Noon Meem Rashid

Nazar Muhammad Rashid, widely recognized as Noon Meem Rashed or N.M. Rashed, is a celebrated Pakistani poet of modern Urdu poetry. He remains a pioneering figure who introduced free form to the Urdu literary tradition.

Early life and education

Rashid was born Nazar Muhammad on 1 August 1910 into a Punjabi Rajput family. His birthplace was the village of Kot Bhaaga, located in Alipur Chatha within the Wazirabad area of the Gujranwala District. His father, Fazal Ilahi Chishti, served as an Islamic scholar who possessed a deep fondness for Urdu poetry—specifically the works of Ghalib.

He pursued higher education at the Government College Lahore. After studying English literature, he earned a Master's degree in Economics from the same institution. This academic background shaped his intellectual development during his formative years.

Career

The poet wrote his first poem, Jurrat-e-Parwaz (The Courage to Fly), in 1932 while he was still a college student. He established himself as a leader in free verse when he published his first collection of poetry, Maavra (Beyond), in 1940. Because of these contributions, he is often called the father of Modernism in Urdu Literature.

Rashid's professional life spanned several diverse sectors. He served in the Royal Indian Army during the Second World War and attained the rank of captain. During his time in the military, he gained experience that preceded his later work in media and diplomacy.

His broadcasting career began in 1942 when he worked with All India Radio in New Delhi and Lucknow. Following the independence of Pakistan in 1947, he transferred to Peshawar where he continued his radio work until 1953. He later moved to New York City to accept a position with Voice of America. This move was followed by a brief period of living in Iran.

The poet eventually transitioned into international diplomacy. He worked for the United Nations in New York and served the organization across many different countries. His career reflected a global perspective that matched his literary ambitions.

His literary output included several significant works. He published Iran Main Ajnabi (A stranger in Iran) and La Musawi Insaan (Nothingness = Man) in 1969. His book Gumaan ka Mumkin (Speculations) was released posthumously in 1976, while his essays, titled Maqalat, were edited by Shima Majeed in 2002.

Personal life

Rashid was associated with Inayatullah Khan Mashriqi for a period of time. He eventually retired to England in 1973 to spend his later years. He died in a London hospital on 9 October 1975.

Awards and recognition

The poet received high praise from his contemporaries. Faiz Ahmed Faiz referred to him as Malik-ush-Shoara, which translates to the king of poets. This title underscores his status among progressive poets in Pakistani literature.

His influence reached the world of cinema long after his death. In the 2010 Bollywood movie Peepli Live, the song "Zindagi sey dartey ho" utilized his poem. The Indian music band Indian Ocean performed the track and received critical acclaim for the piece.

Academic institutions also honor his memory. A hall named Noon Meem Rashid Hall exists at the Postgraduate Block Basement of Government College Lahore. This dedication ensures his name remains linked to his alma mater.