KABUL: The Ministry of Information and Culture (MoIC), along with current and former officials, writers, cultural figures, and well-known cricketers, have expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of renowned Afghan national and epic poet, Matiullah Turab.
Turab, widely admired for his powerful patriotic verses, passed away on Monday night at the age of 54 due to a heart attack in a hospital in Khost. He will be laid to rest on Tuesday in Nangarhar province.
In a statement, the MoIC mourned the passing of the “eloquent people’s poet and the voice of emotions,” recognizing it as a profound loss to Afghanistan’s literary landscape. “The Ministry’s leadership extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, admirers, and all lovers of poetry and literature,” the statement read.
National Leaders Pay Tribute
Zabihullah Mujahid, chief spokesman of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “The death of the people’s poet Matiullah Turab deeply saddened us. We ask Allah Almighty to grant him Paradise and give patience to his family and relatives.”
Anas Haqqani, another senior IEA official, praised Turab as a poet who emerged from the heart of society, using his verses to raise awareness, inspire hope, and give voice to the conscience of the people. “The death of such figures creates a societal void,” he wrote.
Khalid Zadran, spokesperson for Kabul police, said: “Though man returns to dust, those who awaken and inspire a nation with their words never truly die.”
Widespread Mourning Across the Nation
Former President Hamid Karzai expressed his sorrow, noting that Turab’s poetry gave voice to the pain and challenges of the Afghan people. “His work always conveyed messages of patriotism and unity,” Karzai wrote, offering prayers for Turab and condolences to his family.
Fazl Hadi Muslimyar, former chairman of the Meshrano Jirga, described Turab as a fearless and passionate voice of Greater Afghanistan. “His poetry will live on in the hearts of future generations,” he said, praising Turab’s unique ability to articulate national struggles in local, heartfelt language.
University professor and writer Ismail Yoon emphasized that Turab’s verses resonated with both intellectuals and ordinary citizens. “He was a rare gem—his language magical, his message universal. It will take a long time for a Pashtun mother to raise another child like Turab.”
A Voice for Unity and Resistance
Writer and analyst Abdul Ghafor Lewal described Turab as a poet of the people who remained true to the idea of Pashtun unity until the very end. “He was a powerful voice in the Pashtun protection movement, and his stirring recitations left lasting impressions.”
Renowned Pashto singer Karan Khan wrote: “Turab’s memory, style, and rhythm were unmatched. His loss is deeply felt.”
Pashtun nationalist leader Mohsin Dawar paid tribute, calling Turab “the shining sun of the Pashto language, and the healer of Afghan hearts across borders.” He expressed condolences on behalf of the National Democratic Movement.
PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen called Turab “the poet of love, emotion, and sacrifice for Pashtuns on both sides of the Durand Line,” lamenting that Turab passed away without seeing the national unity he long dreamed of.
Cricket World Also Mourns
Several Afghan cricket stars, including T20 captain Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, expressed their grief over Turab’s passing, recognizing him as a symbol of national pride.
A National Loss
In addition to high-ranking officials and public figures, numerous ordinary Afghans have taken to social media to share their sorrow and honor the legacy of a poet who gave voice to their aspirations, pain, and pride. Turab’s death is widely regarded as a significant cultural loss at a time when the country continues to seek unity and healing.
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