The M.A.Urdu programme offers an immersive exploration into the rich tapestry of Urdu Language and Literature. It serves as as gateway to not only a profound understanding of Urdu literature but also offers a unique opportunity to delve into other literary traditions, including Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, English, Hindi and various other languages. A strong foundation in reading comprehension and writing skills is a prerequisite for this programme, ensuring that students can fully engage with the diverse literary landscapes it encompasses.With flexibility in mind, the programme comprising a total of 80 credits, this comprehensive programme encompasses 8 compulsory courses and 4 optional courses, designed to provide students with a well-rounded and flexible educational experience. The programme allows for completion within a minimum of 02 years and a maximum of 04 years, accommodating the varied needs and pacing of our learners. Furthermore, to enhance accessibility, the M.A.Urdu Programme offers admission cycles in both January and July, allowing prospective students to embark on their academic journey at their preferred time. This programme, with its holistic approach to language and literature, provides a remarkable opportunity for intellectual growth and cultural enrichment.
Career Opportunities: A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Urdu opens up a wide range of career opportunities, given Urdu‘s status as the 11th most spoken language in the world and its profound cultural and literary significance. It offers a versatile skill set that can be applied to a wide array of professions, making it an attractive option for those who have a deep appreciation for the language and a desire to contribute to various fields and can explore several exciting career paths, including, Higher Education and Research, Teaching/Professorship, Translator/Interpreter, Poet/Author, Language Instructor/Linguist, Content Editor/Journalist, Bilingual Telephone Interpreter, News Writer, Editorial Assistant, Script & Dialogue Writing.
Objective
"The M.A. Urdu programme aims to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of Urdu language, literature, and its cultural significance. This programme is designed to develop critical thinking, literary analysis, and research skills in the field of Urdu studies.
The main objectives of the M.A. Urdu programme are to: - Explore the evolution and development of Urdu literature and its key movements. - Analyze major genres in Urdu literature, including poetry, prose, drama, and fiction. - Foster an appreciation of classical and contemporary Urdu literary texts. - Introduce critical theories and approaches relevant to Urdu literature. - Enhance proficiency in reading, writing, and interpreting Urdu texts. - Encourage comparative studies between Urdu literature and other linguistic traditions. - Equip students with skills for effective research in Urdu language and literature. - Provide exposure to the socio-political and cultural contexts that shaped Urdu literature. - Develop translation skills to interpret Urdu texts for diverse audiences. - Prepare students for professional roles in teaching, media, translation, and cultural preservation."
Learner Target Group
"The M.A. Urdu programme is designed for a diverse group of learners, making it suitable for individuals with a strong grasp of Urdu, even if it was not their primary subject at the undergraduate level. This programme is ideal for graduates from various academic backgrounds who possess proficiency in the Urdu language and wish to deepen their understanding of its literature and cultural heritage. It caters to aspiring educators and researchers planning to teach Urdu or engage in advanced literary studies, as well as professionals in journalism, media, and content creation who rely on Urdu for their work. Additionally, it is a valuable qualification for civil service and competitive exam aspirants seeking roles where knowledge of Urdu provides a distinct advantage. Overall, the M.A. Urdu programme is tailored for learners committed to enhancing their Urdu language skills, exploring its literary depth, and contributing to its cultural preservation and growth."
Eligibility & Medium
Eligibility for admission:Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University. There would be no entrance test.
Medium of Instruction:URDU
Duration & Fee Structure
Programme Duration:Minimum Duration: 24 Months and Maximum Duration: 48 Months
for full programme to be paid year wise @Rs. 6,100/- per year plus Registration fee of Rs.300/-
For SAARC Students in INR(Rs.): 12,200.00/- Full Programme
Note: Exam Fees is not included in Fee Structure it will be as decided by the University
Job/Future Prospects
Graduates of the M.A. Urdu programme have a broad range of career opportunities in fields that value expertise in the Urdu language and literature. Many go on to teaching roles in schools, colleges, and universities, with further qualifications like NET or a Ph.D. enhancing their prospects as lecturers and assistant professors. The media and journalism sector also offers varied roles, including positions as journalists, editors, translators, content writers, and anchors on Urdu-language platforms. Additionally, careers in translation and interpretation are common, with demand for Urdu proficiency in government agencies, embassies, publishing houses, and multinational corporations. The programme is also advantageous for graduates pursuing government or civil service positions, where regional language skills are often highly valued. Cultural and literary organizations, NGOs, and research institutions present further career paths, particularly for those interested in preserving and promoting Urdu heritage. Publishing and content development are also significant avenues, with roles in editing, writing, and proofreading Urdu books, magazines, and digital content.
