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In a poignant turn of events, the celebrated poet Munawwar Rana bid his earthly farewell on Sunday night at a hospital in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. At the age of 71, he drew his last breath, ending a prolonged battle with illness. Rana, known for his eloquent verses, had been grappling with chronic kidney disease and was undergoing treatment at the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow.
Born on November 26, 1952, in Rae Bareli, Munawwar Rana gained widespread acclaim for his poetic contributions, receiving the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2014 for his collection ‘Shahdaba.’ The verses he penned, especially the iconic ‘Maa,’ continue to resonate with audiences, capturing the essence of motherhood with profound simplicity.
Rana, whose poetic journey flourished in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kolkata, seamlessly blended Hindi and Awadhi in his compositions, making his work accessible to a diverse audience. His notable literary accolades include the return of the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2015 as a symbolic protest against rising intolerance.
The poet’s health had been a cause for concern, leading to his admission to SGPGI. Struggling with complications related to chronic kidney disease, Rana spent an extended period on ventilator support.
His daughter, Somaiya Rana, confirmed the news of his demise and revealed that, in accordance with his wishes, Munawwar Rana would be laid to rest on Monday. The poet’s family includes his wife, four sisters, and a brother.
Munawwar Rana’s literary legacy extends beyond regional boundaries, with his verses translated into various languages. The impact of his work resonates deeply in the hearts of those touched by the power and emotion encapsulated in his poetry.
The void left by Munawwar Rana’s departure is not just a loss to the world of Urdu literature but a poignant moment for admirers who found solace and inspiration in his words. As the nation mourns the passing of this poetic luminary, his verses continue to echo in the corridors of literary history.
