Learn with Sukhan

Understand the poetry

Short films that open up a ghazal line by line, tell the stories of the poets, explain the craft of the form and review the great books of Urdu, Hindi and Gujarati poetry.

Poetry Explained6:29Gujarati Poetry's Vast Soul: Narmad, Kalapi, Meghaniગુજરાતી કવિતાનો વિશાળ આત્માThis video explores the depth and richness of classical Gujarati poetry, highlighting its evolution from devotional and mystical roots to modern introspection. Key poets like Narmad, Kalapi, and Zaverchand Meghani are discussed, along with their unique contributions to Gujarati literature and culture. The episode also touches on the living musical traditions that keep this poetic heritage alive today.Narmad · 5 chaptersPoetry Explained7:03Hijr & Virah in Poetry: Meer, Firaq, Kabirहिज्र और विरह के गीतThis video explores the timeless themes of separation and longing—Hijr and Virah—in Urdu and Hindi poetry. Through the works of poets like Meer Taqi Meer, Firaq Gorakhpuri, and Kabir, we understand how heartbreak and solitude have been expressed across centuries. The discussion reveals how these ancient verses still resonate with modern emotions.Urdu Poetry · 7 chaptersPoetry Explained6:38Evolution of Urdu Ghazalउर्दू ग़ज़ल का विकासThis video explores the historical and literary journey of the Urdu Ghazal, tracing its origins from the Deccan plateau to the philosophical heights of Allama Iqbal. It highlights key poets, stylistic developments, and the transformation of the ghazal into a vehicle for romance, humor, and awakening. The discussion underscores the ghazal's enduring power to reflect human emotions and philosophical questions.Urdu Poetry · 6 chaptersPoet Stories6:25Mirza Ghalib: Classical to Modernआख़िरी क्लासिकल, पहला आधुनिकThis video explores how Mirza Ghalib transformed Urdu poetry at a time of immense social upheaval. Ghalib broke away from the rigid classical ghazal, introducing modern themes and conversational language. His work bridged the gap between royal courts and the modern world, making him both the last classical and the first modern Urdu poet.Mirza Ghalib · 7 chaptersPoetry Explained9:39Mir & Iqbal: The Garden and The Skyबाग़ और आसमानThis explainer explores the contrasting philosophies of Mir Taqi Mir and Allama Iqbal through their iconic poetry. Mir's verses dwell in the melancholic beauty of the ruined garden, while Iqbal's poetry soars into the infinite sky of aspiration. The video unpacks how both poets address suffering, love, and the human spirit from radically different perspectives.Mir Taqi Mir · 5 chaptersGhazal Explained9:36Patta Patta Boota Boota – Mir Taqi Mirपत्ता पत्ता बूटा बूटाThis video explores Mir Taqi Mir's iconic ghazal 'Patta Patta Boota Boota'. Through a close reading, it unpacks the poetic structure, themes of heartbreak, cosmic envy, and the city of Delhi's decline. The explainer reveals how Mir transforms personal pain into a universal voice of loss and resilience.Mir Taqi Mir · 7 chapters