PESHAWAR: Sahibzada Habibur Rahman aka Qalandar Momand was a staunch nationalist and committed writer who had suffered imprisonment for his progressive views and Pakhtuns’ rights in accordance with the non-violence philosophy of Bacha Khan.

On the 18th death anniversary of the noted nationalist Pashto poet, critic and fiction writer, Awami National Party chief Asfandyar Wali Khan paid glowing tributes to him.

According to a statement issued by ANP here the other day, the party chief said that Qalandar Momand had rendered selfless sacrifices for the cause of Pakhtun nationalism, Pashto language and several disciplines of literature.

He strongly believed in humanism, non-violence and the exclusivity of Bacha Khan, said the statement.

Even today, writings of such progressive and politically committed poets and writers could be used to reflect the true face of Pakhtuns.

The ANP chief said the contributions of Qalandar Momand should be celebrated as his works would always be relevant to the cause of Pakhtuns at every stage.

Asfandyar says critic’s works will always be relevant to the cause of Pakhtuns

Mr Khan said that being staunch follower and close companion of Bacha Khan, Momand had suffered imprisonments on several occasions just for the rights of his people and never comprised on principles.

His powerful writings still instilled the spirit of true nationalism among Pakhtun youth, said the statement.

“In addition to his political struggle for Pakhtun rights, Qalandar Momand enriched the body of Pashto literature with his progressive thoughts and also introduced new trends especially in literary criticism, fiction, linguistics and research,” remarked Mr Khan.

The statement added that young literati should know about valuable contributions of Qalandar Momand and follow in his footprints. He never succumbed to any kind of pressure and suffered hardships and remained committed to his progressive thoughts.

“Our party gives great respect to poets, writers and artists and always remembers literary giants who contribute to society and raise voice for the rights of the masses. Qalandar Momand was one of those political workers and literary visionaries who had guided youngsters to know about the significance and role of our own history, art, culture and literture towards a pluralistic society,” the ANP leader said.

Published in Dawn, February 6th, 2021