Let’s Save Calligraphy : Lucknow Society has taken a unique initiative by saving the dying art of calligraphy & efforts have been taken to revive the same in 21st century. Entire course for learning calligraphy is free for the students, which was organised by Lucknow Society at its office. Syed Azeem Haider Jafri, the well known and the best calligrapher of Tughra Calligraphy was the tutor where he taught the students about the script and the art of calligraphy. Hindi and English calligraphy was taught to the students along with Urdu. ‘Calligraphy Heritage Walk’ was also organised at monuments where calligraphy is present in impressive way. Candidates which includes the students, housewives and corporate professionals were highly enthusiastic in learning this unique art from the experts !
‘Calligraphy’ or ‘Khattati’, which was originated around 13th century in India. Evidences of calligraphy are found at tomb of Sheikh Ibrahim, Nadan Mahel which happens also to be the oldest surviving monument of Lucknow. Chota Imambara is the best example of calligraphy on monument. Abdul Halim Sharar has given details about the same in his legendary book ‘Guzishta Lucknow’. Nawab Asif-ud daulah has patronised the art and was continued by his successors also. Contribution of Munshi Nawal Kishore Press is also outstanding in promoting this art.