“Fragrance of Urdu in Boston” Launch Celebrates the Language’s Legacy in New England

You are Here: Tweet, Like, Share, Comment, Subscribe…be the Voice of Free Press!

By Syed Ali Rizvi, Edited by Adam Rizvi, The India Observer, TIO: Sudbury, MA – November 15, 2025: – The literary and cultural community of New England gathered in full attendance at Goodnow Library, Sudbury, for the launch of “Fragrance of Urdu in Boston” (بوسٹن میں اردو کی مہک) by renowned scholar and community leader Maarij Kirmani. The event honored Kirmani’s decades-long contribution to Urdu poetry and literature, highlighting its growth and appreciation in the Boston area.

The book launch drew local and international audiences, with participants joining virtually via Zoom from India, Pakistan, Australia, Canada, and Europe. Attendees included longtime admirers of Urdu literature, scholars, poets, and members of the Kirmani family, reflecting the broad appeal of the work.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Book Release: Author Mujtaba Syed calls for Democratic response to the Challenges faced by the Muslim Community

Syed Ali Rizvi, who penned the book’s Introduction and technically collaborated closely with Kirmani during its preparation, emceed the event. He remarked, “This book is not only a chronicle of Urdu’s journey in Boston but a heartfelt gift to future generations of readers, bridging language, culture, and history.Urdu is richer by the presence of the likes of  Mr. Kirmani, who are ardent lovers of urdu.”

The program opened with a prayer led by Mrs. Homaira Kirmani, whose unwavering support is recognized in the book’s dedication. A commemorative plaque was presented to her by the Kirmani children and grandchildren— Samia Kirmani, Mishloo Kirmani, Sophie Ponda, Nadia Chohan and Ameek Ponda—in appreciation of her role in sustaining the author’s literary endeavors.

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Book Review – “Twilight Prisoners- The Rise of Hindu Right and Fall of India”

Ameek Ponda, prominent tax law partner and community leader, introduced the author, highlighting Kirmani’s instrumental role in cultivating Urdu poetry gatherings in New England. He noted, “Maarij Kirmani has created a living legacy of Urdu in Boston, inspiring both his contemporaries and the next generation.” Mr. Ponda shared reflections on Kirmani’s contributions, interspersing classical Urdu couplets and personal anecdotes, noting the importance of the book for future generations, including the author’s grandchildren.

During his presentation, Maarij Kirmani shared personal anecdotes, unpublished chapters, and short stories from the book, offering a unique window into Urdu’s cultural history in New England. His sessions included reflections on literary gatherings, humorous accounts of social and familial

relationships, and readings of previously unpublished works, such as the short story “Ek Lamhe Ka Khuda.”

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Book Launch – Indian Muslims’ Tryst with Democracy  

Several distinguished attendees offered reflections on the work’s significance:

• • Prof. Razzaque Ahmad, a leading dermatologist, noted, “Preserving our language preserves our identity. This book is accessible to readers of all levels and generations.”
  • Dr. Ghazala Alam, poet and academic, called it “a true historical account of Urdu’s blossoming in Boston.”
  • Prof. Deeba Husain, ophthalmologist and Urdu lover, highlighted the book’s value for rekindling memories of classical poets and its potential as a reference in academic settings.
  • Mr. Irfan, a dear friend of Kirmanis (travelling from Canada) praised the author’s generosity and humorously noted that much credit belongs to Mrs. Homaira Kirmani.
  • Mr. Azmi Jafri, son of renowned poet Ada Jafri, declared the book “an invaluable resource.”
  • Mr. Imran Kidwai spoke of the refuge and mentorship he found in Boston through his family relationship to the Kirmani family.
  • Maneesh Srivastava, a published poet and author, shared: “Poetry runs in my family… Maarij bhai is an icon, and this signed copy is a precious resource.”

Also Read, Tweet & Share: Book-Jinnah, Shahabuddin & Owaisi: Tackling Muslim’s Problems in India

The Kirmani family has committed to donating all proceeds from the book to charitable causes, with a suggested contribution of $20 or any amount donors choose. Payments can be made via check, Venmo, or Zelle.

The launch was professionally video-recorded by Ali Rizvi and Sachin Gupta (UMASS physics PhD scholar and a budding poet), and photographs were captured by both. The event underscored the continuing relevance and resonance of Urdu literature in the New England community and beyond.

Book Details:
Title: Fragrance of Urdu in Boston (بوسٹن میں اردو کی مہک)
Author: Maarij Kirmani
Date of Launch: November 15, 2025
Location: Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road, Sudbury, MA
Proceeds: All donations go to charitable causes.

About the Author: 

Maarij Kirmani is a lifelong advocate for Urdu literature in New England. Through decades of organizing poetic gatherings, mentoring poets, and fostering a vibrant literary community, Kirmani has played a key role in preserving and promoting the Urdu language for future generations.

Curated by Humra Kidwai

Articles written by contributors have different viewpoints. The views expressed in the articles are the author’s own and not necessarily supported by TIO, The India Observer its affiliates, staff, or the management. Our Articles can be reproduced, with the following conditions, (1) No alteration to the content, (2) Visible, and full credit is given to the Author & Editor. (3) Citing, The India Observer, TIO. In the case of online or electronic media, a link to the original article must be given. Rules are strictly enforced. Any questions, email the Editor at: Mediaiss@gmail.com Or TheIndiaObserver@gmail.com