Karachi: Celebrating the 21st death anniversary of the renowned poet Jon Elia, who uniquely expressed the bitterness of separation and longing in a distinctive style. Born on December 14, 1931, in the Indian city of Amroha, Jon Elia was well-versed in English, Arabic, and Persian in addition to Urdu literature.
Jon Elia’s first poetry collection was possibly published in 1991, which introduced a new dimension to Urdu literature. His prose and essays are still considered exemplary in Urdu literature.
His poetic collections include “Yani,” “Guman,” “Lekin,” “Goya,” and “Guman,” while his articles were also published under the pseudonym “Famood.” Jon Elia held a unique position in literary circles due to his unconventional and practical approach.
Jon Elia was known for his unique style, and it is believed in Urdu literature that he was alone in his unique poetry style, and poets like him cannot be expected again. Some literary figures believe that Jon Elia is one of the outstanding personalities who promoted modern Urdu poetry after the formation of Pakistan, comparing him to Mir and Mus’hafi.
Jon Elia’s poetry is characterized by its daring and open expression of societal and cultural norms, making it different from other poets. He always complained that poets were not given the respect they deserved in society. Known for his distinct individuality, Jon Elia passed away on November 8, 2002, and was buried in Karachi.