Programme Coordinator
DR. LIAQAT ALI Assistant Professor School of Humanities (SOH) liaqatali@ignou.ac.in
The course "Urdu Zaban o Adab Ki Tareekh" is a foundational study in the field of Urdu literature, focusing on the historical development of the Urdu language and its rich literary traditions. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the evolution of Urdu from its origins, tracing the roots of its linguistic and literary features, and examining its social and cultural significance across centuries. Students will delve into the intricate history of Urdu, exploring various milestones such as its emergence as a distinct language, its development under Mughal influence, and its subsequent growth in literature.
The course covers a wide range of topics, including the early history of the language, the formation of Urdu poetry and prose, and the contributions of key literary figures. Through this course, learners will not only gain an understanding of the linguistic development but also the evolution of literary forms like ghazal, nazm, and qasida. This comprehensive study will help students appreciate the impact of historical events, cultural shifts, and regional variations on Urdu's development.
By the end of the course, students will have a thorough understanding of Urdu's historical context, its transformation over time, and the significant literary movements that have shaped its current form. This course is ideal for those interested in the intersection of language, culture, and history within the context of Urdu's literary legacy.
The course on "Urdu Ghazal" delves into the rich tradition of one of the most significant poetic forms in Urdu literature. The ghazal is a reflection of deep emotional expression, often focusing on themes such as love, loss, longing, and philosophy, and is defined by its distinctive structure of rhyming couplets (sher) and refrain (radif).
In this course, students will explore the historical evolution of the ghazal, from its origins in Arabic and Persian traditions to its flourishing in classical Urdu poetry. Key figures in the development of the ghazal, such as Wali Daccani, Meer Taqi Meer, Mirza Ghalib, Meer Dard, Atash, and Faiz Ahmed Faiz, will be studied in depth. Through their works, students will gain insight into how these poets shaped the ghazal’s themes, linguistic elegance, and intricate poetic devices. The course will cover the evolution of poetic imagery, the use of metaphor and symbolism, and the influence of societal, cultural, and personal contexts on the ghazal's structure and content.
By examining the poetry of these masters, students will not only understand the technical aspects of the ghazal form but also develop an appreciation for the deep emotional currents and philosophical reflections embedded in each verse. This course will provide a comprehensive understanding of both classical and modern interpretations of the ghazal, focusing on its continuing relevance in contemporary Urdu poetry.
Students will study the works of significant Urdu short story writers, including Saadat Hasan Manto, Ismat Chughtai, Munshi Premchand, and Rajinder Singh Bedi, among others. These authors not only redefined narrative forms but also used the short story to address socio-political issues, human psychology, and cultural shifts, making it a mirror of the times in which they wrote.
The course will highlight the narrative techniques, characterization, and stylistic innovations that distinguish Urdu short stories from other literary traditions. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the cultural context in which these stories were created, exploring themes such as partition, social inequality, gender dynamics, and the evolving identity of the individual within a rapidly changing society.
Through the study of seminal short stories and critical readings, students will gain an understanding of how Urdu short fiction, or "afsanwi adab," reflects the complexities of human nature and offers a unique lens through which to examine the social and political fabric of the Indian subcontinent.
By the end of the course, learners will be equipped not only with a thorough knowledge of the genre’s history and its prominent writers but also with the analytical skills to critically engage with both the thematic depth and stylistic nuances of Urdu short stories.
"The course ""Urdu Ka Gair Afsanwi Adab"" (Non-Fictional Literature in Urdu) provides an overview of the diverse genres of Urdu non-fiction, such as essays, biographies, autobiographies, travelogues, and memoirs. This course emphasizes the critical role that non-fiction literature plays in presenting real-life events, personal experiences, and socio-political analysis, thereby contributing to Urdu literary discourse in a unique way.
Key writers and thinkers, including Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Rasheed Ahmad Siddiqui, and Patras Bokhari, are studied for their contributions to non-fiction writing. Students will explore how these writers address themes of culture, education, identity, and reform, using narrative techniques that are both informative and stylistically engaging.
This course aims to deepen students' understanding of Urdu's non-fiction tradition, highlighting its influence on cultural thought and its reflection of societal values, making it an essential component of Urdu literary studies."
