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The Quint

Bollywood songs turn us all into Grammy award-winning bathroom singers! But wait, do you know the meaning of every word you sing? Especially the ones in Urdu? On Urdunama, our host Fabeha Syed takes one word at a time and breaks it down for you.

Be it the protest poetry of Faiz, or Sameer's 90s nostalgia, we have it all. If you like Urdu and poetry, this podcast is for you!

Urdunama

The Oxford Word of the Year, 'Brain Rot,' captures a world consumed by endless scrolling, digital fatigue, and mental burnout. In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed connects the Urdu word 'Zavaal'—meaning decline or downfall—to this modern malaise. Through the poetic imagery of setting suns and philosophical insights on life’s inevitable cycles, 'Zavaal' helps us make sense of the cultural and personal effects of our collective 'Brain Rot.' With timeless poetry and contemporary parallels, we delve into how every decline carries the promise of renewal.
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Brain Rot: How to Survive This 'Zavaal'

'Gham' a word that carries the weight of sorrow yet inspires some of the most profound poetry. In this episode of Urdunama, Fabeha Syed explores how this emotion has shaped Urdu poetry and literature. From heartbreak to resilience, discover why poets find solace and strength in expressing gham.
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You Need to Navigate ‘Gham’ to Find Healing

What makes a house a home? Is it the walls that shelter us, or the emotions that bind us? In this episode of Urdunama Fabeha Syed unpacks the soul of 'ghar', a word that means so much more than just a home. Through timeless Urdu poetry and heartfelt stories, we explore how poets have captured the longing for ghar, the warmth it offers, and the solace it brings. From the nostalgia of childhood homes to the yearning for a place to call one’s own, discover why 'ghar' is a feeling that transcends time and space.
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'Ghar' is Where the Heart Is

In the realm of sahaafat (journalism), the truth is both the foundation and the fight. This episode of Urdunama, hosted by Fabeha Syed, dives into the Urdu word sahaafat, exploring its poetic essence and the challenges faced by modern journalists. Help sustain the voice of truth by becoming a member of The Quint, where every story is a testament to courage and authenticity.
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Sahaafat: The 4th Pillar of Democracy

What does it mean to reflect on the guzishta—the past? In this episode of Urdunama, hosted by Fabeha Syed, we delve into the Urdu word guzishta, which carries with it memories, lessons, and a touch of nostalgia. Through evocative poetry and timeless stories, we explore how the past shapes our present and how poets and philosophers have grappled with its enduring presence. Join us for a poetic journey into what it means to look back and find meaning in all that’s passed.
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How Our 'Guzishta' Shapes Decisions in Our Future

What does the future hold? The Urdu word 'mustaqbil' invites us to dream, plan, and ponder the paths ahead. In this episode of 'Urdunama', we explore poetry and stories that envision the future, delve into the philosophical reflections on time, and celebrate the human spirit that dares to dream. From Ghalib’s timeless verses to contemporary musings, join us as we navigate the bridge between today and tomorrow.
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'Mustaqbil' is a Reflection of Your Choices Today

Everything in life changes—friends, feelings, relationships, even time itself. But have you ever wondered what truly stays the same? In this episode, Fabeha Syed talks about the Urdu word 'mustaqil'. It’s not just about being permanent; it’s about resolve, determination, and the things that anchor us. Through poetry and stories, we’ll explore how some emotions and memories stay mustaqil, no matter how much time moves on. 
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Some Decisions are More 'Mustaqil' Than Others

'Musalsal'—continuity, persistence, and unbroken flow. In this episode of 'Urdunama,' we dive into the essence of what it means to keep going, to move forward despite challenges, and to embrace the endless cycle of life. Through poetry, stories, and reflections, we'll explore how the concept of musalsal shapes our understanding of resilience, time, and change. Tune in for a poetic journey that celebrates the beauty of what stays in motion.

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Musalsal: Zindagi Ke Jari Lamhe

Throughout February, Urdunama will explore themes of love and romance in Urdu poetry. Each episode will focus on a different word that captures the essence of love, delving into its poetic significance and the emotions it conveys. Join us as we celebrate the language of love through the rich tapestry of Urdu literature.
'Zulf'—the Urdu word for 'tresses' or 'locks of hair'—and its significance in expressing love and beauty in Urdu poetry. Join us as we unravel the poetic charm of 'zulf' through timeless couplets and stories, celebrating the romantic essence of Urdu literature.
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Mohabbat Part 1: When Their 'Zulf' Makes You Fall in Love

Taj Mahal, a symbol of love, is recognised worldwide and is marvelled at for its architectural genius. This 17th-century heritage building reminds us of a love that prompted a Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to build a mausoleum for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who had died in childbirth.

This architectural expression of love, Taj Mahal, has also been the subject of a perennial debate that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple, 'Tejo Mahalaya,' and that it represents Islamic aggression on a Hindu land.

So, the question is, does the Taj Mahal represent religion? The answer is a resounding 'no'; it represents love.

To understand the history of Taj Mahal and the persistent controversy around it, watch one of our videos from the archives, where we spoke to historian Pushpesh Pant.

And to understand in what ways the Taj Mahal inspired poets, tune in to this episode of Urdunama where Fabeha Syed reads poets like Kaifi Azmi and Sahir Ludhianvi, who think that the structure is in fact a 'mockery of love.'
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Some Decisions are More 'Mustaqil' Than Others

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