Haneef Asadi’s Naatia Poetry

حنیف اسعدی کی نعتیہ شاعری

Abstract

Zikr-e-Khair-ul-Anam, published in 1984, is the first Naat collection of Haneef Asadi and represents a remarkable expression of devotion, love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH), and artistic excellence. The entire collection is imbued with sincere reverence, emotional intensity, and refined poetic craftsmanship. The book opens with Hamd and concludes with Durood and Salam, a structural arrangement that enhances its spiritual harmony and aesthetic value. The inclusion of two Hamds at the beginning and two beautifully composed Salams at the end adds to the literary and devotional richness of the work.

The collection consists of forty Naats and several introductory pieces, all characterized by fluency, rhythmic balance, and spiritual absorption. The Hamd and Salam share a similar metrical pattern and stanzaic structure, reflecting the poet’s technical mastery and conscious artistic design. Haneef Asadi’s distinctive style, particularly his preference for addressing the Prophet (PBUH) as “Aapؐ,” highlights his deep sense of reverence and respect.

Recognized as one of the leading Naat poets of his time in Karachi, Pakistan, and the broader Urdu-speaking world, Haneef Asadi later published another Naat collection titled Aapؐ. Some selected Naats from the first collection were also included in the second, indicating the poet’s special attachment to these compositions. Overall, Zikr-e-Khair-ul-Anam stands as a significant contribution to Urdu Naatia literature, reflecting spiritual devotion, formal discipline, and enduring poetic value.