Poetic splendor after a hard day’s night

When I think of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, I recall his profound poetry and his enduring legacy. Faiz wasn’t just a revered poet; he was ‘hamara’ (our) Faiz, a symbol of revolutionary ideas and love. Each reader finds unique meaning in his work, and his poetry has become a staple in Pakistan’s cultural landscape. His work has become so ingrained in the cultural fabric that it has even reached Pakistan’s biggest music platform, Coke Studio. In short, Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s name is now synonymous with musical expression.

Esteemed artists like Nayyara Noor, Tina Sani, Iqbal Bano, Noor Jehan, and Mehdi Hasan have deeply engaged with his poetry, producing renditions that are iconic and timeless. These performances have set a high bar, making it challenging for new singers to match their profound impact. The same reverence and challenge apply to the works of other legendary poets.

However, a name often overlooked among these extraordinary singers is Nazia Zuberi Hassan. Lacking the widespread recognition of a Coke Studio appearance and viewing herself as a student of master poets, she hasn’t garnered the recognition she deserves.

Nazia shattered this obscurity with a meticulously curated performance at NAPA last month. Before delving into her deep appreciation for Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s works, let’s explore the other renditions she shared with the audience.

She undertook a demanding repertoire, and from what I can discern, she executed each rendition with heartfelt skill. It was akin to witnessing the sunrise after a long night of darkness. Her selection spoke volumes: ‘Cha Rahi Kari Ghata’ by Begum Akhtar, ‘Ye Hasseen Shaam’ by Parveen Shakir, ‘Kare Badarwa Aaey’ by Habib Wali Mohammad, ‘Gaarche Su Baar’ by Saifuddin Saif, ‘Woh Tu Khushbo Hai’ by Parveen Shakir, ‘Mohe Apne Hi Rang Mein Rang’ by Amir Khusrau, ‘Jo Piya Aawan Keh Gaye’ by Amir Khusrau, and ‘Shikwa’ by Allama Iqbal (where Nazia was joined by Ruby Haider, reciting ‘Jawab-e-Shikwa’).

Examining this list closely reveals the daunting nature of her endeavor—a profound and uplifting effort in which Nazia triumphed. Her mastery was so compelling that it swept away the day’s cares, evoking deep emotions in many by nightfall.

Online, one can find numerous singers attempting their own versions, a testament to the courage required to perform in public spaces. But by doing so, she sparked interest in the historical context of these verses, their authors, and their origins.

The applause for Nazia was heartfelt, reflecting a mutual respect between the artist and her audience.

What about Faiz, the man we’ve been discussing since the start of this piece?

Amidst the treasures ranging from Parveen Shakir to Amir Khusrau, most of Nazia’s renditions were from Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Like a celestial night guiding lost wanderers, Nazia used her voice to soothe and remind us of the greatness of Faiz Ahmed Faiz and his words, avoiding any hint of extravagance. This stands in contrast to attempts like Coke Studio’s bold interpretation of ‘Hum Dekhenge’.

In her performance at NAPA, Nazia Hassan centered her presentation around Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Among all the performances, Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s compositions held the spotlight. She strategically interspersed them with other pieces to create a varied experience for the audience. Yet, when counted, she included Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s ‘Aeyay Araz Guzarain’, ‘Raat Youn Dil Mein Teree’ mixed with ‘Nahi Nigha Mein Manzil’, ‘Gar Mujhe Isska Yaqeen Ho’, ‘Shaam-e-Firaq Ab Na Poonch’, ‘Tujh Ko Kitno Ka Lahu Chahiyay’, and the impactful ‘Hum Dekhenge’.

The integration of Faiz’s poetry alongside other compelling poets had a captivating impact on the audience. Nazia’s mastery of language, her poised delivery, and the depth of emotion resonated throughout the evening. This was palpable in the audience’s enthusiastic response during and after the show, and across various social media platforms.

An attendee remarked, “Nazia’s performance at NAPA was mesmerizing. The soul-stirring verses of Iqbal’s ‘Shikwa’ evoked a sense of Muslim heritage. Nazia’s voice cast a spell that entranced the audience. Her selection of ghazals was exquisite, leading us through a journey of love. It was a truly enriching experience for the soul.”

Another observer remarked, “Nazia’s profound understanding of the kalaam she sings gives her performances a distinctive allure. Her deep understanding of poetry, coupled with her spirited delivery, ensures an unforgettable experience.”

Some described it as “evocative,” while others simply found it “beautiful.”

