Learn with Sukhan

Understand the poetry

Short films that open up a ghazal line by line, tell the stories of the poets, explain the craft of the form and review the great books of Urdu, Hindi and Gujarati poetry.

Ghazal Explained13:52Ulti Ho Gayin Sab Tadbeerein – Mir Taqi Mirउल्टी हो गईं सब तदबीरें: मीर तक़ी मीरExplore the depth of Mir Taqi Mir's iconic ghazal 'Ulti Ho Gayin Sab Tadbeerein', a masterpiece of heartbreak and helplessness. This video unpacks the symbolism, philosophy, and emotional resonance that made this ghazal unforgettable—even for Mirza Ghalib in his darkest hour. Discover why Mir's verses remain timeless in their portrayal of love's pain and existential questions.Mir Taqi Mir · 10 chaptersGhazal Explained9:28Patta Patta Boota Boota – Mir Taqi Mir Ghazalपत्ता पत्ता बूटा बूटाExplore the timeless ghazal 'Patta Patta Boota Boota' by Mir Taqi Mir, a poetic masterpiece capturing unrequited love and the pain of 18th-century Delhi. This video unpacks the symbolism, couplets, and enduring influence of Mir's work, from inspiring Ghalib to Bollywood melodies. Discover why Mir's words remain the ultimate voice for broken hearts.Mir Taqi Mir · 9 chaptersGhazal Explained9:35Dil-e-naadaan Explained – Mirza Ghalibदिल-ए-नादाँ तुझे हुआ क्या हैExplore Mirza Ghalib's iconic ghazal 'Dil-e-naadaan tujhe hua kya hai', written during a time of personal and societal turmoil. This video unpacks the ghazal's deep questions on love, heartbreak, and existence, revealing its Sufi symbolism and timeless relevance. Each couplet is explained with context, symbolism, and meaning.Mirza Ghalib · 8 chaptersPoetry Explained7:03Hijr & Virah in Poetry: Meer, Firaq, Kabirहिज्र और विरह के गीतThis video explores the timeless themes of separation and longing—Hijr and Virah—in Urdu and Hindi poetry. Through the works of poets like Meer Taqi Meer, Firaq Gorakhpuri, and Kabir, we understand how heartbreak and solitude have been expressed across centuries. The discussion reveals how these ancient verses still resonate with modern emotions.Urdu Poetry · 7 chaptersPoetry Explained7:29Ghazal ka Safar: Urdu Ghazal Explainedग़ज़ल का सफ़रThis video explores the journey of the Urdu Ghazal, tracing its origins, structure, and evolution across centuries. It explains the technical aspects of the form, its adaptation in South Asia, and how its themes and symbols have changed over time. The video also dispels common myths about the Ghazal and highlights its enduring appeal.Urdu Poetry · 5 chaptersPoetry Explained9:39Mir & Iqbal: The Garden and The Skyबाग़ और आसमानThis explainer explores the contrasting philosophies of Mir Taqi Mir and Allama Iqbal through their iconic poetry. Mir's verses dwell in the melancholic beauty of the ruined garden, while Iqbal's poetry soars into the infinite sky of aspiration. The video unpacks how both poets address suffering, love, and the human spirit from radically different perspectives.Mir Taqi Mir · 5 chaptersGhazal Explained9:36Patta Patta Boota Boota – Mir Taqi Mirपत्ता पत्ता बूटा बूटाThis video explores Mir Taqi Mir's iconic ghazal 'Patta Patta Boota Boota'. Through a close reading, it unpacks the poetic structure, themes of heartbreak, cosmic envy, and the city of Delhi's decline. The explainer reveals how Mir transforms personal pain into a universal voice of loss and resilience.Mir Taqi Mir · 7 chapters