The Urdu Ghazal Podcast, Season 5 Episode 9: Yaas Yagana Changezi

Yaas Yagana Changezi (1884–1956), born Mirza Wajid Hussain Changezi, was a bold and unconventional Urdu poet known for his rebellious spirit and modernist outlook. Born in Patna, Yagana carved a unique niche in Urdu literature by defying the traditional romanticism and conventional themes that dominated the poetry of his time. He was heavily influenced by Western philosophy, particularly the works of Nietzsche, and brought a tone of existentialism, skepticism, and self-awareness into his verse. His poetry often critiqued religious dogma, social hypocrisy, and romantic idealism, which made him a controversial figure in literary circles. He frequently challenged the norms contemporaries like Iqbal and Hasrat Mohani upheld, asserting a more personal and introspective voice. Yagana's language was direct, at times abrasive, and deeply philosophical. His major works include collections like Tarana, Nishtar-e-Yaas, and Ghazalistan. He also wrote critical essays, such as Ghalib-Shikan, where he questioned the excessive glorification of Mirza Ghalib. Though marginalized during his lifetime, Yagana is recognized as a precursor to modernism in Urdu poetry and admired for his individualism, intellectual honesty, and fearless expression. He died in Lucknow in 1956, largely forgotten, but modern scholars have rediscovered and celebrated his legacy.