Anwar Jalalpuri

Anwar Jalalpuri (1947–2018) was a distinguished Indian poet, scholar, and educator best known for his profound contributions to Urdu literature and his celebrated poetic translation of the Bhagavad Gita into Urdu verse. As a literary figure who promoted cultural and linguistic harmony, Jalalpuri’s work stands as a symbol of India’s composite heritage, bringing together the philosophical essence of Hindu scripture and the lyrical depth of Urdu poetry.

Early Life and Education

Anwar Jalalpuri was born in 1947 in Jalalpur, a town in the Ambedkar Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, India. His birth name, Anwar Ahmad, was complemented by his pen name Jalalpuri, derived from his native place.
From an early age, he displayed a keen interest in literature, philosophy, and languages. He pursued his formal education in Uttar Pradesh, developing a deep appreciation for Urdu and Persian poetry, as well as for Sanskrit literature and Indian philosophy. His interdisciplinary learning would later enable him to bridge cultural traditions through his literary works.

Literary Career and Works

Anwar Jalalpuri’s literary journey was characterised by a blend of linguistic elegance and philosophical reflection. A poet of classical sensibility, he composed ghazals, nazms, and rubaiyat that explored universal human values, spirituality, and moral introspection.
However, his most acclaimed work is Urdu Bhagavad Gita, a poetic translation of the Bhagavad Gita—one of Hinduism’s most sacred texts—into Urdu verse. This translation was not merely a linguistic exercise but a creative endeavour to express the spiritual wisdom of the Gita in a form accessible to Urdu readers.
Some of his other notable works include:

• “Rashtriya Ekta ke Sutra” (Threads of National Unity): A collection of essays and poems promoting interfaith harmony and national integration.
• “Talim aur Insaniyat” (Education and Humanity): Essays on moral education and human values.
• Numerous ghazals and rubaiyat published in Urdu literary journals across India and abroad.

His poetry reflects a fusion of Sufi mysticism, Vedantic philosophy, and humanist ideals, presenting a worldview that transcends religious boundaries.

Urdu Translation of the Bhagavad Gita

Anwar Jalalpuri’s translation of the Bhagavad Gita into Urdu verse is widely regarded as his magnum opus. Entitled “Urdu Shairi Mein Gita”, the work was published in 2011 and earned critical acclaim for its linguistic grace and fidelity to the philosophical depth of the original Sanskrit text.
In this work, Jalalpuri rendered all 700 shlokas (verses) of the Gita into rhymed Urdu poetry, maintaining both poetic rhythm and doctrinal clarity. His translation sought to make the teachings of Krishna accessible to Urdu-speaking audiences, promoting interreligious understanding and cultural dialogue.
He wrote in the preface that his aim was to “build a bridge between the Ganga-Jamuni traditions of India”—a reference to the historical synthesis of Hindu and Muslim cultures in North India.

Themes and Philosophy

The central themes in Anwar Jalalpuri’s work reflect his deep belief in universalism, spirituality, and human unity. Some recurring ideas include:

• Unity of Humanity: He advocated that all religions ultimately lead to the same truth, emphasising coexistence and compassion.
• Moral and Ethical Conduct: His writings often highlight righteousness (dharma), self-control, and the importance of education in building a just society.
• Cultural Harmony: Through his works, Jalalpuri sought to revive India’s composite cultural ethos, combining elements of Hindu, Muslim, and Sufi traditions.
• Spiritual Introspection: His poetry frequently explores the soul’s journey towards self-realisation and divine knowledge.

In his Urdu Bhagavad Gita, he interpreted Krishna’s teachings not through a sectarian lens, but as universal messages for all humankind, blending Sanskrit philosophy with the lyrical softness of Urdu expression.

Contribution to Education and Language

Apart from being a poet and translator, Anwar Jalalpuri was also an educator and linguist. He served as a professor of Urdu at a government college in Uttar Pradesh, where he dedicated his life to promoting Urdu literature and interfaith dialogue.
He advocated for education as a means of moral and intellectual enlightenment, encouraging students to engage with diverse literary and philosophical traditions. Through his teaching and writings, he emphasised the importance of Urdu as a language of culture, emotion, and national integration.

Recognition and Awards

Anwar Jalalpuri received several honours and accolades for his literary and social contributions:

• Padma Shri (2016): Awarded by the Government of India for his distinguished contribution to literature and education, particularly for his Urdu translation of the Bhagavad Gita.
• Recognised by the Sahitya Akademi and various Urdu literary bodies for promoting linguistic harmony.
• Honoured by cultural and educational institutions across India for his efforts in fostering communal amity through literature.

His Padma Shri marked official recognition of his pioneering work in bridging linguistic and cultural divides in Indian society.

Style and Literary Significance

Anwar Jalalpuri’s poetic style is marked by clarity, rhythm, and emotional depth. He drew inspiration from classical Urdu poets such as Mir Taqi Mir, Ghalib, and Iqbal, while infusing his verse with philosophical reflections reminiscent of Sanskrit and Persian traditions.
His language, though steeped in Urdu idiom, retained simplicity and accessibility, allowing readers from diverse backgrounds to engage with profound ideas. His works often combined metaphor, spiritual symbolism, and humanist philosophy, creating poetry that was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
By translating a sacred Hindu scripture into Urdu, Jalalpuri extended the tradition of interfaith dialogue once championed by poets such as Kabir, Rahim, and Iqbal, reaffirming literature’s power to unify diverse cultural voices.

Death and Legacy

Anwar Jalalpuri passed away on 2 January 2018 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, following a cardiac arrest. His death was widely mourned across literary and cultural circles, as India lost one of its most eloquent voices of communal harmony.
His legacy continues through his writings, which remain an enduring testament to India’s pluralistic and inclusive spirit. His Urdu Bhagavad Gita continues to be studied by scholars, students, and readers as a model of cross-cultural translation and literary synthesis.