Famous Pakistani Writers

Saadat Hasan Manto was a prolific Pakistani writer, playwright, and author known for his contributions to Urdu literature. He gained recognition for his exceptional talent in crafting short stories, novels, radio plays, essays, and personal sketches. Manto's work often delved into sensitive topics, with a particular focus on the partition of India in 1947. Despite facing multiple obscenity charges throughout his career, he remains celebrated as one of the premier Urdu writers of the 20th century, with his impactful storytelling leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.

Sir Muhammad Iqbal was a South Asian Islamic philosopher, poet, and politician. He completed his education in Lahore and pursued further studies in Europe. Upon his return, he focused on producing scholarly works on politics, economics, history, philosophy, and religion. Iqbal's poetic compositions, such as "Asrar-e-Khudi" and "Rumuz-e-Bekhudi," gained him recognition. He was a key figure in the Pakistan Movement, advocating for the political and spiritual revival of the Muslim world. Iqbal's lectures were published as The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam. He held positions in the All-India Muslim League and formulated a political framework for Muslim-majority regions in India.

Muhammad Taqi Usmani is a prominent Pakistani Islamic scholar and jurist known for his expertise in Qur'an, Hadith, Islamic law, and Islamic economics. He has held key positions in both the judiciary and academia, including serving as a judge in Pakistan's Supreme Court and contributing significantly to the field of Islamic finance. Usmani is a prolific author with over 140 books in multiple languages and has received recognition and awards for his contributions to Islamic studies, jurisprudence, and public welfare.

Faiz Ahmad Faiz was a prominent Pakistani poet and author known for his influential works in Punjabi and Urdu literature. He held various roles throughout his career, including teacher, military officer, journalist, trade unionist, and broadcaster. Faiz served as editor-in-chief of major newspapers after the Partition of India and was an active member of the Communist Party. He spent time in prison for his political activities but continued to advocate for progressive ideas, eventually becoming a notable member of the Progressive Writers' Movement. Faiz was recognized internationally for his literary contributions, receiving awards such as the Lenin Peace Prize and being nominated for the Nobel Prize in literature.

Waris Shah was an eminent Punjabi Sufi poet of the Chishti order in the 18th century. Renowned as the 'Shakespeare of Punjab', he made a significant contribution to Punjabi literature through his masterpiece, the love poem Heer Ranjha. This poem narrates the tragic romance of Heer and Ranjha, a popular tale in Punjab. Waris Shah's professional life was centered around his literary pursuits, particularly in crafting poetry that resonated with the cultural and emotional essence of the region, keeping the tradition alive through the recitation of his works in bhairavi raga.

Riaz Ahmed Gohar Shahi was a spiritual leader and founder of the spiritual movements RAGS International (now Messiah Foundation International) and Anjuman Serfaroshan-e-Islam. He authored several Urdu books on spirituality, with "The Religion of God" being the most successful. The book was republished in English and other languages by Balboa Press. MFI claims Shahi is the Mehdi, Messiah, and Kalki Avatar. He disappeared from public view in 2001, with unconfirmed reports of his death in 2001 or 2003.

Tehmina Durrani is a renowned Pakistani author, artist, and women's and children's rights activist. She gained fame through her bestselling book "My Feudal Lord" and her impactful work alongside Abdul Satar Edhi. Inspired by Edhi's humanitarianism, she founded the Tehmina Durrani Foundation to promote social welfare in Pakistan. Her dedication to social work and advocacy for marginalized communities has left a lasting impact. Additionally, her marriage to politician Shehbaz Sharif has also played a role in her professional life.

Hassan Nisar is a prominent Pakistani journalist known for his insightful analysis in TV news programs and columns in newspapers. He is widely recognized for his critical and thought-provoking commentary on various socio-political issues in Pakistan. Nisar has gained a reputation for his articulate writing style and powerful oratory skills. As an Urdu poet, he showcases his creative side through his poetic expressions. Throughout his career, Hassan Nisar has played a significant role in shaping public opinion and fostering intellectual discourse in Pakistan.

