Sher Ali Bacha: The Revolutionary Poet and Politician of Pashtunistan

Sher Ali Bacha, fondly known as Bachajee, was a distinguished Pakistani communist politician, Pashto language poet, and human rights activist. His legacy is marked by his fervent commitment to Pashtun nationalism, his influential role in various political movements, and his contributions to Pashto literature. Born in 1935 in Hoti, Mardan, then British India (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan), Bacha’s life was a tapestry of activism, literary achievement, and political struggle.

Early Life and Education of Sher Ali Bacha

Bacha’s early life was deeply influenced by his family. His mother, an educator in Pashto literature, ignited his passion for the language and its history. His uncle, Hannan Bacha, a prominent leader of the Khudai Khidmatgar movement, instilled in him the values of resistance against colonial rule. These familial influences shaped Bacha’s early engagement in literary and political activities.

During his time at Mardan College, Bacha served as the secretary of Pax̌tō Adabī Ṭōləna (پښتو ادبي ټولنه), an organization dedicated to Pashto literature. His early exposure to literary and political activism set the stage for his later endeavors. After briefly working for the government, Bacha left his position in Mardan and moved to Karachi, where he completed a law degree at the University of Karachi. This educational background, combined with his political activism, laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Here’s a list of notable Pashto-language poets arranged by period

Political Career of Sher Ali Bacha

Bacha’s political journey began with his embrace of Marxism and Pashtun nationalism. He joined the National Awami Party (NAP) in 1963, where he, alongside his colleague Afzal Bangash, worked to advocate for the rights of laborers and peasants. Their establishment of Kisan Daftar, a group dedicated to defending peasants, led to their expulsion from the NAP in 1967 due to internal disagreements. Despite this setback, Bacha and Bangash continued their struggle by founding the Mazdoor Kisan Party (MKP) in 1968. The MKP aimed to uplift the oppressed and advocate for social justice.

In 1979, Bacha renamed the party to the Pakhtunkhwa Mazdoor Kisan Party (PMKP), reflecting his commitment to Pashtun identity and rights. His support for the pro-Soviet Saur Revolution in Afghanistan in 1978 and his solidarity with the People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan highlighted his internationalist perspective. Bacha’s political efforts were not without personal cost; he faced multiple arrests and periods of exile, including imprisonment under Pakistani Martial Law Administrator General Zia-ul-Haq.

In 1986, Bacha’s Pakhtunkhwa Mazdoor Kisan Party merged with the Pakhtunkhwa National Awami Party led by Mahmood Khan Achakzai to form the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP). Bacha was elected as the first General Secretary of PMAP, a position he held until he died in 1998. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the party’s direction and its role in Pashtun politics.

Literary Contributions

Bacha was also a prolific writer and poet, with a deep understanding of Pashto literature and history. His literary works, such as Bal Mashālūna (“Shining Lamps”), explored the conditions in Afghanistan and the underlying causes of its struggles. His poetry, featured in collections like Millī Pātsūn (“National Uprising”), reflects his revolutionary spirit and commitment to Pashtun rights.

One notable example of his revolutionary poetry is the Pashto poem Lōyē sō jərgē pə Pēkhawar kawū (لویې څو جرګې په پېښور کوو), which calls for action against oppression and emphasizes unity and resistance among the Pashtun people. The poem showcases Bacha’s ability to blend political activism with literary expression, capturing the spirit of his era and his vision for Pashtunistan.

Legacy

Sher Ali Bacha‘s contributions to Pashtun politics and literature left an indelible mark on the region. His relentless advocacy for the rights of the oppressed and his role in shaping Pashtun nationalist movements underscore his legacy as a dedicated leader and visionary. Bacha passed away on July 25, 1998, in Peshawar, succumbing to Guillain–Barré syndrome. He was laid to rest in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where his life and work continue to be remembered and celebrated.

His journey from a young literary enthusiast to a prominent political figure and poet highlights the profound impact of his life on Pashtun society and politics. Sher Ali Bacha remains a symbol of resistance, literary excellence, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Here is the information about Sher Ali Bacha in a table format:

Attribute	Details
Name	Sher Ali Bacha (شېرعلي باچا)
Born	1935
Place of Birth	Hoti, Mardan, North-West Frontier Province, British India (present-day Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan)
Died	July 25, 1998 (aged 62–63)
Place of Death	Peshawar, North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan (present-day Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan)
Cause of Death	Guillain–Barré syndrome
Resting Place	Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Political Parties	Mazdoor Kisan Party, Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party