Minu Bakshi
"The Remarkable Journey of Minu Bakshi:
A Multifaceted Trailblazer"
Minu Bakshi is a multifaceted and versatile individual, leaving an indelible mark across diverse realms. A singer with years of Hindustani classical musical training, a professor of Spanish language at the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, an accredited Spanish language interpreter for the Indian Government, a well-known Poet of Urdu poetry and the Chairperson of the NGO, Savera (a society for the uplifting of underprivileged women and children) as well as the former Chairperson of the UK Asian Film Festival, London. These are some of the activities for which Minu Bakshi is known and recognised
Hello,
Sat-Sri-Akal, Namaskar,
Adab Doston...
"I am truly delighted to have the opportunity to introduce my work in Urdu poetry (and music) to everyone.
I am humbled by the accolades and recognition that my work has received thus far and if this introduction of my poetry to the audiences in India and Abroad contributes even in small measure to the preservation and appreciation of this beautiful and most romantic genre then I will feel that my objective has been achieved".
– Minu Bakshi
About Minu Bakshi
Minu Bakshi is an extraordinary individual with a diverse and accomplished background. Her educational journey began at St. Thomas School, Delhi, and she later earned a B.Sc. from Miranda House. Venturing into the realm of the Spanish language, she dedicated six years to obtaining an M.A. and M. Phil from Jawaharlal Nehru University, followed by studies at the 'Universidad Complutense de Madrid' in Spain.
With expertise in interpretation, Minu has served as an interpreter for the President and Prime Minister of India for over three decades. Simultaneously, she has been an esteemed professor at JNU for nearly 40 years. Recognising her contributions, the Spanish Government awarded her the “Order of Isabella la Catolica” in 2014, the 2nd highest order given to a foreigner by the King of Spain.
Minu's musical journey encompasses ghazal singing, collaborations with Mika Singh, and a significant collection of Punjabi folk music, "Band Baja Punjab," earning her the "Achiever's Award 2014" from the Global Punjabi Society.
Beyond music, Minu emerged as an Urdu poet, with her first book, "Tishnagi: The Thirst," receiving acclaim and awards. Her subsequent collections, including 'Mauj-e-Saraab, 'Justaju', 'Uffuq ke Paar' and 'Abr-e-Karam,' have continued to garner recognition.
Minu is a committed social activist, serving as the Chairperson of "Savera," an NGO uplifts the underprivileged. Her accolades include the “Fakhr-e-Hind” award, 'Ambassador of Hope Award,' and recognition by Women Economic Forum and FICCI Ladies Organization.
In 2021, Minu's poetic reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic earned her the 'Ambassador of Hope Award.' She actively participates in literary festivals globally, and her TEDx Talk focused on achieving dreams through passion, patience, discipline, and perseverance.
Her contributions extend to the film realm, with a documentary, "Main Hun, I Can," based on her life premiered at the United Kingdom Asian Film Festival. Recently, she received a certificate of appreciation from the Indian women’s history museum and was honored at the Khushwant Singh LitFest.
Minu Bakshi's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication to music, literature, education, and philanthropy, leaving an indelible mark across diverse fields.
My Moments in Time...
Testimonials
“Minu Bakshi’s poetry is ‘Felt - Thought’…her verse is steeped in love and, even more importantly, in romance – a virtue fast-disappearing in today’s world. There is a simplicity with which she surrenders to love and makes the reader yearn for more”.
Shabana Azmi, Bollywood Actor
