An illustrated coffee table book about Aligarh’s poetic landscape with the finest poetry in appreciation as well as criticism of Aligarh from the stalwarts of the Urdu language and culture. Urdu and Aligarh are a match made in heaven. Every corner of Aligarh boasts of its centuries-old history. Apart from its culture and Convention, it has also been the home base for some of the greatest poets the Indian subcontinent has ever produced. While the city does not have any monuments or tombs to exhaust you on your next visit, what it does have is that old-world charm whose ambience will consume you and break all the clichés of how you perceive a city’s history. You will realise that Aligarh is a character that you need to live up to, and its quirky nature will bind you and yet allow you to be free. Its distinctive, intimate, majestic, and discernible spirit has an emotional point of reference rather than a topographical one. It carries a simplicity you will not find anywhere else. Be it the old and the new or Science and poetry, Aligarh is where the Union of such contradictions transpire. But it is the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) that put the city on the world map. From witnessing historic movements to bringing the poetic brilliance of its culture to life, every inhabitant of Aligarh wears an Amu badge with pride. Several poets have expressed their unending love for she’r-o-shayari and honed their art within the walls of this majestic University. The alumni carry the love and respect for their institution and the City, both of which stand as a backbone of their creative journey. Aligarh will blossom a sense of nostalgia... It will happen to you. You are bound to immerse yourself in the compendium of this timeless city.

The novel “Teen Batti Ke Rama” brings to light the unseen and untold world of metropolitan Mumbai—a world that, despite being far removed from glamour and glitter, remains an integral part of it. Its backdrop is set around Walkeshwar, a prestigious and affluent locality in South Mumbai, where, on one hand, there exists the serene world of the Parsi community and the grand mansions of the wealthy, and on the other hand, the struggle-filled lives of the domestic workers who serve in these very households.The author, Ali Imam Naqvi, has portrayed the lives of these domestic workers—male servants locally known as “Rama,” and female helpers referred to as “Bai” or “Aya”—with remarkable subtlety and sensitivity. One of the most striking features of the novel is its language, which employs Mumbai’s distinctive “tapori” slang in a natural and precise manner, bringing the narrative vividly to life.This work not only tells the story of a neglected section of society but also reveals the emotions, struggles, and realities hidden within them. From a thematic perspective, the novel emerges as a unique and significant addition to Urdu literature, offering readers a fresh and compelling experience.

'Baghair Unwan Ke' stands out as Saadat Hasan Manto's only novel, offering a deep dive into human psychology and emotional struggles that go beyond an ordinary love story. It tracks Saeed, the main character, as he copes with feelings of emptiness and loneliness and pursues love. Manto explores themes like love, the subconscious, social pressures, and emotional complexity with notable simplicity and realism. This novel highlights a distinctive and less commonly seen aspect of Manto’s creative talent.

Ikkis Ek Sau Bais is Khalid Javed’s fifth novel, continuing his literary exploration of death, existence, and the complexities of human experience. More than a story about death, the novel presents a profound narrative of human existence, where life itself is portrayed as a metaphorical hell. Through a mythic and symbolic style, it depicts the turmoil and consequences arising from the conflict between a person’s inner and outer worlds. The novel offers a deep reflection on existence, mortality, and the unsettling realities of human life.

"“Intizar Ka Mausam” is not only a selection of Parveen Shakir’s popular and memorable works, but it also reflects her unique position in Urdu poetry. Through this book, the reader encounters a kind of poetry that not only touches the heart but also compels one to think. For this reason, the collection becomes a precious and memorable gift for admirers of Parveen Shakir. In this collection, the reader hears the voice of a sensitive and perceptive poet, who expresses a woman’s inner emotions with remarkable simplicity and beauty. Themes such as love, waiting, loneliness, romance, and pain form the foundation of this book. At places, there is the fragrance of union, while elsewhere the anguish of separation and indifference is clearly visible. Parveen Shakir’s distinctive quality lies in her ability to transform the small, everyday feelings of life into poetry, giving them a new depth and meaning. "

In the present book “Ranjish Hi Sahi,” the selected works present the image of a multidimensional poet—one who is at once romantic, neo-classical, modern, and rebellious. Through his poetry, Faraz not only highlights the delicate aspects of love but also offers a deep insight into the political and social conditions of his time. This is why his voice does not remain confined to personal emotions; rather, it becomes a reflection of collective consciousness.This book clearly establishes Faraz’s unique position in Urdu poetry. His style is simple yet powerful, combining emotional intensity with depth of thought. “Ranjish Hi Sahi” not only portrays the many shades of love but also compels the reader to reflect—and that is its greatest strength.

it is a collection of 25 travel tales that talk about his trips around the world.

In the present book “Ranjish Hi Sahi,” the selected works present the image of a multidimensional poet—one who is at once romantic, neo-classical, modern, and rebellious. Through his poetry, Faraz not only highlights the delicate aspects of love but also offers a deep insight into the political and social conditions of his time. This is why his voice does not remain confined to personal emotions; rather, it becomes a reflection of collective consciousness.This book clearly establishes Faraz’s unique position in Urdu poetry. His style is simple yet powerful, combining emotional intensity with depth of thought. “Ranjish Hi Sahi” not only portrays the many shades of love but also compels the reader to reflect—and that is its greatest strength.

