Showkat Thaanvi
04 May 1963 in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Shaukat Thanvi (2 February 1904 – 4 May 1963), born Muhammad Umar, was a celebrated Urdu humorist, novelist, journalist, and broadcaster. His satirical stories—such as the acclaimed “Swadeshi Rail” and “Sheesh Mahal”—earned him widespread fame, leading to roles in All India Radio and later Radio Pakistan, where his witty program “Qazi Jee” became immensely popular. Honored with Pakistan’s Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Thanvi remains remembered as a master of light-hearted satire in South Asian letters.
Biography
Shaukat Thanvi (born Muhammad Umar; 2 February 1904 – 4 May 1963) was a prolific Urdu humorist, novelist, journalist, radio playwright, and poet. His quick wit and comic flare made him one of the most beloved humor writers in South Asia. Born in Vrindavan, Mathura (then British India), he adopted the pen name “Thanvi” in honor of his ancestral town, Thana Bhawan.
Thanvi began his literary career in journalism, contributing to newspapers like Hamdam, Sarpunch, and Avadh Akhbar in Lucknow. In 1938, he transitioned to radio with All India Radio in Lucknow as a broadcaster and playwright, where his humorous programs earned wide acclaim. His 1932 satirical story Swadeshi Rail further elevated his fame, showcasing his ability to critique India’s socio-political landscape through sharp wit.
During and after the Partition, Thanvi moved to Pakistan and continued his radio career with Radio Pakistan in Lahore. There, he created the immensely popular series Qazi Jee, solidifying his reputation as a humorist among new audiences. He also joined the film industry, writing stories and dialogues, and even directed the movie Gulnaar.
Throughout his literary journey, Thanvi authored nearly forty books across genres—humor, satire, memoirs, poetry, and plays—with titles like Mauj-e-Tabassum, Behar-e-Tabassum, Sailab-e-Tabassum, Baqrat, and Sheesh Mahal achieving lasting popularity. His unique gift was to evoke laughter through everyday absurdities, making social commentary accessible and entertaining.
In recognition of his literary contributions, Shaukat Thanvi was awarded the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in 1963 by the Government of Pakistan. He passed away on 4 May 1963 in Lahore and was laid to rest at Miani Sahib Graveyard. His legacy endures in Urdu literature as a pioneer of humor and satire.
Books by Showkat Thaanvi
