A poet’s journey: Iftikhar Arif reflects on life and art

During a podcast with Kamran Khan, renowned poet Iftikhar Arif shared intimate glimpses into his journey from India’s Lucknow to Pakistan, painting a vivid picture of his life’s milestones.

Arif, born in a pre-independence Lucknow, described witnessing the gradual erosion of the city’s Muslim cultural identity. The vibrant traditions of qawwali and mourning assemblies, influenced by the Iranian Shia dynasties, deeply shaped his worldview.

As a student in 1950s Lucknow, Arif excelled academically, though his passion for poetry outshone other pursuits. “Everyone thought I’d become a doctor or engineer,” he recalled. However, he was determined to chart his own path. Inspired by the rich cultural milieu around him, Arif began memorizing and composing poetry during his formative years.

After moving to Pakistan, Arif’s career gained momentum thanks to mentors like Yaawar Mehdi. His early job at Radio Pakistan, with a modest daily wage of PKR 10, marked the beginning of a prolific journey. He joined the inaugural team of the popular TV show Kasoti, where his poetic voice resonated with audiences nationwide.

Arif’s literary prominence soared when legendary singers Noor Jehan and Roshan Ara Begum brought his ghazals to life. “Hearing my words sung by such icons was a turning point,” he said. His poetry became a symbol of artistic excellence, earning him accolades across South Asia.

Reflecting on his leadership roles, including heading Pakistan’s literary institutions and meeting global figures like Ayatollah Khamenei, Arif emphasized a life without bias. “Whatever I achieved was due to Pakistan, its language, and culture,” he remarked.

At 76, Arif remains a towering figure in Pakistan’s literary landscape. His legacy, spanning decades of poetry, radio, and television, continues to inspire and enrich the nation’s cultural tapestry.