Another audience member swiftly commented, “Nazia rendered the kalam of Faiz, Parveen Shakir, and Amir Khusrau with her soulful voice and impeccable command of melody. She skillfully navigated through raags that demanded mastery, doing justice to ghazals, geet, and nazam alike. The grand finale with Iqbal’s ‘Shikwa’ left the audience spellbound.”

It was evident to attendees that Nazia was no ordinary singer, and her renditions were far from ordinary.

Selecting from Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s extensive works is a formidable task. Intrigued by Nazia’s choice of Faiz’s compositions, I couldn’t help but inquire about her affinity for the celebrated poet, given that she performed most (though not all) of his poems.

“I’ve extensively researched Faiz Sahab’s life and works to understand the contexts in which he wrote,” she explained. “Whether in exile or in prison, I seek to uncover what inspired him. These insights deepen our understanding and appreciation of his verses.”

“Faiz Sahab’s poetry remains strikingly relevant, a sentiment I express consistently in my performances. His depiction of love is both exquisite and straightforward. Each immersion in his poetry leaves me awestruck by its sheer brilliance.”

“Moreover, Faiz Sahab’s distinctive revolutionary spirit permeates much of his poetry. Tina (Sani) Apa has graciously dedicated considerable time to discussing Faiz Sahab’s work with me, and I deeply appreciate how beautifully she has sung many of his poems.”

“I consider it a true privilege to sing such profound verses. In ‘Tujh Ko Kitno Ka Lahu Chahiyay Ae Arz e Watan’, Faiz Sahab beautifully writes, ‘Teri Mehfil

Ko Khuda Rakkhay Abad Tak Qaaem …Hum Tou Mehmaan Hain Ghari Bhar Ke, Hamara Kya Kai’.”

She went on to say, “I particularly enjoy having young people attend my shows. Providing a well-researched context for the poetry I perform not only enhances their appreciation but also enables me to deliver the intended expression accurately.”

“I believe Faiz Sahab’s timeless messages in poetry serve to inspire and unite people across generations.”

Nazia’s insightful research into Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s life, era, and literary contributions also positions her as a conduit for his work in musical form to today’s millennial generation. In an age where many are absorbed in scrolling through Instagram or the latest TikTok trends, music presented in a refined manner has the power to disrupt this distraction. It allows us to disconnect from our screens and truly engage with the artist and the profound narratives conveyed through their performance. When I asked Nazia to explore deeper, specifically regarding ‘Bahaar Aaye’, she took a moment before responding.

“I have a strong interest in delving into the background and context of the poetry I perform, as it allows me to convey it with deeper expression,” she began. “Much of Faiz Sahab’s poetry was conceived during his time in prison. While some poems were written while he was incarcerated, many were composed years later. For instance, Faiz Sahab expressed a desire to compose an ode to ‘Bahaar’ (spring) in a letter to his wife during the early 1950s. This idea stayed with him, but it wasn’t until 1975 that he penned his renowned nazm, ‘Bahaar Aayi.’

“In his book ‘Hum Jeetay Ji Masroof Rahay’, Agha Nasir provides insights into the background (Pas Manzar) of many of Faiz Sahab’s poems, which I find deeply intriguing.”

All we need to do is listen.

In conclusion, Nazia’s commitment to bringing Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s poetry to life through meticulous research and heartfelt performances serves as a bridge between generations. Her ability to immerse herself in these profound verses and present them authentically ensures that the timeless messages of love, revolution, and the human spirit continue to inspire and resonate with audiences today.

With artists like Nazia, the legacy of Faiz Sahab will undoubtedly endure, touching hearts and minds for years to come.

“I’ve extensively researched Faiz Sahab’s life and works to understand the contexts in which he wrote. Whether in exile or in prison, I seek to uncover what inspired him. These insights deepen our understanding and appreciation of his verses. It a true privilege to sing such profound verses. In ‘Tujh Ko Kitno Ka Lahu Chahiyay Ae Arz e Watan’, Faiz Sahab beautifully writes, ‘Teri Mehfil Ko Khuda Rakkhay Abad Tak Qaaem …Hum Tou Mehmaan Hain Ghari Bhar Ke, Hamara Kya Kai’.I particularly enjoy having young people attend my shows. Providing a well-researched context for the poetry I perform not only enhances their appreciation but also enables me to deliver the intended expression accurately. Faiz Sahab’s timeless messages in poetry serve to inspire and unite people across generations.” – Nazia Zuberi Hassan