Manzar Bhopali (real name: Syed Ali Raza) is a well-known contemporary Indian Urdu poet, celebrated for his ghazals, nazms (poems), and geets (songs). He is particularly famous in the Urdu mushaira (poetry symposium) circuit for his emotional delivery, rhythmic style, and ability to connect with audiences through themes of love, social justice, patriotism, and everyday realities.
Key Details
- Born: December 29, 1959, in Amravati, Maharashtra, India (some sources list Bhopal as birthplace due to early family move).
- His family relocated to Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, when he was just a few months old, and he grew up there.
- He holds a Master’s degree in Urdu from Barkatullah University.
- He began his poetic journey in his teens and performed at his first mushaira at age 17.
- He is a disciple (shagird) of the respected poet Raza Rampuri.
- Married to Tabassum Manzar.
- He has performed at thousands of mushairas across India and internationally (spanning five continents, including the US, Australia, Gulf countries, Europe, etc.).
- He has received various awards in India and abroad, including recognitions for his contributions to Urdu literature.
Style and Themes
Manzar Bhopali’s poetry blends classical Urdu forms with modern, relatable concerns. His works often touch on:
- Romantic longing and human emotions
- Social critique (e.g., inflation, corruption, unemployment, inequality)
- Patriotism and national issues
- Life’s struggles and hope
His satirical pieces from the 1990s on societal problems remain strikingly relevant today. He is admired for his melodious voice and expressive recitation, which make his live performances highly engaging.
Notable Publications
He has authored over a dozen poetry collections, primarily in Urdu, with some in Hindi and English (or including English translations):
- Chanda Anchal Mein (2009)
- Yeh Sadi Hamari Hai (1991)
- Lahu Rang Mausam (1994)
- Lawa (2001)
- Manzar Ek Bulandi Par
- Zindagi
- Udaas Kyu Hu
- Others like Zamane Ke Liye (Urdu, Hindi, and English, 2011), Haasil (2012, published in India and Pakistan)
For a full collection of Poet Manzar Bhopali shayari, visit here on this page of Poetrywalla