Imran Shah

Imran Shah

Imran Shah, fondly known as Nawab Imran Shah and Kothashilpi Imran Shah, is a renowned name in the world of Assamese literature. Born on 23rd November 1933 in Sivasagar, Assam, he is celebrated for his remarkable contributions as a poet, novelist, editor, and educator. He was the eleventh child of Muhammad Shah and Mariam Nessa.

Imran Shah began his education at No. 2 Dhai Ali Primary School and later joined Sivasagar Government School in 1943. He completed his ISC at Cotton College, Guwahati, and graduated with a B.A. from Sibsagar College in 1958. He pursued M.A. in Assamese Literature from Gauhati University.

Starting his career as a temporary teacher at Kunwarpur High School, Shah later became a lecturer at Gargaon College and eventually joined Sibsagar College as a senior lecturer in Assamese. He retired as the Head of the Assamese Department in 1993. Post-retirement, he founded Arunudoi College, a junior college in Dhai Ali, where he also served as principal.

Shah’s literary journey began early, writing poetry and stories during his school days. His first poetry book Banavashi was published while still a student, and his debut novel Sangeetor Hkhipaare was published when he was in class 10. He wrote under several pen names such as Ishan Dutta, Anamika Baruah, Kumbhakarna, and Animesh Baruah.

His acclaimed short story Aparicheeta was published in 1958 in Natun Asomiya. Based on his novel Rajanigandha, the Assamese film Rasmirekha was released in 1973.

Imran Shah's notable works include:

  • Ishan Duttar Nirbachita Kabita

  • Dhou Bhangi Dhou

  • Nisanga Dhusar

  • Bandi Bihonggome Kaande

  • Jabanbandi (also aired on All India Radio, Dibrugarh)

  • Kranti Rekha

  • Pora Matir Malita

  • Mur Phulanir Phool

  • Kavi Police

  • Piyamukhchanda

  • Sagarika

  • Tathapi Sagar

  • Kukuhaa, Ityadi, and many more.

He also edited literary anthologies like Bosoror Galpa and Kalantoror Kothakotha. His essays on Assamese culture and the Muslim contribution to it (Asomiya Sanskritiloi Musalmanor Avadaan) are also well-regarded.

Shah was awarded the Assam Valley Literary Award in 2009 and the Ajan Peer Award by the Government of Assam in 2008. He was elected President of Asom Sahitya Sabha for the 2013–2015 session, representing one of the highest literary positions in Assam.

With his literary versatility, editorial prowess, and contribution to Assamese education, Imran Shah remains a towering figure in Assam’s cultural and literary heritage.