Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai paid a warm birthday tribute to celebrated poet and lyricist Gulzar, calling him 'the gem of Hindi cinema and one of the finest poets of the 21st century.' The tribute, shared on Instagram on 18 August, also spotlighted Gulzar's contribution to formal poetry education through Whistling Woods International in Mumbai.

The Tribute in Ghai's Own Words

Sharing a photograph of the two together at what appeared to be the inauguration of a poetry and lyrics writing course, Ghai wrote: 'Happy birthday to our dearest Gulzar Sahab, the gem of Hindi cinema and one of the finest poets of the 21st century. Thank u gulzar saheb for introducing a unique course in poetry n lyrics writing for every creative writer thinker director producer musician at whistlingwoods international Humans are born on this earth many times, but only a few lives are truly Gulzar — filled with beauty, poetry, and meaning. Stay healthy. Stay happy n keep inspiring us.'

The post blended personal admiration with a pointed acknowledgement of Gulzar's institutional contribution — an unusual combination for a birthday message, and one that underlines the depth of their creative relationship.

Gulzar's Role at Whistling Woods International

According to Ghai, Gulzar introduced a dedicated course in poetry and lyrics writing at Whistling Woods International, the Mumbai-based film and media school founded by Ghai. The course is designed to benefit a wide spectrum of creative professionals — writers, thinkers, directors, producers, and musicians alike.

Gulzar has made multiple visits to the institution over the years, engaging with and mentoring aspiring filmmakers and writers. His presence at Whistling Woods has been a recurring feature, reinforcing the school's emphasis on the literary dimensions of cinema.

A Bond Rooted in Literature and Cinema

The two veterans share a long-standing creative bond that goes well beyond professional courtesy. Ghai has frequently described Gulzar as his 'guru,' crediting him with shaping his understanding of literature, life, and storytelling. They have appeared together at cultural events, panel discussions, and literary gatherings, where conversations have ranged from the evolution of Indian cinema to the lyrical traditions that underpin it.

Notably, the photograph Ghai shared captures both men at the ribbon-cutting of the poetry course inauguration — a moment that symbolises Gulzar's willingness to formalise and pass on a craft he has practised for decades.

Gulzar's Legacy in Hindi Cinema

Gulzar is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in Hindi cinema and contemporary Urdu poetry. His body of work spans lyric writing, film direction, screenwriting, and children's literature. He is a recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest film honour, as well as an Academy Award for the song 'Jai Ho' from Slumdog Millionaire.

His decision to anchor a structured course in poetry and lyrics writing at an institutional level is seen by peers as a significant act of knowledge transfer — one that could shape the next generation of storytellers in Indian cinema.