Identity: Eminent Fiction Writer, Poet, and Sketch Writer

Iqbal Mateen was born on February 2, 1929, in the Ramkote neighborhood of Hyderabad (Deccan). His real name was Syed Masihuddin, and his pen name was 'Mateen'. His father, Syed Abdul Qadir 'Nasir', and his uncles, Tamkeen Sarmast and Naseem Qasimi, were poets under whose influence his literary tastes were nurtured.

Iqbal Mateen received his education from various educational institutions in Hyderabad, including City High School, Darul Uloom College, and Chaderghat College. During this period, he enjoyed the mentorship of legendary teachers like Makhdoom Mohiuddin and Dr. Mohiuddin Qadri Zore. Professionally, he served in the Jagir Administration and later in the Revenue Department of Hyderabad, eventually retiring as a Naib Tehsildar.

The literary journey of Iqbal Mateen began with poetry in 1942, but he soon shifted his focus toward short story writing. His first short story, "Choodiyan", was published in 1945. His primary and true identity remains that of a short story writer. In his stories, he masterfully focused on the declining feudal life of Hyderabad, the chaos of materialistic civilization, the decay of human and moral values, and communal hatred.

Seven short story collections of Iqbal Mateen were published, including "Ujli Parchaiyan" (1960), "Nucha Hua Album", "Khali Pitariyon Ka Madari", "Aagahi Ke Veerane", "Mazbalah", "Main Bhi Fasana Tum Bhi Kahani", and "Shahr Ashob" (2003).

In addition to short stories, he penned a novella titled "Chiragh-e-Tah-e-Daman" (1976), based on the dark side of the capitalistic system. His collection of character sketches titled "Sondhi Mitti Ke But", his memoirs "Baatein Hamariyan", and his collections of impressionistic and critical essays "Aetaraf-o-Inhiraf" and "Ujale Jharoke Mein" (2008) became widely popular in literary circles. A collection of his poetry, "Sareer-e-Jan", was also published.

Death: Iqbal Mateen passed away on May 5, 2015, in Hyderabad.