The resplendent world of literature and poetry has yet again witnessed a momentous occasion with the announcement of the Jnanpith Award for the eminent wordsmith, Gulzar, in the Urdu language. This coveted recognition has stirred profound emotions in the heart of the veteran lyricist, prompting him to extend his heartfelt gratitude to his ardent admirers through a poignant video message.
Gulzar, a luminary in the realm of poetry and a maestro of lyrical finesse, expressed his sincere appreciation to all those who have contributed to his journey and bestowed upon him the esteemed Jnanpith Award. Reflecting on the significance of this accolade, he remarked, “I would like to thank all those people who chose me for the Jnanpith Award and also those people who listen to my poetry and Shayari in the Urdu language.”
In his moment of jubilation, Gulzar shared his delight at witnessing the enduring allure of Urdu poetry and Shayari. He expressed, “I was thinking that maybe it is because of the film and music, people are not aware of listening to poetry and Shayari. But, when the announcement of the Jnanpith Award came, I felt that people were still interested in listening to Urdu poetry and Shayari. I felt so happy.”
The 58th edition of the illustrious Jnanpith Award for the year 2023 has not only honored Gulzar for his contributions to Urdu literature but has also recognized Swami Rambhadracharya for his remarkable endeavors in Sanskrit, as proclaimed by the esteemed selection committee.
The accolades showered upon Gulzar are as abundant as they are deserved. With five National Film Awards, 22 Filmfare Awards, an Academy Award (2008), and a Grammy Award (2010) to his name, he has secured his place among the pantheon of literary luminaries. Notably, he was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in 2004, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013, and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2002, underscoring his unparalleled contributions to the world of arts and letters.
In addition to his illustrious cinematic and literary achievements, Gulzar’s creative genius transcends borders, as evidenced by his transcendent composition, “Teri Raza,” featured in a Pakistani drama titled “Shehryar Shehzadi,” sung by the acclaimed vocalist Rekha Bhardwaj.
The announcement of Gulzar’s triumph alongside Jagadguru Rambhadracharya in the annals of the Jnanpith Award on February 17th stands as a testament to their enduring legacies and profound contributions to their respective fields.
Sampooran Singh Kalra, known by his pen name Gulzar, occupies a hallowed position in the annals of Hindi cinema and Urdu poetry. Renowned for his lyrical prowess and artistic ingenuity, Gulzar has been lauded with numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career. His mastery of the Urdu language, coupled with his profound insights into the human condition, has endeared him to audiences far and wide.
Gulzar’s oeuvre is replete with timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences across generations. From the soul-stirring composition “Jai Ho” for the Academy Award-winning film “Slumdog Millionaire” to his evocative contributions to cinematic gems like “Maachis,” “Omkara,” “Dil Se…,” and “Guru,” his creative genius knows no bounds.
Beyond his sterling contributions to cinema, Gulzar’s directorial ventures such as “Koshish,” “Parichay,” “Mausam,” and “Ijaazat” have etched an indelible mark in the annals of Indian cinema. His magnum opus, the television serial “Mirza Ghalib,” remains a timeless testament to his directorial acumen and narrative finesse.
 In the realm of literature, Gulzar’s contributions are equally profound. He pioneered a new genre of poetry known as ‘Triveni,’ characterized by its succinct yet profound verses. Moreover, his foray into children’s poetry exemplifies his versatility and commitment to nurturing the literary sensibilities of future generations.
The Jnanpith Award stands as a beacon of literary excellence, honoring authors who have made seminal contributions to Indian literature. Established in 1961, this prestigious accolade recognizes the enduring legacy of writers who have enriched the cultural tapestry of the nation.
As the oldest and most prestigious literary award in India, the Jnanpith Award serves as a testament to the rich literary heritage of the country. By conferring this honor upon luminaries such as Gulzar and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, the award celebrates the transformative power of literature in shaping society and fostering cultural dialogue.
In conclusion, the recognition bestowed upon Gulzar and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya exemplifies the enduring legacy of Indian literature and the indelible impact of literary luminaries on the fabric of society. As we celebrate their achievements, let us also reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and preserving the rich tapestry of Indian literature for generations to come.
(With inputs from agencies)
