Mubarak Qazi's poetry of Baloch resistance

Mubarak Qazi, a celebrated Balochi poet, remains a guiding light for cultural pride, resistance, and Baloch identity

"To read Mubarak Qazi's poetry is to walk the rugged paths of Balochistan, where every word carries the weight of its mountains and the dreams of its people."

After Baloch Remembrance Day, we reflect on the lives of those who have embodied the spirit of Baloch identity and resistance. Among them is Mubarak Qazi (December 1956 –16 September 2023), a celebrated poet of our time and a longstanding voice for his people. Qazi's work reflects not only the struggles and resistance of the Baloch people, but also encapsulates his love for the homeland. This love, in addition to cultural pride, resonates deeply with a community that has historically faced political and social marginalization.

Qazi's work reminds us that poets are more than just writers, they're historians of their own kind, breathing life into words both new and old. Their poetry carries within themselves the joys and sorrows of the world.

His death in 2023 marked an irreplaceable loss for the community, yet his work remains a guiding light for the younger generation of writers and poets. Writing in Balochi, he used straightforward, unadorned language to express his feelings.

 وطن بہارانی رنگءُ دز ین انت

وطن کہ نیست انت تہ ھچ نہ ما نیت

وطن کہ ھست انت مازندگان، زندگان نیمراں

"The homeland blooms with colors and light,

Without the homeland, there is nothing, no existence.

If there’s a homeland, I am alive—alive, and I won’t die!

– “Watan” from Zarnawishat (Golden Words)

Qazi's commitment to the idea of watan (homeland) is a pillar of his writing. For him, the homeland was not just a location or a piece of land, it represented the soul of the Baloch people. His poetry frequently acts as a call to action, telling the people of this country to value their heritage and culture, and to persevere in the face of hardship.

His legacy continues to inspire emerging poets who draw from his revolutionary themes and lyricism. Young poet Sajid Noor, during a tribute event in Turbat 2024, organized by the Balochistan Academy to honor Qazi's contributions, presented a gripping documentary on Qazi's life and works. Acts as such are evidence of the enduring influence of his poetry on the younger generations.

The passing of Mubarak Qazi has left a permanent void in Baloch literature and culture, but one that we hope becomes the ground for new seeds to grow from. On this Baloch Remembrance Day, as we honor the memory of Mubarak Qazi, we are reminded of the power of words to inspire, unite, and resist. His poetry is a testament to the resilience and unshakeable spirit of the Baloch people.

"I will die and turn to dust,

Rise again, as rise I must,

And with my voice, so bold and clear,

Speak the truth for all to hear."

Through his legacy, Mubarak Qazi continues to shine as a beacon of identity and hope, ensuring that the Baloch story remains alive for generations to come.