Amir Khusrau

Amir Khusrau

Indian and Tajik-Persian poet, scholar, musician
Date of Birth: 01.01.1253
Country: India

Content:
  1. Amir Khusrow: The "Parrot of India" and Father of Urdu Literature
  2. Royal Patronage and Literary Achievements
  3. Contributions to Urdu and Persian Literature
  4. Mystical Beliefs and Sufi Influence
  5. Historical Chronicles and Music
  6. Legacy and Impact

Amir Khusrow: The "Parrot of India" and Father of Urdu Literature

Early Life and Education

Amir Khusrow was born in 1253 CE in Patiali, near Eta in modern-day Uttar Pradesh, India. His father, Amir Saif-ud-din Mahmud, was a Central Asian commander of the Lachin tribe. Khusrow grew up in Kesh, a small town near Samarkand in present-day Uzbekistan. Following the Mongol invasion of Central Asia, his family fled to India, eventually arriving in Delhi.

Royal Patronage and Literary Achievements

In Delhi, Khusrow's talents as a poet were recognized. He became a court poet first for Malik Chajju and then for Nasir-ud-din Bughra-khan, the second son of Sultan Ghiyasu'd-din Balban. In 1277, he accompanied Bughra-khan to Bengal, where he wrote his second divan, "Wast al-Hayat." Khusrow's fame spread, and he was invited to the courts of other rulers, including Khan Muhammad in Multan and Muizzu'd-din Kaikabad in Delhi.

Contributions to Urdu and Persian Literature

Khusrow was a master of both Persian and Urdu poetry. He introduced the ghazal form of song into India, which remains popular in India and Pakistan today. He was also an expert in various Persian poetic styles, including the qasidas of Khaqani and the khamseh of Nizami.

Mystical Beliefs and Sufi Influence

Khusrow's poetry reflects his deep understanding of Islamic mysticism. He became a disciple of the Sufi saint Nizamu'd-din Auliya in 1310, which greatly influenced his writings.

Historical Chronicles and Music

Khusrow was not only a poet but also a chronicler. He wrote several historical masnavis, including "Kiran as-Sadaain" and "Tuqluq Nama," documenting the reigns of various Delhi sultans. He is also credited with inventing the musical instrument sitar and being the founder of the qawwali genre of Sufi music.

Legacy and Impact

Amir Khusrow's literary contributions have had a profound impact on Indian culture. Known as the "Parrot of India" and "Father of Urdu Literature," he played a pivotal role in the development of both Persian and Urdu poetry. His works continue to be studied and appreciated centuries after his death. Khusrow's tomb in Delhi remains a revered site, where qawwalis are performed every year in celebration of his legacy.

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