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IGNOU BUDC-134 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

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Q1. Explain the following stanzas with reference to the context: (a) The king, he too is a man / And the destitute and beggar, he too is a man / The wealthy, the resourceless, he too is a man / The one feasting on delicacies, he too is a man / The one begging for scraps, he too is a man (b) The evening too was smoky, hazy / Beauty too was melancholic / Many stories in the heart / Just came to mind and stayed

Ans. (a) Reference & Context: This stanza is taken from the masterpiece nazm ‘Aadmi Nama’ (The Book of Man) by the famous people’s poet (Awami Shayar) of Urdu, Nazeer Akbarabadi . In this nazm, the poet presents the various forms and contradictory characters of human beings with great simplicity and depth. Nazeer’s poetry is known for taking up themes from common life, and this nazm is an excellent example of his style, showcasing the different facets of humanity. Explanation: In this stanza, Nazeer Akbarabadi emphasizes the universality of being human. He states that the one who rules as a king (padshah) in society is also a man, and the one who is poor and a beggar (muflis-o-gada) is also a man. Here, the poet juxtaposes two extreme ends of society to show that despite the vast difference in their status and position, their fundamental identity is the same – that is, being human. He further says that the wealthy (zardar) and the destitute (be-nawa) are both men. The one enjoying delicious and expensive food (nemat) is also a man, and the one begging for scraps of bread from others to fill his stomach is also a man. The repeated refrain ‘so bhi aadmi’ (he too is a man) creates a profound impact, establishing the idea that despite external circumstances, wealth, and social status, all human beings are fundamentally equal. This reflects Nazeer’s deep humanist vision. (b) Reference & Context: This beautiful couplet is from a famous ghazal by the revolutionary and romantic poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz . Faiz is known for weaving together themes of love, separation, memory, and social sorrow in his poetry. This couplet represents his distinctive style, where a melancholic and hazy atmosphere is created to express the heart’s emotions. Explanation: In this couplet, the poet describes an evening filled with sadness and memories. ‘The evening too was smoky, hazy’ (Shaam bhi thi dhuan dhuan) means that the evening scene was dim and indistinct. This haziness is not just of the external environment but also symbolizes the poet’s inner state, which is shrouded in sadness and uncertainty. The next line, ‘Beauty too was melancholic’ (Husn bhi tha udaas udaas), suggests that even beauty did not appear with its full splendor; rather, it too seemed sad. This is a reflection of the poet’s own sadness, which makes him see sadness in everything in the world. In such an atmosphere, the poet’s heart is suddenly flooded with many old stories and matters. The phrase ‘yaad si aa ke reh gayin’ (they just came to mind and stayed) is very poignant, beautifully capturing the involuntary and intense emergence of memories. These stories are perhaps memories of past love, unfulfilled meetings, or a beloved, which overwhelmed the poet’s heart on that sad evening. Overall, the couplet exquisitely expresses a deep sense of melancholy, nostalgia, and loneliness.

Q2. Write a note on the Nazm writing of Nazeer Akbarabadi.

Ans. Nazeer Akbarabadi (1735-1830) is regarded as one of the founders of Urdu Nazm and is famously known as the ‘Awami Shayar’ (The People’s Poet) . His Nazm writing was starkly different from the courtly and traditional poetry of his time. The main characteristics of his poetry are as follows:

• Portrayal of Common Life: Nazeer did not make the courts and the elite the subject of his poetry, but rather the life of the common man, his joys, sorrows, festivals (Holi, Diwali, Eid), fairs, and daily struggles. His nazms like ‘Banjaranama’ (The Nomad’s Tale), ‘Aadmi Nama’ (The Book of Man), ‘Roti’ (Bread), and ‘Muflisi’ (Poverty) are testaments to this.
• Simple and Accessible Language: Instead of a Persian-heavy and ornate language, he used the language of common parlance, i.e., Hindustani . Words from Hindi, Braj, and Khari Boli are found naturally in his language, which made his poetry accessible and beloved to the masses.
• Variety of Subjects: Nazeer wrote on subjects that no poet had paid attention to before. He even wrote nazms on trivial subjects like cucumbers, watermelons, and squirrels, and revealed some aspect of life even in them.
• Moral and Philosophical Message: Many of his nazms contain a moral or philosophical message. In ‘Banjaranama’, he preaches about the transience of life, and in ‘Aadmi Nama’, he conveys the message of humanity through the diverse forms of man.
• Realistic Approach: Instead of flights of imagination, Nazeer’s poetry presents the reality of life and a true depiction of society. He would mould what he saw into his nazms with complete honesty.

