Selected Poems

by गुलज़ार, Pavan K. Varma (Translator)

Gulzar, one of India' finest film-makers and lyricists, has always been a poet at heart. His oeuvre is steeped in a poetic sensibility, marked by a lyricism rare in the world of Hindi cinema. Born in 1934, Gulzar's journey as a poet began with the Progressive Writers' Movement. Today, he is regarded as one of India's foremost Urdu Poets, unparalleled in his exploration of human relationships and the insights and sensitivity with which he addresses the many facets of daily life.

Whether evoking an abiding nostalgia for yesterday (The Heart Seeks), lamenting the lack of time to spend with a beloved (A Day to Spend), or composing an elegy for a tree uprooted by a storms (Amaltas), Gulzar poetry reflects his keen observation of life and the environment around him.

Without in any way compromising on artistry or lyricism, his poems incorporate the mundane and the everyday to create vivid images, like in Clothes, where the act of washing and drying clothes becomes a metaphor for a relationship gone wrong, or Monsoon which draws an unforgettable parallel between the rainwater gushing through streets and young children returning home victorious in a match.

Genres: Poetry, Indian Literature

116 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

ग़ुलज़ार नाम से प्रसिद्ध सम्पूर्ण सिंह कालरा (जन्म-१८ अगस्त १९३६)[1] हिन्दी फिल्मों के एक प्रसिद्ध गीतकार हैं। इसके अतिरिक्त वे एक कवि, पटकथा लेखक, फ़िल्म निर्देशक तथा नाटककार हैं। उनकी रचनाए मुख्यतः हिन्दी, उर्दू तथा पंजाबी में हैं, परन्तु ब्रज भाषा, खङी बोली, मारवाड़ी और हरियाणवी में भी इन्होने रचनाये की। गुलजार को वर्ष २००२ में सहित्य अकादमी पुरस्कार और वर्ष २००४ में भारत सरकार द्वारा दिया जाने वाला तीसरे सर्वोच्च नागरिक सम्मान पद्म भूषण से भी सम्मानित किया जा चुका है। वर्ष २००९ में डैनी बॉयल निर्देशित फिल्म स्लम्डाग मिलियनेयर में उनके द्वारा लिखे गीत जय हो के लिये उन्हे सर्वश्रेष्ठ गीत का ऑस्कर पुरस्कार पुरस्कार मिल चुका है। इसी गीत के लिये उन्हे ग्रैमी पुरस्कार से भी सम्मानित किया जा चुका है।

गुलज़ार का जन्म भारत के झेलम जिला पंजाब के दीना गाँव में, जो अब पाकिस्तान में है, १८ अगस्त १९३६ को हुआ था। गुलज़ार अपने पिता की दूसरी पत्नी की इकलौती संतान हैं। उनकी माँ उन्हें बचपन में ही छोङ कर चल बसीं। माँ के आँचल की छाँव और पिता का दुलार भी नहीं मिला। वह नौ भाई-बहन में चौथे नंबर पर थे। बंट्वारे के बाद उनका परिवार अमृतसर (पंजाब, भारत) आकर बस गया, वहीं गुलज़ार साहब मुंबई चले गये। वर्ली के एक गेरेज में वे बतौर मेकेनिक काम करने लगे और खाली समय में कवितायें लिखने लगे। फ़िल्म इंडस्ट्री में उन्होंने बिमल राय, हृषिकेश मुख़र्जी और हेमंत कुमार के सहायक के तौर पर काम शुरू किया। बिमल राय की फ़िल्म बंदनी के लिए गुलज़ार ने अपना पहला गीत लिखा। गुलज़ार त्रिवेणी छ्न्द के सृजक हैं।

गुलजार द्वारा लिखे गए पुस्तकों की सूची-

चौरस रात (लघु कथाएँ, 1962)
जानम (कविता संग्रह, 1963)
एक बूँद चाँद (कविताएँ, 1972)
रावी पार (कथा संग्रह, 1997)
रात, चाँद और मैं (2002)
रात पश्मीने की
खराशें (2003)

Sampooran Singh Kalra (Punjabi: ਸਮਪੂਰਨ ਸਿੰਘ ਕਾਲਰਾ, Hindi: संपूरण सिंह कालरा, Urdu: سمپورن سنگھ کالرا) known popularly by his pen name Gulzar (Punjabi: ਗੁਲਜ਼ਾਰ, Hindi: गुलज़ार, Urdu: گُلزار ), is an Indian poet, lyricist and director. He primarily writes in Hindi-Urdu and has also written in Punjabi and several dialects of Hindi such as Braj Bhasha, Khariboli, Haryanvi and Marwari.

