Tehzeeb Hafi: A Modern Urdu Poet
Tehzeeb Hafi (born Tehzeeb-ul-Hassan) is a prominent contemporary Urdu poet, writer, and motivational speaker from Pakistan, celebrated for his accessible, emotional, and youth-oriented shayari (poetry). His work often explores themes of love, heartbreak, modern relationships, and personal motivation, blending simplicity with profound emotional depth. Hafi’s style uses everyday language to make his verses relatable, earning him a massive following among younger audiences in Pakistan and India.
Biography
- Birth and Early Life: Born on December 3, 1989 (some sources cite December 5), in Retra village, Taunsa Sharif tehsil, Dera Ghazi Khan District, Punjab province, Pakistan. He grew up in a modest environment and began writing poetry during his college years.
- Education: He studied software engineering at Mehran University but later pursued a Master’s degree in Urdu literature from Islamia University of Bahawalpur.
- Career and Rise to Fame: Hafi shifted focus to poetry full-time, gaining initial recognition through live performances at mushairas (poetry recitals). His popularity exploded via social media, where he shares recitals and videos. He has performed at major literary events and is known for his emotive delivery. Today, he resides in Lahore and continues to engage fans through online platforms.
- Published Works: He has two notable collections—”Rang” and “Nok Jhok”—which received acclaim for their contemporary themes.
Style and Themes
Hafi’s poetry stands out for its brevity (often 2-4 line couplets), modern sensibility, and motivational undertones. Unlike classical Urdu poets, he addresses 21st-century issues like digital-age romance and self-healing, making him a bridge between tradition and youth culture. His sad and romantic ghazals are particularly beloved, often going viral on social media. Key themes include:
- Love and Loss: Romantic longing with a touch of melancholy, e.g., verses on unrequited affection.
- Motivation: Empowering lines for personal growth, dedicated to Pakistan’s youth.
- Social Commentary: Subtle reflections on urban life, relationships, and emotional healing.
Here are a couple of his popular couplets (sourced from public collections):
- On Heartbreak (Original: Urdu shayari):
“Woh jo dil ko chhedta hai, woh hi toh zindagi ka geet hai.
Dard se guzro, phir samjho ishq ki gehraai.”
(Translation: “That which pricks the heart is life’s very song.
Pass through the pain, then you’ll grasp love’s depth.”) - Motivational (From a recent recital):
“Rukna nahi, chalte raho, raah khud ban jaayegi.
Andhera toh hai, lekin subah ki pehli kiran tum ho.”
(Translation: “Don’t stop, keep walking—the path will form itself.
Darkness exists, but you are the first ray of dawn.”)
For full collections, check Poetrywalla,com