1916 (Badaun) – 1970 (Mumbai) • King of Romance
"A phenomenally successful lyricist and poet, Shakeel Badayuni had an unmatched sense of rhythm, musicality, and romance. Forming an unbreakable, legendary partnership with music director Naushad, he penned the timeless lyrics for epic films like 'Mughal-e-Azam' and 'Chaudhvin Ka Chand'. Despite his cinematic fame, his independent ghazals remained highly respected in literary circles for their classical purity."