Monthly Urdu Poetry Workshop to Begin in Bradford
January 20, 2026New group offers sessions exploring Urdu poetry and language
A free monthly workshop focusing on Urdu poetry will start in Bradford next year, providing an opportunity for people interested in the language and its literary traditions to come together. The sessions form part of the city’s cultural activities leading up to its 2025 City of Culture celebrations.
Details of the Urdu Shurdu Workshop
The group, called Urdu Shurdu, will meet at Chaiiwala on Leeds Road in Bradford. The first session is scheduled for 12 February 2026, running from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. It is open to anyone aged 16 and over, with those under 18 required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Attendees who need to bring younger children due to childcare reasons are advised to contact the organiser in advance.
Workshop Format and Activities
Each month, the group will focus on a different Urdu poet. Participants will learn about the poet’s background, read and translate selected poems, and explore their interpretation. The sessions will include a variety of activities such as:
- Learning new vocabulary related to Urdu poetry
- Understanding poetry structure
- Writing exercises
- Reading from Urdu texts or Roman script
- Sharing original writing
- Practising spoken Urdu
- Discussing favourite poems and poets
Additional Information
The workshop is part of the “Our Patch” programme and is described as suitable for those with an interest in Urdu poetry, whether beginners or more experienced speakers. The sessions aim to foster a community around the language and its poetic forms.
Attendance is free and no tickets are required. The venue, Chaiiwala, is located at 854 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 9TX.
Contact and Further Details
For enquiries about bringing younger children or other questions, participants can contact Kauser Kukhtar, the Our Patch Creative Practitioner, via email at little_ogres@hotmail.com.
More information about this and other cultural events in Bradford can be found on the Bradford 2025 website.
