67 Best Poets From Varanasi

Varanasi is a city in the northern India and is believed to be one of the oldest cities in the world, but more importantly, it is considered the heart of India: culturally, spiritually and artistically. Also known for its old temples, the variety of Ghats at the River Ganges, and lively cultural consciousness, Varanasi has always served as a birthplace of literature. This sacred land is home to poets, which have produced masterpieces that encompass the ages, beginning in the present and reaching back in the past.

Here in this blog, you will know how the great poets from Varanasi lived and contributed to the literary world. These poets have contributed to the Indian literature by their words drenched with depth and have captured the spirit and soul of Varanasi in their illustrious works. It was a great pleasure to work on such a unique tape and create an intellectual and esthetic space where every corner, every street, every ghat of the city has its verse.

Writes and Poets From Varanasi

1. Jaishankar Prasad (1889 – 1937)

Jaishankar Prasad is a prominent figure in Hindi literature and is renowned for his poetry, drama, and novels. His works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and profound philosophical depth.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

2. Kabir (1440 – 1518)

Kabir is one of India’s greatest mystic poets and saints, known for his couplets or ‘dohas.’ His poetry bridges the gap between Hinduism and Islam and addresses themes of spirituality, devotion, and social justice.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi
• Died: Sant Kabir Nagar

3. Premchand (1880 – 1936)

Often referred to as the father of modern Hindi and Urdu literature, Premchand’s works primarily focus on the lives of the poor and oppressed. His stories are acclaimed for their realism and socio-political themes.

• Born: Lamhi (near Varanasi)
• Domicile: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

4. Agha Hashr Kashmiri (1879 – 1935)

Agha Hashr Kashmiri is a renowned playwright and poet who made significant contributions to Urdu drama. His works often reflect a blend of Persian and Indian cultural influences.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Lahore
• Died: Lahore

5. Bhartendu Harishchandra (1850 – 1885)

Considered the father of modern Hindi literature, Bhartendu Harishchandra played a pivotal role in the development of Hindi prose and drama. His literary works are marked by their nationalistic fervor and social reform themes.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

6. Hafeez Varanasii (1933 – 2008)

Hafeez Varanasii is celebrated for his Urdu poetry, which beautifully captures the essence of love, longing, and the cultural heritage of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

7. Kabir Ajmal (1967 – 2020)

Kabir Ajmal continued the legacy of poetic excellence in Varanasi with his modern take on traditional themes. His poetry reflects contemporary issues while staying rooted in the rich cultural traditions of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

8. Meerza Jawan Bakht Jahandar (1749 – 1788)

A notable poet from the Mughal era, Meerza Jawan Bakht Jahandar’s works are an important part of the Urdu literary canon.

• Born: Delhi
• Died: Varanasi

9. Nazeer Varanasii (1909 – 1996)

Nazeer Varanasii’s poetry is celebrated for its lyrical quality and its reflection of the socio-political landscape of his times.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

10. Rajab Ali Beg Suroor (1786 – 1869)

An Urdu poet and satirist, Rajab Ali Beg Suroor is known for his humorous and satirical style, which provides a unique perspective on the social issues of his era.

• Born: Lucknow
• Domicile: Lucknow
• Died: Varanasi

11. Tulsidas (1574-1623)

The revered author of the Ramcharitmanas, an epic retelling of the Ramayana, Tulsidas’s poetry had a profound impact on Hindi literature and popular culture.