Ahmad Faraz, a renowned Pakistani Urdu poet and scriptwriter, served as the founding Director General and later Chairman of the Pakistan Academy of Letters. Writing under the pseudonym Faraz, he gained recognition for his poetic work. Faraz openly critiqued military rule and coup d'état in Pakistan, often facing displacement by military dictators due to his outspoken views. His professional life was marked by a commitment to literature, activism against authoritarian regimes, and a significant influence on Urdu poetry and literary circles in Pakistan.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai was a Sindhi Sufi mystic and poet widely regarded as the greatest poet of the Sindhi language. He traveled extensively throughout Sindh and neighboring regions, meeting various mystics and Jogis who influenced his poetry. Despite facing both admiration and hostility, his piety and spirituality attracted a large following. Towards the end of his life, he settled in Bhit Shah, where he continued to inspire others through his teachings and poetry. His work, compiled in Shah Jo Risalo, has been revered and translated into various languages.

Mohsin Hamid is a highly acclaimed British Pakistani novelist, writer, and brand consultant known for his thought-provoking works. He has authored several successful novels including "Moth Smoke," "The Reluctant Fundamentalist," "How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia," "Exit West," and "The Last White Man." Hamid's writing delves into complex themes such as identity, globalization, and displacement, earning him international recognition and numerous literary awards. In addition to his literary pursuits, he has also made significant contributions as a brand consultant, showcasing his diverse talents and expertise.

Khawaja Ghulam Farid was a renowned 19th-century Sufi poet and mystic associated with the Chishti Order from Bahawalpur, Punjab. He primarily wrote in Multani (Saraiki) but also made significant contributions to Punjabi, Urdu, Pashto, Sindhi, Hindi, and Persian literature. His writing style is characterized by themes such as death, passionate worldly and spiritual love, and the sorrow linked with love. Farid's works reflect a deep exploration of mystical and spiritual concepts, making him a respected figure in the literary and Sufi circles of his time.

Abdur Rahman Baba, also known as Rahman Baba, was a renowned Afghan Sufi Saint, member of Sufi Dervish, and poet from Peshawar during the Mughal era. He is considered one of the most popular poets of the Pashto language, alongside Khushal Khan Khattak. Rahman Baba's professional life was dedicated to expressing the mystical aspects of Islam through his poetry, reflecting his Sufi-oriented nature. His works continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing his profound understanding of spirituality and devotion to his craft.

Wasif Ali Wasif was a prominent Pakistani teacher, writer, poet, and Sufi figure who authored around 40 books. He gained recognition for his aphorisms, short prose pieces, and essays, which were often featured in Urdu newspapers. Many of his books were compilations of his speeches and public lectures, showcasing his deep insights and wisdom. Throughout his career, Wasif Ali Wasif was closely associated with renowned intellectuals in Pakistan, such as Qudratullah Shahab, Ashfaq Ahmed, and Hanif Ramay, further solidifying his influential presence in the literary and intellectual circles of his era.

Qudrat Ullah Shahab was an eminent Urdu writer, civil servant, and diplomat from Pakistan. He served as the Principal Secretary to three heads of state - Governor General Ghulam Muhammad, President Iskander Mirza, and President Ayub Khan. Shahab later became the Ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands in 1962 and served as the Information Secretary and Education Secretary of Pakistan. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions in various high-ranking government positions, showcasing his dedication and expertise in public service and diplomacy.

Shoaib Mansoor is a versatile Pakistani television and film director, writer, producer, lyricist, and musician of Muhajir origin. With a career spanning over four decades, Mansoor has been actively involved in the industry since 1976. He gained recognition for his work in television through directing hit drama series and producing popular music shows. Internationally acclaimed, Mansoor is known for directing classic TV shows like Ankahi, comedy series Fifty Fifty, and military fiction series Alpha Bravo Charlie. His musical talents were showcased through writing songs for Vital Signs, contributing to their nationwide success. As a respected film director, Mansoor received critical acclaim for his movies Khuda Kay Liye and Bol, earning prestigious accolades such as the Sitara-i-Imtiaz Award.

