Matiullah Turab: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Afghanistan’s Iconic Pashtun Poet
July 14, 2025 – The literary world mourns the loss of Matiullah Turab, Afghanistan’s renowned Pashtun poet, who passed away due to a fatal cardiac arrest. A powerful voice of resistance, a champion of Pashtun culture, and a literary icon, Turab’s evocative poetry touched the hearts of millions across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the global Pashtun diaspora.
Who Was Matiullah Turab?
Matiullah Turab, born on March 21, 1971, in Khogyani, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan, was more than just a poet—he was a cultural beacon for the Pashtun people. Raised in a modest family, Turab’s early life was shaped by the turmoil of the Soviet-Afghan War, which forced his family to flee to Pakistan. Living as a refugee in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kurram Agency, he honed his craft amidst adversity, drawing inspiration from the struggles and resilience of his people.
Under his pen name, Turab Saib, he crafted poetry rooted in Pashtoonwali—the traditional code of conduct among Pashtuns. His works, including Ghubar Par Hindaro, Llami Gullona Da Karni Oba, and the bestselling Speen Baghawat, captured the beauty, pain, and aspirations of the Pashtun experience.
The Rise of Matiullah Turab in the YouTube Era
The arrival of YouTube in 2006 marked a turning point for Matiullah Turab’s reach and influence. His powerful recitations, often shared on the platform, went viral among Pashtun audiences, making him one of the most searched Pashtun poets from 2006 to 2025. Videos of Turab reciting his hamasi (epic) poetry, with themes of patriotism, resistance, and social justice, garnered millions of views.
A notable example is his 2011 YouTube video Wake Up Pashtun, which inspired countless listeners with its call for unity and awakening among Pashtuns. His presence on platforms like YouTube and social media solidified his status as a modern literary icon, with fans lauding him as “the voice of the people.”
Speen Baghawat: A Bestseller That Defined an Era
Among Turab’s many works, Speen Baghawat (White Rebellion) stands out as his most celebrated poetry collection. This bestseller encapsulates the spirit of resistance and the enduring hope of the Pashtun people. The collection’s raw emotion, vivid imagery, and unflinching critique of war, corruption, and foreign intervention struck a chord with readers.
Despite facing challenges, including a brutal beating by the Taliban for publishing under their rule, Turab remained undeterred, using his poetry to challenge oppression and advocate for justice. Speen Baghawat became a symbol of defiance, with its verses quoted widely on social media and at poetry events across Pashto-speaking regions.
A Voice of Resistance and Pashtun Pride
Turab’s poetry was deeply rooted in his Pashtun identity, though his strong tribal affiliation sometimes alienated non-Pashtun listeners, such as Tajiks and Hazaras. His affiliation with Hezb-i-Islami sparked controversy, but his poetry’s universal themes of justice and resilience transcended these divides. Turab famously declared, “A poet’s job is not to write about love or flowers. A poet must write about the plight and pain of the people.”
His ability to connect with both ordinary Afghans and political elites underscored his unique position as a poet who bridged the gap between the workshop and the world stage, including an invitation to recite at the presidential palace in Kabul under President Hamid Karzai.
Matiullah Turab’s Impact on Pashto Literature
Turab’s contributions to Pashto literature are immeasurable. His poetry, often described as inqilabi (revolutionary), blended traditional Pashtun forms like hamasi and landai with contemporary themes. His work preserved the rich oral traditions of Pashto poetry while addressing modern issues like war, displacement, and corruption.
His near-illiteracy, a result of his impoverished upbringing, made his achievements even more remarkable. Turab composed his poetry in his mind, relying on memory and others to transcribe his words. This unique process added an authentic, unpolished quality to his work, resonating with audiences who saw him as a poet of the people.
Explore more about Pashto literature at PoetryPashto.com.
Tributes Pour In After Turab’s Passing
Following the news of Matiullah Turab’s death on July 14, 2025, due to a cardiac arrest, tributes flooded social media platforms, particularly X. Fans and admirers mourned the loss of a “national poet” whose words inspired generations. Posts on X described him as a “Pakhtun nationalist and poet of the people,” with many sharing his iconic verses.
