Anjum Rehbar is a celebrated Indian poet who has made a significant mark on the literary world with her poignant ghazals and geets. Born on September 17, 1962, in the Guna district of Madhya Pradesh, she is revered for her powerful recitations at Mushairas and Kavi Sammelans, traditional gatherings for Urdu and Hindi poetry, which have taken her to stages both in India and internationally.
Rehbar’s poetic journey began in 1977, and she quickly rose to prominence by performing on national television channels like Doordarshan Urdu and SAB TV. Her ability to captivate audiences with her recitations led to appearances on popular shows such as “Wah! Wah! Kya Baat Hai!“. She holds a master’s degree in Urdu literature from Jiwaji University, Gwalior, which underpins her deep command of the language and her chosen literary forms.
Her talent has been recognised with numerous accolades, including the Indira Gandhi Award in 1986, the Ramrikh Manhar Award, and the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan Award. These honours highlight her significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indian literature. Her written work is primarily featured in her 2018 book, “Malmal Kacche Rangon Ki,” a collection of her poems that offers a glimpse into her lyrical artistry.
Anjum Rehbar’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. She was married to the legendary Urdu poet and lyricist Rahat Indori from 1988 to 1993. Although their marriage ended in divorce, their union produced a son, Sameer Rahat, who has since become a respected music director and lyricist in his own right. Sameer has acknowledged the profound influence of both his parents on his artistic development, carrying on their creative legacy. Following her divorce, Anjum Rehbar chose to remain single and has since focused on her literary career and personal growth. She currently resides in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, a city known for its rich cultural heritage.
In August 2023, she joined the Indian National Congress (INC) in Madhya Pradesh, signalling her desire to serve society through political engagement in addition to her work in poetry.
Anjum Rehbar’s enduring legacy is built on her captivating performances and her dedication to the literary arts. Her dual command of both Urdu and Hindi poetry has solidified her status as a significant figure in contemporary Indian literature.