The Wit and Wisdom of Anjum Manpuri: A Legacy in Bihar's Urdu Literature

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 3 December 2024 One Of Bihar's Most Renowned Humourists And Satirists, Anjum Manpuri, Enriched The World Of Urdu Literature Through Brilliant Essays And Poems With Hilarious Elements. His Work Mixed Comedy With Social Satire, Ensuring That Both Literary Journalism And Satire Continue Bearing His Legacy Main Points: 1. Anjum Manpuri, born in Bihar, was the well-known humorist, satirist, and poet of Urdu literature. 2. He contributed to literary journalism through magazines like Rahnuma and Nadeem. 3. Among the most famous humorous essays are Meer Kallu Ki Gawahi and Mera Roza. 4. Anjum's style blended humour with social critique. 5. His legacy lives on in contemporary writers and humourists. ---- Anjum Manpuri is widely considered one of the most outstanding figures in the history of Urdu humour and satire. His work, especially his contributions from Bihar, occupies a significant place in Urdu literature. While he was primarily known as a prose writer of exceptional calibre, Manpuri was also a gifted poet and literary journalist. His identity, however, remains chiefly as a humourist and satirist. It is through his satirical prose that he earned widespread recognition, although his involvement in literary journalism came later in his career. Life and Background Anjum Manpuri was born Noor Muhammad in 1882-83 in Manpur (Gaya), Bihar. He adopted the pen name Anjum and kept Manpuri as his surname, derived from his hometown. His father, Muhammad Bakar, held a respectable position in society, and Anjum was the youngest of four brothers. During his early education, Anjum studied Arabic and Persian, as these languages were considered essential for intellectual development at the time. He was mentored by distinguished scholars such as Maulana Khairuddin and Maulana Abdul Ghaffar during his formative years. Seeking higher education, Anjum moved to Lucknow to study at the renowned Nadwatul Ulama, where he had the privilege of studying alongside notable personalities like Syed Sulaiman Nadvi. His education was further refined in places such as Muradabad and Gaya, and by 1906, he was formally awarded his degree by Shibli Nomani and Maulana Amir Hasan Baliyawi. This milestone marked the completion of his formal education in the traditional framework. After his education, Anjum initially attempted to join the family business, but he did not find success in it. He then moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata) in search of better opportunities, but again failed in business. He returned to Gaya, where he rejoined the family business, but it was the Second World War that provided him some stability. He entered the iron trade and later secured a job with the Central Public Works Department, marking the first period of financial improvement in his life. Sadly, Anjum Manpuri passed away on August 27, 1958, in Gaya, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Urdu literature. Literary Journalism and Contributions In addition to his creative writing, Anjum made significant contributions to literature through his work in literary journalism. His national recognition was largely due to his work in this field. In 1914, Anjum launched a magazine named Rahnuma from Gaya. Though short-lived, this publication allowed him to begin his career in literary journalism. He also worked as an associate editor for Zamindar (1918-1920), a prominent newspaper edited by Zafar Ali Khan, where he honed his journalistic skills. In 1931, Anjum launched Nadeem, a literary journal that became a launching pad for many young writers and poets. The first issue of Nadeem was published in June 1931, and the journal continued until 1938. Despite its brief existence, Nadeem played a crucial role in presenting new literary talent to the public. The special edition of Nadeem dedicated to the literary talent of Bihar remains a historical document of great significance, praised by literary magazines from across India. Anjum also contributed to Kiran, a magazine from Gaya, in 1950. There, he played a patronage role, contributing many articles while also helping the magazine's team to engage with different cities. This experience further solidified his position as a significant figure in the literary world. Writing Career Anjum Manpuri's work is most celebrated in the fields of humour and satire. His wit and ability to turn complex social and political scenarios into comic contexts were unparalleled. In 1938, he published Tanziyat-e-Manpuri, his first collection of humorous essays, which included thirteen pieces, such as Meer Kallu Ki Gawahi, Mama Ki Museebat, Meri Aseeri, Haan Mein Haan, Mera Roza, Second Hand Motor, Pagalkhana Ki Sair, Shadi Ki Tarkeeb, Pink Ashram, Additional Wife, Municipal Election, Haathi Aur Kiraye Ki Tamatam. Two years later, in 1940, he published the second volume of his essays, Tanziyat-e-Manpuri, which included twelve new pieces, including Honorary Magistrate, Meri Eid, TaMard Nagufta Bashad, Home Politics, Bawal-e-Jan, Anti Father Conference, Sukhan Takia, Ek Naghani Dost, Student Life, Hostel Life, and Saheb Ka Kutta. The renowned critic Jameel Mazhari wrote the introduction to the second volume. In 1952, Anjum published his third collection, Matayebat-e-Manpuri, which was later translated into Hindi as Navratna. After his death, a fourth volume, Marne Ke Baad, was released, which included essays like Na Khanda Mehman, Marne Ke Baad Interview, Jhoot Ka Nibhah, and Station Ki Sair. His poetry, including his Nazms and Ghazals, further added to his literary legacy, especially for their humorous treatment of life’s absurdities. Literary Contributions and Style Anjum Manpuri's