Abstract

Urdu Dastan writing was started in 1635 and the first dastan was Subrus by Mullah Wajhi. The tradition of Hamd o Naat in dastan was also started at the same time. Previously, it was strongly traditioned in Urdu Masnavi. This article presents a critical analysis of this tradition from 17th century to first two decades of 19th century. Ata Hussain Tehseen, Shah Alam Sani, Meer Hassan Shah Haqeeqat are the major writers of 18th century. In 19th century, the major contribution to this tradition was made by Fort William College, Calcutta. Haider Bakhsh Haideri, Meer Amman, Sher Ali Afsos, Nehal Chand Lahori, Hafeez ud din Ahmad and Kazim Ali Jawan are the prominent writers of Fort William College and they strengthen end the tradition of Hamd o Naatr in dastan. This article shows that the Urdu Dastaan is the reflection of our religious values in an impressive manner.