The Afghan Cricket Board (ACB) also paid tribute, noting Turab’s recent visit to congratulate the team on their T20 World Cup victories, highlighting his role as a cultural ambassador.
Why Matiullah Turab’s Legacy Endures
Matiullah Turab’s poetry remains a testament to the power of words in times of adversity. From his garage in Kabul to reciting poetry by night, Turab’s life embodied resilience and creativity. His work continues to inspire through platforms like YouTube, PoetryPashto.com, and apps like the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry APK.
For those seeking to explore Turab’s work, platforms like YouTube offer a treasure trove of his recitations, while Speen Baghawat and other collections are available through Pashto literature websites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matiullah Turab
Below are answers to common questions about Matiullah Turab’s life, poetry, and legacy, reflecting the curiosity of Pashtun communities in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the diaspora.
Who was Matiullah Turab?
Matiullah Turab was a renowned Afghan Pashtun poet born on March 21, 1971, in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. Known for his revolutionary poetry, he worked as a car body maker by day and wrote powerful verses under the pen name Turab Saib.
What was Matiullah Turab famous for?
Turab was famous for his hamasi (epic) and inqilabi (revolutionary) Pashto poetry, particularly his bestselling collection Speen Baghawat, addressing resistance and Pashtun identity.
When did Matiullah Turab die?
Matiullah Turab passed away on July 14, 2025, due to a fatal cardiac arrest.
What caused Matiullah Turab’s death?
Turab died of a cardiac arrest on July 14, 2025, as reported by various sources.
Where was Matiullah Turab born?
He was born in Khogyani, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan.
What is Speen Baghawat about?
Speen Baghawat (White Rebellion) is Turab’s bestselling poetry collection, focusing on Pashtun resistance and critiques of war and corruption.
Why was Matiullah Turab’s poetry popular?
His poetry was popular for its raw emotion and bold criticism of the Taliban, Afghan government, and foreign powers.
How did Matiullah Turab become famous on YouTube?
His recitations, like Wake Up Pashtun (2011), went viral on YouTube post-2006, making him a widely searched Pashtun poet.
What was Matiullah Turab’s pen name?
He wrote under the pen name Turab Saib.
What is the meaning of Turab Saib?
“Turab” means “dust” (humility) in Persian, and “Saib” denotes respect or mastery.
Was Matiullah Turab a Pashtun nationalist?
Yes, he championed Pashtun unity, though this sometimes alienated non-Pashtun groups.
What was Matiullah Turab’s connection to Hezb-i-Islami?
He was affiliated with Hezb-i-Islami, which stirred controversy but didn’t diminish his appeal.
Did Matiullah Turab criticize the Taliban?
Yes, he criticized the Taliban, facing a brutal beating for publishing under their rule.
What was Matiullah Turab’s profession?
He worked as a car body maker in Khost, repairing Pakistani caravan trucks.
How did Matiullah Turab learn to write poetry?
Despite near-illiteracy, he composed poetry mentally, relying on others to transcribe.
Where did Matiullah Turab live during the Soviet-Afghan War?
He lived as a refugee in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Kurram Agency, Pakistan.
What are some famous poems by Matiullah Turab?
Besides Speen Baghawat, his works include Ghubar Par Hindaro and Llami Gullona Da Karni Oba.
Why did Matiullah Turab focus on resistance poetry?
He believed poets should address the “plight and pain of the people.”
Did Matiullah Turab perform at the presidential palace?
Yes, he recited at the presidential palace in Kabul under President Hamid Karzai.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry spread?
It spread via YouTube, Bluetooth sharing, and live recitations at events like the Naranj Gul festival.
What is the Naranj Gul poetry festival?
It’s a cultural event in Nangarhar where Turab performed, drawing thousands.
Was Matiullah Turab’s poetry controversial?
Yes, his Pashtun nationalism and Hezb-i-Islami affiliation sparked debate.
How did the Taliban react to Matiullah Turab’s poetry?
