The world of Marathi literature lost one of its most beloved voices as Dr Mirza Rafi Ahmed Baig, the celebrated poet and creator of the iconic "Mirza Express" shows, passed away on Friday morning. The 68-year-old literary luminary breathed his last at 6:30 AM after battling a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy that transformed how Maharashtra engages with poetry and humor.
A Literary Journey Spanning Five Decades
Dr Mirza's remarkable journey in literature began at the tender age of 11 when he first discovered his passion for writing. His career on stage commenced in 1970, marking the start of what would become nearly five decades of dominance in Vidarbha and Marathwada's poetry circuits. The literary master, who hailed from Dhanaj-Manikwada in Yavatmal district, spent his final days at his cherished "Mirza Express" home on Walgaon Road in Amravati.
With over 20 poetry collections and approximately 6,000 live "Mirza Express" performances to his credit, Dr Mirza had an extraordinary ability to transform the everyday struggles of farmers and rural life into side-splitting yet thought-provoking verse. His newspaper column "Mirzaji Kahin" became a much-anticipated feature for readers across the region, showcasing his unique blend of wit and wisdom.
Bridging Communities Through Verse
Dr Mirza emerged as a powerful champion of both the Varhadi dialect and Marathi language, using his platform to build bridges between different communities. His famous poems like ‘Motha Manus', ‘Sava Mahina', and ‘Jangadbutta' became cultural touchstones, celebrated for their ability to blend humor with social commentary.
His commitment to interfaith unity was demonstrated through his service on the temple trust of revered Fakirji Maharaj, showcasing his belief in harmony beyond religious boundaries. Dr Mirza came from a prominent family - his father Mirza Razzak Baig (affectionately known as Bhaijee) was a political stalwart in Yavatmal, while his cousin Firdos Mirza is a noted advocate from Nagpur.
The literary icon is survived by his wife Fatema, son Rameez, daughters Mahajbee and Huma, and countless admirers who found joy and meaning in his work.
Final Farewell and Tributes
The last rites for Dr Mirza were performed at the Eidgah graveyard on Walgaon Road, Amravati, on Friday afternoon. Before the funeral, prominent figures including actor Bharat Ganeshpure, former minister Yashomati Thakur, along with numerous literary personalities and devoted fans gathered at his residence to pay their final respects.
Tributes poured in from across Maharashtra's political and cultural spectrum:
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow, calling Dr Mirza's passing "a huge loss to Marathi literature" and acknowledging his role in bringing Varhadi language to national recognition.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar highlighted the poet's unique skill in blending laughter with social messaging, noting that his loss represents "a big blow to Marathi literature."
Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Amravati's guardian minister, remembered Dr Mirza as a "Hasyasamrat" (emperor of humor) whose "mastery over words and unmatched wit were his hallmarks."
Actor Bharat Ganeshpure, who considered Dr Mirza his role model since college days, expressed profound grief, stating "His departure hurts deeply."
Professor Dr. Avinash Asanare, secretary of the Vidarbha Literature Association, emphasized Dr Mirza's "immense love for Varhadi and Marathi" and how his poems "created humour with realism."
The passing of Dr Mirza Rafi Ahmed Baig leaves a significant void in Varhadi literature and Maharashtra's broader cultural landscape. His gentle satire that made people both laugh and think in equal measure will be remembered as his enduring gift to Marathi literature.
