Episodes

  • Urdu Bolne ka 'Lahja' Thoda Casual Hai!!
    May 27 2024

    Silence in class! After a deep dive into Sanjay Leela Bhansali's hit web series 'Heeramandi', Fabeha Syed continues her Urdu class on this episode of 'Urdunama'. Through an engaging narrative and the enchanting recitation of Urdu poetry, discover how 'lahja' shapes communication and adds depth to our linguistic heritage.

    Urdu's phonetics and tone are integral to its charm and expressiveness, making it one of the most melodious languages in the world. One's 'lahja' can convey their geographical background, education level, and even social status, making it a key element in communication and interaction.

    Listen till the end as Fabeha reads poetry by Bashir Badr, Rahat Indori and Jan Nisar Akhtar. In the 'Aap Ki Qalam Se' section, we feature oiginal poetry by Mutassim Khan.

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    16 mins
  • How Accurate is the Urdu in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi'?
    May 19 2024

    Time to fire up your epiglottis! In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed delves into the linguistic nuances of Urdu in the much-discussed web series 'Heeramandi'. While the series has garnered attention for its bold storytelling and captivating visuals, the portrayal of Urdu within it has sparked debates and discussions. Join us as we dissect the accuracy of the Urdu dialogue, exploring its authenticity, usage, and the cultural context within the narrative.

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    20 mins
  • Contemplating About Our 'Vajood' in this World
    May 8 2024

    In this episode of the 'Urdunama' podcast, we delve deep into the profound word 'vajood' and its intricate significance in Urdu poetry. Join us as we unravel the layers of meaning behind this evocative term, exploring its portrayal of existence, identity, and the human experience.

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    13 mins
  • Behind Every 'Mayoosi', Lies a New Hope
    Apr 27 2024

    This episode of Urdunama gets real. Our host, Fabeha Syed dives into a feeling we all know too well: 'mayoosi', or despair. If you've ever felt that things are not going your way, this episode is for you.

    Taking shade under the wisdom of poets like Sahir Ludhianvi, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Firaq Gorakhpuri, let us heal together. Tune in!

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    16 mins
  • Being 'Khuddar' is not the Same as Being Selfish
    Apr 22 2024

    Apologies are in order! Urdunama is making a comeback after a two-week hiatus as Fabeha was busy with mommy duties. In this episode, we delve into the concept of the self. We explore how the Urdu language evokes notions of freedom and self-worth, and discuss the subtle distinction between being firm in one's principles and being 'khuddar'.

    Listen till the end as Fabeha reads poetry by Javed Akhtar, Kaif Bhopali and Muzaffar Razmi. The episode features original poetry by our listener Mohammad Adnan. You can get your poetry featured in the 'Aap ki Qalam' section of Urdunama. Or if you're a singer, send us a rendition of your favourite songs for 'Aap ki Awaaz'. We'd love to include you in the next episode.

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    18 mins
  • Sometimes, Being Be-'Khabar' is the Best Way to Know Yourself
    Mar 31 2024

    'Hoshwalon ko khabar kya, bekhudi kya cheez hai'. This ghazal by Nida Fazli has been a constant in many 90s kids' playlists. Sung by the great Jagjit Singh, the song was picturised on Aamir Khan for the 1999 film 'Sarfarosh'.

    In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed discusses the everyday, yet essential Urdu word 'khabar' and its significance in the Indian context. From street conversations to newsrooms, 'khabar' plays a pivotal role in conveying information and connecting people across diverse communities in India.

    Listen in as Fabeha reads poetry by Hairat Allahabadi, Mirza Ghalib and Parveen Shakir. The episode also features original poetry by Tarannum Shaikh. If you want to feature on the Urdunama podcast, DM @fabehathesyed or @novacanemusic97 on Instagram with a voice note of your original poetry or songs.

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    15 mins
  • Nazeer Akbarabadi's Poetry on Holi: Celebrating Unity & Colors
    Mar 24 2024

    'Mere hazrat ne Madine mei manaayi Holi'. This line by Gauhar Jaan perfectly encapsulates the spirit of 'Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb', which is entrenched in the Urdu language.

    Welcome to this special episode of Urdunama, where Fabeha Syed delves into the vibrant world of Nazeer Akbarabadi's poetry, particularly focusing on his evocative verses celebrating the festival of Holi. From the joyous splashes of colors to the deeper themes of unity and celebration, join us as we celebrate the spirit of Holi through the lens of Urdu poetry in this episode of Urdunama.

    Aparupa Gupta, a long-time Urdunama listener has lent her voice for a soulful rendition of some nazms. If you too are a singer/poet, DM us to get featured on the next episode of Urdunama. We would love for you to be a part of our community.

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    18 mins
  • This Podcast Won't Let You Stay 'Khafa' for Long!
    Mar 17 2024

    In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed discusses the word 'khafa', with a smile on her face, of course! The Urdu word means 'displeased', 'upset', and 'offended'. As she reads poetry by Javed Akhtar, Bashir Badr and Anwar Shuoor, we unpack the complexities of releationships, and understand how 'naraazi' can help us heal.

    Listen till the end!

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    17 mins