A heartfelt tribute ceremony was held in Amravati on Saturday to honour the memory of the renowned poet and humorist, Dr Mirza Rafi Ahmed Baig. The respected literary figure passed away on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and poignant social commentary.
An Outpouring of Grief and Respect
The event, organized by the Dr Mirza Rafi Ahmed Baig Mitra Mandal, took place at Abhiyanta Bhavan. It saw a large gathering of mourners from various parts of Maharashtra. Poets, admirers, close friends, and family members travelled from Ner, Yavatmal, Amravati, and even Kolhapur to pay their last respects.
Advocate Firdos Mirza, the late poet's cousin, presided over the solemn function. The guests of honour included poet Kishor Mugal and Pravin Take, the deputy director of Information and Public Relations.
Celebrating a Legacy of Humour and Humanity
Speakers at the event unanimously praised Dr Baig's immense contribution to Marathi literature, particularly through the Varhadi dialect. They recalled how his humorous poetry subtly highlighted the everyday struggles of common people.
His secular outlook and polite nature were highlighted as defining traits. Many credited him with being a pioneer who brought a sense of professionalism to the field while actively encouraging new poetic talent.
Personal Remembrances and Profound Impact
Advocate Mirza remembered his cousin's passion for using poetry as a tool to "connect people." He spoke of Dr Baig's relentless mission to spread joy and happiness through his unique brand of humour.
Pravin Take noted the poet's far-reaching influence, stating that Dr Baig's work had touched three successive generations, leaving behind a treasury of inspiring literature. Poet Kishor Mugal emotionally described him as a "big man" for whom a life devoid of poetry was simply inconceivable.
Professor Hemant Khadke, former head of Amravati University's Marathi Department, reflected on Dr Baig's role as a secular soul who built bridges between different communities. GB Deshmukh credited the poet's humour with fostering greater harmony within society.
The family's personal loss was deeply felt. His daughter, Huma Mirza, called her father a "real hero." His son, Rameez Mirza, spoke about his father's exceptional talent for enlightening and reflecting society through the lens of humour.
A Community Bids Farewell
The tributes extended beyond immediate family and colleagues. Close friends including Shiv Dabhade, Pravin Tikhe, Vaibhav Vivarkar, Rupesh Kawalkar, Dr. Abdul Rajik, and Alkatai Gaekwad also shared heartfelt memories. They collectively celebrated Dr Baig's enduring legacy as a gifted poet, a captivating performer, and a unifying force in the cultural landscape.
The gathering stood as a powerful testament to a life dedicated to words, wit, and weaving communities together through the art of poetry.