Gulzar was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2004 for his contribution to the arts and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2002. He has won a number of National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards. In 2009, he won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Jai Ho" in the film Slumdog Millionaire (2008). On 31 January 2010, the same song won him a Grammy Award in the category of Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media.

Gulzar's poetry is partly published in three compilations: Pukhraj, Raat Pashminey Ki and Pandrah Paanch Pachattar. His short stories are published in Raavi-paar (also known as Dustkhat in Pakistan) and Dhuan).

Reviews

[Mrinal Bhatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

gulzaar sahab is the best..words can not define the epitome of gulzaar sahab.
Sham se aankh mein nami si hai
aj phir aap ke kami si hai
dafn kar do hamen ki sans mile
nabz kuch der se thami si hai
waqt rehta nahi kaheen chupakar
is ke aadat bhi aadmi si hai
koi rishta nahi raha phir bhi
ek taslim lazami si hai

[Zeenat Perween · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read poems. When it comes to reading Hindi poems I like it the most. Moreover, the poems of Guljar includes some Urdu words also that makes his poems even better. The choice of themes by him is simply good. His treatment of subjects and the way he represents his ideas in fewer words but proving great ideas. His songs are also good.
What I can say is simply best!

[Selva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gulzar needs no introduction. But his poems and film lyrics have been alien to me coz my Hindi is not that good. This book is a collection of his Hindi/Urdu poems written over a period of time and translated into English by Pavan K. Verma. It has 93 poems on a variety of subjects and I think the translator has done a good job. They weren't like film lyrics and neither were they that difficult to understand. Except maybe one or two poems that left me underwhelmed, liked all the others. Recommended if you like poetry or even if you are looking for a collection to start delving into poetry.

[Simran Kaur​ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most of my childhood days had been spent listening beautiful songs written by Gulzar Sahab and composed by R.D. Burman. This duo has a special place in my heart and memory that will remain evergreen. Infact, Gulzar sahab's deep and meaningful lyrics inspired me during initial days of my writing and it still does when I feel sombre. This book is definitely a treat to all poetry lovers. I wrote down my favorite ones in a diary :)
There is a feel, there is a pinch and then a balm...as you read it.

[Nirav · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that can everyone who understands Hindi can read. Such simplicity, such amazing choice of words and small observations which you could miss. I rather preferred reading the poems in Hindi than English. But kudos to Pavan Varma who has translated the poems in a way that is as simple as Gulzar's originals. As Gulzar Sahab said, he's another Pluto in the solar system.

[Aishwary Mehta (The_Fugitive_Biker) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quote from the Book I Liked - “आओ सारे पहन लें आइने
सारे देखेंगे अपना ही चेहरा
सबको सारे हसीं लगेंगे यहां।” (Page 100)

Rating - 4/5

About The Book - This was my 1st poetry book by Gulzar which left me wondering about the beauty in everything. Gulzar, being one of the greatest poets of the Era has a thing with observation. He can write in general from Love to the day to day things like Bonfire (which turns out to be one of my favourites). This book makes you remember how beautiful life and the surrounding is and how in every nook and corner of your life you can find happiness and a story prevailing, yet to be observed and discovered.

Among all the Poetry he wrote in this book, My favourites are -

1. किताबें / Books

2. दोस्त / Friend

3. अलाव / Bonfire

4. नज़्म / Poem

Verdict - Definitely go for it. It's got some of his best works and the translation is on the mark. Even reading the English Translation gives the same feel as Hindi.

Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker

[Ashok Rao · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always been a fan of Gulzar saab's poem. The best thing about this selection is, each and every poem is a gem.

[Ashish · Rating 4 out of 5]

After my recent fiasco with Neruda's verses, I had to bank on Gulzarsaab to reinforce my belief and reassure me when it came to poetry, and boy does he not disappoint. I was somewhat limited by my lack of proficiency in reading Hindi but the copy I read had the translations in-recto and it made my job much easier when I encountered some word or phrase that I couldn't get.

I am sure that enough has been written about the genius of the poet and I feel I am not qualified enough to add much to it. He writes about a number of things from unrequited love to nature to books and numerous other topics under the sun and maintains a sense of beauty and lyrical genius in all of them. I had the pleasure of attending one of his recitations live where he read some poems and some of Manto's works (along with Javed Akhtar) and he is as mesmerizing in person as he comes across in his words. He writes in the Hindustani that is a treat to read and listen to and has motivated me to pick up more Hindi books.

