Tabassum

Jahan Ara Tabassum was born in Quetta in 1970 into a conservative community where girls’ education was not encouraged. Despite this, she pursued her education with remarkable determination and became a prominent poet, writer, and advocate for women’s rights.

Her first notable collection, Udasi Raqs Karti Hai, appeared in 2009 and went through four editions; it was recognized as one of the best books of that year by Balochistan’s cultural authorities. Her next work, Mohabbat, is especially memorable because she wrote all the poems in a single night and saw the book published within a week. Its launch took place on Valentine’s Day in 2011, reflecting her deep engagement with love as a poetic theme.

Tabassum’s 2012 book Mujhe Khutba Nahi Aata focused on the struggles of women in male-dominated societies. Its second edition came out in 2014. Her 2014 collection Mohabbat Shaeiri Hai was also honored as the best book of the year by Balochistan’s cultural department. In 2016, she published Khwab Buntay Raho, a translation of Balochi poetry into Urdu, showcasing her commitment to regional literature.

Beyond writing, she was the first female columnist in Balochistan and served on radio and television in regional languages. She also held the role of Deputy Director in the Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights in Quetta. She has actively worked with the Women Development Department on issues such as violence against women, and played a leading role in relief efforts during the 2010 floods. Her service to society has earned her several honors, including the Ameer Muhammad Excellence Award from the Government of Balochistan.

Jahan Ara Tabassum remains an inspiration for her courage, literary talent, and commitment to social justice. Her life and work demonstrate how talent, hard work, and compassion can overcome cultural constraints and how poetry can become a tool for change and empowerment.