Urdu has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

Growing up in India in the 1970s, I had the good fortune of being introduced to the language at a young age. My father served in the Army and was posted in Kashmir, and perhaps because of that environment, Urdu entered my life at a time when such exposure was becoming increasingly rare. What began as a school subject soon became a lifelong fascination.

I was drawn to the beauty of Urdu, its sounds, its expressions, and the remarkable way it could communicate profound ideas with elegance and simplicity. Even during my years in architecture school, my fondness for the language was well known among friends. I often used Urdu words and expressions in everyday conversations, which earned me the affectionate nickname “Miaji.”

While architecture became my profession, Urdu remained my passion.

For many years, however, pursuing that passion was not easy. Between studies, professional commitments, and the pace of urban life, finding quality books, experienced teachers, or structured learning opportunities was difficult. My interest in the language never faded, but opportunities to engage with it meaningfully were limited.

That changed when I discovered Rekhta.

For someone who had spent years searching for ways to deepen his connection with Urdu, Rekhta felt like a welcome discovery. Here was a platform that not only preserved the language but also celebrated its literature, poetry, vocabulary, and culture. It made Urdu accessible to learners and enthusiasts in a way I had never experienced before.
 

My connection with the language grew even stronger through Rekhta Learning. As an All-Access Pass holder, I have explored several courses and learning resources, and each experience has been enriching. I have often recommended Rekhta Learning to friends who share my interest in Urdu, and many of them have since begun their own journeys with the language.

Among the courses I have taken, the one on Mirza Ghalib taught by Sarfaraz Khalid has been particularly memorable.

What makes the course special is not only the content but also the way it is taught. Sarfaraz sahib's passion for Ghalib and Urdu is evident in every session. Whether he is explaining a verse, discussing the meaning of a word, or uncovering a subtle nuance hidden within a Sher, his enthusiasm brings the poetry to life. The course constantly reminds learners that great poetry reveals new meanings each time it is revisited.

Another rewarding aspect of the experience has been learning alongside fellow enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Participants come with different levels of familiarity with Urdu, varied life experiences, and unique perspectives on literature. Their questions and observations often open new ways of understanding a verse. In many ways, the classroom itself becomes an important part of the learning process.

Looking back, I realize that Rekhta did not introduce me to Urdu. The language has accompanied me through much of my life. What Rekhta has done is provide a home for that long-standing affection and offer a structured pathway to nurture it further.

My journey with Urdu continues, and so does my journey with Ghalib. The more I learn, the more I discover how much remains to be explored. That, perhaps, is the true beauty of both Urdu and Ghalib: they continue to reveal something new every time you return to them.