Evolution of Urdu Literature

Amir Khusrau: The First Urdu Poet

Amir Khusrau was the first writer to use the early form of Urdu (known as Hindavi) for poetic expression during the 13th century.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part II

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The first writer to use Urdu as the medium of poetic expression was:

[UPSC CSE Pre. 1999, GS Paper I]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Urdu evolved as a bridge language (Lashkari) between Persian-speaking elites and the local Hindi-speaking populace.

Authentic Source Evidence


Amir Khusrau (13th century) called this language 'Hindavi' and used it for his riddles (Paheliyan) and Sufi songs.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option A is Correct: Known as 'Tuti-e-Hind' (Parrot of India), Khusrau was the first to blend Persian structures with local Hindavi vocabulary.

  • Others: Ghalib and Zafar belonged to the 19th century, during the peak of Urdu literature.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "By what other name is Amir Khusrau known?"

    He is called 'Tuti-e-Hind' or the 'Parrot of India' for his poetic eloquence.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Khusrau's use of Hindavi was a deliberate attempt to connect the Islamic mystic tradition with the local Indian cultural idiom."

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