About Amir Khusrow

Amir Khusrow (1253–1325) was a Persian and Hindustani Sufi poet, musician, and scholar who lived in the Delhi Sultanate. He is considered one of the most important figures in the development of Hindustani classical music, and his poetry is still widely read and performed today.

Khushrow was born in Patiali, India, to a family of Persian scholars and musicians. He began his education in Persian and Arabic, and he also studied music and dance. In 1273, he was invited to the court of the Delhi Sultan, Ghiyasuddin Balban, where he quickly rose to prominence.

Khushrow was a prolific writer, and he produced a wide range of works, including poetry, music, and prose. His poetry is known for its lyrical beauty, its use of complex wordplay, and its focus on themes of love, loss, and the human condition. He was a master of both the Persian and Hindustani languages, and he often used both languages in his poetry.

Khushrow was also a gifted musician, and he composed several important works of Hindustani classical music. He is credited with introducing the tabla to India, and he also developed the khyal, a form of Hindustani classical music that is still widely performed today.

Khushrow was a controversial figure in his own time, and he was often criticized for his outspoken views on religion and politics. However, he was also a respected scholar and musician, and his work has had a lasting impact on Indian culture.

Khushrow died in Delhi, India, in 1325. He was 72 years old. His tomb is a popular tourist destination, and his poetry continues to be read and admired by people all over the world.

Here are some of his most famous works:

• Poetry: "Ghazals", "Masnavis", "Qasidas"
• Music: "Songs", "Instrumental pieces", "Theory of music"
• Prose: "Memoirs", "Travelogues", "Essays"