Muslim civilization and culture in Deccani Urdu Ghazal (Classical era)

Abstract

The rulers of Southern India played a vital role in the development and promotion of Urdu Ghazal. The poetry of Qazi Mahmud Bahri, Wali Dakhni, Quli Qutb Shah, Hasan Shauqi, Nusrati, Iraqi, Fakhri, Faiz Dakhni, Siraj Aurangabadi, and Shah Turab Ali reflects Islamic culture, civilization, social values, and traditions in an artistic and effective manner. Other poets also contributed significantly to enriching and strengthening the tradition of Urdu Ghazal.

The poetry of Hasan Shauqi reflects Muslim civilization and religious values, while freedom, harmony, and cultural integration remain important features of his poetic expression. In his study, Dr. Muhammad Ijaz Tabassum discusses the ideological and cultural background of poets such as Quli Qutb Shah, Wali Dakhni, and Siraj Aurangabadi, highlighting the influence of Islamic civilization on Dakhni Urdu Ghazal.

The poetry of Quli Qutb Shah contains religious references and imagery associated with the Qur’an, Paradise, and the Hurs, creating an atmosphere of spiritual and intellectual richness. Similarly, the Ghazals of Wali Dakhni strongly reflect Islamic culture and ideology through Sufi terminology, Qur’anic references, and devotion to the Holy Prophet (PBUH). His poetry is deeply rooted in Muslim civilization, religious thought, social values, and cultural traditions.

Overall, the poetry of Southern India is deeply influenced by religious concepts and cultural traditions. Poets of the region, whether Hindu or Muslim, frequently expressed praise of Allah, devotion to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and his family, respect for his Companions, and admiration for the rulers of their time.