Identity: Researcher, Critic, Translator, Poet, and Physician

Dr. Taqi Abidi is among those unique scholars of Urdu literature who, while achieving distinction in the medical profession, have devoted their passion and intellectual energy to the service of Urdu literature. He is simultaneously a researcher, critic, translator, editor, and poet, and due to his multifaceted literary contributions, he holds a distinguished and respected place in contemporary Urdu scholarship.

Syed Taqi Hasan Abidi was born on 1 March 1952 in Delhi. He belongs to a scholarly and religious family rooted in Naugawan Sadat near Amroha in Uttar Pradesh. His lineage traces back to Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. His father, Syed Sibt Nabi Abidi, was an educated individual and served as a judge, due to which the family later moved from Delhi to Hyderabad.

He received his early and higher education in Hyderabad. After completing MBBS, he pursued MS in the United Kingdom, FCAP (Fellow of College of American Pathologists) from the United States, and FRCP (Fellow of Royal College of Physicians) from Canada. He also obtained an MSc in Pathology from the University of Glasgow and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pathology. Professionally, he is serving as a physician in Ontario, Canada.

Although a doctor by profession, literature forms the core of his personality. His deep engagement with Urdu, Persian, and literary studies dates back to his childhood. During his stay in Iran, he attained remarkable proficiency in Persian and studied Persian literature in depth. His marital life is also connected with Iran, and his spouse actively supports his scholarly pursuits.

Dr. Taqi Abidi’s literary contributions are vast and multidimensional. He has authored, edited, compiled, analyzed, and translated more than 70 books. He possesses a special command over research and criticism and is known for bringing to light neglected aspects of classical literature. He has successfully revived many overlooked writers and poets and helped them gain their rightful place in literary history.

His research on Ghalib, Mir Anis, Mirza Dabeer, Insha Allah Khan Insha, Najm Afandi, Fareed Lakhnawi, and other literary figures is highly significant. Particularly, his work on Mir Anis and Mirza Dabeer is considered a unique achievement in Urdu literature. He introduced a new critical dimension by presenting a scientific and linguistic analysis of Mir Anis’s marsiyas. His works on Faiz Ahmad Faiz, such as "Faiz Fahmi" and "Faiz Shanasi", are also highly regarded.

One of his most remarkable achievements is his personal library in Toronto, which houses a vast collection of rare and valuable Urdu manuscripts. He has collected these precious materials through his personal efforts and resources. Notably, he has donated this entire collection to a Canadian university to benefit future generations.

He has generously spent his professional earnings on the promotion of Urdu literature, reflecting his deep love and commitment to it. In recognition of his services, he has received numerous awards from literary institutions across the world. He has also been associated with various universities as a visiting professor and fellow.

Dr. Taqi Abidi’s personality represents a harmonious blend of knowledge, research, integrity, and sincerity. By preserving rare literary treasures and bringing hidden works to light, he has significantly enriched the legacy of Urdu literature.