[Priya · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute delight to read, with the wonderful translations adding to the experience.
But I enjoyed reading the original words and marveled at how such simple topics could evoke this depth of meaning.
My favourite was the first one called किताबें which very beautifully told of the associations that books and reading have for many of us.
Each of the poems is a treasure, be it about a mountain lamenting that humans have become stone hearted in their treatment of nature or the plight of a paper boat meandering in the rain water and wondering if it has a shore too.
The long poem about the 1857 revolt was so wonderfully penned and meaningful.

A collection to be treasured.

[Bindu Reddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish everyone would read Gulzar. His poems are really short, powerfully symbolic and expansive in themes. No topic that evocates passion escapes this shrewd eye. From romantic love to socio economic issues, Gulzar is one rare poet who strives to live in the present times unlike the temptations of a poet to always speak fondly of the past.
I am fond of how he often he mentions the art of writing and his love for books in his poems.

[Debalina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some were his best usual, not all. The translations were mostly disappointing. But still Gulzar... I will always read you, no matter what.

Happy reading! :)

[Divyansh Thakur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gulzar is a magician, his words, draw upon the fabric of your very existence and hold your heart captive.
Triveni is eloquently woven stories stringed in three lines.
Indigenous to the subcontinent, his words are boundaryless. A must read.

[Yamini Ahluwalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such eloquent words and a world of meaning... Gulzar delights and amazes. An amazing job done by the translator, Pavan Varma.

[Harshal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dont think I am qualified enough to comment on this book

[Aathira Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful collection of poetry. Most are short and to the point and I finished the book in an hour's time.

[Linus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who don't like Gulzar Poems!!
A living legend.

[Khushi Rungta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sampooran Singh Kalra, known by his pen name Gulzar, an Oscar-winning director, and lyricist, is today regarded as an unparalleled and pre-eminent Indian poet.

“Aao hum sab pehen le aaine… Saare dekhenge apna hi chehra
Sabko saare haseen lagenge yahan…
Hai nahin jo dikhai deta hai… Aaine par chhapa hua chehra
Tarjuma aaine ka theek nahin”

Gulzar explores human relationships and addresses the many facets of daily life, with ultra sensitivity and keen observation. He reminds us how beautiful life is and how in every nook and corner of our life we can find happiness and a story existing, yet to be recognized.
Selected Poems by Gulzar is a compilation of 40+ poems by the poet in Hindi, and transcends the language barrier by providing the English translations by Pavan K Varma.
The book consists of some of the author’s best works. Diverse themes like – Birth, death, grief, unrequited love, separation, etc. are all apprehended exquisitely. His poems, also talk about the torments faced by mother earth and the callous nature of humans.
Although all of his poems are jewels, however the very first one, Kitaabe, struck a different chord with me. It throws light on the current situation of books and its place in people’s life. Though eBooks are available but the warmth and closeness of a hard copy can never be substituted. The concluding part is a true reflection of how books not only provide us with wisdom but often play a key role in initiating relationships. Now we can’t obviously hide love letters in an I Pad.
“Bosky,” “Girhe,” “Budiya re,” “Friend,” grasps the fragile bonds and relationships. “Triveni” is another beautiful thread from his thoughts.
Love is the most common topic for every poem, but Gulzar has the ability to stir up the emotions in the reader’s heart like no one else. He transports us to his lyrical world full of contentment and passion. गुलज़ार

[Parth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorites:

Seasons
गौर से देखना बहारों में
पिछले मौसम के भी निशाँ होंगे
कोंपलों की उदास आँखों में
आँसुओं की नमी बची होगी।

Look closely; in the midst of spring
There will be traces of seasons gone by
In the sorrowful eyes of opening buds
Will be the moistness of tears not yet dry.


A Day to Spend
बड़ी हसरत है पूरा एक दिन इक बार मैं
अपने लिए रख लूं,
तुम्हारे साथ पूरा एक दिन
बस खर्च
करने की तमन्ना है !!

I yearn to have
A full day to myself, if only for once
And to spend that one full day with you
Is what I truly desire.


The Heart Seeks
बर्फ़ीली सर्दियों की किसी रात में कभी
जाकर उसी पहाड़ के पहलू में बैठकर
वादी में गूंजती हुई खामोशियां सुनें
'दिल ढूंढ़ता है फिर वही फ़ुर्सत के रात-दिन
बैठे रहें तसव्युर-ए-जानां किए हुए

On some cold snowy night perhaps
To sit again in the embrace of that mountain
And listen to the silence echoing in the valley
The heart seeks again those moments of leisure
When all day and night we just sat thinking of the beloved.


