Professor Azhar Hashmi, a renowned poet, writer, educator, and visionary whose words have resonated across India and beyond. Hailing from Ratlam, a city once known primarily for its railway junction, Hashmi has elevated its name to global recognition through his literary contributions and unwavering commitment to social ideals.
The Genesis of “Mujhko Ram Wala Hindustan Chahiye”
When asked about the inspiration behind his seminal poem, Professor Hashmi’s response was profound yet simple. “Ram is not just a name, a lineage, or a sect. Ram is an eternal truth, a timeless consciousness, a universal value rooted in nature and divinity,” he said. Drawing from the elements of nature, the environment, and the divine, Hashmi believes that his poetry is a medium through which the eternal speaks. “It was as if Ram himself wrote this poem through me,” he added with humility.
The poem, written years ago, envisioned a Hindustan where the values of Ram—truth, justice, and harmony—would prevail. At the time, it was a bold demand, a dream that seemed distant in a nation grappling with challenges. Yet, Hashmi’s vision persisted. Reflecting on the consecration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, he described it as a milestone in a larger journey. “The temple is a golden milestone, a step toward our goal. But the dream of a true Ram Rajya—a society free from corruption and injustice—requires more work. We’ve crossed two stages, but the final stage is yet to come.”
A Voice for Daughters: “Betiyan Shubhkamnaein Hain”
Professor Hashmi’s poetry extends beyond spiritual ideals to address pressing social issues. His poem “Betiyan Shubhkamnaein Hain” (Daughters Are Blessings) emerged at a time when female feticide was rampant, challenging societal attitudes toward girls. The inspiration, he revealed, stemmed from the divine feminine energy—Shakti—that complements creation itself. “The mother is the first presence in creation. Without Shakti, even Shiva is incomplete. A mother embodies love, compassion, and sacrifice, and daughters carry this divine legacy forward,” he explained.
Quoting scriptures, Hashmi invoked the reverence for the feminine divine: “Devi Sarvabhuteshu Matru Rupena Samsthita—the goddess resides in all beings as the mother.” His poem celebrates daughters as embodiments of hope and blessings, urging society to cherish and protect them. This work not only earned him global acclaim but also cemented his place on the world literary map, transforming perceptions and inspiring change.
The Ratlam Connection: A Bond of Love and Legacy
Ratlam, a modest city in Madhya Pradesh’s Malwa region, holds a special place in Hashmi’s heart. “Ratlam was once synonymous with railways, but today, it stands for something greater,” he said proudly. His contributions, including a national literary award, have put Ratlam on the cultural map. Hashmi’s connection to his hometown is deeply emotional, rooted in the love and support of its people. “The roads of affection that had broken, the bridges of harmony that had crumbled—I’ve tried to rebuild them through my work,” he shared.
He credited the city’s youth, particularly the interviewer, for amplifying Ratlam’s identity through media and storytelling. “Connectivity is everything—between hearts, ideas, and communities. Ratlam has taught me that love and unity can transform a place,” he said, emphasizing the role of collective effort in his journey.
The Divine Feminine and the Power of Words
Hashmi’s reverence for the feminine extends to his philosophy of life. Citing the poet Mahadevi Verma, he spoke of the five pillars a mother represents: love, equality, responsibility, completeness, and the sanctity of words. “A mother is a master key that unlocks any heart with her affection,” he said. He believes that words, when wielded with care, have the power to protect and uplift. “If you honor your words, they will honor you,” he advised, echoing Verma’s wisdom.
Reflections on a Literary Journey
As we delved into his decades-long literary career, Hashmi shared a poignant memory from his college days in Ratlam’s Bago College. As a BA student and literature secretary, he had the chance to meet the legendary poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan. Reciting a poem he had written in the tenth grade—“Ambar ke anand ko dekho, kitne iske taare toote” (Look at the joy of the sky, how many of its stars have fallen)—Hashmi recalled Bachchan’s affectionate encouragement. “He called me his student and friend, saying we shared not just poetry but also meals in the hostel,” Hashmi reminisced, his voice tinged with nostalgia.
Another untold story was his vision of Ram Roti Yojana, a dream to ensure food and medicine for all. “As a young student, I was surrounded by diverse ideologies, but my goal was simple: no one should go hungry or lack medicine,” he said. This vision, initially embraced by nationalist organizations, reflects his commitment to blending poetry with social good.
A Message for the Future
For aspiring writers and the younger generation, Hashmi’s message was clear and uplifting. Quoting a line that has inspired judges and poets alike, he said, “Hai Agar vishwas, toh manzil milegi, shart yeh hai bin ruke chalna padega—If you have faith, you will find your goal, but you must keep walking without pause.” He urged the youth to remain steadfast in their dreams, to light a lamp of hope even in the darkest times, and to stay rooted in humility and respect for their parents.
In closing, Hashmi paid tribute to his parents, Khurshid Hashmi and his mother, whose sacrifices shaped his path. “My father gave everything for my dreams, and my mother’s love was my strength. Stay cultured, thoughtful, and devoted to your parents, whether they are with you or not. A child who honors their parents earns the devotion of the nation,” he said, leaving listeners with a timeless lesson in gratitude and purpose.
