Mirza Ghalib once said, “Do not go by the lines on the palm of the hand, as luck is bestowed even on those who do not have a hand.” February 16 marked the 157th death anniversary of the celebrated Urdu and Persian poet Mirza Ghalib. A tribute performance titled, ‘Ghalib Hamein Na Ched’ will revisit his life and legacy through poetry, narration, and live ghazal renditions. “The night will focus on Ghalib’s life through the shadows of his poetry, and will include moments when the poet found himself at a crossroads between his life and his writings,” says narrator Sameer Samant.

While Ghalib is widely revered for his literary genius, few are aware of the personal struggles he endured. Caught between questions of identity and expression, he often found himself at an emotional and intellectual crossroads that gave birth to some of his most profound works during the Mughal era.