ادا جعفری کی شاعری میں روایت اور جدیدیت کا سنگم

The intersection of tradition and modernity in Ada Jafri's poetry

Abstract

This research article provides a comprehensive critical analysis of the poetic journey of Ada Jafri, widely acclaimed as the "First Lady of Urdu Poetry." It explores the unique creative synthesis in her work, where the grace of classical traditions intersects with the complexities of modern sensitivity. Unlike previous eras where the female voice remained largely subservient to male-centric tropes, Ada Jafri introduced a distinct feminine perspective that upheld Eastern cultural decorum while asserting intellectual autonomy and self-discovery. The study delves into key thematic dimensions of her poetry, including her portrayal of internal anguish in "Shehr-e-Dard" (City of Pain), her dignified protest against societal constraints, and the existential awareness reflected in her autobiography, "Jo Rahi So Be-Khabari Rahi." Through a qualitative analysis of her Ghazals and Nazms, the article demonstrates how she transitioned the female figure from a passive poetic object to an active, self-determining subject. The study concludes that Ada Jafri’s work serves as a foundational bridge in Urdu literature, proving that feminine agency can be powerfully expressed within the framework of cultural values. Her legacy remains a vital testament to the evolution of the modern female identity in the South Asian literary landscape.