SAFARNAMA YOUSUF KHAN KAMBAL POSH

Yusuf Khan Kambalposh began his journey to England in March 1837 and, having travelled almost half the world, enjoyed his travels in England and Paris, and arrived in Lucknow via Egypt and Central India. His journey ended in the last days of 1838. He wrote down the details of the events and tourist spots that occurred during this journey, the geographical conditions, the civilization and generosity of different societies, the way of life, daily life, customs and beliefs, living conditions, historical buildings and events, and kept them under control. The importance and merit of this travelogue is not only that it is the first travelogue in Urdu, but the events described in it are amazing and Kambalposh emerges as a successful and accomplished tourist. Kambalposh's spontaneity, frankness and boldness have made this travelogue of special importance. The reader, holding the blanket-bearer’s finger, joins him on the journey, and the blanket-bearer takes him on a tour of such interesting, remarkable and unforgettable places that these scenes are not erased from his mind for a long time. His detailed description, scene-making and landscape painting make this travelogue something special. His observations are unique and interesting. The element of surprise is prominent in the narration of events and the scenes are interesting with all their beauty.
Commenting on the blanket-bearer’s travelogue, Tahseen Faraqi writes:
“Not only has he presented interesting scenes of the remarkable places of London, its suburbs, its lifestyle, sports and entertainment, the knowledge and friendliness of its people, its wonders and curiosities, its historical buildings, its customs and traditions, its culture and society. But he has also drawn interesting pictures of the places and landscapes he saw while reaching there.”