They beat him for publishing critical poetry under their rule.
What is Pashtoonwali in Matiullah Turab’s poetry?
Pashtoonwali is the Pashtun code of honor central to his poetry.
Did Matiullah Turab write about love?
No, he focused on social issues, not love or romantic themes.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reflect Afghan struggles?
It captured the pain of war, corruption, and displacement faced by Afghans.
What was Matiullah Turab’s education level?
He was nearly illiterate due to his impoverished childhood.
Did Matiullah Turab win any awards?
He was set to receive an award from the Afghan diaspora in Moscow.
How did Matiullah Turab balance his job and poetry?
He worked as a metalsmith by day and composed poetry at night.
What was the impact of Matiullah Turab’s poetry on YouTube?
His videos amassed millions of views, making him a cultural icon post-2006.
Where can I find Matiullah Turab’s poetry online?
His poetry is on YouTube, PoetryPashto.com, and the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry app.
What is the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry app?
It’s a mobile app featuring his poetry and recitations.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reach the Pashtun diaspora?
It reached the diaspora via YouTube and cultural events.
Was Matiullah Turab involved in politics?
Not directly, but his Hezb-i-Islami affiliation aligned him with Pashtun causes.
Did Matiullah Turab write in Pashto or other languages?
He wrote primarily in Pashto.
What themes did Matiullah Turab explore in his poetry?
He explored resistance, Pashtun identity, war, and corruption.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry influence Pashtun youth?
It inspired youth to embrace their heritage and resist oppression.
What was Matiullah Turab’s view on the Afghan government?
He criticized it for corruption and inefficiency.
Did Matiullah Turab support the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement?
No direct evidence, but his poetry aligned with their advocacy.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry address Pakistan?
He criticized Pakistan’s role in Afghan conflicts.
What was Matiullah Turab’s role in Pashtun culture?
He preserved and promoted Pashtun values through his poetry.
Did Matiullah Turab perform internationally?
He planned to travel to Moscow for an award, showing international recognition.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry affect Afghan politics?
It influenced public sentiment, challenging elites and calling for reform.
What was the significance of Wake Up Pashtun?
It was a viral 2011 video calling for Pashtun unity.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry differ from traditional Pashto poetry?
It focused on resistance and modern issues, unlike romantic themes.
Was Matiullah Turab married?
Yes, he married while a refugee in Pakistan.
Did Matiullah Turab have children?
Details are scarce, but he had a family after marrying.
What was Matiullah Turab’s writing process?
He composed mentally, relying on others to transcribe due to near-illiteracy.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reflect war?
It depicted the horrors of war, including displacement and violence.
Did Matiullah Turab face censorship?
Yes, the Taliban attempted to suppress his critical poetry.
What was Matiullah Turab’s impact on Pashto literature?
He revitalized Pashto poetry with revolutionary themes.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry spread in rural Afghanistan?
It spread via Bluetooth in areas with limited internet.
Was Matiullah Turab religious?
Likely a Sunni Muslim, but his poetry focused on cultural issues.
What was Matiullah Turab’s view on foreign intervention?
He criticized foreign powers like the U.S. for Afghanistan’s instability.
Did Matiullah Turab write about women’s rights?
Not primarily, but he addressed broader struggles of marginalized groups.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry inspire resistance?
It called for Pashtun unity and defiance against oppression.
What was Matiullah Turab’s relationship with Hamid Karzai?
Karzai invited him to recite at the presidential palace.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reach Moscow?
It reached the diaspora via YouTube and cultural events.
What was Matiullah Turab’s stance on the Soviet-Afghan War?
His poetry reflected the suffering caused by the war.
Did Matiullah Turab collaborate with other poets?
No documented collaborations, but he performed with others at festivals.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry address corruption?
He criticized corrupt leaders with sharp metaphors.
What was Matiullah Turab’s workshop like?
It was a garage in Khost where he repaired trucks.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reflect Pashtunwali?
It embodied values like honor, justice, and hospitality.
