What is the Difference Between Ghazal and Nazm?

The main difference between Ghazal and Nazm, two popular forms of Urdu poetry, lies in their structure, themes, and rules for rhyme and refrain. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Structure: Ghazal is a collection of independent couplets (shers) with each line called a misra. Nazm, on the other hand, is focused on a single theme with no requirements of rhyme or refrain.
2. Themes: Ghazal does not follow a single theme; each sher discusses different topics. In contrast, a Nazm follows a single theme and the whole Nazm talks about a single topic only.
3. Rhyming and Refrain: In Ghazal, there are various rules that need to be followed, such as the pattern of behr (meter) and the use of radeef and qafiya. Nazm provides more freedom to the poet, as there are no limitations on the size of a Nazm and it can be written in rhyming verses or prose.
4. Language and Imagery: The language and imagery in a Nazm are generally simpler compared to a Ghazal.
5. Popularity: Ghazals are more prominent and influential, with singers like Jagjit Singh and Farida Khanum taking them to global audiences. Nazms have also played an important role in developing Urdu poetry in modern times but are not as popular as Ghazals.

In summary, Ghazals and Nazms differ mainly in their form and structure, themes, rules for radif/qafia, language complexity, and overall objectives.

Comparative Table: Ghazal vs Nazm

The main differences between Ghazal and Nazm, both popular forms of Urdu poetry, can be summarized in the following table:

In summary, Ghazals and Nazms differ mainly in their form, structure, themes, rules for radif/qafia, language complexity, and overall objectives.