In conclusion, Nazeer Akbarabadi gave a new direction to the Urdu Nazm. He connected poetry with the people and made it a mirror of social reality, which later paved the way for poets like Hali and the ‘Anjuman-e-Punjab’ movement.

Q3. Write the summary of Altaf Hussain Hali’s nazm ‘Barkha Rut’ in your own words.

Ans. The nazm ‘Barkha Rut’ (The Rainy Season) , composed by Altaf Hussain Hali , is a significant example of modern Urdu poetry (Jadid Urdu Nazm). It represents the ‘Natural Poetry’ movement influenced by the ‘Anjuman-e-Punjab’, which focused on realistic depictions of nature. The summary of the nazm is as follows: The poem begins with a description of the intense heat that precedes the rainy season. Hali vividly portrays how the land is parched, how humans and animals are suffering from the heat, and how everyone is eagerly awaiting the rain. This description is very lifelike and realistic. Following this, the arrival of the monsoon is depicted. Dark clouds gather in the sky, lightning flashes, and thunder roars. As the first drops of rain fall, the atmosphere changes. This arrival brings a message of relief and joy for everyone. Hali goes on to describe the magical effect of the rain on nature. The dry earth is covered with a blanket of green, rivers, ponds, and wells fill with water. Trees, plants, birds, animals, and humans all rejoice in happiness. This nazm does not merely describe nature; it also shows its impact on human life and society. Hali mentions the joy of farmers, the songs of women on swings, and the festive atmosphere that pervades society. In short, ‘Barkha Rut’ is a vibrant and enchanting celebration of the Indian monsoon. Its importance lies in its direct and realistic portrayal of nature, rather than the traditional and symbolic descriptions. By writing poetry based on experience and observation in simple language, Hali provided a new direction to the Urdu Nazm.

Q4. Describe the characteristics of Iqbal’s Nazm writing.

Ans. Allama Iqbal (1877-1938) is a pillar of Urdu poetry, and his Nazm writing is the most powerful aspect of his literary work. He used the Nazm as a medium to express his philosophical, political, and religious ideas. The main characteristics of his Nazm writing are:

• Philosophical Depth: Iqbal’s nazms are imbued with deep philosophy. He grappled with complex concepts like ‘Khudi’ (Selfhood/Self-Esteem) , ‘Ishq’ (Love, both divine and human), the ‘Momin’ (the ideal human), and the relationship between man and God. His poetry is not mere entertainment but a thought-provoking message.
• Message of Action and Self-Reliance: A central message of his poetry is ‘Amal’ or action. He inspires, especially the Muslim youth, to emerge from lethargy and despair, to realize their ‘Khudi’, and to strive for greatness.
• Dynamic Symbolism: Iqbal used powerful symbols in his poetry. The ‘Shaheen’ (Falcon) is his most cherished symbol, representing self-reliance, high ambition, and freedom. Other symbols like the firefly (Jugnu) and the tulip (Lalah) also feature in his poetry.
• Islamic Thought and Universalism: Although his primary audience was the Muslim Ummah (community), his message is universal. He reinterpreted Islamic ideas in the context of the modern age, emphasizing their dynamic and progressive spirit. His nazms like ‘Shikwa’ (The Complaint) and ‘Jawab-e-Shikwa’ (The Answer to the Complaint) exemplify this approach.
• Artistic Excellence: Iqbal had an extraordinary command of poetic forms. He used traditional meters and rhymes, infusing them with new energy and purpose. His language is powerful, musical, and impactful.

In conclusion, Iqbal elevated the Urdu Nazm to a platform for serious intellectual and philosophical discourse, giving it a new dignity and purpose. His poetry is a marvelous fusion of artistic beauty and profound thought.

Q5. Critically analyze Josh Malihabadi’s nazm ‘Kisan’.

