Sat, Apr 19 2025
Jaun Elia (1931–2002) remains one of the most popular and widely quoted Urdu poets of modern times. His poetry, characterized by deep melancholia, existential despair, and rebellion against societal norms, has found new life on social media, particularly TikTok and Instagram. However, the question arises: is Jaun Elia merely a "reel poet," whose verses serve as fleeting captions for social media trends, or does his work possess enduring literary value?
For centuries, Urdu poetry stood as a monolith of introspection, romance, and rebellion, its cadences resonating through generations, its verses carrying the weight of history. It was a language of nuance, of restraint, of longing wrapped in metaphor. But today, that grandeur is slipping away, one viral reel at a time.
Trump’s vision to transform Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East” at the cost of its native population has drawn fierce condemnation, sparking fears of a new wave of ethnic cleansing in the region.
Who will take the Oscars This Year
For young readers, aspiring writers, and budding translators, the Nobel Prize in Literature isn’t just a celebration of words—it’s a call to action. It reminds us that great stories don’t have to be written in English to reach a global audience. Many laureates over the years have written in their native languages, yet their works have transcended borders, thanks to the power of translation. Here’s why their journeys matter and why you should explore their worlds.
In war-ravaged Gaza, a lone concert grand piano at the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope. Amid the ruins of over 400 shattered instruments, this Yamaha grand piano, miraculously intact, stands as a testament to the endurance of Gaza’s cultural spirit. For musician Khamis Abu Shaban, its survival offers a rare moment of solace, a reminder that music and hope persist despite devastation.
In war-torn Gaza, a haunting photograph captures three-year-old Julia Abu Warda amid exhausted men at an Israeli checkpoint. Separated from her family, Julia clings to her father, witnessing a world torn apart. Her story reveals the resilience and innocence caught in the relentless churn of conflict and displacement.
In the heart of Pakistan, a chorus of voices rises like a caged bird yearning for freedom. Amidst political turmoil and unrest, opposition parties unite in their calls for accountability and early elections. As protests fill the streets, the people seek to reclaim their rights and reshape their future, illustrating a profound struggle between hope and the weight of past grievances. The nation stands at a crossroads, where the longing for democracy echoes in every rally and chant.
As Bangladesh gears up for its upcoming elections, political tensions are escalating. Opposition parties are mobilizing protests and rallies, demanding free and fair voting in a climate of increasing discontent. With citizens rallying for democratic rights and government accountability, the nation stands at a pivotal crossroads, where the voices of the people seek to break through the noise of political strife.
"Echoes in the Airwaves: In the Digital Age, the Pager Still Speaks in the UAE"
September 19, 2024
