By: Anwarzada Gulyar
Several writers have raised their pens regarding the resources, national identity, and collective consciousness of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the depth, sincerity, and impact found in “Shtamana Pakhtunkhwa”, a book by the late Maulana Khanzeb Shaheed, are rare to come by. While it appears to be a research-based document on natural resources, in truth, it resonates as a spiritual outcry — shaking the collective conscience of the Pashtun nation.
During Maulana Khanzeb’s lifetime, this book received little attention. Neither was it taken seriously by scholarly circles, nor did it gain popularity among the public. The tragic irony is that only after his martyrdom did his words come to life. As news of his death spread, his thoughts, writings — especially this book — suddenly became the center of attention. Its demand surged across regions. Bookstalls featuring it began appearing in different cities, and soon, the sixth edition was published and released.
There is no denying that Shtamana Pakhtunkhwa laid bare, through data, analysis, and historical references, the systematic plundering of the province’s resources, the central government’s monopoly, and the silence of local leadership. Maulana not only posed critical questions but also provided clear, reasoned answers. He wrote that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not merely a geographic territory — it is the name of a deprived nation rich in natural wealth. Its mountains, rivers, forests, and minerals belong to its people, yet control over them lies elsewhere.
What makes this book truly remarkable is the balance it maintains: it is filled with emotion — with pain and outrage — yet it refrains from baseless accusations. Instead, it speaks through reason. Maulana translated passion into research, and it is this intellectual integrity that draws readers in.
Yet the question remains: When did the nation value Maulana’s voice? How widely were his writings read when he was alive? How seriously were his concerns taken? Were his ideas ever discussed in Parliament or legislative assemblies? Sadly, the answer is no. Perhaps we only woke up to his wisdom at the cost of his martyrdom. The same person who was overlooked in life is now celebrated posthumously — his words embraced with reverence.
This pattern is not unique to Maulana Khanzeb alone — it reflects a broader societal mindset. We honor our heroes only after they are gone. Their books are read later, their videos go viral after their death, and their portraits are pasted on walls and in public squares — but while they live, their voices are often ignored.
Maulana Khanzeb Shaheed’s greatest tragedy was not merely his assassination, but the neglect of his voice during his lifetime. His message failed to reach the national conscience while he was alive. Today, if his book is being printed in the thousands, it is as much a mark of respect as it is a symbol of our collective guilt.
We must reflect deeply on this trend. It is imperative to recognize and appreciate our intellectual and national assets while they are alive. Otherwise, history will question us: Where were you when Maulana Khanzeb was alive? Who listened to him? Who acted on his words?
Shtamana Pakhtunkhwa is not just a book; it is a mirror for a nation that continuously mourns the loss of its true heroes. The time has come to value thinkers like Maulana Khanzeb Shaheed in their lifetime and not restrict their ideas to memorial speeches and tribute events. If we truly love them, we must translate their thoughts into action. That would be the truest form of tribute.
