Lucknow — The Osama Talha Society and Kishwari Konnect collaborated to host the Jyot Se Jyot Jale Diwali Mela at Dilkusha Colony Club, blending vibrant Diwali festivities with the rich heritage of Urdu. This event, presided over by Kulsum Mustafa, Founder and Secretary General, was marked by inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and community welfare.
The mela featured schoolchildren painting and decorating diyas to be gifted to families in underserved communities. Unlike traditional fairs, this event was dedicated to the well-being of specially-abled children and those from underprivileged backgrounds, creating an atmosphere of joy and compassion that extended beyond the festival’s typical celebrations.
Preserving the Urdu Language: Talaffuz Aur Hum
The highlight of the mela was the “Talaffuz Aur Hum” session, titled “Zabaan Sambhal Ke Janab, Main Lucknow Hoon,” a unique initiative to immerse attendees in the finer nuances of the Urdu language, often celebrated as the hallmark of Lucknow’s cultural identity. Dr. Sabra Habib, an Urdu scholar and linguist, conducted this session with an interactive and educational approach.
Dr. Habib engaged the audience with insights into Urdu’s symbolic letters and how they combine to form words. Emphasizing correct pronunciation, she made it clear that the session was intended not as a classroom but as an interactive dialogue to foster awareness of the beauty and intricacies of the Urdu language.
In an inspiring segment, Dr. Habib spoke about Mirza Ghalib’s letters, highlighting the elegance and simplicity of his language. She read aloud passages, drawing attention to proper pronunciation and inviting the audience to participate by reciting Urdu couplets. Dr. Habib explained that learning Urdu, much like a child solving puzzles, requires patience and practice. She also provided an accessible introduction to Urdu literary forms such as Ghazal, Nazm, Marsiya, and Qasida, sharing anecdotes from poets like Josh Malihabadi and Nida Fazli. Among the other illustrious guests were Nawab Masood Abdullah, Dr. Anupama Singh, among several others.
Inclusive Events and Stalls for the Community
A variety of stalls dotted the venue, offering food, home decor, jewellery, sarees, and handmade products such as soaps and candles. The event was marked by unique “hand-holding” stalls, where volunteers from the Swapana Foundation assisted vendors and patrons alike, making the experience welcoming for everyone.
An exciting “Katha Chaupal” storytelling corner offered an engaging platform for attendees to share and listen to stories, a cultural staple in North India.
Empowering Youth: Career Development Initiatives
The Osama Talha Society recently unveiled two educational and career development programs for students, particularly from minority and underserved communities:
- Mukammal: This comprehensive initiative focuses on career assessment, personality development, English communication, and mentorship, designed for students in grades 8 to 12. By connecting students with professionals from various fields, Mukammal aims to equip young minds with critical skills and self-confidence.
- Sunday Rozi: Targeted at providing a platform for skill-building and earning opportunities, Sunday Rozi is a weekly initiative allowing students to gain practical experience and financial independence.
The organizers, including Media Nest, and Kulsum Mustafa, played a crucial role in bringing these programs to fruition, underscoring the event’s commitment to both cultural enrichment and educational empowerment.
A Success for Unity and Learning
The Jyot Se Jyot Jale Diwali initiative was more than a festive gathering; it was a powerful convergence of art, language, and community spirit. The event celebrated Lucknow’s cultural legacy while addressing the needs of the city’s underprivileged and specially-abled individuals. Through the shared love for Urdu and the joy of Diwali, the organizers successfully fostered unity and learning, leaving attendees with a memorable experience that blended tradition with social responsibility.
