Mumbai, October 24, 2026: Renowned poet Gulzar presented his latest work, “Aamchi Mumbai: My City in Stories and Poems,” at the 17th edition of Godrej Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest 2026, during a session titled “Ek Shayar Iss Sheher Mein: A Poet’s Love Letter to His City.” The event took place on the festival’s second day, with Gulzar in conversation with scholar and translator Rakhshanda Jalil and screenwriter-lyricist Kausar Munir, who chaired the session.
The session featured Gulzar reading from his new volume, written in Urdu and translated into English by Dr. Jalil. The discussion explored the poet’s longstanding relationship with Mumbai, touching on the city’s evolving identity, its people, seasonal changes, and the experiences of migrants, offering what was described as a “Mumbai darshan” through poetry and storytelling.
Reflections on Mumbai’s Identity
Gulzar explained the significance of the book’s title, referencing the slogan “Mumbai konachi? Mumbai aamchi” that emerged during debates over Maharashtra’s capital. He described his connection to the city as a partnership, stating that the word “aamchi” was chosen to reflect this bond.
He also spoke about how living in Mumbai has influenced his writing, noting, “I have learnt and changed with Mumbai. We have changed Mumbai also. I have tasted the salt in Mumbai’s air… So, I wanted to pay homage to this ‘namkeen’.” Gulzar emphasised that his observations of city life are central to his creative process, saying he personifies and humanises what he sees around him.
Translation and Literary Perspective
Rakhshanda Jalil, who translated “Aamchi Mumbai” into English, discussed the challenges of capturing Gulzar’s distinctive voice and imagery. She highlighted the poet’s childlike quality and whimsicality, describing the translation as a complex task that goes beyond vocabulary and craft.
Kausar Munir, chairing the session, commented on the realism in Gulzar’s portrayal of Mumbai. She noted that the new work addresses themes such as socialism, political consciousness, and environmental concerns, offering a depiction of the city that extends beyond romanticism to include its lived realities.
About Godrej Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest
The 17th edition of Godrej Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest 2026 continues to host prominent literary figures, with sessions focusing on contemporary issues, literature, and the arts.
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