ARIF, KISHAN SINGH

ARIF, KISHAN SINGH

ARIF, KISHAN SINGH Arif, Kishan Singh(1836 – 1904) was a popular Punjabi poet. His father Narain Singh was a publisher and bookseller in Bazar Mai Sewan, Amritsar. He began studying books and Kissas at an early age. After the death of his father, he adopted the same profession. From his writings it appears that he was a disciple of Gulab Das (1809-1873), a saint of repute under whose impact he wrote didactic and mystic poetry.

His compositions include: Kalianwali Hir, Shirin Farhad, Puran Bhagat,Raja Bharthari, Raja Rasaloo, Dulla Bhatti, Kaftan, Kotre Khatpade, Kundaliy-e-Arif, Krishan Katar, Bibek Ban, Sarbangi, Kasid-e-Arif, Gian Charkha, Rajniti, Jiva-Siapa, Bujhartan, Baramahas (two), Satvar, Siharfi, Painti Akhri, Sati Shingar, Holian Harhar Astotar, Kar Sarovar and Pothi Sudharmi (Prose). A close scrutiny of his compositions shows that he adopted the traditional style and metres. Kalianwali Hir is considered to be his masterpiece. His two Baramahas provide evidence of his great power over form. Arif holds a significant place among the traditional poets of the later nineteenth century.

References :

1. Kohli, S.S. (ed.), Punjabi Sahit Kosh. Vol. II, Punjab University, Publication Bureau, Chandigarh, 1976.
2. Piara Singh Padam, Kalam de Dhani, Part I, Patiala, 1966.
3. Ramdev, Jaginder Singh, Punjabi Likhari Kosh, (ed.). New Book Co., Jullundur, 1964.

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