Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection Release
Media Contact:
Aishah Alam, President of Strange, Inc.
hello@strangeincorporated.org
347-560-8334

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Strange Inc. Announces the Release of “Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection” by Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed on March 20th, 2025

New York, March 19th 2025 – Strange Inc., a non-profit publishing house dedicated to amplifying the authentic voices of Muslim women, is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of “Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection” by Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed, set to launch on March 20th, 2025.

“Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection” is a deeply evocative collection that explores the profound themes of companionship, family, home, and love. The title, “Hum Dum,” derived from Farsi, beautifully captures the essence of the collection. While it can be simply translated as “companion,” its true meaning, “the one you breathe with,” resonates on a much deeper, soulful level.

This collection serves as a breath of fresh air, addressing the complexities of identity as a first-generation Muslim Indian American woman. Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed navigates the tumultuous journey of finding wholeness and belonging, transforming personal experiences into universal reflections. The poems within “Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection” aim to provide solace and ease, giving voice to emotions that range from powerful roars to gentle tears.

The intention of the collection is to capture companionship, family, home, and love. “Hum Dum” in Urdu is difficult to capture as a simple translation into English. At its simplest, it can be translated as companion, but its true essence goes much deeper: derived from Farsi, ‘Ham’ (ہم) means ‘we’ or ‘us,’ and ‘Dam’ (دم) means ‘breath.’ When combined, ‘Ham Dum’ literally translates to the one you breathe with. These pieces strive to do and be the same. A breath of fresh air to the themes of identity as a first-generation Muslim Indian American woman navigating the turmoil and revolution to exist in completion, this collection aims to provide reflection, to bring voice to words that begin as roars and fall as tears, to bring wholeness for all our souls. This is a poetry collection to honor a legacy beyond just the author; may it bring you solace and ease.

Key Features:

  • Exploration of companionship, family, home, and love.
  • Reflections on identity as a first-generation Muslim Indian American woman.
  • Poignant and evocative language.
  • A celebration of legacy and connection.
  • Provides solace and ease through reflective poetry.

“Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection” is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of human connection and the complexities of identity. It is a collection that honors the shared experiences of life and love, offering a space for reflection and healing. Ideal for poetry enthusiasts and those seeking a profound emotional connection through literature.

Reviews:

  • “Hum Dum is simultaneously a prayer and love letter to the rich overlap of Muslim devotion and Indian heritage. Assertively experimenting with the boundaries of form, while confidently preserving several languages and traditions, Saniya Ahmed’s debut poetry book is a humble ode to her ancestry, and is sure to elicit content sighs and a resonant ‘Ameen’ from all readers alike.”
    • —Sara Bawany, author of Quarter Life Crisis and (w)holehearted, Lead Writing Mentor at House of Amal
  • “Hum Dum is a poetry collection that inspires hope, pride, and tenderness. Saniya Ahmed weaves together themes of the diaspora, from generational resilience to the complexity of the 3rd culture kid, with a dash of romance and yearning. This book is a beautiful ode to family, heritage, and the spirit of justice and radical love.”
    • —Amal Kassir, Spoken Word Poet, founder of House of Amal, and author of Scud Missile Blues
  • “It is rare to encounter poetry that resonates so profoundly with both the soul and the mind. Saniya’s words in this captivating collection will grip you from the very first line. Her artistry shines as she gives voice to the unspoken language of the heart. I found it impossible to put this book down—reading it in one sitting, only to be left yearning for more. Truly, a stunning and evocative masterpiece.”
    • —Kashmir Maryam, Founding Director of Heal Therapy Clinic

About Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed:

Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed is the author of “Hum Dum | A Poetry Collection.” Through her work, she explores the intricate layers of identity, belonging, and human connection. Her poetry is a reflection of her journey as a first-generation Muslim Indian American woman, and her desire to honor legacy and provide solace through her words.

Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saniya.ruqiah.ahmed/

Press Contact:

Aishah Alam hello@strangeincorporated.org 347-560-8334

About Strange Inc.:

Strange Inc. is a non-profit publishing house based in New York, dedicated to uplifting and celebrating the creativity and diversity of the Muslim women community. Through book publications, editing and coaching services, and writing workshops, Strange Inc. fosters an intimate writing community for Muslim women, united by mutual support and respect. The organization envisions a world where the genuine and unique perspectives of Muslim women are valued and appreciated.

Website: www.strangeincorporated.org Instagram: @strange_incorporated