Alif Jana Khattaka

Alif Jana Khattaka (February 28, 1929 - September 14, 2019) was a Pashto revolutionary poet and a prominent activist of the Karwan Khudai Khidmatgar Tehreek led by Fakhre Afghan Bacha Khan.

Early life and education

Born in Ahmadi Banda, Karak during British occupation, Khattaka was raised in a family actively involved in Bacha Khan's movement. Due to the prevailing circumstances, she received home education and later pursued formal education, earning a master's degree in Pashto and Urdu, as well as a Bachelor of Arts.

Literary contributions

A collaborator with poet Haleem Muhammad, Khattaka contributed to the monthly magazine "Pashtun" published in Bacha Khan's office. She gained recognition as a regular writer for "Pashtun" and expressed critical views, earning praise from Bacha Khan for developing critical skills among Pashtun women.

Freedom Movement and Poetry Khattaka dedicated her poetry to the freedom and prosperity of her people, actively participating in the Muslim freedom movement. Her verses reflect a keen awareness of the political situation, exposing British machinations and urging Pashtuns to rise against oppression.

Later years Post-independence, Khattaka continued to advocate for Pashtun rights, especially highlighting the plight of the community in Pakistan. Despite adopting a quieter life later on, she remained committed to preserving the legacy of Bacha Khan and other freedom heroes.

Death and legacy

Alif Jana Khattaka's contributions endure, with her poetry included in educational curricula, and a college named after her in Bandha Dawood Shah district of Karak. She died on September 14, 2019, due to a cerebral vascular accident.

Personal life

Alif Jana Khattaka married Muhammad Zafar but the marriage faced challenges, leading to differences between the couple. She later served in various schools in Karak and Kohat, eventually retiring as a Divisional Education Officer.