Doha, Qatar – Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar hosted a successful mushaira, a traditional Urdu poetry gathering, on December 26, 2025, continuing its commitment to promoting Urdu language and literature within Qatar. The international event featured both renowned poets from the Indian subcontinent and local talent, attracting a large audience and solidifying the organization’s role in the region’s cultural landscape. This year’s mushaira aimed to engage a younger generation with the rich traditions of Urdu poetry.
The event, held in Doha, drew attendees eager to experience the artistry of Urdu verse. Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, a long-standing literary organization, has consistently organized such events to foster appreciation for the language and its poetic forms. The mushaira’s popularity demonstrates a continued interest in Urdu culture within Qatar’s diverse population.
Celebrating Urdu Poetry: The International Mushaira
The mushaira showcased a diverse lineup of poets, including prominent figures like Shakeel Azmi, Afzal Allahabadi, Dil Khairabadi, Rana Tabassum, Faraz Adeebi, Sabahat Aarruj, and Khalid Nadeem Shani. These established poets brought a wealth of experience and artistry to the event, captivating the audience with their performances. Their participation underscored the global reach and enduring appeal of Urdu poetry.
However, the event also provided a platform for local Doha-based poets to share their work. Raquim Azmi, Ahmad Ashfaq, Ashfaq Deshmukh, Aziz Nabeel, Asif Shafi, Maqsood Anwar Maqsood, Ateeq Anzar, and Dr. Nadeem Zafar Jilani Danish all contributed to the evening’s program, demonstrating a thriving local literary scene. This blend of established and emerging talent was a key feature of the event.
Event Logistics and Organization
Ahmad Ashfaq, General Secretary of Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar, skillfully managed the initial proceedings, ensuring a smooth and engaging start to the mushaira. Later, Dr. Nadeem Zafar Jilani Danish took over the stage management, continuing the seamless flow of the program. The event’s organization was praised by attendees for its efficiency and attention to detail.
The venue was reportedly filled to capacity, with many attendees choosing to stand throughout the evening to participate in the cultural experience. This strong turnout highlights the continued relevance of Urdu literature and poetry within the community. The presence of respected literary figures such as Gauhar Altaf, Tanveer Sheikh, Javaid Sahib, and Ibrahim Khan Kamal further elevated the event’s prestige.
The event also served as a networking opportunity for Urdu literature enthusiasts and professionals. Attendees had the chance to connect with poets, writers, and fellow lovers of the language, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. This aspect of the mushaira contributes to the long-term sustainability of Urdu literary traditions in Qatar.
In his closing remarks, the president of the mushaira expressed gratitude to all involved – organizers, poets, audience members, and sponsors – for their contributions to the event’s success. He also reaffirmed Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar’s dedication to preserving and promoting Urdu language and poetry. The organization hopes to continue hosting similar events in the future.
Looking ahead, Bazm-e-Urdu Qatar is expected to announce plans for its next major literary event in the spring of 2026. The organization will likely focus on expanding its outreach to younger audiences and exploring new formats for engaging with Urdu poetry. Further details, including potential themes and featured poets, remain to be confirmed, and will depend on securing adequate sponsorship and venue availability.
