Riaz Tasneem (1969 – 4 December 2017), sometimes spelled Riaz Tasnim or Riyaz Tasneem, was a renowned Pakistani poet, literary critic, and research scholar. Known for his contributions to Pashto and Urdu literature, Tasneem made significant impacts through his poetry, critical essays, and research. He is celebrated for his devotion to Pashto language and literature, which earned him a prominent place in the literary community of Pakistan.
Early Life and Education Of Riaz Tasneem
Riaz Tasneem was born in 1969 in Swatu, a village in Charsadda District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His early education was completed at Islamia College University in Peshawar. Later, he moved to Karachi and completed his graduation privately from the University of Karachi. Following his education, Tasneem joined a law enforcement task force. He also worked as a teacher in a private school, where he inspired many young minds.
Tasneem began his career in journalism with the Pashto newspaper Wahdat, where he served as a sub-editor. His passion for literature led him to contribute extensively to Urdu newspapers and literary journals, where he published research-based articles on various literary subjects. Throughout his career, he was an active participant in literary events, contributing his insights and poetry to enrich Pashto and Urdu literature.
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Literary Contributions Of Riaz Tasneem
Riaz Tasneem was a progressive poet whose works reflected his unique style and insight. He was associated with numerous literary organizations, where he shared his poetry and critical writings. His first Pashto poetry collection, Da Kum Rang May Kasheed Karhay, was published in 2003. He followed this with two more collections, Chandarh and Za Ka Da Waray Oda Shwam, which solidified his place in Pashto literature.
In addition to his poetry, Tasneem conducted research on the works of Khushal Khattak, one of Pashto literature’s most revered poets. His research culminated in the publication of Da Khushal Intekhab, a collection of Khattak’s poetry. Tasneem also dabbled in journalistic essays in Urdu, producing a series titled Bed No. 28, although it remained unpublished due to financial difficulties.
Throughout his career, he contributed to the Pashto journal Jaras, where he shared his thoughts on various literary topics. His contributions to both Pashto and Urdu literature have been recognized and celebrated by his peers and literary enthusiasts.’
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Final Days and Legacy
Riaz Tasneem struggled with chronic liver disease in his later years. He ultimately succumbed to cirrhosis on 4 December 2017, passing away at a hospital in Karachi. He was laid to rest in Rasheedabad, SITE Town, Karachi.
Riaz Tasneem is remembered as a pioneering figure in Pashto literature. His dedication to both Pashto and Urdu poetry, along with his critical essays and research, left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations of writers and poets. His work not only enriched Pashto literature but also strengthened the bond between Pashto and Urdu literary traditions, underscoring his unique contribution to Pakistani literature.