UPSC Prelims 2008 Q125: Art & Culture – Literature & Languages
Who among the following wrote the poem, Subh - e Azadi?
- (a) Sahir Ludhiyanvi
- (b) Faiz Ahmed Faiz
- (c) Muhammad Iqbal
- (d) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Answer: (b) Faiz Ahmed Faiz
Explanation
Who wrote the poem "Subh-e-Azadi"
This poignant poem, reflecting on the complexities of independence, was written by a renowned Urdu poet.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Sahir Ludhiyanvi | Incorrect | A notable poet/lyricist, but not the author of this specific poem |
| (b) Faiz Ahmed Faiz | Correct | Faiz Ahmed Faiz wrote the poem 'Subh-e-Azadi' ('The Dawn of Freedom'), reflecting on independence's bittersweet reality |
| (c) Muhammad Iqbal | Incorrect | A renowned poet, but not the author of this specific poem |
| (d) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad | Incorrect | A prominent political/scholarly figure, but not the author of this poem |
'Subh-e-Azadi' facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Author | Faiz Ahmed Faiz |
| Meaning | 'The Dawn of Freedom' |
Answer: (b) Faiz Ahmed Faiz.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Sahir Ludhiyanvi is not the author of this specific poem.
- (b) CORRECT. Faiz Ahmed Faiz wrote 'Subh-e-Azadi'.
- (c) Incorrect. Muhammad Iqbal is also not the author.
- (d) Incorrect. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad is also not the author.
Key point
Faiz Ahmed Faiz wrote the poem 'Subh-e-Azadi' ('The Dawn of Freedom').
Remember
Faiz Ahmed Faiz wrote the poem 'Subh-e-Azadi'.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Faiz Ahmed Faiz's specific poem with other renowned Urdu poets' works.
- Mixing up different Urdu literary figures associated with themes of freedom and independence.
- Not knowing the specific meaning and context of this poem's title.
Exam tip
'Subh-e-Azadi' = Faiz Ahmed Faiz's poem on the complex emotions surrounding independence.
Sources
- Faiz Ahmed Faiz — Dast-e-Saba (collection including "Subh-e-Azadi", 1952)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Faiz Ahmed Faiz