In the world of poetry, where emotions flow like rivers and words have the power to transform minds, Shamim Shaikh, known by his pen name Gulfarosh, is carving a niche for himself. Though a Senior Software Engineer by profession, Shamim’s heart beats for poetry—creating verses that resonate with his readers and listeners.
From the confines of the digital world to the emotional depth of words, Shamim’s journey as a poet is both fascinating and inspirational.
A Passion for Words, Fueled by Life’s Experiences
Shamim’s poetic journey began not from an ambition to be a writer, but from a natural, heartfelt response to the world around him. A full-time professional in the IT sector, he finds time to write only on weekends or public holidays. For Shamim, writing is not about forcing out words, but about waiting for the right moment when emotions surge naturally. It’s when he experiences a genuine feeling or thought that he sits down to express himself through poetry.
His debut book, “Kirdaar Sunehre Sapno Ke”, is a beautiful collection of 38 Hindi poems and two English poems. The poems are reflections of his life, drawn from personal experiences and keen observations of society. Inspired by the stories of ordinary people and the struggles they face, Shamim’s work is a celebration of life in all its forms. He writes about great personalities, but also about the unsung heroes—those whose stories often go unnoticed but who carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.
A Journey of Spontaneity and Introspection
Writing, for Shamim, is a spontaneous process. He waits for moments of inspiration to strike, allowing his emotions to guide the pen. His creative process starts with a rough draft, followed by meticulous revisions to ensure that every word contributes meaningfully to the poem. Through this process, he ensures that his poems have a lasting impact, with every stanza resonating deeply with the reader.
Even though he balances his work with his poetry, Shamim’s commitment to his craft never wavers. He writes only when he feels a true emotional connection to the subject, making every piece meaningful. This sincerity and authenticity are what make his work stand out in the world of poetry.
Self-Publishing: A Step Towards Independence
As a self-published poet, Shamim chose to publish his book “Kirdaar Sunehre Sapno Ke” through Notion Press—a user-friendly platform that allowed him to bring his words to the world without the hurdles of traditional publishing. The decision to self-publish was driven by Shamim’s desire for creative freedom and his belief in the power of modern technology to give voices to independent authors. With a professional background in technology, Shamim appreciated how digital platforms have made it easier for writers to share their work with a global audience.
Shamim believes that the publishing industry is undergoing a transformation. The rise of self-publishing has given writers the power to bypass traditional barriers and share their voices directly with readers. Social media and online platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn have become essential tools for spreading a writer’s work, and Shamim is no exception. These platforms allow him to connect with readers, gather feedback, and promote his poems to a wider audience.
Writing With a Purpose
A patriotic poet at heart, Shamim often writes about national pride and important societal issues. His poems on Independence Day, Republic Day, Women’s Day, and child rights reflect his deep commitment to social causes. Through his work, he strives to inspire readers to be more aware, compassionate, and proactive in improving society.
His poems about notable figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Sachin Tendulkar, and APJ Abdul Kalam demonstrate his admiration for those who have made significant contributions to the nation. However, his work is not limited to just famous personalities. Shamim also writes about the common people—the street beggar, the soldier at the border, the unsung heroes whose lives often go unnoticed.
“My aim is to create a positive mindset among readers. If my poems can inspire someone to make a difference, to work for the betterment of society, then my mission is accomplished,” says Shamim.
Influences and Aspirations: A Legacy of Inspiration
Shamim’s work is deeply influenced by legendary poets and lyricists like Mahadevi Verma, Suryakant Tripathi Nirala, Harivanshrai Bachchan, Gulzar, and Javed Akhtar. These great figures have shaped his approach to poetry, infusing his work with a sense of purpose, emotion, and cultural pride.
Looking ahead, Shamim has big dreams. He aspires to collaborate with the great lyricist Javed Akhtar or the legendary Gulzar Sahab, further honing his craft and sharing his passion for poetry with a larger audience. He also plans to delve deeper into global social issues, exploring new genres and continuing to evolve as a writer.
“I hope my writings leave a lasting impact on current and future generations,” Shamim says. “If people continue to be inspired and motivated by my words, then I would consider myself successful. I want to be remembered as a writer who contributed to building a positive mindset in society.”
A Journey Still Unfolding
Shamim’s journey as a poet has only just begun. With his heart and mind devoted to creating beautiful verses that celebrate life, inspire change, and spread positivity, Shamim Shaikh is a poet who is poised to leave an indelible mark on the literary world. As he continues to write, share, and inspire, his work will undoubtedly touch many more lives, creating a ripple effect of inspiration that will echo through generations.
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