MAAUD: Master of Arts (Applied Urdu)(ODL)
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Introduction
M.A. (Applied Urdu) is according to the National Education Policy-2020 and direction of the University Grants Commission which consists of literary, comprehensive and skill-based academic courses. This programme covers PG level Urdu Literature syllabus as well as professional courses. This two-year postgraduate Programme aims at developing a commendable level of mastery over Urdu language & literature, research and professional skills like Computer, Print Media, Electronic Media, Translation, Journalism, Editorial Writing, Radio Feature, Column Writing and Film Scriptwriting etc. This programme will equip the learners with professional skills along with understanding of Urdu language & literature. In the entire Programme the courses are divided as Compulsory Courses and Optional/Elective Courses. In addition to this, the Programme offered, through different courses, tries to inculcate democratic, multicultural, secular, gender sensitive and moral values to cater to the modern notions of equity, social justice and merit in all educational endeavours.
Objective
The key objectives of the M.A. (Applied Urdu) programme encompass multiple dimensions aimed at promoting the use of the Urdu language in different professional fields. This programme seeks to equip students with the necessary skills in Urdu for effective work in teaching, translation, journalism, media, and administrative affairs. It also focuses on enhancing students’ abilities in inter-lingual and technical translation, as well as media-related translation, enabling them to become proficient translators and effective communicators. Furthermore, the programme prepares learners to use Urdu professionally in fields such as legal affairs, administration, journalism, media, and information technology. The cultivation of literary and cultural awareness is another integral aspect, encouraging critical and analytical study of Urdu literature, culture, and civilization, thereby fostering a deep connection with the Urdu heritage. Additionally, the programme aligns Urdu with contemporary demands, promoting its use in emerging areas such as digital communication, corporate settings, and information technology-related applications. Finally, through research and critical study, the programme enhances students’ research and critical thinking abilities. Learning Outcomes:
The learning outcomes of the M.A. (Applied Urdu) programme are designed to equip students with a comprehensive set of skills and competencies that align with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP). Learners will be able to apply Urdu language skills across multiple domains such as education, media, translation, administration, and technology, reflecting NEP’s emphasis on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary learning. This programme fosters skill-based proficiency in translation and communication, enabling students to work effectively in Urdu-Hindi and English translation, creative writing, and other forms of professional communication, thus making them job-ready in diverse fields. It also cultivates critical thinking and analytical abilities, allowing learners to examine literary, cultural, and media texts with depth and insight, promoting intellectual independence. In addition, students will develop digital and technological adaptability, using Urdu effectively in digital tools, e-content creation, social media, and emerging platforms, supporting NEP’s focus on technology-integrated learning. The programme further enhances research and critical skills, familiarizing learners with the fundamental principles and methods of research and literary criticism, thereby enabling them to develop research approaches. It prepares students for professional and entrepreneurial opportunities in teaching, journalism, translation, content development, and encourages entrepreneurship in Urdu-related domains. Finally, this programme instils ethical and societal awareness, fostering cultural sensitivity, social engagement, and responsible practice in line with NEP’s vision of holistic and value-based education.
This programme is designed for graduates in Urdu or equivalent disciplines who wish to enhance their knowledge and understanding of Urdu language, literature, and its applied aspects. It particularly caters to teachers and researchers seeking to strengthen their academic and professional competence in Urdu journalism, translation, Urdu literature & research. This programme is also suitable for professionals engaged in translation, publication, and communication, who use Urdu as a medium of creative or professional expression. Government and non-government employees who aim to promote Urdu as an official or communicative language can also benefit from this course. Furthermore, it serves students and scholars aspiring to pursue higher studies or careers in teaching, research, media, and cultural institutions where Urdu plays a vital role.
Eligibility & Medium
Eligibility for admission:
UG or its equivalent in any discipline.
Medium of Instruction:Urdu
Duration & Fee Structure
Programme Duration:Minimum Duration: 24 Months and Maximum Duration: 48 Months
Rs. 15000/- for full programme to be paid year wise @Rs. 7,500/- per year plus Registration fee of Rs.300/-
For SAARC Students in INR(Rs.): 14,300.00/- Per Year
Note: Exam Fees is not included in Fee Structure it will be as decided by the University
Job/Future Prospects
Graduates of this programme can pursue careers as Assistant Professors or Lecturers in universities, colleges, and educational institutions where Urdu is taught as a major or elective subject. The degree of this programme opens opportunities in translation and interpretation, particularly in government departments, embassies, publishing houses, and media organizations that require expertise in Urdu and other languages. Learners can work as content writers, editors, and proofreaders in Urdu newspapers, magazines, digital platforms, and broadcasting agencies. This programme also equips students for positions in research institutions, cultural academies, and literary organizations that focus on Urdu studies. Those interested in civil services or administrative work can find this degree helpful in departments where Urdu is used as regional language. Additionally, this programme nurtures the skills needed for freelance writing, scriptwriting, and creative translation, enabling self-employment and participation in Urdu’s expanding global network.