“Mor-Pankhi” is the second collection of short stories by the renowned fiction writer Javed Siddiqui, in which the many colors of life are portrayed with remarkable beauty. The stories in this book are not only engaging but also feature characters that feel vividly alive and close to reality.Set against the backdrop of a village like Chhota Syedpura, the author has depicted, with great simplicity and impact, the harmony, tolerance, and unity among people of different sects and beliefs.This collection takes the reader back to those beautiful memories of the past when people from different walks of life lived together in mutual respect, sharing a spirit of love and acceptance. Javed Siddiqui’s storytelling style is captivating and graceful, holding the reader’s attention from beginning to end.“Mor-Pankhi” is a refined and valuable addition to Urdu literature, appealing not only to literary enthusiasts but also equally engaging for general readers.

“Zindagi Kya Cheez Hai” is an important collection of selected and representative poetry by the renowned Urdu poet Nida Fazli, beautifully published by Rekhta Publications. The ghazals, nazms, dohas, and couplets included in this volume give voice to those emotions and experiences that ordinary people feel every day but often cannot express. Nida Fazli’s language carries the sweetness of folk songs, the simplicity of saint poets, and the pain of the modern human condition all at once. He brought Urdu poetry out of closed rooms and difficult symbolism, connecting it instead with streets, homes, relationships, and the everyday lives of common peop

THE MIDDLE is the story of Azma's journey from being an insatiable reader to becoming a contemplative writer. And through the course of this restless quest, she fights, in her head, the dark, formidable demons of taunting part-truths. Eva Sanchez Gomez creates a visual world which is at once intense and menacing, as it is calming and quieting. Richa Jha's lyrical text brings out Azma's disquiet within and the unease outside. Together, they have birthed a book that is an achingly beautiful tribute to any soul-searching creative process.

The offered book narrates the scientist Qamar Rahman's interesting journey to different corners of the world. She has travelled to a number of countries for her research-related purposes and gathered a range of experiences. The readers will be able to travel the world and feel the emotions with her.

Stories have a way of shaping the world we live in. They weave together our beliefs, emotions and the truths we hold dear, often blending reality with imagination. This book is a collection of such stories deeply rooted in the fabric of communal dynamics, yet echoing universal human experiences. Each story sheds light on the innocence, complexities and conflicts that emerge when communities, cultures and individuals collide. The tales in this book are set against the backdrop of day-to-day life in villages and towns. They feature vibrant characters, each with their own quirks and stories to tell. From Rahmat, the oil presser, whose quiet resilience and legendary past make him a figure of endless fascination, to the youthful debates and riddles that animate village temples, these stories explore the deep connections-and divides that define us. While these stories are fictional, they reflect the reality of the world around us. They are not just about individuals or communities; they are about humanity as a whole its flaws, its beauty and its unrelenting pursuit of harmony

This collection of eleven compelling stories offers a deep and poignant exploration of the evolving landscape of Indian society, particularly rural life. The stories capture the voices of those often overlooked-people who exist on the margins, their lives shaped by systemic challenges and societal indifference. Through these narratives, the reader is drawn into a world where dreams are both nurtured and shattered, where resilience meets despair, and where the pursuit of happiness is fraught with obstacles. The stories reflect not only the changes in society over the past decade but also the lingering shadows of inequality that contin-ue to haunt progress. They offer a critique of a system that destroys aspirations while showcasing the perseverance of individuals striving to reshape their destinies. Rich in symbolism and layered with meaning, the collection traverses themes of survival, hope, and human dignity.

The Best Stories of Mohapatra Nilamani Sahoo: This book is a translation of Mohapatra Nilamani Sahoo's short stories, written in his inimitable style. The stories, originally written in Odia, were truly representative of Odia culture and traditions; the narrative is unique and deeply emotional and carries the readers with the flow. This volume is a specimen of Mohapatra Nilamani Sahoo's short stories for the wider readership

INFiNITY is a thorough account of all aspects of life that a soul must traverse to learn through a human incarnation. It demystifies mind, body, emotions, money, relationships, past lives, karma, ego, diseases and nirvana. It is a discernment worth every revelation, for it unfolds profound concepts that hold the power to transform and heal the reader as they indulge in the riveting examples. The author has used her experience in client therapy to untangle complex relationship scenarios and other life situations, getting to the root cause of the issue. The ease with which the book unfolds the pristine path to self-recognition leaves the reader empowered with a new perception of life.

