Talib Dehlavi

Talib began writing poetry during his student days at Mission College (later St. Stephen's College). For guidance and reformation in poetry, he chose to be a student of his real uncle, Munshi Raj Bahadur Barak Dehlvi. Talib was not only an eloquent poet but also an excellent prose writer and translator.^[5] Due to financial comfort, he was freed from the hassles of employment. He worked with the monthly "Aaj Kal," the daily "Tej," and the American Reporter in Urdu as a hobby and pastime.^[6] Throughout his life, he was dedicated to the promotion of the Urdu language and served it without seeking reward or praise.^[7][8]

Not only did he contribute significantly as a poet, increasing the poetic capital of the Urdu language, but he also organized annual mushairas for twelve years in memory of his teacher, Munshi Barak Dehlvi, thereby setting a historical precedent for Urdu poetry in Delhi. There is hardly any notable poet or writer in India who has not participated in these mushairas or who has not presented a paper on Munshi Barak Dehlvi.^[9]

Talib Dehlavi authored several notable works. Here are some of his books:^[10]

• "Anwar-e-Nazar" (1965): A collection of his ghazals and poems.
• "Harf-e-Natamam" (1941): Another compilation of his poetic works.
• "Kashmeer Ki Sair" (1966): A travelogue that explores the beauty and culture of Kashmir.
• "Khadang-e-Naaz": A recitation collection.
• "Khumnistan-e-Kaifi" (1951): A book associated with the poet Kaifi Azmi.
• "Raag Rang": A poetic work.
• "Sabza-e-Begana" (1968): Yet another collection of his ghazals.
• "Ye Thi Dilli" (1975): A book that reflects on the city of Delhi.