Munir Niazi was a prominent Pakistani poet who wrote in Punjabi and Urdu languages. He contributed to newspapers, magazines, and radio, showcasing his versatile writing skills. In 1960, he founded the publication institute Al-Misal, further solidifying his presence in the literary world. He later joined Pakistan Television in Lahore, where he continued to make significant contributions. Niazi's professional life was characterized by his dedication to literature and his ability to connect with audiences through his written work, establishing himself as a respected figure in the literary community.

Farhat Ishtiaq is a renowned Pakistani writer, author, and screenwriter known for her captivating romantic novels such as Humsafar, Mata-e-Jaan Hai Tu, Diyar-e-Dil, Dil se Nikle Hain jo Lafz, and Woh Jo Qarz Rakhty Thay Jaan Per. She has made a significant impact in the literary world with her focus on portraying various aspects of Pakistani society through her work. Ishtiaq's storytelling prowess and ability to intricately weave emotions and relationships have garnered her a wide readership and critical acclaim in Pakistan and beyond.

Zulfikar Ghose was a distinguished Pakistani-American novelist, poet, and essayist known for his unique blend of magical realism, combining elements of fantasy with stark realism. Throughout his career, he established himself as a prominent literary figure, captivating audiences with his thought-provoking works. His writing style reflected a deep understanding of human nature and society, often exploring complex themes with depth and nuance. Ghose's contributions to literature have left a lasting impact, earning him recognition as a master storyteller with a distinct voice and perspective.

Habib Jalib was a renowned Pakistani revolutionary poet and left-wing political activist known for his staunch opposition to martial law, authoritarianism, military dictatorship, and state oppression. He wrote impactful poems in Punjabi and Urdu, earning the title of "poet of the masses." Despite facing imprisonment multiple times for his outspoken views against military coups and government oppression, Jalib never wavered from his principles, garnering widespread respect in Pakistan. His professional life was marked by a steadfast commitment to social justice and political activism, influenced by his deep connection to Sufism as noted by journalist Hamid Mir.

Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi is a prominent Pakistani politician and Senator currently holding the position of Interior Minister of Pakistan since March 2024. He also serves as the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board since February 2024. Prior to these roles, Naqvi was the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab from January 2023 to February 2024. Additionally, he is recognized as the founder of the City Media Group. Naqvi's professional trajectory showcases his diverse expertise and leadership in both political and media spheres.

Anwar Masood is a renowned Pakistani poet and educationist, celebrated for his comic poetry in Punjabi, Urdu, and Persian languages. His works span various genres, showcasing a unique blend of humor and poignant social commentary. Known for his innovative use of everyday phrases, his poetry resonates deeply with the masses, with many of his lines becoming integral parts of everyday conversations. Masood's writing skillfully weaves together humor and tragedy, shedding light on social injustices and personal struggles. His contributions to literature have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Hilale Imtiaz Civil in 2023 and the Pride of Performance in 1999.

Ibn-e-Insha was a prominent Pakistani Urdu poet, humorist, travelogue writer, and newspaper columnist. Known for his witty and humorous writing style, he was considered one of the best humorists in Urdu literature. His poetry featured a unique diction influenced by Amir Khusro and the earthy dialects of the Hindi-Urdu languages. Ibn-e-Insha's work had a significant impact on young poets, inspiring generations with his distinctive forms and poetic style. His professional life was marked by a successful career in literature and journalism, earning him a respected place in Urdu literary circles.

Parveen Shakir was a renowned Pakistani poet, teacher, and civil servant in the government of Pakistan. She made significant contributions to Urdu literature with her poems, offering a unique feminine perspective. Even after her passing, her legacy lives on through the annual "Parveen Shakir Urdu Literature Festival" in Islamabad. Through her professional endeavors, Parveen Shakir left a lasting impact on the literary landscape, inspiring future generations with her work and dedication to the arts.

Rais Amrohvi, also known as Syed Muhammad Mehdi, was a prominent Pakistani scholar, Urdu poet, paranormal investigator, and psychoanalyst. He gained recognition for his unique style of quatrain writing known as qatanigari. Amrohvi's contributions to Urdu literature included writing quatrains for the Pakistani newspaper Jang for several decades. He was an advocate for the promotion of the Urdu language and supported Urdu-speaking communities in Pakistan. Additionally, he displayed a keen interest in translating the Bhagavad Gita into standard Urdu.

