Shams Kanwal (1925-1995 ) hailed from a feudal family in Bijnaur, UP. Moved to Mumbai in the 1960s,worked with local newspapers and journals. Brought out monthly magazine Gagan. In his last days, he moved to Aligarh. His pen was sharper than a sword which pierced personalities and ripped apart reputations. No wonder, Urdu journalist-writer made countless enemies, but few friends. He will be remembered for his bold, off-beat and often controversial essays and stories.