Ali Shaida ; The Poet Of Insightful Thoughts

Ali Shaida ; The Poet Of Insightful Thoughts

Dr Basharat Khan

"Ali Shaida's poetry is notable for its artistic, intellectual, and thematic depth. Creativity is essential for any work of art to truly resonate, and Shaida’s poetry exemplifies this quality through its profound insights and skilled craftsmanship. His verses captivate readers with their thoughtful exploration of social, personal, and mystical themes."

(Dr Reyaz Tawheedi Kashmiri)

Ali Shaida's literary contributions are as diverse as his career. His work spans multiple languages, including Urdu, English, and Kashmiri, and encompasses both prose and poetry. His prolific output includes three anthologies of Urdu poetry and six collections in Kashmiri. These works highlight his deep engagement with and mastery of these linguistic traditions. Currently, Ali Sheeda is at work on his fourth collection of Urdu prose poetry, which is anticipated to further enrich his already substantial literary legacy.

In addition to his writing, Shaida plays a crucial role in nurturing literary culture through his leadership as President of Maraz Adbi Sangam. This organization is dedicated to promoting literary and cultural activities, and Ali Shaida’s stewardship underscores his commitment to advancing literature and supporting fellow writers.

Among Ali Shaida's notable works is "Dard ki Dehleez Par," a poetry collection that poignantly captures the shared pain of both the poet and society. His ability to weave external events with internal suffering creates a profound resonance in his ghazals and poems. This collection is a reflection of Kashmir’s pervasive sorrow, illustrating the complex interplay of joy and pain within a tumultuous landscape.

گرد آلود فضا میں 

شام ڈھلے 

تیزہوا جب ریت اڑائے گی

مری نظم یا تری نظم

"Gird aaluad fiza mein  

Shaam dhale  

Tez hawa jab reet udaaye gi  

Meri nazm ya teri nazm"

کتنے معصوموں کے مدفن جنت کشمیر میں

کتنی ماؤں کے دلوں کو پھر سے تڑپائے گی عید

"Kitne masoomon ke madfan jannat Kashmir mein  

Kitni maaon ke dilon ko phir se tadpaaye gi Eid"

Ali Shaida’s artistry is especially evident in his 2020 collection, "Laa Ba Laa" This volume has been acclaimed for its evocative exploration of human experience and mystical themes. The collection’s simplicity, paired with its profound depth, offers readers significant moral and social insights. For example, Shaida’s verses advocate for transcending superficial judgments and embracing a life characterized by calm reflection and genuine empathy.

دید ونظر میں ہے بسا نقش مٹا کے دیکھ تو

اور جو عکسِ لا بہ لا اس پہ بنا کے دیکھ تو

"Deed o nazar mein hai basa naqsh mita ke dekh to  

Aur jo aks-e laa ba laa is pe bana ke dekh to"

The phrase "Laa Ba Laa," meaning "from nothingness to existence," encapsulates the collection's central theme: the journey from non-existence to being. This metaphorical exploration of existence permeates the work, reflecting Ali Shaida’s engagement with both personal and universal themes. Through vivid imagery and philosophical musings, Ali Shaida delves into existential questions and the complexities of the human condition, providing a rich tapestry of thought and emotion.

Furthermore, Ali Shaida’s poetry often mirrors the socio-political landscape of Kashmir. His work intricately blends personal and political suffering with a deep sense of place and historical context, enriching his poetry with authenticity and depth. This fusion of external realities with internal emotional landscapes creates a unique and compelling narrative.

وحشتوں کی رات تھی خواب کو سلا دیا

درد کے شعور کو ہم نشیں بنا دیا

"Wahshaton ki raat thi khwab ko sola diya  

Dard ke shaoor ko hum nashien bana diya"

فضاوں کے بدلے کا ہے جب بھی وقت آجاتا

تو موسم کاشمر سے ہی ادائیں مانگ لیتے ہیں

"Fazaaon ke badlay ka hai jab bhi waqt aajata  

To mausam Kashmir se hi adaayein maang lete hain"

Ali Shaida's ghazals are celebrated for their musical quality and thematic innovation. His ability to preserve traditional poetic forms while addressing contemporary issues showcases his creative mastery. The musicality of his poetry not only resonates with Urdu speakers but also extends its impact across different linguistic and cultural boundaries.

اشعار کہہ رہے ہیں قلمکار بھی تو ہو

تخلیق درد سے جڑا فنکار بھی تو ہو

"Ashaar keh rahe hain qalamkaar bhi to ho  

Takhleeq dard se jura funkaar bhi to ho"

Through his collection "La Bah La" and other works, Ali Shaida offers a profound exploration of human experience, inviting readers to engage with existential mysteries, challenge superficial judgments, and embrace a more empathetic worldview. His contributions to Kashmiri and Urdu literature affirm his position as a significant and influential voice in contemporary poetry, marking him as a distinctive and esteemed figure in the literary scernario.

"Doop ki tamazaytain pee chuka hoon is qadar

Khud ko darya ki tarah rait par baha diya"

Dr Basharat Khan is a writer, columnist, critic and author of the book Literary Beats. He can be reached at chogalwriter76@gmail.com