PESHAWAR: Poets, writers and heads of literary bodies across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have termed the demise of noted Pashto writer and research scholar Hamesh Khalil an irreparable loss to Pashto language and literature.

Hamesh Khalil breathed his last at his residence in Tehkal, Peshawar, after protracted illness on Sunday. He was 99. He was author of more than 80 books and enjoyed widespread reputation for his encyclopedic knowledge over several literary genres of Pashto literature.

He was a poet, fictionist, critic, research scholar, playwright and polymath of several genres. He was born with a vision to search and pursue Pashto literary treasure long forgotten and buried. He delved into a deep pit to bring out precious knowledge, shedding light on classical literature, history and culture of Pashtuns. He enjoyed large fans following.

Noted literati and heads of literary associations in their separate messages have shown deep sorrow over the demise of the nonagenarian Pashto writer and termed his departure a huge loss to Pashto language and literature.

Hamesh Khalil has written more than 80 books on various topics

Hamesh Khalil was recipient of President’s Pride of Performance and numerous other awards and commendation certificates for his immense contribution to several branches of Pashto literature. His services spread over eight decades and influenced a host of generations of poets and writers through his scholarly vision and vast knowledge.

Born in 1925, he graduated from Islamia College Peshawar and readily engaged in literary and research pursuits and never looked back throughout his life despite hardships and even imprisonments for nine years due to his radical views. He refused to join any government or political post for the sake of his research pursuits.

“His lone cause was Pashto and Pashtuns and he lived up to it till his death,” Prof Abaseen Yousafzai told this scribe. He added that Hamesh Khalil was a selfless servant of Pashto and Pashtuns at large.

“A true spirit of the time, a polymath and devoutly devoted soul lived his entire life for the cause of Pashto. He had mastery over classical Persian and Pashto texts and resolved numerous riddles regarding history and biographies,” he said.

The publications of Hamesh Khalil include Zama Sandary, Sughaat, Khaloona Au Khapoona and Chargul in addition to his countless research articles, poems and short stories in Pashto and Urdu.

Prof Hanif Khalil in his remarks said that Hamesh Khalil left behind a treasure of knowledge for young literati and most would draw inspiration from it.

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2024