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.

Book Reviews5:35Diwan-e-Ghalib Book Review – Mirza Ghalibदीवान-ए-ग़ालिबThis video delves into Diwan-e-Ghalib, the celebrated collection of Urdu ghazals by Mirza Ghalib. It explores how Ghalib's poetry captures raw human emotions within a precise and structured form. The review highlights the book's architecture, motifs, and the tension between discipline and emotional depth.Mirza Ghalib · 8 chaptersPoetry 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 chaptersGhazal Explained10:03Sitaron Se Aage – Iqbal Ghazal Explainedसितारों से आगेThis video explores Allama Iqbal's iconic ghazal 'Sitaron Se Aage', delving into its philosophical depth and timeless message. Through a close reading of the poem, we examine Iqbal's call for relentless self-development and the pursuit of ever-expanding horizons. The analysis highlights the poem's structure, metaphors, and relevance to contemporary life.Allama Iqbal · 6 chaptersGhazal Explained8:41Wajood ka Bojh – Ghalib Ghazal Explainedवजूद का बोझThis video explores Mirza Ghalib's iconic ghazal 'Na tha kuchh to Khuda tha', delving into its philosophical depth about existence and identity. Through a close reading of key couplets, the explainer unpacks Ghalib's reflections on the burden of being and the pain of consciousness. The discussion connects Ghalib's ideas to contemporary life, offering timeless insights.Mirza Ghalib · 5 chaptersPoetry Explained7:29Ghazal ka Safar: Urdu Ghazal Explainedग़ज़ल का सफ़रThis video explores the journey of the Urdu Ghazal, tracing its origins, structure, and evolution across centuries. It explains the technical aspects of the form, its adaptation in South Asia, and how its themes and symbols have changed over time. The video also dispels common myths about the Ghazal and highlights its enduring appeal.Urdu Poetry · 5 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 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