Pakistan, June 28 -- This is the 19th article in a special series by Ally Adnan that brings to life memorable incidents from the rich and fascinating life of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, whose timeless legacy continues to inspire the world

One of the formative moments of Amir Khusrau's early childhood was the death of his pet parrot. The young boy was overcome with profound sorrow at the loss of the bird with whom he had spent many joyful hours. Seeking relief from grief, he turned to verse and composed a heartfelt marsiya, a type of elegy traditionally reserved for religious figures, martyrs, saints and other revered individuals. Khusrau's use of the form was both unconventional and innovative. He chose to write the poem in polished Persian rat...