Nāzo Tokhī (نازو توخۍ), commonly revered as Nāzo Anā, meaning “Nazo the Grandmother” (Pashto: نازو انا), was an Afghan poet and warrior of the Pashto language. She lived during the 17th and 18th centuries, becoming a symbol of strength and unity among the Afghan people. Born in 1651, Nāzo Tokhī is recognized as the mother of the influential Afghan king, Mirwais Hotak, and a legendary figure who contributed to Afghan unity and Pashtun culture.
Early Life and Family Background Of Nāzo Tokhī
Nāzo Tokhī was born in the Kandahar Province, near the village of Spozhmayiz Gul, into a powerful Pashtun family. Her father, Sultan Malakhai Tokhi, was a notable leader of the Tokhi Pashtun tribe and governor of the Ghazni region. Raised in an environment where knowledge and honor were highly valued, Nāzo received a comprehensive education—a rarity for women of her time. Her father ensured she was well-versed in poetry, Pashtunwali (the traditional code of the Pashtuns), and other aspects of Afghan culture.
She married Salim Khan Hotak, the son of Karam Khan, and together they had a son, Mirwais Hotak, who would later establish the Hotak dynasty. Nāzo’s family was deeply involved in Afghan politics and conflicts, shaping her worldview and preparing her for the challenges that lay ahead.’
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Contributions to Afghan Unity and Culture
Nāzo Tokhī is celebrated for her pivotal role in promoting the Pashtunwali code, which emphasizes honor, hospitality, and justice. Her influence among the Pashtun tribes grew as she successfully mediated conflicts, particularly between the Ghilji and Sadozai tribes. Her efforts helped forge alliances against foreign rulers, especially the Persian Safavid rulers who held sway over the region at the time.
Through her poetry, Nāzo communicated themes of resilience, unity, and loyalty. Her eloquence and wisdom earned her immense respect, as she became a beloved figure among the Pashtuns. She became known as the “Mother of the Afghan Nation” due to her significant contributions to Afghan culture and her support for Afghan unity.
A Warrior’s Spirit
When Nāzo’s father was killed in battle, her brother sought revenge, leaving Nāzo in charge of the family’s household and fortress. With courage and determination, she donned a sword and defended the fortress alongside male warriors. This act solidified her legacy as a warrior in Afghan history and underscored her bravery and loyalty to her family and people.
Poetry and Legacy
Nāzo Tokhī’s poetry continues to be revered in Afghan culture. Here is an excerpt from her work, reflecting on the fleeting nature of beauty:
“Dew drops from an early dawn narcissus
as a tear drops from a melancholy eye;
O beauty, I asked, what makes you cry?
Life is too short for me, it answered,
My beauty blooms and withers in a moment,
as a smile which comes and forever fades away.”
Nāzo’s poetry resonates with themes of impermanence and introspection, and it has secured her a place among Afghanistan’s most esteemed poets.
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Legendary Dream and Influence on Mirwais Hotak
According to legend, Nāzo had a remarkable dream on the night her son Mirwais was born. In this dream, she encountered Shaykh Beṭ Nīkə, the folkloric ancestor of the Pashtun Bettani tribe. He advised her to take special care of her newborn son, prophesizing that he would grow up to bring great blessings to the Afghan people. Nāzo often recounted this dream to Mirwais, instilling in him a sense of purpose and duty to his people.
Mirwais Hotak went on to lead a successful revolt against the Safavid Persian rulers, establishing the Hotak dynasty and securing his place in Afghan history, guided by the values and teachings of his mother.
Death and Legacy
Nāzo Tokhī passed away around 1717, approximately two years after the death of her son, Mirwais. Her legacy lived on, not only through the Hotak dynasty but also through the cultural institutions that have honored her name. Schools, clinics, and other facilities in Afghanistan bear her name, serving as a testament to her lasting influence.
Nāzo Tokhī remains a beloved figure in Afghan history, a symbol of strength, wisdom, and cultural pride. Her story continues to inspire, reminding Afghans of the values of unity, honor, and resilience that have shaped their nation.
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