NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, November 15, 2026: The timeless charm of Urdu poetry, the melody of ghazals, and the emotional power of the spoken word came together at “Jashn-e-Urdu,” a literary and cultural evening hosted by the Aligarh Alumni Association of Atlanta (AAAA).
The event commemorated Sir Syed Day, marking the birth anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the visionary educationist and social reformer whose educational movement laid the foundation for Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
Drawing a diverse gathering of literature and music enthusiasts, the celebration highlighted the enduring appeal of Urdu and its ability to connect people across cultural and generational boundaries.
The evening opened with a welcome address by Dr. Asif Taufiq, chair of AAAA’s Board of Trustees.
The centerpiece of the celebration was a mushaira featuring renowned poets Manzar Bhopali, Khushbir Singh Shaad, Ambareen Haseeb, Ammar Iqbal and Khawaja Razi Haider, who presided over the gathering as Sadar-e-Mehfil. Their evocative verses captivated an appreciative audience.
One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Dr. Abdullah, known for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of Urdu language and heritage, recited a piece dedicated to his late wife, moving the audience with its emotional depth.
Noorulain Khan moderated the program, bringing eloquence, wit and literary insight to her introductions and interactions with the poets.
The musical segment added another dimension to the celebration, with a carefully curated selection of ghazals, prose and geet put together by AAAA President Shahid Ali. Vocalists Faraz Nayyer and Samiya Yar Khan, daughter of Khawaja Razi Haider, enthralled the audience with their performances.
The evening also featured a special recognition of Dr. Wasi Siddiqui, a founding member of AAAA, for his lifelong dedication and contributions to the organization. His son, Asif Siddiqui, accepted a commemorative plaque on his behalf.
Through poetry, music and remembrance, Jashn-e-Urdu reaffirmed the association’s commitment to preserving Urdu’s rich literary and cultural heritage while fostering a sense of community across generations.
