The Impact of English Literature on the Writings of Rashid Ahmed Siddiqui

رشید احمدصدیقی کی تحریروں پر انگریزی ادب کے اثرات

Abstract

Rashid Ahmad Siddiqui shines as a multifaceted icon in Urdu literature, excelling as an essayist, prose writer, satirist, humorist, author, teacher, researcher, critic, and mentor. His literary influence goes beyond merely chronicling his time; he actively shaped it through his impactful writings. Critics often draw comparisons between Siddiqui's profound connection to Aligarh and that of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, while others view it as a reflective bridge to his identity. Esteemed as a brilliant author and humorist, Siddiqui is likened to Chaucer and Bernard Shaw, offering deep philosophical musings that provide compelling insights into society.

His prose stands out for its eloquence, rhetorical rhythm, wit, satire, linguistic sophistication, and a seamless blend of literary artistry. What truly sets him apart is his deep admiration for the English language and his aspiration for Urdu to achieve parity with Western languages. Inspired by collegiate encounters with Shakespeare, Siddiqui earned recognition from respected English professors, fueling his passion further. His formative years at Aligarh University coincide with the early development of Urdu literature, and his signature style, which fuses humor with elegance, reflects his heartfelt love for Aligarh as a unifying force. Siddiqui's enduring passion for English profoundly shapes his literary perspective, firmly establishing him among the revered figures of Urdu literature.