Majrooh Sultanpuri: Urdu Poet, Bollywood Lyricist & India Post’s 2013 Stamp Tribute
Majrooh Sultanpuri (1919–2000), born Asrar ul Hassan Khan, was a towering figure in Indian poetry and film songwriting. A master of Urdu ghazals and a pioneer of progressive thought, Majrooh’s lyrical genius shaped the golden age of Bollywood music and left an indelible mark on Indian literature.
Originally trained as a Unani physician, Majrooh’s poetic journey began in the mushairas of Uttar Pradesh. His talent caught the attention of Jigar Moradabadi, who mentored him. A chance meeting with Naushad in Bombay led to his debut as a film lyricist in Shah Jehan (1946), and the rest is history.
Majrooh Sultanpuri penned lyrics for over 350 films, collaborating with legends like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and Jatin-Lalit. His songs—“Chahunga Main Tujhe” (Dosti), “Papa Kehte Hain” (Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak), and “Pehla Nasha” (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar)—spanned generations and genres.
He was the first lyricist to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1993, recognizing his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema. His poetry blended romance, rebellion, and realism, making him a voice of both the masses and the intellectual elite.
Majrooh was a key member of the Progressive Writers’ Association, using poetry to challenge colonialism and social injustice. His political activism led to imprisonment in 1949 for anti-establishment verses, yet he remained committed to artistic freedom.
On 3 May 2013, India Post issued a ₹5 commemorative stamp honoring Majrooh Sultanpuri. The stamp features his portrait with Urdu calligraphy and musical motifs, symbolizing his dual legacy as a poet and lyricist. It was printed by Security Printing Press, Hyderabad, as part of the Legendary Lyricists of India series.
Trivia Points
- Born on 1 October 1919 in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
- Birth name: Asrar ul Hassan Khan.
- Trained at Takmeel-ut-Tib College, Lucknow.
- Mentored by Jigar Moradabadi.
- Debuted in Bollywood with Shah Jehan (1946).
- Wrote lyrics for over 350 films.
- Member of Progressive Writers’ Movement.
- Imprisoned in 1949 for anti-government poetry.
- Won Filmfare Best Lyricist for “Chahunga Main Tujhe” (1965).
- Received Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1993.
- Wrote iconic songs for Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar.
- Known for blending ghazal tradition with modern themes.
- Stamp issued in 2013 by India Post.
- Died on 24 May 2000 in Mumbai.
- His son Andalib Sultanpuri is a film director.
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Legendary lyricists of India
Majrooh Sultanpuri biography
Majrooh Sultanpuri ghazals
Majrooh Sultanpuri poems
Majrooh Sultanpuri trivia
Urdu poets of India