“Kalam-e-Bulleh Shah,” a comprehensive anthology of the timeless verses of Baba Bulleh Shah, stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of Punjabi literature. This masterful translation, undertaken by the accomplished duo of Dr. Inamul Haq Javed and Dr. Amjad Ali Bhatti, offers readers an exquisite journey through the profound and spiritually resonant poetry of this revered Punjabi Sufi poet. Published by Al-Faisal Publishers in January 2019, this 400-page opus is a testament to the enduring legacy of Baba Bulleh Shah’s words.
A Precious Cultural Heritage:
The book begins by paying tribute to Brig. Dr. Safdar Ali Shah, a poet, researcher, and translator in his own right, whose dedication to preserving Punjabi literary heritage is acknowledged with the book’s dedication. This sets the tone for a work that is steeped in respect for cultural traditions and linguistic richness.
Baba Bulleh Shah: The Mystic Voice:
Bulleh Shah’s poetry is characterized by its profound mysticism, spiritual depth, and social commentary. His verses, rooted in the Sufi tradition, explore the themes of love, unity, spirituality, and the human condition. The translators, Dr. Inamul Haq Javed and Dr. Amjad Ali Bhatti, do an exceptional job of preserving the essence and nuances of Bulleh Shah’s Punjabi verses while rendering them into English, making this book accessible to a wider audience.
Aesthetic Presentation:
The book’s 400 pages are thoughtfully organized, allowing readers to navigate through Bulleh Shah’s verses with ease. The translations are accompanied by the original Punjabi text, adding a layer of authenticity and cultural richness to the reading experience. The book’s production quality, including the cover design and printing, is commendable.
Cultural Resonance:
“Kalam-e-Bulleh Shah” is more than a mere translation; it is a bridge between cultures. It invites readers to immerse themselves in the spiritual and philosophical world of a Punjabi Sufi poet whose wisdom and insights continue to resonate across generations and borders. This anthology serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature to transcend linguistic boundaries.
Conclusion:
In “Kalam-e-Bulleh Shah,” Dr. Inamul Haq Javed and Dr. Amjad Ali Bhatti have crafted a literary masterpiece that pays homage to Baba Bulleh Shah’s poetic brilliance while ensuring that his words are not confined to the Punjabi-speaking world alone. It is a book that enriches the soul, deepens cultural understanding, and invites readers to embark on a spiritual journey through the verses of one of Punjab’s most celebrated poets. This book is a treasure trove for poetry enthusiasts, cultural aficionados, and all those who seek wisdom in the art of words.
