Poet Elia: Beyond Viral Couplets, A Patriot's Soul

At the five-day Udeesha Literature Festival in Moradabad, a strong call was made to reintegrate serious literary reading and acknowledge poets within academic discourse. Poet and writer Muntazir Firozabadi delivered a lecture on the renowned Urdu poet Jaun Elia, detailing his literary depth, patriotism, and strong ties to western Uttar Pradesh.

Firozabadi argued that Elia's poetry, with its layers of thought, could only be fully understood through books, not just viral social media couplets. He recited Elia's verses to underscore his patriotic sentiments, stating that "Jaun sahab was a true patriot." This conviction fueled the argument for Elia's inclusion in academic syllabi across schools and colleges.

Recalling Elia's emotional bond with his hometown, Amroha, Firozabadi shared an incident where the poet rolled in the soil, symbolizing his love for the land. He advocated for treating books as living texts, not mere decorations, as unread knowledge fades. The festival itself, running until January 26, hosts diverse artists and thinkers, featuring sessions on various topics alongside cultural performances and exhibitions.

Moradabad Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh stated the festival's aim is to encourage cultural dialogue and provide a platform for both established and emerging voices. It also serves to highlight Moradabad's literary and artistic heritage on a national scale, fostering a richer understanding of poetry and literature.