Muhammad Shafi Ali Khan (1 June 1924 – 3 December 2016), popularly known as Bekal Utsahi, was an Indian poet, writer and politician. He was a congressman close to Indira Gandhi and a Member of Parliament in the Upper House Rajya sabha. He received several national awards, including the Padma Shri and Yash Bharti.
Politics
Utsahi was actively involved with Indian National Congress and very close to Indira Gandhi. He was nominated by congress as a Member of Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, because of his contribution for national integration. He was also Member of National Integration Council chaired by Prime Minister of India.
Awards
Utsahi received the Padma Shri award in 1976. He received Yash Bharti Award from Uttar Pradesh Government.In 2013 he was awarded Maati Ratan Samman by Shaheed Shodha Sansthan for his services to Urdu literature.