Ans. Josh Malihabadi , known as ‘Shayar-e-Inquilab’ (Poet of Revolution) , penned the nazm ‘Kisan’ (The Farmer) , which stands as a landmark in Urdu literature. It is a powerful tribute to the Indian farmer and an excellent example of Josh’s revolutionary style. Critical Analysis:

• Theme and Central Idea: The nazm glorifies the farmer, presenting him as the creator of civilization and a force of nature. Josh portrays the farmer not as a weak, pitiable figure, but as a strong, dignified creator who is a partner of nature itself. He calls him the ‘standard-bearer of youth’ and a ‘masterpiece of nature’.
• Diction and Imagery: To elevate the status of the farmer, Josh uses grand, epic language and powerful imagery. He employs sonorous and resonant Persianate words to create a majestic effect. The farmer is depicted toiling from the first light of dawn to the darkness of dusk, presenting a dynamic and vivid picture.
• Revolutionary Consciousness: The nazm has a strong undercurrent of social criticism. By celebrating the producer of wealth (the farmer), Josh implicitly critiques the exploitative system that keeps the farmer poor. The poem is a call to recognize the farmer’s true worth and power. It reflects Josh’s socialist leanings and his anger against social injustice.
• Artistic Evaluation: The rhythmic flow and passionate tone of the nazm make it highly effective. However, some critics argue that Josh’s language is overly ornate and difficult, which does not entirely suit a simple subject like the farmer. Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that this language successfully serves the purpose of elevating the farmer to the status of a hero.

Conclusion:

‘Kisan’ is not just a descriptive poem; it is a social and political manifesto. It successfully combines high literary art with a revolutionary message, making it one of the most important poems on its subject in Urdu literature.

Q6. Shed light on the Nazm writing of Akhtar-ul-Iman.

Ans. Akhtar-ul-Iman (1915-1996) is a leading figure in modern Urdu Nazm. Along with N. M. Rashid and Meeraji, he is considered one of the pioneers of ‘Azad Nazm’ (Free Verse) in Urdu. The characteristics of his Nazm writing distinguish him from his contemporaries. The main features of his Nazm writing are:

• Dramatic and Narrative Style: Many of his nazms are in the form of a dramatic monologue or a narrative. He often creates a persona or character who reflects on his past, his memories, and his existential condition. His famous nazm ‘Ek Ladka’ (A Boy) is the best example of this, where the poet gets lost in his childhood memories.
• Theme of Memory and Time: ‘Memory’ is a central theme of his poetry. His poems are often a journey into the past, exploring the relationship between the past and the present. He grapples with lost innocence and the relentless passage of time.
• Existential Concerns: His poetry is imbued with the modern man’s sense of loneliness, alienation, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. There is a deep sense of despair and disillusionment in his poems.
• Simple Language and Concrete Imagery: Unlike the highly symbolic poetry of Rashid, Akhtar-ul-Iman uses concrete, everyday imagery and a more direct, conversational language. This makes his complex psychological and philosophical themes more accessible and relatable.

In conclusion, Akhtar-ul-Iman’s poetry is a profound exploration of the modern individual’s psyche. His unique blend of narrative technique, psychological depth, and linguistic innovation has secured him a lasting place in the history of Urdu Nazm.

Q7. Present the central idea of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s nazm ‘Tanhai’.

Ans. ‘Tanhai’ (Solitude) is one of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s most famous and poignant nazms. Written in free verse (azad nazm), this poem expresses the deep and painful experience of loneliness. The central idea (markazi khayal) of this nazm is the unbearable burden of loneliness and the death of hope. In the poem, the poet is waiting for a loved one to arrive, but when the hours of waiting end and hope is shattered, ‘solitude’ knocks on the door like a character. The development of the idea is as follows:

• The poem begins with an atmosphere of anticipation. The poet’s afflicted heart (‘dil-e-zaar’) hears a footstep, but no one comes.
• Gradually, hope turns into despair. The stars begin to fade, the lamps in the halls flicker out, and the lonely path falls asleep. All these images symbolize the extinguishing of hope.
• The poet says that ‘alien dust’ has settled on the footprints, extinguishing the last ray of hope.
• The climax of the poem occurs when ‘Tanhai’ (Solitude) arrives. The poet tells his heart to put out all the candles, remove the wine and goblet, and lock the doors, because no one will come now.

Conclusion:

The central idea of ‘Tanhai’ is the final, heartbreaking acceptance of being alone after a long and hopeful wait. Faiz has masterfully used imagery of light and darkness, sound and silence, to artistically present this universal feeling.

Q8. Describe the artistic merits of the nazm ‘Aadmi Nama’.

