About this Event
Please join us for the launch of Kehte HaiN Is Ko Urdu at the Royal Asiatic Society on Saturday 6th December 2025. This landmark anthology traces the lyrical journey of the Urdu language across seven centuries of poetic expression. Thoughtfully curated, it brings together classical and contemporary voices that have shaped Urdu across the Indian subcontinent—offering readers a rich travelogue of linguistic beauty and cultural transformation.
Much like a florist handpicking a bouquet, the editor has selected verses that embody the enduring beauty of Urdu poetry. What makes this anthology distinctive is its thoughtful design: vocabulary explanations appear in the margins beside each poem, enriching the reader’s experience and making even the most intricate verses accessible.
Urdu, woven from Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, Hindi, and local dialects, reflects the diverse heritage of the region. Over time, its vocabulary has evolved, sometimes leaving readers distanced from older forms. This book bridges that gap, empowering audiences to engage deeply with the art form and form their own interpretations of this literary treasure.
The launch event will feature a short talk by the editor, Tasnim Firdaus, introducing the publication and tracing the development of Urdu poetry through time, followed by readings from selected poems and a discussion of the anthology’s unique approach to accessibility. Guests will also have the opportunity to connect with fellow lovers of Urdu literature and culture.
This occasion is not only a celebration of a book but also a celebration of Urdu itself—its resilience, its richness, and its timeless beauty.
***Knowledge of Urdu is required. Doors will open at 1:45 pm, with the session commencing promptly at 2:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served.***
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Royal Asiatic Society, 14 Stephenson Way, London, United Kingdom
GBP 11.55
