Flowers in his hair: The hipster of Wana Bazaar

Says wearing flowers is his expression of peace in war-torn area

DI KHAN: A stage of old for war and military operations, Wana Bazaar in South Waziristan has a new man on its bill – a hipster.

Every now and then, the free-spirited and extremely gregarious Akbar, 38, also known as Saddar Sahib, is seen around the market; a local punk rocker with a turban and flowers in his hair.



In his traditional shalwar kameez, waistcoat and floral turban, he attracts many people at the bazaar with his jovial and cheerful mood – a balm for many unhappy people whose lives have been uprooted, disrupted and some even destroyed.

A message of peace

Akbar believes flowers are a symbol of peace. Having witnessed many atrocities committed in Wana, he always keeps flowers on his turban and, hopeful for a brighter future, he spreads messages of peace and love.

He shares his optimism in the bazaar that has witnessed horrific incidents since 9/11 – a site where mutilated bodies are dumped with warning messages forbidding their removal till the next day.



Jack of all trades

Akbar runs a cab to earn his livelihood. He drives mostly between Wana Bazaar and Kari Kot Bazaar.

“During All-Waziristan Winter Volleyball Tournament at my small hometown bazaar, Kari Kot, I am really busy as I enjoy the game and also manage to earn extra income by selling merchandise to spectators,” he said.

Akbar is also interested in politics and is a staunch campaigner for many local political figures. During MNA Ghalib Khan’s campaign, Akbar would stand on Ghalib’s car’s cabin with his friends and electioneer for him.



Akbar only completed grade five at Government High School Kari Kot since he had to earn a living for his family but he has made a name for himself as a proponent of love and peace.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 25^th,  2016.