The Lexington community proudly joined the broader Boston region on Saturday, November 15, to celebrate the launch of Fragrance of Urdu in Boston (بوسٹن میں اردو کی مہک), a deeply researched and lovingly written work by longtime Lexington resident Mr. Maarij Kirmani. The event was held at Goodnow Library in Sudbury, drawing a capacity crowd and hundreds more who joined via Zoom from time zones spanning Australia to Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
Mr. Kirmani—well known in Lexington for his intellect, warmth, and decades of involvement in civic and cultural life—captured in his book the evolution of Urdu’s literary presence in New England. The work includes rare personal anecdotes, private conversations, and unpublished material about renowned poets who visited the region going back many years. Readers will also appreciate the book’s accessibility: it is presented in Urdu, English, and Urdu transliteration, making it approachable for younger generations and heritage learners.
A special moment during the event was the recognition of Mrs. Homaira Kirmani, whose unwavering support over the decades helped cultivate a welcoming home for poets, writers, and cultural figures visiting the Boston area. Attendees noted that many of the literary moments described in the book were made possible because of her gracious hospitality and encouragement. In fact, the book itself is dedicated to Mrs. Kirmani, a gesture that drew warm applause from the full hall.
The program was emceed by Syed Ali Rizvi, who also penned the book’s introduction and shared personal insights on its development. He highlighted the significance of documenting Urdu’s journey in New England and commended the Kirmanis for preserving stories that might otherwise have been lost.
He then invited Ameek Ponda—a respected attorney, a Lexingtonian and a community figure, and son-in-law of the Kirmanis—to formally introduce the author. Mr. Ponda spoke eloquently about the family’s contributions to Lexington’s cultural landscape and reflected on the literary legacy captured in the book.
Several distinguished attendees shared comments, including, Professor Razzaque Ahmad, Mr. Imran Kidwai, Dr. Yogeshwar Dayal, Kumkum Dilwali
Each praised the book’s historical value and the Kirmani family’s decades-long role in promoting literary appreciation in the region.
The younger generation of the family played a prominent part as well. Sophie Ponda, Nadia Chohan, Noor Shah, and Nasr Shah managed the book table with care, ensuring that signed copies—each with a personalized note from the author—were given to attendees who had reserved them in advance.
In keeping with the Kirmani family’s long tradition of service, all proceeds from the book will be donated to charitable causes. Those interested can contribute via check, Venmo, or Zelle, with a suggested donation of $20.
Throughout the afternoon, Mr. Kirmani read selected passages from the book, including unpublished chapters and his short story Ek Lamhe Ka Khuda, which drew heartfelt laughter and moments of reflection from the audience.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Samia Kirmani, who shared warm family memories of poets visiting their home over the years—memories that echo through the pages of her father’s book.
Fragrance of Urdu in Boston stands as both a literary contribution and a community milestone, honoring the cultural bridge built by the Kirmani family and celebrated by generations of Lexington residents.PHOTO CREDITS: Sachin Gupta & Syed Ali Rizvi
Keep up the good work Lexington town office bearers.