Send us a text Gulzar, born Sampooran Singh Kalra on August 18, 1934, in Dina village in the Jhelum district, stands as one of the most distinguished figures in Indian literature and cinema. He is regarded as one of the greatest Urdu poets of this era, with a multifaceted career spanning poetry, film lyrics, screenwriting, and direction. The trauma of India's partition in 1947 profoundly shaped his worldview and creative sensibilities. Seeking to pursue his literary dreams, he moved to Bombay (now Mumbai), where he worked in a family business while writing poetry in his spare time. His involvement with the Progressive Writers' Association proved transformative, introducing him to literary luminaries and filmmakers who would change the course of his life. Gulzar directed films such as ‘Aandhi’ and ‘Mausam’ during the 1970s, establishing himself as a filmmaker of rare sensitivity. His cinema was characterized by lyrical storytelling, psychological depth, and innovative use of flashbacks to explore human relationships. His television work, particularly the acclaimed serial ‘Mirza Ghalib’ in the 1980s, demonstrated his mastery as both writer and director, bringing the legendary poet's life to audiences with remarkable authenticity. Beyond cinema, Gulzar has maintained a distinguished literary career. His writing style is noted for its directness, emotional honesty, and freedom from conventional constraints of meter and rhyme, creating a distinctive voice that eschews ornate rhetoric for simple, powerful expression. Gulzar has won 5 Indian National Film Awards, 22 Filmfare Awards, one Academy Award, and one Grammy. His song ‘Jai Ho’ from Slumdog Millionaire won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 81st Academy Awards. He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2002, the Padma Bhushan in 2004, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award—India's highest honor in cinema. In 2024, he received the Jnanpith Award, India's most prestigious literary honor. At 91, Gulzar remains an active creative force, demonstrating his commitment to social causes. Gulzar's artistic journey embodies the synthesis of widespread and serious art, proving that commercial success and literary integrity need not be mutually exclusive. His poetry continues to resonate with readers, his songs remain timeless, and his films stand as sensitive explorations of the human condition.