"The course ""Tanqeed aur Tahqeeq"" (Criticism and Research) is designed to give students a solid foundation in the principles and methods of Urdu literary criticism and research. Through this course, learners explore the development and key theories of literary criticism, examining various critical approaches from classical to modern. The course also covers the methodology of research in Urdu literature, focusing on investigative techniques, critical analysis, and scholarly writing.
Key critics such as Hali, Shibli Nomani, Kaleemuddin Ahmad, Syed Ahtesham Hussain, Ale AhmadSaroor, Muhammad Hasan Askari, Shams-ul-rehman Farouqi, Gopi Chand Narang, Molvi Abdul Haq, Hafiz Mehmood Sherani, Qazi Abdul Wadood, Malik Ram and Rashid Hassan Khan are studied, offering insights into different styles and perspectives on evaluating literature. This course encourages students to engage deeply with Urdu texts, fostering a critical mindset to appreciate and analyze literary works while also building essential research skills for academic contributions in the field."
MUD-010: Special Study of Meer Taqi Meer and Mirza Ghalib
MUD-010: Special Study of Meer Taqi Meer and Mirza Ghalib
Course Title:
Special Study of Meer Taqi Meer and Mirza Ghalib
Course Code:
MUD-010
Coordinator:
Course Type (Credit):
Theory (8 Credits)
Course Introduction:
The course "Special Study of Meer Taqi Meer and Mirza Ghalib" focuses on an in-depth exploration of the works, style, and lasting legacy of these two towering figures of Urdu poetry. Meer Taqi Meer, known as the master of melancholic expression and the "God of Poetry," and Mirza Ghalib, celebrated for his philosophical depth and complex metaphors, are both central to understanding classical Urdu Ghazal. Through this course, students examine the personal and social contexts of Meer and Ghalib’s poetry, their unique linguistic contributions, and their respective influence on the evolution of Urdu literature.
Students delve into select ghazals, couplets, and prose to explore themes of love, existential musings, and human emotion in Meer's verses, and Ghalib’s profound reflections on fate, life, and metaphysics. Comparative analysis helps students appreciate their differing poetic styles and worldviews while understanding the cultural and historical backdrop that shaped their work. This study cultivates critical appreciation and provides insight into how Meer and Ghalib's writings continue to resonate with readers and influence modern Urdu literature.
MUD-005: Premchand aur Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder ka Khusoosi Mutala
MUD-005: Premchand aur Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder ka Khusoosi Mutala
Course Title:
Premchand aur Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder ka Khusoosi Mutala
Course Code:
MUD-005
Coordinator:
Course Type (Credit):
Theory (8 Credits)
Course Introduction:
The course "Premchand aur Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder ka Khusoosi Mutala" offers a focused study on two iconic figures of Urdu literature: Munshi Premchand and Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder. This course explores their unique narrative styles, thematic diversity, and contributions to the development of Urdu fiction. Premchand, often considered the father of the Urdu short story, is renowned for his social realism and portrayal of rural and urban life, particularly addressing issues of poverty, caste, and social injustice.
On the other hand, Qurrat-ul-Ain Hyder, brought a unique depth and modernist perspective to Urdu prose, particularly in her novels and short stories. Her exploration of themes like identity, migration, and cultural heritage—especially through her magnum opus Aag ka Darya—left a lasting impact on Urdu literature. Through this course, students will examine select works of both authors, compare their literary approaches, and understand their influence on contemporary Urdu literature.
MUD-006: Nazeer Akbar Abadi aur Allama Iqbal ka Khusoosi Mutala
MUD-006: Nazeer Akbar Abadi aur Allama Iqbal ka Khusoosi Mutala
Course Title:
Nazeer Akbar Abadi aur Allama Iqbal ka Khusoosi Mutala
Course Code:
MUD-006
Coordinator:
Course Type (Credit):
Theory (8 Credits)
Course Introduction:
The course "Nazeer Akbarabadi aur Allama Iqbal ka Khusoosi Mutala" delves into the unique contributions of two influential Urdu poets, Nazeer Akbarabadi and Allama Iqbal. Nazeer Akbarabadi, often known as the "people’s poet," brought an unconventional style to Urdu poetry, focusing on everyday life, social issues, and common people's joys and struggles. His work stands out for its humor, satire, and profound social commentary that resonated with diverse audiences.