Distance
तू इतनी करीब है कि तुझे देखूं तो कैसे,
थोड़ी सी अलग हो तो तेरे चहरे को देखूँ।।

You are so close that i cannot see you.
Move away a little, so i can see your face.


Poem
कब से बैठा हुआ हूँ मैं जानम
सादे काग़ज़ पे लिखके नाम तेरा
बस तेरा नाम ही मुकम्मल है
इससे बेहतर भी नज़्म क्या होगी

Long have I waited , my beloved,
To write your name on a sheet of white paper
Your name is enough, complete
What better poem can there be?


Portrait of a Poet
अपनी ही साँसों का कैदी
रेशम का यह शायर एक दिन
अपने ही तागों में घुटकर मर जायेगा

A Priosoner of his own breath
This poet of silken sounds will one day die
Choked by his own threads.


Drizzle
कितनी आवाजें हैं, ये लोग हैं, बातें हैं मगर
ज़हन के पीछे किसी और ही सतह पे कहीं
जैसे चुपचाप बरसता है तसव्वुर तेरा

Amidst all the noise, the people, and so many voices
In the depth of my thoughts, at another level somewhere
I think of you like the rain, falling silently.

[Ramesh Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a God sent opportunity that I was able to attend a poetry recitation event by गुलज़ार साहब. Believe you me, it certainly is a different experience than listening to lyrics penned by him for movies. First of all, the man dons only white and that too Snow White which almost blisters your eyes in addition to creating an aura around him. Have read few of his works. Posting one which is my favorite one.

All the poems in this are gems. Take the first one. किताबें. It is true reflection of dire state of books and its place in people’s life in present context. Reading habit is dying fast. Concluding part of this poem will steal your heart. Though electronic form like Kindle is available but charm, warmth, closeness to contents felt in a hard copy can never be substituted. Do we need to lick our finger to turn pages in Kindle 😕😊?

Let us see second one, कायनात or Universe. Poet reminds or so to say emphasizes power hidden in words, sentences and books. His creative imagination of Sun extinguishing its flame and it getting reignited by touch of a poem is just out of this world.

One may find other poems equally good and stimulating. Even those who are not into poetry may too like it.

Happy Reading.

[Pooja · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the fact that I could weave something so simple into my mundane routine and make it glorious. Gulzar sahab's words are not a complex web of multiple thought threads, and therein lies the magic. He talks about this one thing as though it's just laying there, in front of him and he's making observations. Didn't really connect to all the poems. However, the ones I connected to are really close to my heart. They've transported me into his lyrical world, like incredible pieces of musical compositions and shown me things that have been, and could be.

[Parth Pandya · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can one say about Gulzar sahab? Having followed his work in movies and ghazals for years, it was a pleasure to find some other poems that I had not read before. I can't comment on the quality of the translation since I didn't really read them. There are some poems that I would have omitted because thematically they are similar to others in the book. This is a book you open in solitude and just let the words soak in.

[Amrita · Rating 5 out of 5]

The very first book I've read on Hindi poems!
I think the poems are understandable (if not easy) enough for someone who is not fluent in reading hindi.
I have to admit that I had to read through the poems a couple of times to actually make sense of the more difficult words but the english translation helped a lot. I liked that both the languages were side by side which helped me read through the poems.
5 stars to this amazing set of poems :)

[Rani Gupta · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really like his poems but I don't know why they are so attracted towards Urdu. Even his pen name reflects the Urdu combination. Moreover, our consultation strictly tells Hindi should be inspired from Sanskrit then it will be recognised as true Hindi. But I don't why they are sticking to these maybe because the hypocrisy of Bollywood.

[Rhythima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Takes me back to childhood where I used to read Tennyson and forget that The Brook is actually not a living person. These poems have sheer purity and expression of love, sorrow, and any form of affection.

[Teenu Vijayan · Rating 4 out of 5]

wonderful book filled with his magical words! I love the aesthetics of this book, one page in hindi and the next page with an apt English translation. I am marvelled at the ease with which the translations make sense.

[Rachna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had expected some high brow stuff but the poems were simple with vivid imagery and some nostalgic. The first one about books was something I could relate to so well. The translation is spot on giving you the opportunity to enjoy the poems twice

[Khevana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the poem that he has dedicated to Naseeruddin Shah. That stole the show.
Apart from that, I loved the one about a paperboat in the rain, the one about the Bonfire, A day to spend... Loved the book!

[Mehul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not pretentious at all. I like.

[Rahul · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is where you realize the power of words and the beauty they are capable of creating.

[Raghavendra Rajput · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice collection

Best collection of poems by Gulzar shab. Joyful and happy. One of the best poem writer in present era .