Rahi Masoom Raza tried to build a bridge between Hindi and Urdu, bringing the two linguistic and cultural traditions closer through his creative work.” Renowned filmmaker made these observations while speaking at the inaugural programme of the Dr. Rahi Masoom Raza Centenary Celebrations in New Delhi. Organised by Maati Trust, the year-long series will feature 100 programmes focusing on Rahi Masoom Raza’s contributions to literature, cinema and music.
This inaugural event was held at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry at New Delhi. The programme was presided over by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, while Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, was the Chief Guest. Shri Vivek Agarwal, IAS, Culture Secretary to the Government of India, attended as the Special Chief Guest. Muzaffar Ali delivered the keynote address, while noted author and poet Mamta Kalia and Prof. K. G. Suresh, Director, India Habitat Centre, were among the Guests of Honour. The programme was conducted by Rahman Musawwir.
Speakers Recall Raza’s Literary and Cultural Contributions
Atul K. Thakur Senior Secretary, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the significance of the centenary celebrations being organised in memory of Rahi Masoom Raza.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. K. G. Suresh thanked the organisers and recalled Rahi Masoom Raza’s immense contribution to literature, television and popular culture. He said that while his novels and literary works would continue to invite discussion, his contribution to Mahabharata reached virtually every household in India. The television serial influenced the lives and values of an entire generation. Rahi Masoom Raza’s ability to employ Sanskrit vocabulary while remaining deeply rooted in Urdu, he observed, reflected his remarkable command over language. Through Mahabharata,he helped transmit cultural values to an entire generation and sought to create a bridge between Hindi and Urdu.
Renowned filmmaker Muzaffar Ali, the keynote speaker, said that it was a great privilege for him to be present at the centenary celebrations of Rahi Masoom Raza. Recalling his association with Aligarh and his meetings with Raza, he said that on reaching Aligarh he felt that there was a person there who was ready to embrace everyone with a warm heart. He also recalled inviting Rahi Masoom Raza to one of his painting exhibitions. Referring to his creative journey, he quoted the line: “Kabhi roshni ki talaash mein kai manzilon se guzar gaye.”
Tributes by Justice Dhulia and Dr. Sonal Mansingh
Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia said that the heights achieved by Rahi Masoom Raza were rare and exceptional. He recalled reading Raza’s articles as well as his celebrated novel Topi Shukla and spoke about his contribution to Mahabharata and his wider literary and cultural legacy.
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Dr. Sonal Mansingh, who presided over the programme, paid tribute to Rahi Masoom Raza’s multifaceted contribution to literature, cinema and culture. In her presidential remarks, she underlined the enduring relevance of his creative legacy.
The programme was also attended by noted writer and poet Mamta Kalia. Asif Azmi, convener of Maati, proposed the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all the guests, speakers and participants.
Musical Tribute Marks Grand Opening of Centenary Celebrations
A special musical performance by renowned vocalist Noopur Sidhu Narayan was another highlight of the evening. She presented songs, ghazals and bhajans written by Rahi Masoom Raza, bringing his musical and literary legacy alive for the audience.
The centenary celebrations are being organised with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India; Urdu Academy, Delhi; Government of Delhi; and Savitri Group. The year-long series of 100 programmes aims to introduce and preserve Rahi Masoom Raza’s literary, cinematic, musical and intellectual legacy for a wider audience and the younger generation.
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