PESHAWAR: Poets and writers arranged an event here the other day to mark the first death anniversary of Hamesh Khalil, the author more than 80 books on variety of subjects from classical Pashto literature to modern literary genres.

They highlighted various aspects of his life and his immense contribution to Pashto language and literature. They termed the late writer an encyclopedia of everything belonged to the treasure trove of Pashto literature.

The event was organised by Jauhar Adnan Adabi Karwan (JAA), a literary body, in Akhund Ahmad Landi. A large number of literati, research scholars and literary critics participated in the event and read out their brief papers on the selfless services of noted Pashto writer, research scholar and literary critic.

They said that contributions of Hamesh Khalil spanned over almost eight decades and during his lifetime he was able to author more than 80 books. They said that Hamesh Khalil was in fact a polymath. He had mastery over Persian and classical Pashto texts and inspired a host of young generations of Pashto. His scholarly vision and vast knowledge impacted Pashto literature in many different ways.

They said that Hamesh Khalil remained a fulltime literary figure contributing to Pashto poetry, prose, fiction, research and review of classical literature and suffered a decade-long imprisonment owing to his radical views but continued motivating young poets and writers till his last breath.

“Hamesh Khalil was a humble and unassuming literary figure, always engaged in some research pursuits and fruitful debates with a vision to inspire young bards to work for the betterment of the society. He spent his entire life to work for Pashto language and literature. He never ran after monetary gains or status,” they said.

Jauhar Khali, who chaired the event, said that Hamesh Khalil was a trendsetter and an epoch-making literary figure. He enriched Pashto literature through his extensive study and critical approach, he added.

Essa Khan Khalil, who was chief guest on the occasion, said that Hamesh Khalil changed the course of Pashto literary tradition owing to his works laden with critical thinking.

Prof Hanif Khalil said that Hamesh Khalil was an academy in his own right as he served Pashto and Pashtun nation at large. He remained engaged in literary pursuits throughout his life, he added.

Young research scholar Abbas Khalil in his paper said that the late writer contributed to Pashto journalism and through his powerful writings bred literary scholars, who spread his vision to every nook and cranny of Pashto speaking community.

Sher Ahmad Khalil and Mohammad Salman also spoke at the event. Later, a few poets presented poetic tribute to the late writer.

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2025