How to Write a Ghazal: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Form That Ghalib Made Famous

The ghazal is one of the most beloved poetic forms in the world — from 7th-century Arabia to the mushairas of South Asia to contemporary poets writing in English. Each couplet stands alone. Each couplet contains a universe. And yes, there are rules.

Here's how to write a ghazal that actually works.

What Is a Ghazal?

A ghazal is a series of couplets (shers), usually 5 to 15, where each couplet is self-contained. Unlike a narrative poem, the ghazal doesn't build a single story — each sher can shift tone, topic, or perspective. The form is held together by rhyme and refrain, not by plot.

The Rules

1. Matla (Opening): The first couplet establishes the rhyme and refrain. Both lines rhyme.
2. Radif (Refrain): A word or phrase that repeats after the rhyme in every second line.
3. Qaafiya (Rhyme): The sound before the refrain that rhymes across couplets.
4. Maqta (Closing): The final couplet often includes the poet's pen name (takhallus).
5. Independence: Each couplet should stand alone — a complete thought in two lines.

Example: Ghalib's Structure

In "Hazaron khwahishen aisi," the radif is "nikle" (emerged/came out). The qaafiya changes — "dam," "kam" — but the refrain holds. Each couplet is independent: desire, fulfillment, the human condition — all in two lines each.

Step-by-Step: Writing Your First Ghazal

Step 1: Choose your radif — a word or short phrase that can end multiple lines naturally.

Step 2: Write the matla — your opening couplet. Both lines must rhyme and include the radif.

Step 3: Write 3–5 more couplets. Each second line rhymes and includes the radif. Each couplet is its own complete thought.

Step 4: Write the maqta — your closing. Consider including a pen name or self-reference.

Step 5: Read it aloud. The ghazal is an oral form — the music matters.

Common Mistakes

• Forcing a narrative — the ghazal thrives on fragmentation
• Weak radif — choose something that can bear repetition
• Forgetting the maqta — the close should land

For more on the difference between ghazal and other Urdu forms, see our guide to ghazal vs nazm.