Reading Ghalib at WhatsApp University
Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but those fake Ghalib verses that do the rounds on WhatsApp are just too much to endure!
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And it’s no surprise that Ghalib is one of the most adored, emulated (and imitated) Urdu poets. More than a hundred and fifty years after he passed into the ages, Ghalib’s legacy lives on and has acquired new vigour in contemporary music, literature, cinema and pop culture.
And, of course, in the hallowed portals of WhatsApp University.
If you receive a WhatsApp message with a florid verse said to be attributed to Ghalib, it most likely is not, laughs Amit Basole, host of Yun Hota Toh Kya Hota? The World of Ghalib with Amit Basole.
Listen to this clip in which Basole laments the WhatsAppery around Ghalib.
And, here’s the full episode.
If you’ve not treated yourself to our podcast series on the life and times of one of the finest Urdu poets, now’s a good time.
For more resources on Ghalib’s poetry, including links to articles, videos, and book recommendations, visit our website.
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