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In the illustrious world of Urdu literature, where timeless tradition gracefully intertwines with the dynamic energy of modern scholarship, Professor Syed Sirajuddin Ajmali shines radiantly as a beacon of unwavering dedication, sharp intellect, and poetic artistry. Born on a crisp November day in 1966, his academic journey began in the vibrant classrooms of the University of Kanpur, eventually leading him to the revered halls of the University of Delhi, where he honed his expertise in the intricacies of the Urdu language and its rich literary heritage. The early recognition of his scholarly promise came in 1990 when he was awarded the prestigious UGC Junior Research Fellowship, a milestone that set the stage for an illustrious academic voyage.
Long before becoming a pillar of the Department of Urdu at Aligarh Muslim University, Professor Ajmali generously shared his passion for Urdu as a guest faculty member at Zakir Husain PG College, Delhi. In 1997, his formal association with AMU as a lecturer marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter that spanned over two decades. During this time, he steadily ascended the academic ranks, achieving the status of full professor by 2012. His tenure there is far more than a mere chronology; it is a vibrant mosaic of teaching brilliance, mentorship, and the living preservation of Urdu’s majestic literary legacy.
The spectrum of Professor Ajmali’s contributions elegantly spans rigorous research and evocative poetic creation. With about seventy scholarly articles delving into layers of Urdu poetry and literary critique, his insights resonate powerfully at both national and international academic gatherings. His influence extends beyond the lecture halls through over one hundred invited talks and numerous appearances on radio and television, where he brings the beauty and depth of Urdu literature to a wider audience. His seminal work, “Taraqqi Pasand Tehreek Aur Urdu Ghazal,” reflects his profound engagement with progressive literary movements and their enduring impact on the Urdu ghazal tradition—a testament to his dual commitment to critical scholarship and cultural preservation.
Yet, it is in the realm of poetry that Professor Ajmali’s enchantment truly unfolds. Renowned for his command over the ghazal form, he captivates audiences at mushairas around the world, where his verses weave together the classical heritage of Urdu with a refreshing contemporary sensibility. His poetic anthologies such as “Taqdees” and “Muraqqa” reveal an artist whose verse dances effortlessly between spiritual profundity and lyrical grace. This rare fusion of scholarly mastery and poetic passion places him among the eminent voices that seamlessly bridge the scholarly and the creative.
Beyond his literary pursuits, Professor Ajmali’s leadership breathes life into the cultural core of AMU. For nearly two decades, he guided the University Debating and Literary Club, nurturing not just budding poets but also critical thinkers and eloquent orators. He has been the Coordinator of the Cultural Education Centre from July 2019 to July 2021 where he continued to foster an environment that both honors tradition and fueled innovation within the university’s vibrant literary and cultural scene.
His exceptional contributions have earned him accolades such as the Delhi Urdu Academy Toppers Award, the Shikhar Shree Award from Shikhar Sahitya Sansthan and Ibn Sina Academy, and the Harish Chandra Kathpaliya Gold Medal for Creative Writing. These prestigious honors are a reflection of a lifelong dedication to enriching the Urdu literary world.
Professor Syed Sirajuddin Ajmali embodies the enduring power of language and literature as transformative forces—ones that educate, inspire, and uplift across generations. His remarkable journey intricately weaves scholarship with poetic brilliance, leaving behind a legacy as beautiful and profound as the verses he so masterfully crafts. In a rapidly changing world, his work stands as a timeless tribute to the enduring richness and boundless possibilities of Urdu literature.
Publications
Books Published
- Taraqqi Pasand Tehreek Aur Urdu Ghazal (Azra Publications, New Delhi, 1996)
- Taqdees (Collection of Naat, Salaam, and Nazms) — Ready for publication
- Muraqqa (Collection of Ghazals) — Ready for publication
- Tanqeedi Mutaley (Collection of Criticism and Analysis) — Ready for publication
Research Papers (Selected)
- Talmeehaat ke Saath Shaeraat Ka Bartao (2019)
- Marsiya go Jameel Mazhari (2018)
- Kal Ki Baat Akhtarul Iman (2016)
- A.N. Mulla Ki Ghazal (2016)
- Marakize Tasawuf (2016)
- Qutbe Alam Hazrat Niyaz Ahmad (2016)
- Shairi Ka Makhsus Zaiqa (2014)
- Shair-e-Zauq-e-Justuju (2014)
- Meta Fiction Aur K.A. Abbas Ka Fiction (2014)
- Tasawwuf Se faraar (2013)
- Amin Ashraf Ki Shairi (2013)
- Mutala-e-Meer (2012)
- Parvez Shahidi Ki Ghazal (2012)
- Majrooh Ki Ghazal (2012)
- Ishq-e-Haqiqi Aur Meer Ki Ghazal (2008)
- Moasir Urdu Ghazal (2007)
- Ham Adab Kyon Parhte Hain (2007)
- Sufiaye Daira Shah Ajmal Ki Ishqia Shairi (2007)
- Tashkeek, Nai Nasl Aur Ghalib (2006)
- Ehtejaj Ki Infaradi Lai- Prem Chand (2004)
- Mus-Hafi Ka Rang (2003)
- Dard Ka Usliibe Sher (2002)
- Nazme Hali Jadeed Urdu Nazm Ka Naqshe Awwal (2001)
- A.M. Zahid Ki Taqdeesi Shairi (2002)
- Sardar Jafri Ka Nazariyae Sher (2002)
- Adab Ka Maqsad (1996)
- Khalid Ka Fan (1995)
- Faridi Ki Tazminen (1994)
- Urdu Men Lok Geet (1994)
- Shoara Ka Tanqidi Shaoor (1994)
- Jazbi Ki Shaeri (1994)
- Peshravon Ki Daryafte Nau (1993)
- Ajmal Ajmali, a Poet (1992)
- Ghayas A. Gaddi (1986)
- Gandhiji, A study (1984)
Review Articles and Other Essays
- Numerous articles in prestigious journals like Aajkal, Qaumi Awaz, Kitab Numa, and others.
Awards and Honors
- Delhi Urdu Academy Toppers Award (1989)
- Delhi Urdu Academy Award for Book (1996)
- Shikhar Shree Award by Shikhar Sahitya Sansthan and Ibn Sina Academy, Aligarh (2011)
- Harish Chandra Kathpaliya Gold Medal for Creative Writing, Delhi University
Last modified: November 24, 2025
