

B-A in Urdu at Barkatullah University, Bhopal


Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Urdu at Barkatullah University, Bhopal Bhopal?
This Urdu specialization program at Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, focuses on a comprehensive study of Urdu language, literature, and its rich cultural heritage. It delves into classical and modern poetry, prose, drama, and literary criticism, highlighting its profound impact on Indian society. This program is designed to cultivate deep linguistic and literary understanding, addressing the growing demand for Urdu experts in media, education, and cultural preservation within the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students who possess a keen interest in literature, language, and cultural studies. It is suited for fresh graduates seeking entry into academic, journalistic, or literary translation careers. Additionally, it benefits individuals aspiring for roles in government services, cultural organizations, or those aiming to pursue higher studies in Urdu literature. A foundational knowledge of Urdu script and grammar is advantageous for prospective students.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as educators, content writers, translators, journalists, and cultural officers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 7 LPA, especially in media and academia. The program aligns with various government examinations and offers a strong foundation for pursuing M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. degrees in Urdu, fostering significant growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Language Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate daily time to reading classical and contemporary Urdu texts, practice writing in various styles (prose, poetry), and engage in regular spoken Urdu conversation. Focus on mastering Urdu grammar and syntax from prescribed textbooks.
Tools & Resources
Urdu dictionaries (e.g., Feroz-ul-Lughat), online Urdu news portals (e.g., BBC Urdu), language exchange partners, university language labs
Career Connection
Builds strong foundational communication skills essential for translation, journalism, and effective literary analysis, crucial for academic and content writing roles.
Engage with Literary Classics- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions on early Urdu poetry and prose. Read beyond the syllabus, explore works of poets like Mir Taqi Mir, Ghalib, and novelists like Deputy Nazir Ahmad, critically analyzing their themes and styles. Attend university-organized literary talks.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s Urdu section, online archives of classical Urdu literature, literary journals
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills, enriching understanding of literary heritage, which is vital for academic research, teaching, and cultural preservation roles.
Join Urdu Literary Societies- (Semester 1-2)
Seek out and join the university''''s Urdu literary society or club. Participate in poetry recitations (mushairas), literary discussions, debates, and creative writing workshops. Organize small-scale events to foster peer learning and collaborative literary exploration.
Tools & Resources
University''''s student activity center, local literary circles, social media groups for Urdu literature enthusiasts
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, networking, and creative expression, beneficial for future roles in media, event management, and cultural advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Different Literary Genres and Forms- (Semester 3-5)
Dive deeper into specific genres like Qasida, Marsia, Drama, and Novel. Research their historical development, key exponents, and socio-cultural impact. Attend workshops or seminars on specific literary forms to gain specialized insights.
Tools & Resources
Specialized books on Urdu literary history, critical essays, academic journals focusing on specific genres, online lecture series
Career Connection
Cultivates in-depth knowledge and analytical expertise across various literary forms, preparing for specialized roles in literary research, teaching, or content creation.
Undertake Translation and Content Creation Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to translate texts from English/Hindi to Urdu and vice-versa, focusing on varied content like news articles, short stories, or academic papers. Start writing original essays, reviews, or blog posts in Urdu.
Tools & Resources
Online translation tools (as aids, not primary), bilingual dictionaries, literary translation workshops, personal blogs or online platforms
Career Connection
Develops practical skills in translation and content creation, highly valued in publishing, media, and localization industries in India.
Participate in Inter-University Literary Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively prepare for and participate in inter-university competitions such as Urdu debate, essay writing, poetry recitation, or short story writing. These platforms provide exposure, build confidence, and offer opportunities for recognition.
Tools & Resources
Coaching from faculty, peer study groups, previous year''''s competition materials, public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Enhances competitive skills, public speaking, and showcases literary talent, which can be beneficial for scholarship applications, cultural ambassadorship, and journalism.
Advanced Stage
Conduct Independent Research and Dissertation Work- (Semester 6)
Select a research topic of personal interest within Urdu literature, consult faculty mentors, develop a strong research methodology, and conduct a thorough study culminating in a dissertation or project. Present findings confidently.
Tools & Resources
University research guides, academic databases, one-on-one mentorship from faculty, statistical analysis software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Prepares for higher academic pursuits (M.A., Ph.D.), research roles, and demonstrates analytical rigor valued in various professional fields.