12. Sudama Panday (1901-1994)

A prominent Hindi poet and playwright, Sudama Panday’s works were known for their simplicity and directness, often addressing social issues and the commoner’s struggles.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

13. Bedhab Banarasi (1896-1966)

A renowned Urdu poet, Bedhab Varanasii’s works were characterized by their emotional depth and exploration of human relationships.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

14. Premendra Mitra (1894-1963)

A prolific Bengali poet, novelist, and essayist, Premendra Mitra’s works were known for their wit, humor, and insightful observations on human nature.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

15. Shiv Prasad Mishra (1929-2015)

A distinguished Hindi poet, Shiv Prasad Mishra’s works were infused with a deep sense of spirituality and a love for nature.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

16. Anjaan (1925-2013)

A celebrated Urdu poet and lyricist, Anjaan’s works were known for their romanticism and emotional intensity, making him a popular figure in Bollywood.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

17. Shamim Tariq (1952)

Shamim Tariq is known for his Urdu poetry, which delves into human emotions and social issues with a modern touch.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Mumbai

18. Syed Hasan Abbas

Syed Hasan Abbas has made notable contributions to Urdu literature, bringing the essence of Varanasi to his poetry.

• Born: Gopal Ganj
• Domicile: Varanasi

19. Yaqoob Yawar (1952)

Yaqoob Yawar is celebrated for his poetic works, which often reflect his deep connection to Varanasia and its rich cultural heritage.

• Born: Kot
• Domicile: Varanasi

20. Zafar Mahmood Zafar (1964)

Zafar Mahmood Zafar’s poetry is known for its poignant reflection on the expatriate experience and his Varanasi roots.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Riyadh

21. Aaftab Ahmad Afaqi

Aaftab Ahmad Afaqi’s works resonate with the cultural and spiritual ethos of Varanasi.

• Born: Jharkhand
• Domicile: Varanasi

22. Afzal Misbahi

Afzal Misbahi’s poetry captures Varanasi’s spiritual essence and everyday life.

• Domicile: Varanasi

23. Hafiz Mohammad Haneef Banarsi

Hafiz Mohammad Haneef Banarsi is known for his deep and reflective poetry rooted in the cultural landscape of Varanasi.

• Domicile: Varanasi

24. Hassaan Arfi (1985)

Hassaan Arfi’s works often explore the complexities of identity and displacement, influenced by his Varanasi heritage.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Riyadh

25. Khalid Jamal

Khalid Jamal’s poetry is a rich tapestry of Varanasi life, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and social issues.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

26. Mahmood Alam (1991)

Mahmood Alam is a young poet whose works are gaining recognition for their modern and relatable themes.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

27. Manmath Nath Gupta (1908 – 2000)

Manmath Nath Gupta was not only a poet but also a revolutionary whose works reflect his patriotic fervor and literary prowess.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Delhi
• Died: Delhi

28. S.M. N. Tripathi

S.M. N. Tripathi’s contributions to literature are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and cultural depth.

• Domicile: Varanasi

29. Aamir Shauqi (1997)

Aamir Shauqi is a promising young poet whose works are beginning to make a mark in the literary world.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

30. Anand Banarasi (1889 – 1969)

Anand Varanasii’s poetry is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi

31. Anita Mohan (1967)

Anita Mohan’s works often reflect her deep connection to Varanasi and explore themes of identity and belonging.

• Born: Moradabad
• Domicile: Varanasi

32. Ansh Pratap Singh Ghafil (1993)

Ansh Pratap Singh Ghafil is a young and dynamic poet whose works resonate with the youth of today.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

33. Asif Banarsi (1901 – 1977)

Asif Banarsi’s poetry is a significant contribution to Urdu literature, reflecting his Varanasi roots.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Dhaka
• Died: Dhaka

34. Bhawana Srivastava (1981)

Bhawana Srivastava’s poetry captures the essence of contemporary life with a touch of traditional Varanasi culture.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

35. Dipak Prajapati Khaalis (1997)

Dipak Prajapati Khaalis is an emerging poet whose works reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

36. Dr. Mobashshera Sadaf ‘Ghazal’ (1986)

Dr. Mobashshera Sadaf ‘Ghazal’ is known for her soulful poetry that blends traditional themes with modern sensibilities.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

37. Gawwas Qureshi (1898)

Gawwas Qureshi’s works are celebrated for their lyrical quality and their reflection of the cultural ethos of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Kolkata

38. Haneef Naqvi (1938 – 2011)

Haneef Naqvi’s poetry is deeply reflective of the cultural and spiritual heritage of Varanasi.

