Shairanaa  Shaam 2025

Shairaana Shaam 2025 – A Celebration of the Art of Ghazal

Ghazal Manch Surrey, an internationally acclaimed organization devoted to preserving and promoting the timeless art of ghazal poetry, presented Shairaana Shaam 2025 at the Surrey Arts Centre. Dedicated to “The Art of Ghazal”, the event brought together poets, musicians, and lovers of lyrical expression in a soulful celebration of poetic beauty and cultural harmony.

The hall was alive with anticipation, the air rich with inspiration, as hundreds of poetry enthusiasts gathered to witness a night steeped in artistry and emotion. The success of the evening was evident in audience reactions, glowing reviews, and extensive media coverage, further amplifying its impact. The event also highlighted the cohesion of the multicultural community, uniting people of all backgrounds through the universal language of poetry.

Dignitaries and Welcome Address

The evening featured a constellation of distinguished poets: Darshan Butter (President, Central Punjabi Writers’ Association), Kulwinder (President, World Punjabi Literary Academy, California), Azeem Shekhar from England, Karanjit from Punjab, Tahira Sra from Pakistan, Paramjit Deol from Toronto, Pratap Singh from Regina, and Jaswinder, President of Ghazal Manch Surrey.

Their presence reflected the organization’s international reach and commitment to cultural inclusivity. In his warm welcome address, Rajwant Raj eloquently highlighted the mission and achievements of Ghazal Manch Surrey, his words flowing with the rhythm and grace of poetry itself. The audience responded with heartfelt applause, setting the tone for an evening that would be remembered long after the final verse.

Performances and Highlights

The program unfolded like a beautifully composed ghazal, each poet adding a unique verse to a collective symphony of emotions. Performances explored love, loss, reflection, and resilience, evoking laughter, sighs, and tears from an audience deeply immersed in the experience.

Throughout the evening, scholars, media personalities, artists, and poetry enthusiasts mingled with the poets, sharing admiration and celebrating the spirit of literary art. Many attendees eagerly met and photographed with internationally renowned poet Tahira Sra, whose presence drew admiration and excitement. The interactions created a warm, vibrant atmosphere, fostering community cohesion and inspiring all present.

Manjeet Kang, a radio personality and poet, graced the audience with her presence and she opened the night with verses echoing memory and love lost:

“I haven’t forgotten you just like that, nor have I placed sorrow upon my heart. Many have asked me again and again, but I’ve never sung a weeping song.”

Parmjeet Deol, a TV personality, editor of Raag magazine, actress, radio host, and poet, explored the hidden truths of the human heart:

“Much lies buried within our hearts, we’ll tell it when the time comes. Who pierced us, and when, the time will come to tell.”

Tahira Sra, a celebrated Punjabi poet from Pakistan, brought a distinct lyrical tone and philosophical depth to the stage:

“First of all, not all the fault is mine, and if it truly is, then am I not yours?”
Her verses resonated across borders, speaking to the universality of human emotion.

 Noor Bal, the youngest performer of the evening, exhibited remarkable maturity beyond his years. His poetry, echoing the essence of the late Pakistani poet Tajammul Kaleem, combined elegant simplicity with powerful, resonant punch lines, leaving a subtle yet profound impact:  

“There’s one gift to living alone, when you cry, no one laughs.”

The evening also celebrated the artistry and dedication of Ghazal Manch Surrey members, whose performances balanced tradition and innovation. Audience reactions were electric, with applause, “wah wah” exclamations, and quiet reflection marking the impact of each poet.

Awards and Honors

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the annual Dilbar Noorpuri Award by Inderjit Dhami to Deshmesh Gill Firoze, honoring his outstanding contribution to ghazal poetry. Ghazal Manch Surrey also extended heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, guest poets, and volunteers for their unwavering support.

A Night to Remember

Shairaana Shaam 2025 was a shining testament to the power of poetry to unite hearts across languages, generations, and borders. Every verse became a bridge of emotion, reflection, and shared humanity. The evening demonstrated Ghazal Manch Surrey’s commitment to nurturing talent, celebrating the ghazal tradition, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community where poetry thrives.