MEET THE OTHER GHALIB: THE KATIB

Mohammad Ghalib is one of the last remaining Katibs (calligraphers), working out of a small shop in Urdu Bazaar, Old Delhi

Near the Jama Masjid and the food vendors of Urdu Bazaar, sits Mohammad Ghalib, one of Delhi’s last Katibs (calligraphers). “A game of the youthful,” is how Ghalib describes his profession, recalling the history behind this art.

One would consider passion as the reason to why a calligrapher would champion the ancient art, but Ghalib tells us his reason: “We Katibs learned this art as a mean to earn bread. I did it because I knew it was a respectable job alongside educated people, who I would be forging relationships with. The passion was born later.” Before the advent of computers, he says it was one of the most valued jobs. “From offices to newspapers — every type of design was coming to us. That was how we Katibs had work,” Ghalib says.

The art of calligraphy was a need for people back then. “Books were written in Urdu and the newspapers needed Katibs, too. We were valued,” he explains.

Calligraphy is an art that only a few can master. “There is a special way to sit when writing letters in calligraphic style. We would follow it especially when writing for newspapers. We were told that we will learn it only if we sit in a particular manner,” said Ghalib.

And that’s not all. He had to perfect other skills too. “We were told to hold our breath when writing, so that our hands won’t shake. I am 55 now and it is not at all easy,” says Ghalib adding, “The times have changed; not many from the new generation are taking up calligraphy professionally, now. Like many other professions, this too, has ended with the advent of technology.”

PHOTOS: WASEEM GASHROO/HT

(Far left) Ghalib — the Katib, his work and the tools of the trade (above)