TODAY (Sept 23) marks the 20th anni- versary of the death of Syed Masoodul Hasan Tabish Dehlvi (1911-2004), who is remembered as a classical poet and professional broad- caster with civility and humility being the main features of his personna.

Tabish was a connoisseur of Urdu literature, and his splendid association with literature left a long-lasting impression on the minds of the people. Urdu ghazal would never attain the same exalted status that it had achieved in Tabish’s dominion.

When the progressive movement in a way undermined the significance of Urdu ghazal, it was Tabish who defied the trend. He always kept up the cause of Urdu ghazal, underlining its importance at every possible opportunity. He remained firm alongside classical poets, like Fa’ani, Yagana, Asghar, Jigar and Hasrat.

As a broadcaster and newsreader, Tabish had a full-fledged carrier (1941-72), which started from All-India Radio, and continued with Radio Pakistan after 1947.

His narration, voice, pronunciation, pauses, and knowledge of current affairs and history got due acknowledgement from his colleagues, including luminaries like N.M. Rashid, Meera Ji, Manto, Ansar Nasri and Shahid Dehlvi.

Always respected and admired for his civility across the borad, Tabish was a man of principles and character.

Asmat Zehra
Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2024