Pir Roshan, also known as Pir Rokhan, was an Ormur Pashtun warrior, Sufi poet, and revolutionary leader. He founded the Roshani movement and created a modified Pashto alphabet. His notable work includes the book Khayr al-Bayān, containing Pashto prose. Pir Roshan organized Pashtun tribesmen against the Mughal emperor Akbar in response to military actions. Due to his spiritual influence, the Mughals persecuted his followers, leading to his eventual death. His youngest son, Pir Jalala, continued the movement against the Mughals and became its new leader.

Jamiluddin Aali was a prominent figure in Pakistani literature, known for his contributions as a poet, critic, playwright, essayist, columnist, and scholar. He was respected for his insightful literary criticism, creative plays, and thought-provoking essays. Aali's work reflected a deep understanding of Urdu language and literature, earning him acclaim among his peers and readers. His multifaceted career spanned various genres, showcasing his versatility and talent as a writer. Aali's legacy continues to inspire and influence aspiring writers and scholars in Pakistan and beyond.

Josh Malihabadi, known as Shayar-e-Inqalab, was a Pakistani poet acclaimed for his liberal values and revolutionary spirit. He penned over 100,000 couplets and 1,000 rubaiyat, challenging the status quo through his work. His autobiography, Yaadon ki Barat, stands out for its candid narrative style. Notable figures like Jawaharlal Nehru held him in high regard, often attending his poetic gatherings. His impactful works have been translated into English, such as The Unity of Mankind elegies, showcasing his enduring influence on literature and society.

Khushal Khān Khaṭak, also known as Khushal Baba, was a 17th-century Pashtun poet, chief, and warrior. He initially served the Mughal Empire but turned against them after being expelled and replaced by his son. Khushal advocated for the union of all Pashtuns and encouraged revolt against the Mughal Empire through poetry. He challenged the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, engaging in numerous battles and defeating Mughal troops. Khushal's legacy as a military fighter and poet earned him the title of "father of Pashto literature" and the national poet of Afghanistan.

Muhammad Ilyas Attar Qadri is a Pakistani Islamic scholar known for founding Dawat-e-Islami, a non-political global organization of Barelvi Sunnis present in over 195 countries. He is affiliated with the Qadri order of Sufism and was mentored in Sufism by Fazlur Rahman and Muhammad Waqaruddin Qadri. With approximately 30 million disciples worldwide, Qadri has made significant contributions to promoting Islamic teachings and spirituality on a global scale through Dawat-e-Islami.

Nasir Raza Kazmi was a renowned Urdu poet from Pakistan known for his use of simple language and short verses in his poetry. He brought life to everyday words like "Chand", "Raat", "Baarish", "Mausam", "Yaad", "Tanhai", and "Darya" through his unique style. His poetry has had a lasting impact and is still featured on Pakistan Television (PTV) shows and in Bollywood films in India. Kazmi's professional life was marked by his contribution to Urdu literature and his ability to connect with audiences through his poetic expressions.

Amjad Islam Amjad was a highly acclaimed Pakistani Urdu poet, screenwriter, playwright, and lyricist. With a prolific career spanning over several decades, he authored more than 70 books and received numerous prestigious awards for his literary contributions and screenplay work for television. His accolades include the Pride of Performance, Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence), and Tamgh-e-Imtiaz Awards, recognizing his significant impact on Urdu literature and the entertainment industry. Amjad Islam Amjad's professional life was marked by an enduring legacy of creativity and excellence.

Sonia Khan is a versatile Pakistani actress known for her work in Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, and Pashto films. With a career spanning various regional cinema industries, she has showcased her talent and versatility on both the big and small screens. Sonia Khan's performances have captivated audiences with her compelling portrayals in a wide range of roles. Her dedication to her craft and ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and languages have established her as a respected figure in the Pakistani film and television industry.

Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi was a prominent Urdu language poet, journalist, literary critic, dramatist, and short story author from Pakistan. He authored 50 books covering poetry, fiction, criticism, journalism, and art. Known for his humanistic approach, his Urdu afsana work is highly regarded for its portrayal of rural culture. Qasmi was the editor and publisher of the literary magazine Funoon for almost five decades. He received prestigious awards such as the Pride of Performance and Sitara-e-Imtiaz for his significant contributions to Urdu literature. Renowned Indian writer Gulzar considered him his mentor and guru.

Umera Ahmed is a renowned Pakistani writer, author, and screenwriter, known for her compelling novels and plays such as Shehr-e-Zaat, Pir-e-Kamil, Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Alif, and many more. Her work has garnered widespread acclaim and she is considered one of the most prominent and popular Urdu fiction novelists and screenplay writers of the current era. Umera Ahmed's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on readers and viewers alike, establishing her as a significant figure in the realm of Pakistani literature and entertainment industry.

Shabana Rehman Gaarder was a Pakistani-born Norwegian stand-up comedian, writer, and columnist known for her shocking sense of humor on stage and in newspaper columns. She gained recognition as a controversial voice in discussions on immigration and the integration of Muslims in Norway. Her provocative approach led to her persona becoming a subject of debate, often referred to as the "Shabana debate." Through her work, she made a significant impact on public discourse around these sensitive topics, challenging societal norms and sparking important conversations.

Talib Jauhari was a renowned Pakistani Islamic scholar, poet, historian, and philosopher belonging to the Shia Sect of Islam. He was widely recognized for his profound knowledge and expertise in Shia teachings. Jauhari's impactful sermons were regularly broadcast on the PTV (Pakistan Television) Network, reaching a broad audience and earning him a reputation as one of the most prominent Shia scholars in the region. Through his work, he made significant contributions to the understanding and promotion of Shia beliefs and practices.

Qateel Shifai was a renowned Pakistani Urdu poet and lyricist known for his profound and emotive poetry. His professional life was marked by numerous contributions to Urdu literature and music industry. He wrote lyrics for countless songs in Pakistani films, collaborating with famous music composers and singers. His poetic style was characterized by a unique blend of simplicity and depth, resonating with audiences across generations. Qateel Shifai's work continues to inspire and captivate listeners with its timeless beauty and meaningful expressions.

Lal Shahbaz Qalandar was a revered Sufi saint and poet in South Asia. He was born in Marwand, Sistan, and later settled in Sindh, where he gained immense respect from the local Sindhi population. Known for his spiritual teachings and poetry, Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's professional life was dedicated to spreading Sufi ideals and promoting love and harmony among people. He left a lasting impact through his profound words and actions, inspiring many followers to lead a life of spirituality and compassion.

Ahmed Ali was a prominent figure in Pakistani literature, excelling as a novelist, poet, critic, translator, diplomat, and scholar. He is recognized as a pioneer of the modern Urdu short story, with notable works such as "Angarey," "Hamari Gali," "Qaid Khana," and "Maut Se Pehle." Additionally, he made significant contributions to English literature with his novel "Twilight in Delhi." Through his diverse talents and contributions, Ahmed Ali left a lasting impact on the literary landscape of both Urdu and English languages.

Ehsan Danish was a renowned Urdu poet, prose writer, linguist, lexicographer, and scholar from Pakistan. Throughout his career, he authored over 100 scholarly works focusing on poetry, prose, linguistics, lexicography, and prosody. Initially known for his romantic poetry, he later shifted his focus to writing for laborers, earning him the title of "Poet of the workmen." His poetry resonated with the common people, drawing comparisons to other notable poets like Josh Malihabadi. Ehsan Danish is recognized as one of the greatest poets of all time, known for his fine, romantic, revolutionary, and simple style of poetry.

Mustafa Zaidi was a renowned Pakistani Urdu poet and civil servant. He was known for his literary contributions and profound poetry in the Urdu language. Alongside his career in civil service, Zaidi actively participated in literary circles, where his work was highly regarded. His poetry often reflected themes of love, loss, and social issues, resonating with audiences across Pakistan. Zaidi's professional life was marked by a dedication to both his administrative duties and his passion for poetry, leaving a lasting impact on Urdu literature.