Echoes of Peace: Urdu Mushaira Lights Up Chicago with Love and Verse

Heartstrings and Ghazals: A Night of Urdu Elegance and Solidarity in United State of America

Chicago, IL: On the evening of May 3, 2025, the National India Hub in Schaumburg transformed into a vibrant tapestry of poetry, culture, and unity as it hosted An Evening of Unity – Urdu Mushaira & Cultural Night. This soul-stirring event, bought by the host Iftekhar Shareef was organized by Ashfaq Sharief, Khurram Syed, and Mohammed Hafeez, drew a diverse crowd to celebrate the timeless beauty of Urdu poetry while fostering a powerful message of peace and solidarity. From evocative verses to heartfelt tributes, the night resonated with the spirit of community, transcending borders and beliefs.

The evening was graced by Chief [Host] Guest: Iftekhar Shareef, First Overseas Citizen of India, Guest of honor Ausaf Sayeed, a prominent community leader, and former Consul General of India in Chicago. The event, which commenced at 7:00 PM, was a houseful affair, with attendees eagerly awaiting performances by luminaries such as Imran Pratapgarhi, a celebrated poet and Member of Parliament from India, and Lata Haya, a poetic powerhouse from Bombay. Joining them were international guest Sohail Zarrar from London, UK, Dr Noor Amrohvi from Dallas, Texas, and local Chicago poets, including Nazar Naqvi, Kashif Haidar, Dr. Lateef Saif, Mehboob Ali, and Fahad Khan.

Amplifying this call for peace, Shareef addressed the persistent scourge of terrorism, particularly India’s enduring struggle. “We’ve gathered to condemn the terrorist act in Kashmir last week,” he declared. “Terrorism has no place in the world, regardless of the country. India has faced this for over 70 years, and we earnestly plead: this must not recur. We urge governments, the global community, and the President of the United States to denounce such acts.” Highlighting Imran Pratapgarhi’s presence, Iftekhar Shareef praised the poet’s dynamic leadership in joining this unified stand against violence, elevating the mushaira’s message to a global stage.

The event was emceed by Ashfaq Sharief. Dr. Noor Amrohvi and Ashar Mehdi did the Nezamat for the poets.

The mushaira began with a poignant moment of silence, led by Ashfaq Sharief, to honor the victims of a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Followed by the U.S. and Indian National Anthem. This solemn tribute set the tone for the evening, as poets and attendees united in condemning terrorism and advocating for peace. Iftekhar Shareef emphasized, “Urdu is a language for everyone, irrespective of religion Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh. It bridges hearts through Bollywood songs, poetry, and shared culture.” His words echoed the event’s theme of unity, highlighting Urdu’s universal appeal.

Imran Pratapgarhi, a star of the night, captivated the audience with his powerful nazms and ghazals. His poem Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua reimagined Allama Iqbal’s classic, weaving a heartfelt prayer for peace in conflict-torn regions like Palestine. “When bullets fly anywhere, it is humanity that dies,” he declared, urging the world to embrace love over hatred. His Lal Qila personifying the Red Fort as a witness to India’s history, stirred patriotic fervor, earning thunderous applause. Pratapgarhi’s ability to blend social commentary with poetic finesse left the audience spellbound.

Lata Haya’s soulful recitations added a lyrical charm, while Sohail Zarrar brought an international flair, reflecting Urdu’s global resonance. Local poet Fahad Khan opened the mushaira with verses like, “We tried enmity with ourselves again / Tired of life, we tried suicide,” striking a chord with their raw emotion. The performances, moderated by Ashar Mehdi, flowed seamlessly, with each poet contributing to the evening’s rich mosaic of thought and feeling.

Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, reflecting on his deep connection to Urdu, shared, “My father and uncle were renowned poets in Chicago. Urdu is not just a language; it’s a legacy of unity.” He praised the organizers for creating a platform that celebrates cultural diversity, noting Chicago’s growing prominence as a hub for Urdu literature. The event also acknowledged the contributions of Asian Media USA, whose media coordination ensured widespread coverage, amplifying the mushaira’s message.

Dr. Noor Amrohvi is A Literary Icon and Community Leader in Dallas. He is a distinguished poet and businessman originally from India, has emerged as one of the most prominent literary figures in the Dallas, Texas area. As the chairman of Al-Noor International, he has made significant contributions to Urdu literature and culture, organizing acclaimed international events like “An Evening for Peace and Unity.” Known for his popular poetry, prestigious awards, and widely attended mushairas, Dr. Noor continues to be a celebrated voice for the Urdu-Hindi speaking community.

Beyond poetry, the evening was a cultural feast, with delectable food available to complement the soulful ambiance. The audience, a vibrant mix of ages and backgrounds, remained engaged despite a delayed start due to traffic challenges. Organizers apologized for the inconvenience, promising an even grander event in the future to accommodate Pratapgarhi’s massive fan base, which sold out tickets in just days.

The mushaira concluded with a standing ovation for the poets and organizers, followed by the national anthems of the USA and India, symbolizing the shared values of both nations. Flowers were presented to the guest poets, and Minhaj Akhtar, President of the IOC Committee - Midwest region, joined in honoring the performers. Iftekhar Shareef’s closing remarks reiterated the event’s commitment to fostering peace and cultural harmony, leaving attendees inspired and uplifted.

This mushaira was more than an evening of poetry; it was a movement of hearts united for peace and humanity. Asian Media USA is proud to support such initiatives that showcase the power of Urdu to bridge communities. Events like these remind us of our shared heritage and the urgent need to stand against division and violence. We congratulate Iftekhar Shareef, the organizers, and the poets for creating a night that will resonate in Chicago’s cultural landscape for years to come.” Mr. Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder of Asian Media USA

This unforgettable evening not only celebrated Urdu’s lyrical legacy but also reinforced its role as a beacon of unity in a fractured world. As attendees left the National India Hub, they carried with them the echoes of verses that spoke of love, resilience, and hope—proof that poetry can indeed change hearts and minds.

A Night of Verse and Solidarity: Chicago’s Urdu Mushaira Unites Hearts