writing was an important part of the Urdu literary tradition. His career spanned a time of significant social and political upheaval, dominated by the freedom struggle and various reform movements. While his writings reflected the socio-political context of his time, he did not focus on the freedom struggle as many of his contemporaries did. Instead, he chose to reflect on the trivialities of everyday life with great wit and humour. Some of his most famous essays, like Meer Kallu Ki Gawahi, Kiraye Ki Tamatam, Mera Roza, and Meri Pehli Speech, are often considered classics. Meer Kallu Ki Gawahi is particularly significant, as it represents a pinnacle of Urdu satire. The essay portrays a professional liar, Meer Kallu, who is called to testify in a court case but, through his absurd and humorous responses, satirises the contradictions of society. Through such characters, Anjum skilfully blends humour with sharp social critique. Anjum's writing was marked by accessibility; his works were engaging for readers from all walks of life. The simplicity of his language did not detract from the depth of his insight. His wit was never crass or vulgar but always intelligent, with a keen eye for the absurdities of human behaviour and societal norms. Poet and Humourist: A Dual Identity While Anjum Manpuri is best known as a humourist and satirist, he was also a gifted poet. His poetry often mirrored the same themes as his prose, blending humour with social critique. His Nazms and Ghazals were playful, yet insightful, offering a deeper understanding of the human condition. One of his notable couplets, which reflects on the complexity of his life and work, is: "Kaam 'Anjum' Kā Jo Tamām Kiyā Ye Aap Ne Vāqa.Ī Ḳhuub Kiyā Kam-Baḵht Isī Ke Laa.Eq Thā Ab Aap Abas Pachhtāte Haiñ" This couplet reveals his self-reflection with a touch of humour and regret, echoing the complexities of his own journey. Legacy and Influence Anjum Manpuri’s impact on Urdu literature is immense. His contributions to literary journalism, as well as his ability to combine humour with social critique, have made him a pioneering figure in the world of Urdu satire. His work proved that humour can be a powerful tool for addressing societal problems, offering both entertainment and critical insight. His legacy continues to inspire contemporary writers, humourists, and poets. Many modern-day Urdu writers cite Anjum as a significant influence on their own works, especially in blending wit with serious social commentary. Anjum's works have continued relevance today, as they tackle timeless issues in human society. His essays and poetry remain a reflection of the social concerns of his time, yet they continue to be relevant due to their universal themes. Anjum Manpuri Middle School In honour of his legacy, Anjum Manpuri Middle School was established in 1985 in Nawada block of Nawada district, Bihar. This private, unaided institution serves students from grades 1 to 8. The school stands as a tribute to Anjum's contributions to literature and his lasting impact on education and culture. Conclusion Anjum Manpuri’s life and work are a testament to the power of humour in reflecting on the complexities of human nature and society. His unique blend of wit, satire, and keen observation made his work stand out in the Urdu literary tradition. Through his essays and poems, he showed that humour could not only entertain but also provoke thought, challenge societal norms, and offer poignant critiques of the times. Anjum's ability to capture the essence of everyday life, often with absurdity and irony, made his writing accessible to a wide audience. His works transcend mere comedic entertainment; they reflect the larger struggles of society and individual human experience. Whether he was tackling mundane issues or addressing more complex societal dynamics, his approach was consistently infused with a sharp, humorous perspective. While Anjum Manpuri's life was not without struggles, his contributions to Urdu literature were invaluable. He navigated both the worlds of literary journalism and creative writing, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and amuse readers. His legacy endures through the contemporary writers who draw from his example and the generations of readers who appreciate his timeless humour. The continued recognition of Anjum's work—through schools, literary festivals, and the continued publication of his writings—demonstrates the lasting impact he had on Urdu literature and the broader cultural landscape. Anjum Manpuri's name remains synonymous with humour in Urdu literature, and his work will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come, reminding us that even in the face of hardship, laughter can provide clarity and insight. In conclusion, Anjum Manpuri is a towering figure in the history of Urdu literature whose legacy is far-reaching. His use of humour and satire to critique social and political norms, while still engaging his audience with warmth and wit, secures his place among the most influential writers of his time. His work reminds us that humour, in its purest form, is not just for entertainment, but also a vehicle for change, reflection, and understanding. ------ Note: First-ever article written on Anjum Manpuri, directly based on his biography written by Syed Ahmed Qadri and published by Urdu Directorate, Patna (working under Bihar Government). Syed Amjad Hussain is an author and independent research scholar on Sufism and Islam. He is currently working on his book 'Bihar Aur Sufivad', based on the history of Sufism in Bihar. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/books-documents/wit-wisdom-anjum-manpuri-bihar-urdu-literature/d/133906 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism