Who is Famously Known as Tota-e-Hind? Know the Name

In Indian history, many great personalities have earned unique titles that describe their special talents and contributions. One such title, Tota-e-Hind, meaning “Parrot of India,” was given to a remarkable figure known for his sweet speech, beautiful poetry, and cultural influence. Let’s explore who earned this name and why it became such an important part of their legacy.

What does ‘Tota-e-Hind’ Mean?

“Tota-e-Hind” is a Persian phrase that translates to “Parrot of India” in English.

It is a title given to someone whose words were sweet, wise, and meaningful, like the charming voice of a parrot. In history, one great personality earned this beautiful title because of his poetic brilliance and deep love for India.

Who is Known as ‘Tota-e-Hind’?

The person famously known as Tota-e-Hind was Abu’l Hasan Yamin-ud-Din Khusrau, also known as Amir Khusrau.

• Born: 1253, in present-day Uttar Pradesh
• Died: 1325, in Delhi
• Occupation: Poet, musician, thinker, and Sufi follower
• Time Period: During the Delhi Sultanate

He was not only a court poet but also a spiritual follower of the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya.

Why was Amir Khusrau called Tota-e-Hind?

Amir Khusrau was called Tota-e-Hind (Parrot of India) because:

• His poetry was filled with beauty and meaning.
• He spoke and wrote in a way that made people think and feel deeply.
• He expressed the true spirit of India through his verses in Persian, Hindavi, and even Punjabi.
• People compared his elegant words to the sweet and clever talk of a parrot.

Contribution in the Field of Literature

He wrote thousands of poems in different styles like:

• Ghazal
• Masnavi
• Ruba’i
• Doha
• Qasida

He wrote in Persian (the main language of the time), but also introduced Hindavi, which later helped in the development of Hindi and Urdu.

Contribution in the Field of Music

Amir Khusrau made huge contributions to Indian music:

• He is known as the Father of Qawwali – a form of devotional Sufi music.
• He is credited with inventing musical styles like Tarana and Trivat.
• He is believed to have modified the Veena to create the sitar, a popular Indian instrument.

His Connection to Sufism

Khusrau was deeply influenced by Sufi teachings and became a close follower of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, a respected Sufi saint in Delhi.

He believed in peace, love, and unity of all people, regardless of religion. Many of his poems express spiritual love and devotion.

Famous Books and Work of Amir Khusrau

Amir Khusrau wrote many famous books and collections. Some of them are:

• Tuhfat-us-Sighr (Gift of Childhood)
• Wast-ul-Hayat (Middle of Life)
• Nuh Sipihr (Nine Skies)
• Khamsa-e-Khusrau – A set of 5 long poems
• Tughlaqnama – A poem about the Tughlaq rulers

His poems are still sung at Sufi dargahs in India and Pakistan.

Legacy of Amir Khusrau, Tota-e-Hind

Amir Khusrau’s influence can still be seen today:

• His riddles and dohas are popular among children and elders alike.
• His qawwalis are sung at Sufi gatherings.
• He is remembered for his efforts to bring different languages and cultures together.
• His tomb lies beside Nizamuddin Auliya’s in Delhi, where visitors come to pay respects.