Old Agra is known as India’s “City of Love,” not only because of the Taj Mahal. But also because it is the birthplace of great poets and their poetry. The city of Akbarabad or Old Agra developed under the Mughal rule. Sikandar Lodi of the Delhi Sultanate constructed it in 1504.

Because of Emperor Akbar’s aim of promoting secularism and religious tolerance. The city’s architecture, huge fibre, local communities. Most intriguingly, its native language, which is replete with poetic metaphors and funny idioms. All reflect this seamless blending of cultures.

In fact, reading Agra poetry teaches us that language is a tool for establishing human connections, not a barrier. The city and its culture have been well documented. In literary lyrics by Nazir Akabarabadi, Ghalib, and Mir Taqi Mir. Moreover, new poets have emerged and evolved from various languages and cultures, continuing the tradition.

These couplets are worth cherishing, worth saving for, for the right moment. This poetry walks is an extremely unique experience. It includes a tour of the city beyond the Taj Mahal. It tells you about the city in the words of the many famous poets who called it ‘home’. In this one-of-a-kind experience, organised by Agra Heritage Walks. You will see the birthplaces of some famous poets, read and discuss Agra’s poetry.

The Journey of Discovery of Agra Lead by Mesmerizing Poetry

• The heritage walk begins at Shahi Jama Masjid when all the tourists gather. They are handed some beautiful photographs curated with poetic verses. From there, you visit Mirza Ghalib’s birthplace. You will learn more about Ghalib’s way of writing his hypnotic couplets. Even the emergence of Urdu poetry in the late Mughal period.

• Nevertheless, experience the beauty of writing in Urdu with a dedicated calligraphy workshop! Urdu is known for its unique calligraphic script. You will visit a calligraphy workshop and the development of language. In fact, the literature during the Mughal rule is discussed.

• Then take a stroll down the city’s 16th-century shopping district, which was formerly a significant stop on the silk route. There are a few poems from Nazir Akbarabadi. You get to understand how he documented the socio-economic characteristics of the city.

• After that, you’ll be transported to old-world Agra when you visit Khankhana Katra. There, read Hindi Dohas by Abdur Rahim Khankhana. And discuss how Hindi and Urdu languages merged together. 

• Explore a 16th-century neighbourhood and meet Agra’s practising poets. Nevertheless, listen to their poetry, and discuss how poetry can help people connect more deeply and avoid prejudices.

• Finally, you will visit the poet Maikash Akbarabadi’s family mausoleum and discuss his family.

If you’re a history or literary buff, this one-of-a-kind historical poetry walk is for you. Agra is a city with a mix of cultures. Moreover, having the opportunity to explore the Old Agra is a tremendous privilege. It will leave you with an amazing experience. In fact, this heritage walk is for you if you’re seeking a tour that’s not surface level. As it allows you to interact with people who warmly welcome you into their houses.

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