ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Today marks fifty years since the passing of the renowned and versatile Urdu poet, Saghar Siddiqui. Lovers of his poetry and literary work are commemorating his 50th death anniversary.
Born in 1928 in Ambala, India, Siddiqui was the only child of his parents. He spent his early years in Ambala and Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. A child prodigy, Siddiqui began writing poetry at a young age. At just 19, he migrated to Pakistan in 1947 and settled in Lahore. There, he was tutored at home by Habib Hassan, a family friend.
Siddiqui’s career saw him writing poetry for the film industry and publishing a literary magazine. Although the magazine was critically acclaimed, it struggled commercially and was eventually closed.
In the decade following his arrival in Pakistan, Siddiqui became disillusioned with the rampant corruption and nepotism that overshadowed genuine talent. Despite this, he continued to write, though much of his work remained unpublished and is now lost.
On July 19, 1974, the celebrated poet was found deceased on a roadside in Lahore, just 46 years old. Despite the struggles of his life, Siddiqui’s poetry remains some of the finest in Urdu literature. His verses continue to resonate deeply, even decades after his death.
Siddiqui’s poignant and evocative poetry continues to captivate and inspire, keeping his legacy alive in the hearts of many.