Was Matiullah Turab’s poetry translated?
Little evidence of translations; it resonated in Pashto communities.
How did Matiullah Turab’s death affect Pashtuns?
His death sparked widespread grief among Pashtuns.
What tributes were made to Matiullah Turab after his death?
Tributes on X and from the Afghan Cricket Board highlighted his legacy.
Did Matiullah Turab support Pashtunistan?
His poetry suggested sympathy for Pashtunistan ideals.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry influence social media?
His verses shaped Pashtun online culture via shared quotes.
What was Matiullah Turab’s view on the U.S. presence in Afghanistan?
He criticized the U.S. for contributing to instability.
Did Matiullah Turab write about Afghan refugees?
Yes, his poetry reflected their displacement and struggles.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry address tribalism?
He called for tribal unity, though sometimes alienating non-Pashtuns.
What was the role of YouTube in Matiullah Turab’s fame?
YouTube amplified his reach with viral videos post-2006.
Did Matiullah Turab perform at cultural events?
Yes, he recited at events like the Naranj Gul festival.
What was Matiullah Turab’s impact on Pashtun identity?
He strengthened Pashtun pride and unity through his poetry.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry critique power?
He critiqued the Taliban, government, and foreign powers.
Was Matiullah Turab’s poetry taught in schools?
No evidence of formal teaching, but it was shared culturally.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reach Pakistan?
It spread via YouTube and Pashtun communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
What was Matiullah Turab’s view on Afghan unity?
He focused on Pashtun unity, sometimes limiting broader Afghan unity.
Did Matiullah Turab face threats for his poetry?
Yes, he faced violence from the Taliban for his critical verses.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry inspire activism?
It inspired Pashtun youth and aligned with movements like PTM.
What was Matiullah Turab’s legacy?
His legacy is his revolutionary poetry preserving Pashtun identity.
Did Matiullah Turab write about peace?
Indirectly, by critiquing war and corruption.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry affect the diaspora?
It fostered cultural pride via digital platforms.
What was Matiullah Turab’s style of poetry?
His style was hamasi and inqilabi, blending tradition with modern issues.
Did Matiullah Turab have a social media presence?
He didn’t manage accounts, but his poetry was widely shared online.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry address poverty?
It highlighted the economic struggles of Afghans.
Was Matiullah Turab’s poetry political?
Yes, it critiqued power structures and advocated for Pashtun rights.
Did Matiullah Turab recite in Dari?
No, he recited primarily in Pashto.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry spread globally?
Via YouTube, social media, and diaspora events.
What was Matiullah Turab’s impact on Afghan youth?
He inspired youth to embrace their heritage and resist oppression.
Did Matiullah Turab write about the Durand Line?
Implicitly, through calls for Pashtun unity.
How did Matiullah Turab’s poetry reflect his life?
It drew from his experiences as a refugee and metalsmith.
Was Matiullah Turab’s poetry banned?
The Taliban attempted to suppress it, beating him for publishing.
What was Matiullah Turab’s view on education?
He didn’t directly address it but highlighted marginalized struggles.
How did Matiullah Turab’s death impact Pashto literature?
His death left a void, but his works continue to inspire.
Did Matiullah Turab inspire other poets?
Yes, his bold style influenced new Pashtun poets.
What was Matiullah Turab’s most famous quote?
“A poet’s job is not to write about love or flowers. A poet must write about the plight and pain of the people.”
How can I read Matiullah Turab’s poetry?
His poetry is available in Speen Baghawat, on YouTube, PoetryPashto.com, and the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry app.
Conclusion
Matiullah Turab’s passing is a profound loss, but his words will continue to echo in the hearts of poetry lovers worldwide. His bestselling Speen Baghawat, his viral YouTube recitations, and his unwavering commitment to his people’s struggles have cemented his place as one of Afghanistan’s greatest poets.
Call to Action: Explore Matiullah Turab’s poetry on YouTube, PoetryPashto.com, or download the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry app. Share your favorite Turab poem in the comments below and join us in celebrating his enduring legacy.
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