Gul Pacha Ulfat (Pashto: ګل پاچا الفت) was born in 1909 in the village of Aziz Khan Kats in Qarghayi District, Laghman Province, Afghanistan. Renowned for his contributions to Pashto literature and Afghan politics, Ulfat’s legacy endures as a prominent poet, author, and cultural leader.
Early Life and Education Of Gul Pacha Ulfat
Gul Pacha Ulfat, son of Meer Sayed Pacha, was raised in a family that valued education and culture. He pursued traditional religious studies, which provided him with a strong foundation in Arabic and Islamic sciences. Ulfat studied sarf (morphology), nahw (syntax), mantiq (logic), hadith (prophetic traditions), and tafsir (exegesis of the Qur’an) under the guidance of local scholars. This formative education later influenced his poetic and philosophical works.
Visit the full category of Pashto poetry
Literary and Political Career
In 1935, after completing his studies, Ulfat joined the national newspaper Anis as a clerk. He quickly gained a reputation for his writing and eventually established Wolas, a national weekly, in 1951, where he served as chief editor until 1953. Through Wolas, Ulfat offered insights into political and social issues, using his platform to advocate for progress and unity within Afghanistan.
In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Ulfat was elected to Afghanistan’s National Assembly twice. He represented the people of Jalalabad, Nangarhar Province, in 1949, and was later elected by the residents of Qarghayi District, Laghman Province, in 1952. As a member of the National Assembly, Ulfat participated in the Grand Assembly sessions in 1955, working on key issues concerning Afghan society.
Role in Pashto Literature and Academia
In 1956, Ulfat became president of the Pashto Academy, known locally as Pashto Tolana, which is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Pashto language and culture. During his tenure, he significantly influenced the development of Pashto literature. In 1963, he was appointed as the President of Tribal Affairs in the central government, holding a key position in Afghanistan’s political landscape. He also served as a professor of Pashto language and literature at Kabul University, teaching in both the Faculty of Literature and the Faculty of Law and Political Sciences.
Involvement in Weesh Zalmyan
Ulfat was a founding member of the Afghan political movement Weesh Zalmyan (Awakened Youth) in 1947, alongside other notable figures such as Ghulam Hassan Safi, Abdul Hadi Tokhay, and Mohammad Rasul Pashtun. This movement aimed to bring social and political reform to Afghanistan, reflecting Ulfat’s commitment to positive change in his country.
Contributions to Pashto Literature
Even after his retirement from politics, Ulfat remained dedicated to literature. He authored several books, addressing themes of religion, ethics, politics, and social issues in both verse and prose. His works have left an indelible mark on Pashto literature, resonating with readers due to their depth and philosophical insight. He received numerous accolades, including the Khushhal Khan, Abu Ali Sina, Education, and Star medals, recognizing his contributions to Afghan culture and education.
List of Pashto-Language Poets
Final Years and Legacy
Gul Pacha Ulfat spent his final years in his home village in Laghman Province. He passed away on December 19, 1977, at the age of 67 due to heart failure. He was laid to rest in his family graveyard, leaving behind a legacy of literary and political achievements. His works continue to inspire readers, and his contributions to Pashto literature and Afghan society are remembered with great respect and admiration.
Ulfat’s life reflects a deep commitment to cultural preservation, education, and social progress. His influence extends beyond his literary accomplishments, touching the lives of those who seek to understand Afghan history and culture through his works.