Dubai’s Urdu community celebrates language and love at Applause Adab Mushaira 2025
Bazm-e-Urdu founder honoured for promoting language and literature in UAE
DUBAI’s Urdu-loving community gathered for an enchanting evening of poetry, pride, and cultural connection as Applause Adab Mushaira 2025 took centre stage this month, at Al Zahiya Hall, Dubai Women’s Association.
Now in its fourth consecutive year, the event – presented by HBL and Sharaf Exchange – brought together diverse communities through the timeless charm of Urdu poetry, celebrating language, emotion, and shared heritage.
The event was graced by Suhail Muhammad Al Zarooni, an acclaimed Emirati businessman and Guinness World Record holder, who attended as Chief Guest. Known for his support of cross-cultural art and literature, Al Zarooni praised the event’s ability to unite audiences through language. Adding literary distinction, A Rehman, a respected scholar and critic, attended as Special Guest, enriching the evening’s artistic depth.
From the opening verses to the final applause, the Mushaira radiated emotion and eloquence. Attendees from the UAE, UK, Ireland, India, and Pakistan filled the hall, celebrating a shared love for words and rhythm that transcended cultural borders.
Corporate commitment
In his welcome address, Imad ul Malik, CEO of Sharaf Exchange, highlighted the company’s goal of weaving literature and poetry into its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. “We believe in nurturing the love of Urdu, uniting communities, and promoting safe and legal financial practices,” said Malik. He noted that the audience’s enthusiasm inspires the organisers to continue expanding the platform and strengthening cultural bonds through art.
Representing HBL, Mudassir Ahmed expressed pride in the bank’s four-year partnership with Applause Adab. “HBL is honoured to support an event that preserves tradition while connecting generations. This is our way of giving back to society through culture,” he said, reflecting the brand’s ongoing patronage of literary and artistic heritage.
Celebrating Urdu champions
Gracefully hosted by Tarannum Ahmed, the evening also featured the presentation of the prestigious Mohsin-e-Urdu Award to Rehan Khan, founder of Bazm-e-Urdu Dubai, an NGO registered under the Community Development Authority (CDA).
Based in Canada, Khan continues to lead the organisation’s activities in Dubai, promoting Urdu literature and inspiring volunteers to sustain the language’s legacy. The recognition honoured his remarkable dedication to cultural education and literary engagement within the UAE.
An evening of verse
The Mushaira was chaired by the legendary poet Dr Waseem Barelvi, whose timeless poetry moved the audience with profound emotional depth. The Nizamat (conducting) was elegantly handled by Mansoor Usmani, who maintained the evening’s rhythm with grace and humour.
A remarkable line-up of poets, including Tahir Faraz, Shaukat Fehmi, Ahmed Salman, Aqeel Nomani, Jawwad Sheikh, Nadeem Shad, Saleem Siddiqui, Amir Ameer, Renu Nayyar, Shadab Ulfat, and Faiz Khalilabadi, brought their unique styles to the stage. Their verses inspired laughter, reflection, and heartfelt applause, capturing the spirit of togetherness that defines the Mushaira. Audiences hailed it as one of the most memorable cultural nights in Dubai, celebrating the enduring appeal of Urdu poetry.
Under the tagline “Linguistically Yours”, Applause Adab continues its mission to preserve and promote Urdu language, poetry, and literature among South Asian communities in the UAE and beyond.