`Barg-e-Nawa’: Understanding Saleem Saghar’s third poetry collection

Tousif Raza

The elements that constitute humanity have always shaped and reshaped the contours of our existence. These influences, subtle yet profound, breathe life into the philosophy of living. A poet, armed with sensitivity and insight, translates these elements into verses that echo the rhythm of human experience. Saleem Saghar is one such rare craftsman of words—a poet whose creations are not merely poems but soulful conversations with the essence of life. His third poetic collection, Barg-e-Nawa, is a live example of his literary depth, a work that doesn’t just speak to the reader but compels him to explore its verses reflect on its nuances, and marvel at its beauty.
Through this anthology, I believe Saleem Saghar stands as a towering figure in Urdu poetry, not only in Kashmir but all over the literary world. Rooted in the fertile soil of Kashmir’s cultural and intellectual heritage, his poetry draws sustenance from its rich history, vibrant traditions, and profound emotions. Like a tree nurtured by the valley’s spirit, his words reach outward, branching into the vast skies of Urdu literature, offering fresh air to its ever-evolving landscape. Barg-e-Nawa, his third collection, reflects the maturity of his craft and the richness of his literary journey. It encapsulates his ability to intertwine human emotions, nature, and philosophy, offering a poetic experience that is both profound and universal.
Exploring Poetic Depths of Barg _ Nawa
A poet is always a sensitive and perceptive-natured person, deeply observing and feeling every aspect of the world. They present each emotion layer by layer, and this book stands as a living testament to that artistry. Barg-e-Nawa carries an intimate exploration of human virtues and vulnerabilities, presenting ghazals that transcend mere verses to become windows into a mystical world where feelings and thoughts whisper secrets to each other. Saghar’s poetry, marked by an intricate weave of symbolism and philosophy, shines as a beacon of wisdom. His couplets carry layers of meaning, inviting readers into a contemplative dialogue. Read these verses and feel the essence of depth.
“Kisi talism se koi adu nahi khulta,
Ghubaar-e-dasht raaz-e-numo nahi khulta.”
(No enemy reveals itself through any spell,
The dust of the desert does not unveil the secret of growth.)
Above mentioned lines evoke the enigma of existence, where truths remain shrouded, requiring a seeker’s relentless pursuit to unravel the mysteries of life. Similarly, his couplets reflect the poet’s mastery in painting the human condition:
Ubhar to aata hai kaaghaz pe khawab ka paikar,
Jo dil mein hai woh magar hoo_ba_hoo nahi khilta.
(The image of a dream rises on paper,
But what lies in the heart does not reveal itself exactly.)
In these verses, Saghar captures the limitations of expression and the ineffable depth of emotions that elude perfect articulation. His work is a testament to the interplay between thought and feeling, art and reality. Saghar’s poetry also delves into the transcendent, portraying love as a force that surpasses reason:
“Meezan-e-khirad o hosh yahan kaam mein na la,
Har shai se baynayaaz hain yeh rahrawan-e-ishq.”
(Do not bring scales of intellect and reason here,
Those who tread the path of love are free from all needs.)
Love, as Saghar portrays it, is a journey beyond the confines of logic—a journey where the heart sheds all worldly attachments in its quest for the divine. In lines such as:
Daale dhamal woh bhi sar-e-anjuman-e-khirad,
Kar le woh baat jis ka hai khoogar faqeer mast.”
(The mystic dances even before the assembly of intellect,
Achieving what only the intoxicated dervish can.)
Saghar presents the ecstatic state of the faqeer, whose divine intoxication transcends reason, unveiling a world where the truths of existence are laid bare. Barg-e-Nawa is not merely a poetic collection; it is an exploration of resilience, love, spirituality, and societal critique. Its verses speak of perseverance:
“Daaman-e-sabr zara thaam pareshan rahi,
Raah hamwaar bhi hai sang-e-giraan se aage.”
(Hold onto the cloak of patience amidst chaos,
The path smoothens beyond the heavy stones.)
Sometimes its lines critique social inequity with piercing simplicity. Illustrating the unity through the ray of self-existence and respect and then a reader encounters the ideas of hatred between the communities and unifying human beings with love and dignity. Read this couplet.
“Ameer-e-shehr ko laata nahi hai khatir mein,
Ghareeb-e-shehr hai kya, ho baho nahi khulta.”
(The wealthy of the city I do not praise
What of the poor? Their truth remains unrevealed.)
Saghar’s poetry serves as a mirror, reflecting not just the struggles of the underprivileged but also the moral decay of those who turn a blind eye to human suffering.
Through this collection, Saghar captures the paradoxes of existence, such as hope and despair, renewal and decay, and joy and sorrow. His lines breathe life into every facet of human experience, making Barg-e-Nawa a treasure trove for readers seeking depth and inspiration.

Conclusion
Saleem Saghar’s Barg-e-Nawa is more than an anthology of poems—it is a symphony of emotions, an exploration of life’s complexities, and a luminous addition to Urdu literature. With its philosophical musings, romantic undertones, and spiritual reflections, this anthology invites readers on a transformative journey. It is a masterpiece that bridges the personal and the universal, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and intellectual tapestry of Kashmir while connecting with the timeless truths of humanity. Barg-e-Nawa is not just a book; it is a legacy, a gift that will resonate with lovers of poetry for generations to come. It has an aroma that a reader can feel instead of understanding.

(The Author is an English literature student and hails from Tangmarg and can be reached at tousifeqbal555@gmail.com)