Shama, an Urdu magazine published from New Delhi, held a unique place in the landscape of Indian journalism.

-

Shama, an Urdu magazine published from New Delhi, held a unique place in the landscape of Indian journalism. Established in September 1939 by Yusuf Dehlvi, a businessman from Delhi, Shama distinguished itself through its employment of top-tier artists, writers, and journalists. It wasn't just a premier Urdu magazine; it was regarded as one of the top magazines in India. One of its most celebrated features was the "Adabi Muamma," which added to its allure.

Initially sold for two annas per copy, Shama followed the format of other Urdu film magazines like Chitra, blending film and literary content. This combination played a significant role in its widespread popularity. Despite not being an instant success, Dehlvi's perseverance ensured the magazine's survival through challenging times. The partition of British India brought an influx of Urdu readers to India, which significantly boosted Shama's readership.

As the magazine gained popularity, Yusuf Dehlvi was joined by his three sons, Idrees, Ilyas, and Yunus. This familial collaboration contributed to the magazine's eventual success. Shama became the first Urdu magazine to achieve a circulation of 100,000 copies per month. Its popularity extended beyond India, necessitating special flights to transport copies overseas.

Shama featured contributions from renowned Urdu writers and poets such as Arzoo Lakhnavi, Firaq Gorakhpuri, Ismat Chughtai, Krishan Chander, and Jigar Moradabadi. The magazine also regularly included columns from individuals associated with the film industry, further enhancing its appeal.

In essence, Shama was more than just a magazine; it was a cultural institution that left an indelible mark on Urdu journalism and literature in India.

Popular posts from this blog

"A Bronx Tale" is a compelling crime and coming-of-age drama directed by and starring Robert De Niro, released in 1993.

-
Image
"A Bronx Tale" is a compelling crime and coming-of-age drama directed by and starring Robert De Niro, released in 1993. The film is a powerful narrative set in the 1960s Bronx, New York, revolving around the life of a young Italian-American boy, Calogero Anello, who is torn between his admiration for a local mob boss, Sonny, and his hard-working, honest father, Lorenzo. The story kicks off when Calogero witnesses Sonny, the charismatic yet feared gangster, commit a murder. When the police arrive, Calogero chooses not to identify Sonny as the shooter, beginning a complex relationship between the boy and the mobster. Sonny takes Calogero under his wing, nicknaming him "C," and introduces him to the ways of organized crime. This mentorship provides Calogero with a seductive glimpse into a world of easy money and respect, contrasting sharply with his father's values of hard work and honesty. Lorenzo, portrayed by De Niro, is a bus driver who goes to grea...
Read more

"The Deer Hunter," released in 1978

-
Image
"The Deer Hunter," released in 1978, stands as a cinematic masterpiece, a haunting portrayal of the impacts of the Vietnam War on the lives of American soldiers and their communities. Central to this film are the deeply moving performances of Robert De Niro and Meryl Streep, actors of extraordinary talent and depth. De Niro, playing Michael, embodies the transformation of a man touched by the horrors of war. His portrayal is a journey through the human psyche, grappling with the brutality of conflict and the struggle to retain humanity amidst chaos. De Niro's ability to convey a complex range of emotions - from stoic resilience to profound trauma - is nothing short of masterful. He brings to life a character who is both heroic and deeply flawed, allowing the audience to feel the weight of his experiences. Meryl Streep, as Linda, offers a poignant and sensitive portrayal of a woman caught in the turmoil of war, albeit from the home front. Streep's performan...
Read more

In 1945, amidst the vibrant yet recovering streets of Paris, a French woman named Marie set off on a journey that would become a legendary tale among the locals.

-
Image
In 1945, amidst the vibrant yet recovering streets of Paris, a French woman named Marie set off on a journey that would become a legendary tale among the locals. Armed with a baguette under her arm and a basket filled with six bottles of wine, she ventured through the post-war cityscape. Despite the city bearing the scars of conflict, Marie's resolve stood firm. The war had deeply affected Paris, yet the unbreakable spirit of its residents shone brightly. Marie, wielding her baguette as a beacon of hope and sustenance, aimed to restore a semblance of normality to the battered city. Wandering the quaint cobblestone alleys, Marie met other Parisians who had weathered the storm of war. Offering them a slice of her baguette and a sip of wine with a smile and comforting words, she became a symbol of hope. Her small gestures of kindness reminded everyone that even in the darkest times, joy could be found in the simple things. Soon, tales of Marie's generosity with her bag...
Read more