Ans. Nazeer Akbarabadi’s nazm ‘Aadmi Nama’ holds a special place in Urdu poetry not only for its theme and message but also for its artistic merits (fanni mahasin) . Its artistic qualities are as follows:

• Simplicity of Language (Sada-bayani): Its greatest artistic merit is its simple, effortless, and colloquial Hindustani language. Nazeer avoided difficult Persian and Arabic words, using a language that could be understood by everyone, from scholars to the common man.
• Effective Repetition (Takrar): The repeated refrain ‘so bhi aadmi’ (he too is a man) gives the nazm a special rhythm and power. This repetition firmly establishes the main idea in the reader’s mind that in every form and situation, a human is ultimately just a ‘man’.
• Rhythm and Musicality (Mausiqiyat): The structure and meter of the nazm have a folk-song-like rhythm and music. It can be easily sung and remembered, which is a major reason for its immense popularity.
• Use of Antithesis (Sana-e-Tazaad): Nazeer skillfully used contradictory characters and situations to clarify his point. He presents the king and the beggar (‘padshah’ vs. ‘gada’), the rich and the poor (‘zardar’ vs. ‘be-nawa’), the saint and the sinner together, which creates a complete and comprehensive picture of humanity.
• Universality of Theme: The theme of the poem is universal and timeless. It explores the paradoxical nature of man, who is capable of both good and evil. This message is not limited to any one time or place.

Conclusion:

The artistic genius of ‘Aadmi Nama’ lies in the perfect fusion of profound thought and simple expression. This poem achieves a high artistic level not through ornamentation or artificiality, but through its clarity, directness, and deep connection to the lives of the people.

Q9. Write the summary of Ali Sardar Jafri’s nazm ‘Mera Safar’.

Ans. Ali Sardar Jafri was a leading poet of the Progressive Writers’ Movement (Taraqqi-Pasand Tehreek). His nazm ‘Mera Safar’ (My Journey) is an excellent example of his optimistic and humanistic worldview. Summary of the Nazm: This nazm is a symbolic representation of the journey of life and the evolution of human consciousness. The poet declares that his journey is longer than the expanse of day and night, meaning it extends far beyond his individual existence. He considers his life a part of the larger, continuous journey of humanity. He says that when he dies, his voice will not die with him but will live on in the voices of future generations. His thoughts and ideals will be carried forward by others. The poet uses the metaphor of a journey through a dark forest. He says that even if he falls on this journey, he is confident that others will pick up the ‘torch’ of his ideas and continue the journey towards light and progress. The central message of this nazm is undying hope and firm faith in the future of humanity. The individual may perish, but the collective human struggle for a better world is eternal. The poet’s ‘safar’ is not just his personal journey but the historical journey of mankind towards enlightenment and justice. Conclusion: ‘Mera Safar’ is a powerful expression of progressive ideals. It rejects despair and individualism and champions collective effort and historical optimism. The poem’s simple yet powerful imagery and its firm belief in human progress make it one of Jafri’s most inspiring works.

Q10. Write a note on Majaz’s nazm ‘Awara’.

Ans. Asrar-ul-Haq Majaz’s nazm ‘Awara’ (The Vagabond) is an epoch-making work in modern Urdu literature. Majaz is often called the ‘Keats of Urdu’ for his romantic and tragic persona, and the nazm ‘Awara’ immortalized him. Theme and Emotion: The nazm is a monologue of a ‘vagabond’ wandering the city streets at night. This ‘vagabond’ is not an ordinary person but an educated, sensitive, and dreaming youth who is frustrated by the gap between his aspirations and the harsh realities of society. He is romantic, rebellious, and deeply melancholic. The city at night, with its bright lights and dark alleys, becomes the backdrop for his emotional turmoil. The poem beautifully blends romantic longing with social and political consciousness. The wanderer thinks of his beloved, but also of the nation’s plight and the desire for revolution. The refrain “Ae gham-e-dil kya karun, ae vahshat-e-dil kya karun” (O, sorrow of my heart, what should I do? O, desolation of my heart, what should I do?) perfectly captures the protagonist’s sense of helplessness and internal conflict. Style and Impact: The nazm has a mesmerizing musicality and a passionate, declamatory tone that made it immensely popular, especially among the youth. It became the voice of the educated, unemployed, and disillusioned youth of pre-independence India. Conclusion: ‘Awara’ is the anthem of a rebellious romantic spirit. It gave Majaz a unique place in Urdu poetry and became a symbol of the aspirations, frustrations, and idealism of the youth of his time. It is a perfect blend of personal angst and social concern, which remains relevant and powerful even today.