SIBF 2025 Celebrates The Language Of Poetry With Acclaimed Poets From Eight Cultures

The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025) will host poetry evenings featuring works in eight languages. From 5th to 16th November, the event will showcase renowned poets who will read in Arabic, Greek, English, Urdu, Punjabi, Malayalam, Russian, and Tagalog. This cultural programme aims to connect audiences through poetry as a personal and collective expression across diverse cultures.

Among the notable Arab poets participating is Saeed Al Mana from Saudi Arabia. Known for his appearances on "Sha’er Al-Rayah," he will be joined by Qatari poet Hamad Al-Buraidi. Al-Buraidi is celebrated for his reflective memoirs "Mulhimat Thikrayati" and "Marahil," which blend verse and prose.

Greece, this year's Guest of Honour, will be represented by Danae Sioziou. She is a poet, translator, and publisher whose works like "Useful Children’s Games" have been translated into over 15 languages. Her accolades include the Greek National Prize for New Authors and the Yannis Varvris Prize.

Canadian poet Saara Ali will present both written and improvised poems in English. As the author of "Barefoot: A Seeker’s Journey," her work delves into human connection and language's expressive power. Her performances are anticipated to captivate audiences with their depth and spontaneity.

Urdu poetry will be prominently featured with Dr. Zubair Farooq, the first Emirati poet writing in Urdu. He has published over 40 collections including "Shiddaten" and "Ek Arab Jab Urdu Bole." Joining him is Pakistani poet Ataul Haq Qasmi, known for works like "Kaalam Tamaam," translated into four languages.

Dr. Inam-ul-Haq Javeid brings an extensive career with over 75 written works in Urdu, Punjabi, and English. His contributions have earned him numerous awards such as Pakistan’s Pride of Performance. Indian poet Syed Ijazuddin Shah, also known as Popular Meeruthi, adds humour with his satirical writings.

Diverse Poetic Voices

From Pakistan, Dr. Tahir Shahir will perform alongside Indian actor Rehman Khan who blends satire in Urdu, Hindi, and English. US-based Khalid Irfan is known for his satirical Urdu poetry like "Chutki Me Zaafraan." Representing Punjabi poetry is Syed Suleman Gilani from Pakistan with works spanning ghazal and satire.

Indian poet Surendar Sharma will bring humorous verse in Urdu with titles like "Mujh Se Bhala Na Koi." Awarded the Padma Shri in 2013 for his literary contributions, Sharma's performances are expected to entertain audiences with wit and charm.

Malayalam and Russian Contributions

K. Satchidanandan represents Malayalam poetry with over 30 collections translated into more than 17 languages. His accolades include the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and Italy’s Order of Merit. Russian poet Maxim Zamshev will feature at the Poetry Cafe; he has published over a thousand works internationally.

Mikhail Levantovskiy from Russia adds to the lineup with his debut novel "Invisible Saratov" published in 2025. His writings have appeared in various literary magazines showcasing his talent across genres.

Tagalog Poetry at SIBF

Luna Sicat Cleto highlights Tagalog poetic forms like the traditional "tanaga." Her bilingual collection "Bago Mo Ako Ipalaot" received recognition from Litprom in Germany. Cleto's novels include "Makinilyang Altar," earning her multiple honours such as the Palanca Awards.

SIBF 2025 is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority and features participation from 2,350 publishers across 118 countries. The event hosts over 250 authors from 66 countries with more than 1,200 cultural events planned throughout its duration.

With inputs from WAM