By Mohammad Arfat Wani
Book Information
Title: Gird-e-Shab-e-Khayal
Author: Fazal Shafi Bhat
Pages: 158
Price: ₹350 (Discounted: ₹300)
Publisher: GNK Publications
Contact: 7006738304
In the evolving landscape of Urdu fiction, Fazal Shafi Bhat has emerged as a towering figure whose pen sketches both the beauty and the brutality of life with remarkable sensitivity. His latest offering, Gird-e-Shab-e-Khayal, a short story collection, is a literary milestone that resonates with emotional depth, societal reflection, and artistic brilliance.
Recently published by GNK Publications (Price: ₹350 | Discounted Price: ₹300), this 158-page anthology is a treasure trove of 25 short stories that capture the essence of human experiences—ranging from spiritual introspection to contemporary social crises.
A Monumental Contribution to Urdu Fiction
Fazal Shafi Bhat’s stories are not just narratives; they are reflections of life. His ability to merge literary elegance with piercing social commentary places him in the league of visionary Urdu storytellers. With simple yet potent language, Bhat invites readers to step into richly imagined worlds that evoke both emotion and introspection.
A Mirror to Society and the Soul
What distinguishes Gird-e-Shab-e-Khayal is its intellectual and philosophical weight. Each story acts as a mirror, reflecting not just societal issues but the internal dilemmas that define the human condition. Bhat’s keen observations and deep understanding of human psychology infuse his characters with authenticity and relatability.
This is not just a collection—it’s a commentary on our times. Whether it’s spiritual decay, moral confusion, or emotional neglect, Fazal Shafi Bhat addresses them all with subtlety and skill.
Exploring the Book’s Literary Strengths
1. Thematic Diversity
From Zabeeha, a meditation on true sacrifice, to Kaali Kokh ka Dukh, a heartbreaking tale about illegitimate children, the collection spans themes that are as relevant as they are poignant. Bhat addresses corruption, addiction, gender bias, spiritual erosion, and the paradoxes of urban life.
2. Language and Style
One of the defining features of this book is the simplicity of its prose. Bhat writes in a style that is both accessible and poetic, ensuring that the stories leave a lasting impression on readers across all age groups.
3. Rich Characterization
The characters are drawn from real life—ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges. They are relatable, flawed, and deeply human, making each narrative resonate with the reader’s own experiences or those around them.
Highlighted Stories and Their Essence
Trailer: A story exploring the spiritual symbolism of a beard, now reduced to fashion.
Kufran-e-Nemat: A beautiful ode to daughters and their divine worth.
Shab Khoon: Inheritance disputes portrayed through Islamic ethical lenses.
Reengta Jahannum: A cautionary tale about misplaced trust and shattered lives.
Bazaar-e-Ganan Marg: A stark reminder that hopelessness equates to disbelief.
Tilsmi Kangri: A poetic celebration of honesty, simplicity, and sacrifice.
Nakarada Gunah: A striking take on the misuse of social media and its ripple effects.
Each of the 25 stories brings forth a unique moral, insight, or reflection, contributing to a collection that educates as much as it entertains.
Fazal Shafi Bhat: The Voice of Conscience
More than just a storyteller, Fazal Shafi Bhat is a chronicler of our times. His work holds up a mirror to society, reminding us of forgotten values, uncomfortable truths, and the redemptive power of honesty and compassion. His keen eye for detail, understanding of emotional nuance, and unwavering literary discipline make him a writer of enduring significance.
Gird-e-Shab-e-Khayal is not merely a book—it’s a timeless contribution to Urdu literature. It’s the kind of work that deserves to be read, discussed, and preserved. Whether you are a student of literature, a passionate reader, or someone seeking stories that matter, this collection is a must-read.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Fazal Shafi Bhat for gifting the literary world such a profound piece of work. May his pen continue to illuminate minds and inspire hearts.
Author is Literary Writer & Columnist | Kuchmulla Tral, Pulwama, Kashmir
He can be reached at wania6817@gmail.com