India, May 2 -- His elegant sartorial style and measured manner of speaking made him look like a poet. In truth, this graceful man was a devoted reader of Urdu poetry, with special attachment to late poet Mushir Jhinjhanvi. Partly, perhaps, because he was this poet's son.

Naseer Jhinjhanvi, a distinguished resident of the Walled City, died on Thursday after a prolonged illness, aged 63. He was buried in the same grave at the Dilli Gate Qabristan where his poet-father was buried 36 years ago.

Two of Naseer's sons live in Europe, but he spent his life entirely within his labyrinthine residence in Old Delhi's crowded Chitli Qabar Chowk. The building, once defined by old-fashioned courtyards, terraces, winding staircases, and a bird-filled ...