Early Life and Education

Ahmad Faraz, born Syed Ahmad Shah on January 12, 1931, in Kohat, Pakistan, grew up in a literary environment that nurtured his passion for poetry. He adopted the pen name “Faraz”, which became synonymous with modern Urdu poetry.

He studied at Edwardes College and later earned his master’s degrees in Urdu and Persian from Peshawar University. His academic background laid the foundation for his mastery of classical and modern poetic traditions.

Ahmad Faraz Last Poem
Ahmad Faraz Last Poem


Literary Career and Themes

Faraz began his professional career at Radio Pakistan, before moving into academia as a lecturer. Eventually, he became the Chairman of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, highlighting his deep contributions to Urdu literature.

His poetry themes included:


Romantic poetry – expressing love and longing with unmatched grace.

Social awareness – highlighting the struggles of ordinary people.

Political resistance – criticizing dictatorship and authoritarian regimes.


His fearless words often led to clashes with political powers. During the era of General Zia-ul-Haq, his bold criticism of military rule resulted in his arrest and later self-imposed exile.


Recognition and Legacy

Ahmad Faraz’s poetry gained immense popularity and was sung by legendary singers such as Mehdi Hassan and Noor Jehan, turning his verses into timeless ghazals and songs.

He received some of Pakistan’s highest civilian awards, including:

Sitara-i-Imtiaz
Hilal-e-Pakistan (awarded posthumously)

Faraz passed away on August 25, 2008, in Islamabad. His poetry continues to inspire generations, celebrated for its simplicity, depth, and emotional power.


Famous Works of Ahmad Faraz

Some of his most celebrated poetry collections include:

Tanha Tanha
Nabina Sheher Mein Aaina


Key Takeaways

  1.  Born Syed Ahmad Shah in Kohat, 1931.
  2.  Adopted pen name Faraz.
  3.  Known for romantic, social, and political poetry.
  4.  Faced arrest and exile for opposing dictatorship.
  5.  Awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, Hilal-e-Imtiaz, and Hilal-e-Pakistan.
  6.  Died on August 25, 2008, leaving behind a lasting literary legacy.


FAQ's

1. What was Ahmad Faraz famous for?
 He was famous for his romantic and political poetry, which combined elegance with resistance against oppression.

2. Why was Ahmad Faraz arrested?
 He was arrested for his outspoken criticism of military rule in Pakistan, especially during General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime.

3. Which awards did Ahmad Faraz receive?
 He was awarded the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, Hilal-e-Imtiaz, and posthumously the Hilal-e-Pakistan.

4. Who sang Ahmad Faraz’s poetry?
 His poetry was sung by legendary artists including Mehdi Hassan and Noor Jehan.

5. When did Ahmad Faraz pass away?
 He passed away on August 25, 2008, in Islamabad.