As alternative and critical voices face censorship in Pakistan, one is reminded of Pakistan's history of muzzling dissent. In these challenging times when space for critical expression is rapidly shrinking, revolutionary poet Habib Jalib's poetry remains a source of inspiration for those resisting the clampdown on freedom of speech.
Considering how difference of opinion and dissent is dealt with abuse and intimidation, the following poem by Jalib remains just as relevant today.
Aur sab bhool gaye harf-e-sadāaqat likhnā
Reh gayā kaam hamārā hee baġhāavat likhnā
Laakh kehtay raheiñ zulmat ko na zulmat likhnā
Hum ne seekhā nahīñ pyāray ba-ijaāzat likhnā
Na silay ki, na satā.ish kī tamannā hum ko
Haq meiñ logoñ ke humārī tou hai aadat likhnā
Hum ne jo bhool ke bhi Shah kā qaseeda na likhā
Shāyad aayā isī ḳhoobi ki badaulat likhnā
Iss se barh kar meri tehseen bhala kya hogi
Parh ke na-ḳhush hain mera sahab-e-sarvat likhnā
Sahr ke ġham se hua rabt tou hum bhool gaye
Sarv qāmat ko javaani ko qayāmat likhnā
Kuch bhi kehtay hain, kehein Shah ke masaahib Jalib
Rang rakhna yehi apna, issi soorat likhna