Jalandhar: “Farmaiye,” says 60-year-old Professor Arinder Singh as he begins a conversation, setting the stage for a lyrical journey into the world of Urdu. His love for the language is profound—reflected in his seven books, hundreds of Urdu articles, and his latest project, a book on legendary qawwal Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Known by his pen name, Arinder Aziz, Singh’s connection with Urdu is deeply personal. “Urdu dwells inside me. I am living because of this language,” he says, expressing the depth of his passion.
Singh’s journey began in childhood, inspired by music. “Bachpan mein main mausiki se ragbat ho gaya tha (I developed a keen interest in music in my childhood). I started listening to ghazals, which pulled me towards learning Urdu,” he recalls. However, his interest was often dismissed by teachers who urged him to focus on academics. But his determination never wavered.
Under the guidance of Guru Sukhdev Singh, Singh formally learned Urdu and penned his first afsana (anecdote) in Class 10. Over the years, he authored more than 300 articles and several acclaimed books, including Kehkasha ke Rang, Sheher Sunsan Hai, Nange Paon Wale, and Pyase Dariya Ki Pyas.
Academically accomplished, Singh holds degrees in English literature, along with triple MAs in English, Punjabi, and Urdu, and an M.Phil in Punjabi. His teaching career spanned institutions like GNDU Regional Campus, Lyallpur Khalsa College (where he headed the Persian Department), and the Punjab Government’s Language Department, where he taught Urdu for over 15 years.
His latest work, Ghazal Sarai Ka Sar-Chashma – Ghulam Ali Khan, a 550-page bilingual book, was released on December 28, 2024, during the Harivallabh Sangeet Sammelan. It chronicles the life of ghazal maestro Ghulam Ali Khan, adding another milestone to Singh’s literary journey.
His passion for Urdu runs in the family—his son, a lawyer, and his daughter have inherited his love for the language. “Urdu ko jeena acha lagta hai mujhe (I love living with Urdu),” he sums up his lifelong devotion.
