Hyderabad—K.N. Wasif
The cultural and musical event “Nazrana” Ghazal Evening was successfully organized by the Telangana Art and Cultural Association, in collaboration with the Department of Language and Culture, Telangana State. The event took place on Sunday evening at the Press Club Auditorium, Basheer Bagh, and featured an enchanting lineup of ghazals and performances.
Presiding Over the Event
The program was presided over by Dr. Shujaat Ali, former Deputy Director of Doordarshan. Honorary guests included Kaleem Ahmed, builder, and Mohammad Qureshi, President of the Overseas Telangana Association. The event celebrated the rich traditions of Urdu poetry and music.
Performances
The evening showcased performances by celebrated ghazal artists Jyoti Sharma and Sikander Khan, who mesmerized the audience with their talent. They were accompanied by Farid Ali Khan and Devika Sharma, with instrumental support from Raju on the keyboard and T. Hari Singh on the tabla. Highlights included performances of Punjabi songs like “Nit Khair Manga” by Jyoti Sharma, “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” by Sikander Khan and Farid Khan, and “Tu Kahan Main Kahan” by Devika Sharma—all earning high praise from attendees.
Speeches and Tributes
Dr. Shujaat Ali emphasized the importance of cultural events like mushairas and ghazal evenings in promoting the Urdu language and preserving its traditions. He urged the younger generation to participate in such events to stay connected to the language and culture. Expressing concern over the declining interest in Urdu heritage among youth, he remarked on the shift in their focus to different areas of interest.
Honorary guest Mohammed Al Qureshi lauded the organizers and the young artists for their performances, while Sarwat Ali, President of the Telangana Art and Cultural Association, warmly welcomed guests and introduced the performers.
Special tributes were paid by renowned personality Mohammed Quaiser, President of “Hum Hindustani” organization, as he honored Jyoti Sharma and Mohammad Qureshi with floral garlands.
Audience Participation
The program drew a large crowd of male and female enthusiasts, highlighting the continued love for Urdu poetry and music in the region.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Sarwat Ali, marking the end of a memorable evening filled with rich cultural experiences.
Jyoti Sharma performing at “Nazrana”