Pursue Internships in Media or Cultural Organizations- (Semester 6)
Actively look for internship opportunities with Urdu newspapers, magazines, radio stations, cultural academies (e.g., National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language), or NGOs working on heritage preservation. Gain practical industry exposure.
Tools & Resources
University career services, professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn), direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Provides crucial hands-on experience, builds professional networks, and significantly boosts employability in relevant sectors.
Prepare for Higher Education or Civil Services Exams- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring for M.A. or competitive exams like UPSC/MPPSC (where Urdu is an optional subject), dedicate time to revising the entire syllabus, practicing answer writing, and solving previous year''''s papers. Attend specialized coaching if feasible.
Tools & Resources
University alumni network for guidance, competitive exam prep books, online coaching platforms, mock test series
Career Connection
Directly impacts success in competitive examinations, opening doors to prestigious government careers or advanced academic and research positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 120-160 (as per NEP guidelines for B.A.) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-101 | Early Urdu Ghazal (इब्तिदाई उर्दू ग़ज़ल) | Major | 4 | Evolution and Characteristics of Ghazal, Prominent Ghazal poets of Deccan (Vali, Siraj Aurangabadi), Prominent Ghazal poets of Delhi School (Mir, Dard), Prominent Ghazal poets of Lucknow School (Aatish, Nasikh), Art of Ghazal writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-201 | Early Urdu Nazm and Masnavi (इब्तिदाई उर्दू नज़्म व मसनवी) | Major | 4 | Introduction to Nazm and Masnavi, Major Masnavi writers of Deccan (Mulla Wajhi, Ibn-e-Nishati), Major Masnavi writers of North India (Mir Hasan, Daya Shankar Naseem), Early Nazm poets and their contributions, Comparison of Nazm and Masnavi forms |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-301 | Urdu Qasida and Marsia (उर्दू क़सीदा व मर्सिया) | Major | 4 | History and Evolution of Qasida, Major Qasida writers (Sauda, Zauq, Ghalib), History and Evolution of Marsia, Major Marsia writers (Mir Anees, Mirza Dabeer), Elements and structure of Qasida and Marsia |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-401 | Urdu Drama and Novel (उर्दू ड्रामा व नावेल) | Major | 4 | Origin and Development of Urdu Drama, Major Urdu Dramatists (Agha Hashar Kashmiri, Imtiaz Ali Taj), Origin and Development of Urdu Novel, Major Urdu Novelists (Deputy Nazir Ahmad, Premchand), Characteristics of Drama and Novel |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-501 | Urdu Short Story and Criticism (उर्दू अफ़साना व तनक़ीद) | Major Elective | 4 | Origin and Development of Urdu Short Story, Major Short Story Writers (Premchand, Manto, Krishan Chander), Principles of Urdu Literary Criticism, Major Urdu Critics (Altaf Hussain Hali, Shibli Nomani), Modern Trends in Urdu Short Story and Criticism |
| UMAJ-502 | Urdu Prose (उर्दू नस्र) | Major Elective | 4 | Origin and Development of Urdu Prose, Major Prose Writers (Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Ghalib, Abdul Halim Sharar), Different forms of Urdu Prose (Inshaiya, Khaka, Safarnama), Stylistic features of Urdu Prose, Impact of historical movements on Urdu Prose |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMAJ-601 | Urdu Poetry (उर्दू शायरी) | Major Elective | 4 | Development of modern Urdu Poetry, Major Modern Poets (Iqbal, Faiz Ahmad Faiz, N.M. Rashid), Different forms of modern Urdu Poetry (Azad Nazm, Sonnet, Haiqu), Symbolism and Imagery in Urdu Poetry, Impact of Western thought on Urdu Poetry |
| UMAJ-602 | Urdu History of Literature (उर्दू अदब की तारीख) | Major Elective | 4 | Periods of Urdu Literature, Literary Movements (Romanticism, Realism, Progressive Movement), Contribution of various institutions to Urdu Literature, Development of different genres through ages, Biographical sketches of key literary figures |
| UMAJ-603 | Project / Dissertation (परियोजना/ शोध प्रबन्ध) | Project | 6 | Research Methodology in Urdu, Topic Selection and Approval, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce |




