2 weeks Ago By Qatar Tribune
Qatar tribune Feroz Afridi, a celebrated Qatar-based Pashto poet and writer, has translated the poignant and thought-provoking novel ‘Bhag Bhari’ into Pashto language, renaming it ‘Bakhturah.’ Bhag Bhari is a notable piece of literature, originally written in Urdu by Safdar Nawaz Zaidi, a distinguished novelist known for his bold exploration of controversial historical and contemporary events. Through his imaginative and masterful storytelling, he intricately weaves these themes into profound studies that illuminate the complex interplay of social, historical, and political dynamics.
The translation by Afridi marks a significant cultural contribution, as it makes the story more accessible to Pashto-speaking audiences, preserving its essence while celebrating linguistic diversity. Afridi is a veteran social activist and literary personality who remained socially active and founded a literary forum titled Pak Pashto Adabi Tolna and organised various literary events during his long stay in the country. The remarkable Bhag Bhari novel serves both as a lament of the present era and a mirror reflecting a possible future.
Afridi’s efforts have infused new life into the narrative for Pashto readers—especially those who belong to the very regions where much of the novel’s action unfolds. Among the Urdu literary works that confront the harsh realities of society and reflect deeply ingrained socio-political distortions, Bhag Bhari stands out for its boldness and vision. The novel seamlessly weaves together themes such as the Afghan jihad, non-state actors, state oppression, religious extremism, and environmental catastrophe.
Zaidi’s pen fearlessly exposes the underlying dangers and contradictions in state policies. The heroine of the novel, Bhag Bhari, is a metaphor for the motherland—forced to give birth to a son, Sawan, who is ultimately brainwashed into becoming Khalid Khurasani, a fanatic shaped by clerics. Born illegitimately and trained to become a professional killer, Khalid sees no distinction between Islam and warfare.
Rather than resorting to rhetorical flourish or critical posturing, Zaidi chooses a natural and compelling narrative style. Even as the story unfolds through layers—from proxy warfare to nuclear annihilation—it remains lucid, engaging, and impactful. Afridi’s translation carries the same intensity and relevance, making Bakhturah resonate deeply with Pashto readers.
The religious extremism born in the very regions described in the novel has indeed shaken the entire fabric of Asia. Wars and bloodshed in the name of sects and faiths lead eventually to nuclear catastrophe—erasing not just nations, but entire histories. Written on an epic canvas, Bakhturah offers a speculative vision of what could come to pass if current paths remain unaltered.
It is both a warning and a work of art—one that challenges, questions, and above all, compels its readers to reflect. Copy 23/04/2025 10.