Silas Marner: the weaver of Raveloe is a novel by George Eliot, published in 1861. An outwardly simple tale of a linen weaver, it is notable for its strong realism and its sophisticated treatment of a variety of issues ranging from religion to industrialisation to community. The novel is set in the early years of the 19th century. Silas Marner, a weaver, is a member of a small calvinist congregation in lantern Yard, a slum street in an unnamed city in northern England. He is falsely accused of stealing the congregation's funds while watching over the very ill Deacon. Two clues are given against Silas: a pocket-knife and the discovery in his own house of the bag formerly containing the money. There is the strong suggestion that Silas' Best friend, William Dane, has framed him, since Silas had lent his pocket-knife to William shortly before the crime was committed. Silas is proclaimed guilty.

हिंदी में बहुत श्रेष्ठ यात्रा-वृत्तांत लिखे गए हैं। यह एक ऐसी शैली में है जिसके माध्यम से लेखक आँखों देखी घटनाओं, स्थानों और व्यक्तियों को अपने शब्दों के माध्यम से पुनर्जीवित करता है। असगर वजाहत के यात्रा-वृत्तांत पाठकों को अपने साथ यात्रा पर ले जाते हैं। इस यात्रा में ऐसे अनुभव होते हैं जो प्राय: समाजशास्त्रियों, पत्रकारों और अन्य की पकड़ में नहीं आते क्योंकि लेखक की सृजनात्मक और व्यापक दृष्टि ही उनसे साक्षात्कार कर सकती है। आज़रबाईजान, अंडमान निकोबार, कोंकण से शिमोगा और मिज़ोरम की यात्राओं का अद्भुत वृत्तांत है 'रास्ते की तलाश में'। कथात्मकता से भरपूर।

सिनेमा और थिएटर के अन्तरिक्ष में विधाओं के आर-पार उड़नेवाले धूमकेतु कलाकार पीयूष मिश्रा यहाँ, इस जिल्द के भीतर सिर्फ़ एक बेचैन शब्दकार के रूप में मौजूद हैं। ये कविताएँ उनके जज़्बे की पैदावार हैं जिन्हें उन्होंने अपनी कामयाबियों से भी कमाया है, नाकामियों से भी। हर अच्छी कविता की तरह ये कविताएँ भी अपनी बात ख़ुद कहने की क़ायल हैं, फिर भी जो ख़ास तौर पर सुनने लायक़ है वह है इनकी बेचैनी जो इनके कंटेंट से लेकर फ़ार्म तक एक ही रचाव के साथ बिंधी है। दूसरी ध्यान रखने लायक़ बात ये कि इनमें से कोई कविता अब तक न मंच पर उतरी है, न परदे पर। यानी यह सिर्फ़ और सिर्फ़ कवि-शायर पीयूष मिश्रा की किताब है।

खारी नदी को आप मुमताज़ बेगम की कहानी कहिए, या फिर उनकी कहानी से हिम्मत बटोरती कई कहानियाँ कहिए, आपबीती कहिए, ज़िन्दगी के तजुर्बे कहिए, पर यह कहानी हमें अपने आप से और दुनिया की कठोर सच्चाई से रू-ब-रू कराती है और आगे के रास्ते भी दिखाती है। इसलिए ये महज़ कहानी या आपबीती नहीं रह जाती बल्कि खारी नदी कहलाती है। खारा तो समुन्दर भी होता है, लेकिन इस नदी का खारापन आँसुओं से जुड़ा है। उसके बावजूद इसमें उमंगों की लहरें हैं जो इस कहानी को ख़ास बनाती हैं। हमारे आसपास की दुनिया ने कुछ दस्तूर बना दिए हैं, कुछ ठप्पे बना दिए हैं, जो बस इनसानों पर लगा दिए जाते है, कि ये तो ऐसा ही होगा। एक तयशुदा नज़रिया और तयशुदा सज़ा... लेकिन खारी नदी तो इन सब नज़रियों से परे एक औरत का संघर्ष दिखाती है जो किसी भी वंचित समुदाय की औरत का संघर्ष हो सकता है। खारी नदी में बयाँ की गई मुमताज़ बेगम, नन्दा, और चन्द्रभागा के साथ-साथ तमाम औरतों की आपबीतियाँ हमें झकझोर कर रख देती हैं। हर कहानी किसी एक औरत की नहीं, बल्कि तमाम औरतों का बयान है जो उन पर लगाए गए असंख्य बन्धनों और दुखों को उजागर करता है। और ये सारे बन्धन और दुख कहीं-न-कहीं धर्म और जाति के साथ उलझकर अलग-अलग जगहों पर अपना जाल बिछाए हुए हैं, औरत गाँव-देहात की हो या शहर की, अनपढ़ हो चाहे पढ़ी-लिखी। लेकिन खारी नदी की हर कहानी में एक ज़िन्दा मन भी है, और संघर्ष की तैयारी भी। खारी नदी औरतों के दुख, आँसू और शोषण के साथ-साथ उनकी ज़िन्दगी को बेहतरीन बनाने के लिए किया गया संघर्ष है। उम्मीद है यह संघर्ष पाठक को बहुत कुछ सोचने, समझने, आँकने और उसे जीवन में उतारने पर मजबूर करेगा; एक नया नज़रिया देगा।