Renowned Urdu poet and writer Munawwar Rana (70) has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Lucknow after his health deteriorated. In a video statement, Rana’s daughter, Sumaiya Rana, revealed that her father is currently on a ventilator and in critical condition. She explained that his health had been declining over the past few days and that he experienced a severe stomach ache during dialysis. Subsequent medical examinations revealed a problem with his gall bladder, leading to a surgical procedure. Rana’s treatment is ongoing under the supervision of doctors in an effort to reduce the infection.
The medical team has informed the family that the next 72 hours are of utmost importance and critical for Rana’s recovery. Munawwar Rana is a highly acclaimed Urdu poet in India, known for his impactful ghazals. In 2014, he declined the Sahitya Akademi Award for Urdu Literature and declared his decision to refuse any government awards in the future due to growing intolerance in the country.
Apart from his literary contributions, Rana has also been involved in political affairs, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. His daughter, Sumaiya Rana, is a member of the Samajwadi Party, further reflecting their political association. However, Munawwar Rana has often been embroiled in controversies surrounding his political statements. He has faced criticism for expressing support for the Taliban and drawing comparisons between the group and Mahirishi Valmiki. Additionally, he faced backlash for endorsing the murder of Samuel Paty, a teacher who was killed in Paris in 2020 over a controversy related to Prophet Muhammad.
The current hospitalization of Munawwar Rana has raised concerns among his followers and admirers, who are hoping for his swift recovery. His contributions to Urdu literature and his distinct poetic style have garnered him a significant fan base. The critical condition of Munawwar Rana emphasizes the importance of proper medical care and highlights the fragility of human health. People from various spheres, including the literary and political communities, are closely monitoring his health status and sending their well wishes during this challenging time.