‘Pen mightier than comp’

Noted poet, playwright, lyricist and director Gulzaar needs no introduction. As he took part in a “Jugalbandi” along with Pawan K Varma, the Darbal Hall at Diggi Palace was jam-packed. The literary giant managed to connect with a motley crowd comprising Urdu, Hindi and English readers.

Clad in a white kurta and a shawl, Gulzar walked in along with Varma. The latter introduced the poet saying, “Gulzaar Sahab Taaroof Ke Mohtaj Nahien hai.” To this, the witty author replied, “Magar Taaroof ke jarrooratmand hain.”

Before starting off, the poet made it clear to strictly interact and read out either in Urdu or Hindi and let Varma translate it for the audience. 

Comparing the habit of writing with a pen to using computers, Gulzaar said, “Computer ne writing band kar di, Kalam dawat nahin hai.”

Urging the need to write with a pen, he said, “Let pen become the food of computers.”

The poet then read out a few lines on how writers from his era miss the charm of writing with a pen. “Kitaben jhankti hai almaari se, kai maheenon se mulakat nahin hui.”

Continuing with the poem, he said, “Badi baichain rehti hain kitaben.”  With his poem “Safeda Cheel”, Gulzaar talked about the environmental problems.  And then came Gulzaar’s masterstroke. His poem “Budiya”, portraying the journey of life from beginning to end, swept everyone off their feet.