Programme Coordinator
Dr. Shakhir Ali Siddiqui Assistant Professor School of Humanities (SOH) sasiddiqui@ignou.ac.in 01129572767
Dr. Ahmad Ali Jauher Assistant Professor School of Humanities (SOH) ahmadali@ignou.ac.in 9968347899
The course “Urdu Adab Ki Tareekh” offers a comprehensive overview of the historical development of the Urdu language and its literary traditions. It begins with an exploration of the nature of language, its types, and the significance of linguistics. Concepts such as the distinction between language and dialect, the evolution of language through various stages, and the relationship of Urdu with Khari Boli and the New Indo-Aryan linguistic family are discussed in detail. The course also discusses the social and political forces that shaped the growth of Urdu, along with major theories regarding its origin. A substantial portion of the course focuses on the rise and progression of Urdu language and literature in the Deccan, covering the Bahmani, Qutb Shahi, and Adil Shahi periods. Students are introduced to classical Urdu poetry before the age of Mir, followed by the salient features of the poetic eras of Mir and Ghalib, and the defining traits of modern poetry.
This course further traces the background and early formation of Urdu prose, the major stages of its development, and the distinctive prose styles adopted in different eras. Important prose writers of North India are highlighted, along with key literary movements such as Classicism, Romanticism, the Aligarh Movement, the Progressive Writers’ Movement, Adab-e-Latif, Halqa-e-Arbab-e-Zauq, Modernism, and Postmodernism. Additionally, the role of institutions like Fort William College, Delhi College, the Scientific Society, Aligarh, and Anjuman Punjab in shaping Urdu language and literature is critically discussed. Overall, the course provides a holistic understanding of the linguistic, literary, social, and institutional factors that contributed to the evolution of Urdu literature.
“Urdu Poetry” (MUD-022) is a core course of the M.A. Applied Urdu programme, offering a structured and comprehensive study of Urdu’s major poetic genres Ghazal, Masnavi, Qasida, Marsiya, and Nazm. The block on Ghazal covers its definition, evolution, and the contributions of leading poets such as Wali, Siraj, Mir, Aatash, and Ghalib. The Masnavi block discusses the Dakani and Northern traditions with a focus on Mulla Vajhi, Mir Hasan, and Nasim. The qasida section highlights the genre’s form and stylistic features along with the works of Sauda and Zamir, while the Marsiya block examines its foundations through the art of Mir Anis and Mirza Dabeer.
The block on nazm traces its development from Quli Qutb Shah to Iqbal, Chakbast, and Makhdum. Discussions on modern nazm and modern poetry illuminate the innovative contributions of Akhtar Sheerani, Sardar Jafri, and Meera ji. Overall, the course provides learners with a clear, insightful, and academically grounded understanding of Urdu’s principal poetic forms, enriching their literary appreciation both intellectually and artistically.
The course “Urdu Ghair Afsanavi Adab” offers an extensive study of the major forms, traditions, and leading practitioners of Urdu non-fiction prose. It begins with an exploration of the art and types of essay writing, tracing its development in Urdu literature and highlighting the contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and his contemporaries. This course examines the craft and historical evolution of biographical writing, with special focus on the biographical works of Khwaja Altaf Husain Hali and Allama Shibli Nomani. This course then moves to the genre of character-sketch writing (Khaka), discussing its literary significance and classical tradition through writers such as Mirza Farhatullah Baig and Mujtaba Husain. The section on letter-writing analyzes both its artistic qualities and its socio-literary role, illustrated through the exemplary letters of Mirza Ghalib and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
A detailed study of Inshaiya (informal reflective prose) is also included, featuring the works of Muhammad Husain Azad and Khwaja Hasan Nizami. This course further covers travel writing, highlighting its evolution and creative features with reference to Ibn-e-Insha’s travelogues. The rich tradition of humor and satire in Urdu is explored through the writings of Rashid Ahmad Siddiqi, Patras Bukhari, and Mushtaq Ahmad Yousufi. Lastly, the genre of reportage (Raportaj) is studied in depth, with special attention to Qurratulain Hyder’s innovative contributions. Overall, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of Urdu non-fiction prose, its formal diversity, historical development, and its finest exponents.
