By Anwarzada Gulyar
Nestled in the lush valleys of Salarzai Tehsil in the tribal district of Bajaur lies a land that has produced many distinguished individuals. Among them stands a respected name—Al-Haj Muhammad Deen Nashad—who dedicated the greater part of his life to knowledge, literature, education, and public service.
Belonging to a learned, humble, and dignified family, Al-Haj Muhammad Deen served in the Department of Education not only in Bajaur but also in the former tribal agency of Mohmand, where he held the position of Agency Education Officer. He is among the select few who upheld transparency, integrity, and tireless dedication in the sensitive field of education, keeping the flame of knowledge alive in the tribal areas. Additionally, he served for a significant period as Assistant Commissioner for Afghan Refugees, where he rendered invaluable services for the welfare of thousands of displaced people.
What is truly remarkable, however, is that a man so deeply engaged in administrative duties, fieldwork, and educational service also harbored a tender-hearted poet within—a facet that completes the personality of Al-Haj Muhammad Deen Nashad.
Recently, a close friend shared three of his Pashto poetry collections. Even a cursory reading of these books is enough to reveal that Al-Haj Sahib is not merely an educator but also a sincere artist who lives through his heart. His verses reflect love, sincerity, aesthetic sensibility, and the unrestrained spirit of youth. The reader is struck by the freshness of emotion, only to be amazed upon learning that these lines were written by someone who is well past retirement age.
His poetry gracefully captures themes ranging from traditional romantic expressions to deep reflections on social behavior. The choice of words, the softness of thoughts, and the intensity of emotion—all blend seamlessly to make his poetry stand out from that of ordinary poets.
Al-Haj Muhammad Deen Nashad’s literary journey is a testament to the timeless nature of art. It is a river of passion that never runs dry, blossoming into flowers of love on the soil of the heart—flowers whose fragrance defies the constraints of time.
The emergence of such personalities from tribal regions is not only a source of pride but also a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation. It sends a powerful message: while fulfilling one’s responsibilities, a person can also give voice to the stirrings of the heart—be it through poetry, painting, or any other form of art.
We hope that further research will be conducted on the poetry of Al-Haj Muhammad Deen Nashad, and that his work will reach those literary circles where art is truly valued. Both his life and his art are precious assets for our society.
