‘Main tainu pher milangi’: Artist Imroz, passes away at 97, to reunite with his eternal love, Amrita

Artist-poet Imroz passes away: Renowned artist-poet Imroz, known for his everlasting bond with poetess Amrita Pritam, passed away at 97 in Mumbai. Despite Amrita's demise in 2005, Imroz kept her memory alive, viewing her as a continued presence in his life.

“Wo yahin hai, ghar par hi hai, kahin nahi gayi (She is here only, she is home, she has not gone anywhere).” Here, within these walls, she remains, never departed. These timeless sentiments belonged to Inderjeet, known as Imroz, an artist and poet who preserved the presence of undivided Punjab's cherished poetess, Amrita Pritam, even beyond her passing. Refusing to refer to Amrita in the past tense, he steadfastly maintained her continued existence.

Imroz's enduring love story with Amrita came to a close as he passed away at his Kandivali residence, grappling with age-related health concerns. Amiya Kunwar, a close acquaintance, affirmed Imroz's unwavering devotion to Amrita, emphasising that he always believed she remained with him. Born in 1926 in undivided Punjab, Imroz initially named Inderjeet, was an artist who joined Amrita in publishing 'Naagmani' and later changed his name to Imroz. He ventured into poetry post Amrita's illness, penning numerous works dedicated to her, such as 'Jashan Jaari Hai' and 'Manchaaha Hi Rishta.'

In Delhi, after Partition, Amrita found work as an announcer at All India Radio, a place that fate bound her with a boy from Chak number 36 in Lahore. Despite the societal disapproval of cohabitation at that time, they defied norms and shared a union that endured for about four decades. Even with her passing on October 31, 2005, their bond did not fade. Her final poem, "I will meet you yet again," dedicated to her partner, echoed her belief in an eventual reunion: “I know not how and where…but I will meet you for sure.”

Amidst her final days, Amrita experienced intense suffering. A close friend, Surinder Sharma, shared Imroz's confession that despite sharing every aspect of life with her, his only regret was being unable to alleviate her physical pain.

Imroz's departure evokes memories among Punjabi writers as their home, K-25, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, served as a hub for many. Together, they nurtured the magazine Nagmani, edited by Amrita and artistically curated by Imroz for 37 years. This platform fostered generations of writers, including luminaries like Gurdial Singh, Shiv Kumar Batalvi, and Amitoj. Reflecting on that era, contributor Sidhu Damdami acknowledges their unique and pioneering relationship, deemed exemplary by many, although unmatched in intensity and creativity by others who attempted to emulate it.

Following Amrita's passing, Imroz faced solitary years, yet he found solace in commemorating her through poetry. Remaining a devoted father and grandfather to her descendants, who reciprocated with affectionate care, he spent his final years in Mumbai before his passing, and his cremation followed. Their love story transcended death, an enduring testament to a bond that remained unbroken.

The Life of Imroz: An artistic journey and unconventional love story

Early Life and Artistic Prowess: Imroz, born Inderjeet at Chak number 36 in Lyallpur, showcased exceptional artistic talent, blending modernism with traditional Indian art in his unique style.

Encounter with Amrita Pritam: Imroz crossed paths with Amrita Pritam in 1966 when she sought his artistic skills for the cover of her book 'Naagmani.' This encounter led to a professional collaboration that blossomed into a deep romantic relationship.

An Unconventional Love: Despite a considerable age gap, Imroz and Amrita chose an unconventional path, living together without formalizing their relationship through marriage. Their bond thrived on mutual respect, love, and a defiance of societal norms.

A Lasting Legacy After Amrita: Following Amrita's passing in 2005, Imroz expressed his devotion through poetry, publishing four books including 'Jashan Jaari Hai', 'Manchaaha Hi Rishta’, ‘Rang Tere Mere’, and ‘Amrita ke liye nazam jaari hai.’

A Tribute to Their Love: Imroz's unwavering commitment to Amrita and her legacy was honored with the release of the film 'Imroz: A Walk Down the Memory Lane,' narrating their extraordinary love story in 2022.

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