The course "Urdu Mass Media aur Tarjuma Nigari" provides a comprehensive overview of the role of Urdu in contemporary mass media and the art and techniques of translation (Tarjuma Nigari). It covers the use of Urdu in various media formats such as print, radio, television, and digital platforms, examining the language’s adaptability and growth in a fast-evolving media landscape.
In the translation component, the course delves into the principles, challenges, and methodologies of translating from one language to another, with a focus on Urdu. Learners will explore techniques for translating journalistic, literary, and technical content while maintaining the integrity and stylistic nuances of the original work.
This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in journalism, media, publishing, or translation, offering them valuable skills to navigate and contribute effectively to Urdu media and translation services.
"The course ""Tanqeed aur Tahqeeq"" (Criticism and Research) is designed to give students a solid foundation in the principles and methods of Urdu literary criticism and research. Through this course, learners explore the development and key theories of literary criticism, examining various critical approaches from classical to modern. The course also covers the methodology of research in Urdu literature, focusing on investigative techniques, critical analysis, and scholarly writing.
Key critics such as Hali, Shibli Nomani, Kaleemuddin Ahmad, Syed Ahtesham Hussain, Ale AhmadSaroor, Muhammad Hasan Askari, Shams-ul-rehman Farouqi, Gopi Chand Narang, Molvi Abdul Haq, Hafiz Mehmood Sherani, Qazi Abdul Wadood, Malik Ram and Rashid Hassan Khan are studied, offering insights into different styles and perspectives on evaluating literature. This course encourages students to engage deeply with Urdu texts, fostering a critical mindset to appreciate and analyze literary works while also building essential research skills for academic contributions in the field."
The course "Urdu Nazm" provides an insightful exploration into the development and diversity of the nazm form in Urdu literature, focusing on both classical and modern poets. Key figures include poets like Allama Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, N. M. Rashid, and Akhtarul Iman, each known for their unique contributions to themes of nationalism, humanism, social justice, and personal introspection. This study traces the nazm's evolution from traditional to progressive forms, examining how it has adapted to reflect the changing socio-political landscape, personal reflections, and philosophical thought. Through the works of these poets, students gain a comprehensive understanding of nazm as a powerful medium of expression in Urdu poetry.
The course on "Urdu Ghazal" delves into the rich tradition of one of the most significant poetic forms in Urdu literature. The ghazal is a reflection of deep emotional expression, often focusing on themes such as love, loss, longing, and philosophy, and is defined by its distinctive structure of rhyming couplets (sher) and refrain (radif).
In this course, students will explore the historical evolution of the ghazal, from its origins in Arabic and Persian traditions to its flourishing in classical Urdu poetry. Key figures in the development of the ghazal, such as Wali Daccani, Meer Taqi Meer, Mirza Ghalib, Meer Dard, Atash, and Faiz Ahmed Faiz, will be studied in depth. Through their works, students will gain insight into how these poets shaped the ghazal’s themes, linguistic elegance, and intricate poetic devices. The course will cover the evolution of poetic imagery, the use of metaphor and symbolism, and the influence of societal, cultural, and personal contexts on the ghazal's structure and content.
By examining the poetry of these masters, students will not only understand the technical aspects of the ghazal form but also develop an appreciation for the deep emotional currents and philosophical reflections embedded in each verse. This course will provide a comprehensive understanding of both classical and modern interpretations of the ghazal, focusing on its continuing relevance in contemporary Urdu poetry.
The course "Urdu Zaban o Adab Ki Tareekh" is a foundational study in the field of Urdu literature, focusing on the historical development of the Urdu language and its rich literary traditions. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the evolution of Urdu from its origins, tracing the roots of its linguistic and literary features, and examining its social and cultural significance across centuries. Students will delve into the intricate history of Urdu, exploring various milestones such as its emergence as a distinct language, its development under Mughal influence, and its subsequent growth in literature.
The course covers a wide range of topics, including the early history of the language, the formation of Urdu poetry and prose, and the contributions of key literary figures. Through this course, learners will not only gain an understanding of the linguistic development but also the evolution of literary forms like ghazal, nazm, and qasida. This comprehensive study will help students appreciate the impact of historical events, cultural shifts, and regional variations on Urdu's development.
By the end of the course, students will have a thorough understanding of Urdu's historical context, its transformation over time, and the significant literary movements that have shaped its current form. This course is ideal for those interested in the intersection of language, culture, and history within the context of Urdu's literary legacy.
