LAHORE: Prominent writer, poet, journalist and leader of the Pakistan Movement Maulana Zafar Ali Khan is remembered on his 67th death anniversary on Monday.
Individuals from all walks of life pay him rich tributes for his matchless services to the country.
Maulana Zafar Ali Khan also known as Baba-e-Sahafat (father of journalism) was born in 1873 in Sialkot.
After graduation, he was appointed as the Secretary to Nawab Mohsin-ul-Mulk in Bombay.
He fought the freedom movement with his pen and used it as a unifier for burgeoning the required nationalism within the Muslim community and earning the title of the father of Urdu Journalism.
His professional trajectory included a stint as a translator in Hyderabad Deccan, where he ascended to the position of Secretary of the Home Department. Returning home in 1909 following his father’s demise, he assumed the role of Editor for the Urdu Newspaper ‘Zamindar,’ swiftly transforming it into one of the most influential publications in the sub-continent.
Later, he worked for some time as a translator in Hyderabad Deccan where he ascended to the position of Secretary Home Department.
Returning home in 1909 following his father’s demise, he assumed the role of Editor for the Urdu Newspaper ‘Zamindar,’ swiftly transforming it into one of the most influential publications in the sub-continent.
The paper was banned and the press was confiscated due to its revolutionary policies.
Maulana Zafar Ali Khan actively participated in the All India Muslim League’s annual sessions, supporting resolutions that played a pivotal role in the establishment of the league.
He remained an active member of the Khilafat Movement, Maulana Zafar Ali Khan served as a Member of the Central Legislative Assembly from 1937 to 1945. Even in his later years, he continued his political engagement, being re-elected as a Muslim League Member in 1946.
Beyond his political pursuits, Maulana Zafar Ali Khan was a multifaceted individual— a gifted poet, a compelling orator, and an essayist of exceptional merit. His poetry, inspired by religious and political sentiments, found expression in works published in ‘Baharistan,’ ‘Nigaristan,’ and ‘Chamanistai1.’ His literary repertoire also includes significant works such as ‘Ma’arka-e-Mazhab-o-Science,’ ‘Ghalba-e-Rumi,’ ‘Sayr-e-Zulmat,’ and the opera ‘Jang-e-Roos-o-Japan.’
Maulana Zafar Ali Khan breathed his last on November 27, 1956, at the age of 83 in Wazirabad, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the realms of literature, journalism, and politics.
