Language Surpasses Religious Boundaries: Renowned Urdu Poet Shiv Kishan Bissa
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Synopsis
Shiv Kishan Bissa, known as Sheen Kaaf Nizam, a celebrated Urdu poet from Jodhpur, has been awarded the Padma Shri for his exceptional literary contributions. His reflections on language and identity challenge conventional views, emphasizing that language transcends religion.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Kishan Bissa is a prominent Urdu poet.
- He has won the Padma Shri for his literary contributions.
- His pen name reflects his deep connection to Urdu.
- He advocates that language transcends religious boundaries.
- His family continues his literary legacy.
Jaipur, Jan 27 (NationPress) Shiv Kishan Bissa, affectionately referred to as Sheen Kaaf Nizam, is a distinguished Urdu poet and literary scholar from Jodhpur. He has been conferred the Padma Shri award for his remarkable contributions to Urdu literature.
His celebrated poetry anthologies include ‘Lamhon Ki Saleeb’, ‘Dasht Mein Dariya’, ‘Naad’, ‘Saya Koi Lamba Na Tha’, and ‘Bayazein Kho Gayi Hai’, among others.
In 2010, his literary work ‘Gumshuda Dair Ki Gunjti Ghantiyan’ garnered him the esteemed Sahitya Akademi Award, further cementing his legacy in the literary domain.
The Union government has recognized him with the Padma Shri for his literary accomplishments. Bissa, a retired government officer from Jodhpur, possesses profound expertise in Urdu and Persian, establishing him as a respected figure in the field.
His pseudonym ‘Sheen Kaaf Nizam’ signifies his strong bond with Urdu. Initially publishing under ‘S.K. Bissa’, he transitioned to his current pen name, where “S” is known as “Sheen” and “K” as “Kaaf,” complemented by “Nizam” as his poetic persona.
Despite his Pushkarna Brahmin background, his artistic expression and identity have beautifully merged into the Urdu literary tradition, challenging preconceived notions about language and identity.
Sheen Kaaf Nizam's poetry has been showcased at Mushairas not only in India but also globally. His enchanting presence at literary events contrasts with his modest character when engaging in Marwari conversations on the streets of his Jodhpur neighborhood.
Besides his own literary works, Nizam has undertaken extensive research on legendary Persian and Urdu poets, including Mir Taqi Mir and Mirza Ghalib.
His legacy is carried forward by his son, Brijesh Ambar, who is also a poet. The announcement of the Padma Shri for Sheen Kaaf Nizam has been met with enthusiasm by the citizens of Jodhpur.
Reflecting on his journey, Nizam stated, “Language does not belong to any religion. I studied Sanskrit but pursued Urdu and Persian. Unfortunately, Urdu is often viewed as linked to a specific religion, but this perspective is a construct of our own, as well as that of governments. Language transcends religion.”