• Born: Badayun
• Domicile: Varanasi

39. Jaddanbai (1915 – 1937)

Jaddanbai was a renowned poet and singer whose works continue to be celebrated for their depth and beauty.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Mumbai

40. Junaid Hazin Lari (1933)

Junaid Hazin Lari’s poetry is known for its evocative imagery and deep emotional resonance.

• Born: Dewaria
• Domicile: Varanasi

41. Kashinath Singh (1937)

Kashinath Singh is a contemporary poet and writer whose works have significantly contributed to modern Hindi literature.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

42. Manisha Pandey (1983)

Manisha Pandey’s poetry often explores themes of identity, belonging, and the cultural richness of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Pune

43. Masood Akhtar Jamal (1915 – 1981)

Masood Akhtar Jamal’s contributions to Urdu poetry are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and cultural depth.

• Born: Varanasi

44. Maulana Syed Sibtul Hasan (1908 – 1978)

Maulana Syed Sibtul Hasan’s works reflect his deep knowledge of Islamic literature and his Varanasi heritage.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Aligarh

45. Mirza Qadir Bakhsh Sabir Dehlavi (1808 – 1882)

Mirza Qadir Bakhsh Sabir Dehlavi is a significant figure in Urdu literature. He is known for his poetry, which blends the cultural influences of Delhi and Varanasi.

• Born: Delhi
• Died: Varanasi

46. Nafees Bano (1951)

Nafees Bano’s poetry is celebrated for its emotional depth and its reflection of Varanasi culture.

• Domicile: Varanasi

47. Neerja Madhav (1962)

Neerja Madhav’s works often explore themes of womanhood, identity, and the cultural richness of Varanasi.

• Born: Jaunpur
• Domicile: Varanasi

48. Nirmala Devi

• Born: VaranasiNirmala Devi’s poetry is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural traditions of Varanasi.

49. Noorul Huda Noor Zabihi Banarsi (1934)

Noorul Huda Noor Zabihi Banarsi’s works are a testament to the rich literary heritage of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi
• Died: Varanasi

50. Raushan Varanasii (1920 – 1985)

Raushan Varanasii’s poetry captures the essence of Varanasi, blending tradition with modernity.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

51. Saghar Ansari (1905)

Saghar Ansari’s works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and their reflection of the cultural ethos of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi

52. Saghir Ahmad Sufi (1923)

Saghir Ahmad Sufi’s poetry is known for its deep spiritual and philosophical insights.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Delhi

53. Sahravan Kumar (1982)

Shravan Kumar’s poetry often explores contemporary social issues and the timeless cultural heritage of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Lucknow

54. Saleem Ahmad

Saleem Ahmad’s contributions to Urdu poetry are celebrated for their evocative imagery and emotional depth.

• Domicile: Varanasi

55. Salma Siddiqi (1931 – 2017)

Salma Siddiqi’s works reflect her rich cultural heritage and her deep connection to Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Mumbai
• Died: Mumbai

56. Sayad Haider Bakhsh Haidri (1768/69 – 1823)

Sayad Haider Bakhsh Haidri’s poetry is an important part of the literary history of Varanasi, blending influences from Delhi and Varanasi.

• Born: Delhi
• Died: Varanasi

57. Shams Khaalid (1990)

Shams Khaalid is a young poet whose works are beginning to resonate with the literary audience, capturing the modern essence of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

58. Shams-Un-Nisa Begum Sharm (1840)

Shams-Un-Nisa Begum Sharm’s poetry reflects the cultural richness and spiritual depth of Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi

59. Shiv Safar (1997)

Shiv Safar is an emerging voice in the literary scene, known for his modern take on traditional themes.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

60. Sirajul Arifeen Siraj (1973)

Sirajul Arifeen Siraj’s poetry is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and deep connection to Varanasi.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Varanasi

61. Sulaiman Aasif (1930)

Sulaiman Aasif’s works reflect his deep cultural roots and his connection to Varanasi.

