Madan Mohan Danish (also known as Madan Mohan Mishra ‘Danish’) is a contemporary Indian Urdu/Hindi poet and shayar, recognized for his modern, profound, and emotionally resonant poetry.
He was born on September 8, 1961, in Ballia (often spelled as Blia or Baliya) district, Uttar Pradesh, India. His early education took place in his village, and his life has been marked by various struggles and transitions. He spent significant years in Bhopal and later moved to Gwalior in search of employment, where he completed his higher education.
In Gwalior, he worked in important roles at All India Radio (Akashvani), including as a Programme Executive. He is currently associated with All India Radio and continues to write poetry inspired by his experiences.
Danish has gained widespread recognition for his simple, effortless, and direct style of ghazals and nazms. His poetry often explores themes like love (mohabbat), life, death, night, bitterness of existence, and contemporary social issues. He blends individual and collective emotions with a novel expression that feels like direct conversation with the reader. He excels in shorter meters, creating couplets (sher) that are memorable and deeply impactful. His work is described as “velvety,” touching the soul while stirring conscience, and it carries a fragrance of life’s aesthetics.
He has published poetry collections, with one notable work being “Agar”, which received acclaim. His books sell out quickly upon release, reflecting his popularity. He has been honored with awards such as:
- Madhya Pradesh Urdu Academy Award (2009)
- Vasudev Sharan Chaturvedi Rashtriya Samman (Jaipur)
- Mrignayani Purskaar
His poetry recitations and mushairas have been featured on channels like ZEE, DD, and Urdu TV. He has traveled internationally for literary events, including to the US, Dubai, Pakistan, and Sharjah.
(Note: He is distinct from the famous music composer Madan Mohan Kohli or the freedom fighter Madan Mohan Malaviya.)
His poetry is admired for capturing half-fire and half-water-like feelings, blending tradition with innovation.
His poetry is admired for capturing half-fire and half-water-like feelings, blending tradition with innovation.