Allama Iqbal, on the other hand, is celebrated as a visionary poet and philosopher who introduced themes of selfhood, spirituality, and nationalism into Urdu poetry. His concept of "Khudi" (self-realization) and his philosophical verses inspired not only a deeper self-awareness but also a spirit of independence and empowerment among Muslims in the Indian subcontinent.
This course offers an in-depth comparative study of their works, exploring how each poet’s style, themes, and socio-political perspectives shaped their literary legacy. Through this, students gain insight into the evolution of Urdu poetry and its impact on societal consciousness.
The course "Urdu Nazm" provides an insightful exploration into the development and diversity of the nazm form in Urdu literature, focusing on both classical and modern poets. Key figures include poets like Allama Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, N. M. Rashid, and Akhtarul Iman, each known for their unique contributions to themes of nationalism, humanism, social justice, and personal introspection. This study traces the nazm's evolution from traditional to progressive forms, examining how it has adapted to reflect the changing socio-political landscape, personal reflections, and philosophical thought. Through the works of these poets, students gain a comprehensive understanding of nazm as a powerful medium of expression in Urdu poetry.
The course "Classical Urdu Poetry: Qasida, Masnavi, Marsiya" delves into three foundational genres of classical Urdu poetry, each with distinct themes and structures.
Qasida: A genre traditionally used to praise royals, patrons, or eminent personalities, often written in an elaborate style. Poets such as Sauda and Zauq excelled in crafting qasidas, where they displayed linguistic mastery through complex metaphors and ornate descriptions.
Masnavi: A genre characterized by its narrative flow, used to tell elaborate tales with rhyming couplets, often exploring romance, mysticism, and morality. Notable contributors to the masnavi tradition include Mulla Vajhi, Nusrati, Ibne Nishati, Mir Hassan, Pandit Daya Shankar Naseem, and Mirza Shauq. These poets elevated the masnavi form, weaving complex stories with cultural insights and emotional depth.
Marsiya: A form of elegiac poetry traditionally associated with the commemoration of tragic events, especially the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at Karbala. Mir Anis and Mirza Dabeer are among the prominent poets who elevated marsiya into an art form, bringing intense emotion, vivid imagery, and devotion to their work.
This course provides a comprehensive study of these genres, examining how they shaped Urdu literature and culture, and offering insight into the rich heritage of classical Urdu poetry.
The course "Urdu Mass Media aur Tarjuma Nigari" provides a comprehensive overview of the role of Urdu in contemporary mass media and the art and techniques of translation (Tarjuma Nigari). It covers the use of Urdu in various media formats such as print, radio, television, and digital platforms, examining the language’s adaptability and growth in a fast-evolving media landscape.
In the translation component, the course delves into the principles, challenges, and methodologies of translating from one language to another, with a focus on Urdu. Learners will explore techniques for translating journalistic, literary, and technical content while maintaining the integrity and stylistic nuances of the original work.
This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in journalism, media, publishing, or translation, offering them valuable skills to navigate and contribute effectively to Urdu media and translation services.
MUD-012: Urdu Mein Khawateen ka Adab aur Mehjari Adab
MUD-012: Urdu Mein Khawateen ka Adab aur Mehjari Adab
Course Title:
Urdu Mein Khawateen ka Adab aur Mehjari Adab
Course Code:
MUD-012
Coordinator:
Course Type (Credit):
Theory (8 Credits)
Course Introduction:
The course "Urdu Mein Khawateen ka Adab aur Mehjari Adab" focuses on two significant yet distinct streams in Urdu literature: Women's Literature and Diasporic Literature (Mehjari Adab).
Khawateen ka Adab (Women's Literature): This section explores the unique voices, themes, and contributions of women writers in Urdu literature. It examines how female authors have addressed issues of gender, identity, social roles, and the female experience through their works. Key writers like Ismat Chughtai, Qurratulain Hyder, and Rashid Jahan have used literature as a platform for articulating feminist perspectives and critiquing societal norms.
Mehjari Adab (Diasporic Literature): Mehjari Adab studies the works of Urdu writers living outside their homeland, often focusing on themes of displacement, identity, nostalgia, and cultural adaptation. It includes contributions from writers who bring a multicultural perspective to Urdu literature, capturing the complexities of living between cultures and the experience of the Urdu-speaking diaspora. This part of the course sheds light on how diasporic authors contribute to the evolution of Urdu language and literature in global contexts.
Together, these sections offer insights into how both women writers and diasporic voices have enriched Urdu literature, addressing universal themes while adding depth and diversity to the language's literary heritage.