• Born: Ballia
• Domicile: Varanasi

62. Syed Abdul Qadir

Syed Abdul Qadir’s contributions to Urdu poetry are marked by their deep emotional resonance and cultural insights.

• Born: Varanasi
• Domicile: Delhi

63. Syed Ahmad Ali

Syed Ahmad Ali’s poetry captures the cultural and spiritual essence of Varanasi, reflecting the city’s rich heritage.

• Domicile: Varanasi

64. Tarab Siddiqi

Tarab Siddiqi’s works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and their deep connection to Varanasi.

• Born: Ghazipur
• Domicile: Varanasi

65. Vinayak Parashad Talib Banarsi (1848 – 1922)

Vinayak Parashad Talib Banarsi’s poetry is a significant part of Varanasi’s literary heritage, blending traditional and modern themes.

• Born: Varanasi
• Died: Mumbai

66. Waseem Haidar Hashmi (1955)

Waseem Haidar Hashmi’s works are known for their emotional depth and their reflection of Varanasi culture.

• Born: Jaunpur
• Domicile: Varanasi

67. Yunus Ghazi (1953)

Yunus Ghazi’s poetry captures the essence of Varanasi, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and cultural heritage.

• Born: Varanasi

Conclusion

Whether they hail from within the city or other parts of the country, the poets of Varanasi have helped to mold an impressive part of literary tradition that remains appealing to contemporary readers and writers. While the core of the poetic spirit of Varanasi might be contained within the breadth of its religious and spiritual philosophy, it must also be noted that from Kabir’s poems to today’s modern poems, Varanasi’s poetry is diverse, with differences in themes, feelings, and poetic expressions. These poets have transformed the City into a pure spiritual myth, a bright CULTURE and vivid portrayal of human life. It was heartening to see the most talented of poets coming from Varanasi and acknowledging the uninterruptedly huge contribution of the city to literature and creativity. Varanasi stands a testimony to the reality that the power of words and that poetry does in fact makes life lighter.

FAQs Related To Best Poets From Varanasi

Who are some of the most famous poets from Varanasi?
Some notable poets from Varanasi include Kabir, Tulsidas, Bharatendu Harishchandra, Jaishankar Prasad, and Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’.

What are some of the recurring themes explored by Varanasi’s poets?
Common themes include spirituality, devotion, love, the human condition, social reform, and political commentary.

How has Varanasi’s cultural and spiritual identity influenced its poetry?
Varanasi’s identity as a spiritual capital and center of Hindu learning has inspired poets to explore themes of devotion, metaphysics, and the sacred.

Are there any famous poems specifically about Varanasi?
Yes, poems like “Kashi” by Jaishankar Prasad, “Kashi Vishwanath Ki Chalchitra” by Nirala, and “Kashikhand” by Maithili Sharan Gupt celebrate Varanasi’s essence.

In what languages is Varanasi’s poetry written?
Hindi, Hindustani dialects, Sanskrit, Awadhi, Braj Bhasha, Urdu, and English.

Is there a particular era known for its great poets from Varanasi?
The Bhakti movement (15th-17th centuries) and the modern period (late 19th-early 20th centuries) are renowned for Varanasi’s literary giants.

Where can I find more information about the works of Varanasi’s poets?
Libraries, bookstores, universities, literary organizations, and online resources offer access to their works and related materials.

Can I visit any places in Varanasi associated with its famous poets?
Yes, places like Kabir Math, Tulsi Ghat, Bharatendu Natya Akademi, and residential areas associated with poets like Jaishankar Prasad and Nirala.

Is Varanasi’s poetry tradition still alive today?
Yes, contemporary poets continue to contribute to Varanasi’s poetic legacy through various genres and styles.

How can I learn more about the lives and works of Varanasi’s poets?
Attend literary events, enroll in courses, read biographies and critical analyses, join literary clubs, and visit museums and sites associated with them.

Author: Team Banaras Trip