This novel, published in 1940, explores the decline of a Muslim aristocratic family in Delhi during the twilight of their power in the early 20th century. It focuses on Mir Nihal, the patriarch of the family, and his paralysis serves as a metaphor for the paralysis of Muslim civilization in India. The themes examine the conflict between modernity and conservatism, the downfall of Muslim rule under the British, and gender issues within the family.

1. Twilight in Delhi

2. Ahmed Ali (1908-1994)
• Ahmed Ali was an Indian poet,
novelist, critic and scholar.
• Born in Delhi, India, Ahmed Ali
was educated at Aligarh and
Lucknow universities.
• This novel was published in
1940.
Author’s Introduction

3. Character of Mir Nihal

4. Begum Mir Nihal:

5. Babban Jan and Mushtri bai:

6. Asghar

7. Bilquees:
Zohra:

8. Significance of the title

9. Symbolism:
• Asghar
• Mir Nihal’s Family
• Pigeons
• Mir Nihal’s paralysis
• Begum Nihal’s blindness

10. Summary:

11. Theme:
• Modernity vs Conservatism
• Downfall of Muslim civilization in India
• Gender issues

12. Islamic perspective: