Dr Aamna Khatoon (1915-1983) was a distinguished and pioneering figure in the field of Urdu literature and linguistics. As the Head of the Urdu Department at Bangalore University, she established herself as a formidable scholar in an era when female researchers in the field were rare. Her work is noted for its depth, originality, and focus on specialised areas of Urdu that were often overlooked.
Her primary contributions were in several key domains:
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Dakhni Language: She conducted foundational research on the Dakhni language, a unique dialect of Urdu spoken in the Deccan region of Southern India. Her work explored its origins and development.
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Urdu Linguistics: Her expertise extended to the core components of the Urdu language, including detailed studies on Urdu orthography (the system of correct spelling) and Urdu grammar.
- Literary Criticism: She had a keen interest in classical Urdu literature, with a particular focus on the 18th-century poet and writer Insha Allah Khan Insha.
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Textual Editing: Dr Khatoon also took on the crucial task of editing classical Urdu texts, making them accessible to modern readers and scholars while preserving their historical integrity.
Her writing is described as being rich with rare information and insightful critical views. Her books are considered “treasure troves” for scholars, valued for their unique data and perceptive analysis. Her known works include:
- Riyasat Mysore Mein Urdu (Urdu in the State of Mysore)
- Dakani Ki Ibtida (The Beginning of Dakani)
- Tehqeeqi Navaadir (Rare Research)
- Lataaif-us-Sa’adat (Anecdotes of Sa’adat Yar Khan Rangin, which she edited)
Her legacy is that of a trailblazing female academic whose contributions have provided invaluable insights into the linguistic and literary history of the Urdu language.