Website: shamimsim.co.in
Facebook: Shamim Shaikh
Instagram: @poet_shamim_shaikh
YouTube: Shamim Shaikh Poetry
LinkedIn: Shamim Shaikh
About the Author
I’m Shamim Shaikh, a Senior Software Engineer at Ascendion Engineering Pvt. Ltd. By profession, I work with code—but by passion, I create poetry. Under the pen name Gulfarosh, I explore the beauty of words, primarily writing in Hindi and occasionally in English.
The Writing Journey
Can you describe your writing routine?
Being a full-time IT professional, I write on weekends or public holidays. I believe in writing from the heart, only when a genuine emotion moves me.
What inspired your latest book?
My book “Kirdaar Sunehre Sapno Ke” is a heartfelt collection of 38 Hindi poems and 2 English poems. I draw inspiration from real-life experiences, the resilience of everyday people, and stories of great personalities in society.
How do you handle writer’s block?
I let inspiration come naturally. If the emotion is strong enough, the poem flows effortlessly.
Can you walk us through your process from idea to final draft?
I start with a rough draft, capturing the raw emotion or message. Then I revise it, refining rhythm, grammar, and clarity to ensure it resonates well.
How do you balance writing with other aspects of your life?
Writing is reserved for my leisure time—weekends, holidays, or whenever inspiration strikes.
On Character & Creativity
How do you develop characters in your poems?
Since “Kirdaar Sunehre Sapno Ke” revolves around characters, I draw from real life. I examine their many facets and portray them in poetic form to highlight their depth and relevance.
What’s the most challenging part of writing poetry?
Crafting rhyme and rhythm can be tricky. But with thoughtful effort, I always aim to create something impactful.
How much of your personal life is infused into your work?
A great deal. My poems are often reflections of my own experiences or of people I’ve closely observed.
How do you keep readers engaged?
Every line I write must carry meaning. I avoid filler and ensure each stanza adds value.
Have you ever rewritten a poem or character completely?
Not yet.
Publishing & Industry Insights
What was your publishing journey like?
I chose self-publishing through Notion Press, which offers an easy and user-friendly platform. It’s been a smooth ride.
Your take on traditional vs. self-publishing?
Thanks to technology, writers now have the freedom to publish independently without waiting for traditional publishers to validate their work.
Advice to aspiring authors?
Write with intention. If there’s a message you’re passionate about, let the world hear it. The joy of authentic expression is unmatched.
Importance of marketing and social media?
Social platforms are vital for spreading the word. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn—they help connect with a wide audience.
What surprised you most about the publishing world?
Nothing specific as of yet.
Genre & Literary Style
Why poetry? Any other genres in mind?
I write poems on themes like patriotism, festivals, societal issues, and personalities who inspire me—from APJ Abdul Kalam to Alia Bhatt. I’ve written ghazals too. I definitely plan to explore other genres and write more in English.
How do you maintain a unique voice?
My focus on patriotism and real-life inspiration gives my work a distinctive tone that connects with readers on a deeper level.
Key elements in your poetry?
Relevance and resonance—writing about timely topics that matter.
How do you research for historical or factual poems?
Google is a helpful tool for brushing up on historical or technical details.
Who are your literary influences?
I deeply admire Mahadevi Verma, Suryakant Tripathi Nirala, Harivanshrai Bachchan, Gulzar Sahab, and Javed Akhtar Sahab.
Engaging Readers
How do you interact with readers?
Through my YouTube channel and platforms like StoryMirror, I share my poems and connect with my audience. Their positive feedback inspires me to do more.
Most memorable feedback?
The response to my award-winning Women’s Day poem was incredibly touching.
How do you want your poems to impact readers?
I hope my poems uplift spirits, foster kindness, and inspire people to serve society, especially the underprivileged.
Have you written based on reader feedback?
Not yet, but I’m open to it.
Do you address social or cultural issues in your poems?
Absolutely. My poems on child rights, gender equality, festivals, and everyday heroes are rooted in current social themes.
Future Goals & Aspirations
Current projects?
Nothing specific at the moment.
Dream projects?
I dream of collaborating with Gulzar Sahab or Javed Akhtar Sahab someday.
How do you see your writing evolving?
I plan to write more on global cultural and social issues and achieve greater literary milestones.
Genres or styles you’d like to try?
Many! English poetry is definitely on my list.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want my work to inspire generations—creating a ripple of positivity, awareness, and patriotism through my words.
