The 31st death anniversary of famous and revolutionary poet Habib Jalib was observed on Tuesday.

Habib Jalib’s original name was Habib Ahmad. He started writing poetry at the age of 15. Initially he was influenced by Jigar Murad Abadi and used to write traditional ghazals.

Later he became a part of the progressive movement and as a progressive poet he wrote against the martial law of General Ayub Khan and Zia-ul-Haq. He faced imprisonment due to his outspoken views against authoritarianism and oppression.

Habib Jalib’s poetry collections include Barg-e- Awara, Sir-e-Maqtal, Haraf -e-Haq, Zikar Behtay Khoon Ka, Ahd-e-Saza, Is Shehar-e-Kharabi Mein, Gumbad-e-Bedar, Goshay Main Qafas Kay, Harf-e- Sardar and Charon Janib Sanata.

Habib Jalib also composed songs for many famous films including Miss 56, Maa,Bahu Aur Betta, Ghonghat, Zakhmi, Mosiqar, Zamana, Zarqa, Khamosh Raho, Koon Kisi Ka, Yeh Aman, Qaidi, Bharosa, Al Asifa, Parai Aag, Seema, Do Rastay, Nag Mani and Samaaj and Insaan.

He was presented with va
rious honors by several human rights organizations. Karachi Press Club added to his prestige by presenting him with honorary membership. The government of Pakistan posthumously awarded him Nishan Imtiaz.

Source: Radio Pakistan