural fabric.
Reflecting on the importance of this event, Sh. Madhav Bansidhar Shriram, Chairman of the Shankar Lall Murli Dhar Society and Managing Director of DCM Shriram Industries Limited, spoke of the deep-rooted connection between Delhi and Urdu, “Urdu is the soul of Delhi, it was the language of the royal courts, the voice of poets, and the expression of it’s people. Our family has been a part of this city for over a century and our bond with Urdu has only grown stronger with time.” He recalled a conversation with the legendary Ahmed Faraz, who once told him, “A city is not just made of bricks and mortar. It is it’s people, it’s culture, it’s arts and it’s heritage that give it life. Delhi, in every sense, embodies this.”
As 5th April 2025 draws closer, poetry lovers from across the country and beyond eagerly await an evening where words will paint emotions and stories will be shared with an audience that truly understands their depth. Under the soft glow of nostalgia and admiration, voices will rise, carrying forward a tradition that has lasted for generations. The Shankar-Shad Mushaira is an emotion, a jazbaat and a gathering of hearts bound by the love of poetry.
For those who hold Urdu Shayari close to their hearts, this is an evening not to be missed. The tradition continues and the stage is set once more.