Success
By day, Shamim Shaikh is a Senior Software Engineer at Ascendion Engineering Pvt. Ltd., immersed in the logic of lines and loops. But once the screen dims and the weekend arrives, Shamim transforms into Gulfarosh, a poet whose words bloom with meaning and melody.
While many writers schedule their craft into their daily routine, Shamim lets inspiration lead. “I write only when emotions truly strike,” he says. “I never force it.” It’s a philosophy that has shaped his debut poetry collection, Kirdaar Sunehre Sapno Ke—a heartfelt anthology featuring 38 Hindi poems and 2 in English, inspired by the many characters we encounter in life, from national icons to the common man.
Rooted in Reality, Driven by Heart
Shamim’s poems are deeply rooted in real-life experiences. Whether it’s a street beggar, a soldier at the border, or a tribute to personalities like Narendra Modi, APJ Abdul Kalam, or Gulzar Sahab, each verse is driven by an authentic emotional core. “I write about what I’ve lived, what I’ve seen, and what I truly feel,” he shares.
His writing process begins with a spark—an idea or a powerful emotion. That’s when the first draft flows. What follows is careful revision, polishing the structure, ensuring the rhythm and message remain intact. “The hardest part,” Shamim admits, “is finding the right rhyming pattern. But when it clicks, it becomes magic.”
Poetry with a Purpose
What makes Gulfarosh‘s work stand out is its purpose. Many of his poems are laced with patriotism, cultural richness, and social relevance. He’s penned pieces on Independence Day, Republic Day, Women’s Day, Holi, Eid, and even on scientific achievements like Chandrayaan-3. From heartfelt ghazals to verses about city life and childhood memories, Shamim’s poetry speaks to the heart of India.
His goal isn’t just to create art—it’s to create impact. “If my poems inspire someone to uplift society or support the needy, then I know my purpose is fulfilled,” he says.
Self-Publishing Success
Without waiting for a traditional publishing deal, Shamim took control of his dream. Through Notion Press, he self-published his first book, finding the platform accessible and empowering. “The digital age has opened new doors,” he says. “You no longer have to wait for someone’s approval to share your voice.”
He believes the rise of self-publishing is a game-changer for writers—especially those with something important to say. And when it comes to spreading the word, Shamim understands the power of social media. His presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube has helped him reach audiences far beyond his immediate circle.
Readers, Recognition, and the Road Ahead
Among his many poems, one written for Women’s Day earned special recognition and remains close to his heart. “The feedback I received was overwhelming. That moment made me realize the true power of words,” he recalls.
Shamim continues to engage with readers online, publishing poems on platforms like StoryMirror, where he finds encouragement and inspiration through reader responses. While he hasn’t written poems based on audience requests yet, he’s open to the idea in the future.
Looking ahead, he dreams of exploring more genres and writing in English more frequently. But his ultimate aspiration? “To work with legends like Javed Akhtar Sahab or Gulzar Sahab,” he says with a smile.
As for the legacy he hopes to leave behind—it’s one of positivity, patriotism, and purpose. “I want to be remembered as a writer who made people feel something—who inspired them to become better versions of themselves.”
From engineer to poet, from tech to timeless verses—Shamim Shaikh’s story is proof that passion finds its way, even amidst a life full of code.
