The 56th Shankar-Shad Mushaira Illuminates Delhi
The capital witnessed an unforgettable celebration of language, culture, and literary artistry as the 56th Shankar-Shad Mushaira unfolded at Modern School, Barakhamba Road. Organised by the Shankar Lall Murli Dhar Memorial Society in collaboration with DCM Shriram Industries Ltd., this iconic Urdu poetry event once again reaffirmed its place as a cherished cultural fixture in Delhi’s vibrant literary calendar.
Since its inception in 1954, the Shankar-Shad Mushaira has served as a beacon for both legendary poets and emerging voices, keeping the rich tradition of Urdu shayari alive across generations. This year, the auditorium was packed with poetry lovers of all ages—long before the first verse was recited, every seat was filled, and the air buzzed with anticipation.
The evening was gracefully hosted by acclaimed poet and anchor Iqbal Ashhar, whose warmth set the tone for a soulful gathering. Among the poetic luminaries who took the stage were Javed Akhtar, Prof. Waseem Barelvi, Azhar Iqbal, Nomaan Shauque, Dr. Gauhar Raza, Dr. Popular Meeruthi, Shabeena Adeeb, Khushbir Singh Shaad, Aleena Itrat, Sheen Kaaf Nizam, and Nusrat Mehdi. Each poet brought their own rhythm and resonance—offering verses on love, longing, identity, resilience, and reflection.
Javed Akhtar, whose presence drew audible admiration, shared, “Poetry doesn’t need to be complex. Its power lies in simplicity that speaks to the soul.”
Prof. Waseem Barelvi added with warmth, “The Delhi audience always makes me feel like I’m among friends. Their energy reminds me why we write—to connect, to comfort, and to express the unspoken.”
A notable highlight of this year’s edition was the debut of the Shankar-Shad Shayari Contest, aimed at encouraging young poets to share their original work with a wider audience. Winners Gourav Kumar (Jammu & Kashmir), Piyush Agnihotri (Lucknow), and Rumaisa Rehman (Delhi) were honoured on stage, their verses full of emotion, promise, and a contemporary voice that resonated deeply.
Sh. Madhav Bansidhar Shriram, Chairman of the Shankar Lall Murli Dhar Society and Managing Director of DCM Shriram Industries Ltd., reflected on the event’s cultural importance:
“The Mushaira brings together diverse voices that speak one language—emotion. It is a celebration of our shared heritage and an ode to the poetic spirit that unites generations.”
From students and educators to scholars, artists, and first-time attendees, the gathering was a true cross-section of Delhi’s culturally curious. In hushed moments between recitations, the audience whispered favourite lines to one another or jotted them down, eager to hold onto the magic.
As the final couplets echoed through the hall, no one rushed to leave. The night lingered in hearts and minds—a reminder of the enduring power of poetry to move, to heal, and to bring us together.
