Udeesha Literature Festival Advocates for Serious Literary Engagement with Jaun Elia
The five-day Udeesha Literature Festival in Moradabad became a platform for a compelling argument to revive serious literary reading and reintegrate poets into academic discussions. During a detailed lecture, poet and writer Muntazir Firozabadi focused on the celebrated Urdu poet Jaun Elia, underscoring his profound literary merit, unwavering patriotism, and intimate ties to western Uttar Pradesh.
Beyond Viral Couplets: The Depth of Jaun Elia's Work
In an interview, Firozabadi stressed that Jaun Elia cannot be confined to the viral couplets often shared on social media platforms. "Jaun Elia can be understood only through books. His poetry carries layers of thought that cannot be grasped through fragments online," he asserted. He noted that despite the poet's popularity among Generation Z, there remains a widespread misunderstanding of his true essence and contributions.
To illustrate Elia's patriotic spirit, Firozabadi recited a poignant verse: 'Hum aandhiyon ke ban mein kisi Karwan ke thay, Jaane kahan se aaye hain, jaane kahan ke thay. Kya poochhte ho naam-o-nishaan-e-musafiran, Hindustan mein aaye hain, Hindustan ke thay.' "Jaun sahab was a true patriot. This is something everyone must know," Firozabadi emphasized, adding that this very quality makes Elia deserving of a place in academic syllabi across schools and colleges.
Emotional Bond with Amroha and Cultural Heritage
Firozabadi also shared a touching anecdote about Elia's deep emotional connection to Amroha, his hometown. He recalled an incident where the poet, during a visit, rolled in the soil, covering himself in mud. "It symbolised his love for his land. Everyone cried when they saw Jaun Sahab crawling in the sand," he recounted.
Drawing a powerful metaphor, Firozabadi added, "Amrohe mein Baan nadi ke paas jo ladka rehta tha, Ab woh kahaan hai, maiN to waheeN hooN Ganga ji aur Jamuna ji, the most outstanding example of Ganga–Jamuni tehzeeb." This highlighted Elia's embodiment of the region's rich cultural synthesis.
Advocating for Curriculum Reform and Literary Appreciation
Championing curriculum reform, Firozabadi argued that incorporating Jaun Elia's works into educational frameworks would not only enrich language skills but also foster critical thinking. "It will not only enrich language but also cultivate thought," he explained. He urged readers to view books as dynamic texts rather than mere decorative items, cautioning that "Books are not meant for cupboards. Unread books lose their knowledge."
The session served as a poignant reminder that Jaun Elia should be reclaimed not just as a social media sensation, but as a poet of profound ideas, deep-rooted land connections, and a lasting literary legacy.
Udeesha Sahityotsav: A Celebration of Arts and Culture
Running until January 26, the Udeesha Sahityotsav is set to host a diverse array of writers, poets, musicians, theatre artists, journalists, and thinkers from across India. The festival's programme includes engaging sessions on various topics:
- Poetry and storytelling
- Theatre and journalism
- Mental health and social media
- Artificial intelligence and contemporary social issues
Each evening will feature musical and cultural performances, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Additionally, the event boasts a book fair, art and photo galleries, folk performances, a food festival, and live sand art installations by Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik.
Moradabad Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh highlighted the festival's objectives, stating that it aims to promote cultural dialogue and provide a platform for both established and emerging voices. The event also seeks to showcase Moradabad's literary and artistic heritage on a national scale, fostering greater appreciation and engagement.
