Who Was Matiullah Turab. An Afghan Pashto Poet Passes Away Today. Bio
**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.
Known for his revolutionary verses and his bestselling poetry collection *Speen Baghawat*, Turab became a household name, particularly after the advent of YouTube in 2006, where his soul-stirring recitations made him one of the most searched Pashtun poets online. This blog post celebrates his extraordinary life, his contributions to Pashto literature, and the enduring impact of his work.
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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.
Upon returning to Afghanistan in the early 2000s, Turab balanced his life as a car body maker with his passion for poetry, creating verses that resonated deeply with Pashtun communities.
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.
Turab’s poetry was not merely art; it was a form of resistance, a call for justice, and a celebration of cultural identity.
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 its themes of patriotism, resistance, and social justice, garnered millions of views.
His ability to weave complex emotions into simple yet profound verses made his work accessible and relatable, transcending borders and resonating with Pashtuns in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and beyond.
YouTube allowed Turab’s poetry to reach a global audience, with diaspora communities in places like Moscow and the Middle East embracing his work. His recitations, often shared via Bluetooth in Afghanistan’s rural areas, became anthems of resilience.
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. Poems like those in *Speen Baghawat* addressed the plight of ordinary Afghans, earning Turab widespread acclaim for giving voice to the marginalized.
The book’s success was amplified by Turab’s ability to perform his poetry at cultural events and gatherings, where his booming voice and passionate delivery captivated audiences. 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
Matiullah 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, a political and militant group, also 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 verses criticized the Taliban, the Afghan government, foreign powers, and Pakistan, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on Afghanistan’s struggles.
Despite his criticisms, Turab’s popularity extended to influential circles, including an invitation to recite at the presidential palace in Kabul under President Hamid Karzai. 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.[](https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/19/world/asia/an-afghan-poet-shapes-metal-and-hard-words.html)
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. PoetryPashto.com, a platform dedicated to Pashto literature, describes Turab’s verses as “a profound journey into the Pashtoon experience,” highlighting their cultural and emotional depth.
(https://poetrypashto.com/discovering-matiullah-turab-the-afghan-poet-who-shaped-metal-and-words/)
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.
His recitations at events like the Naranj Gul poetry festival in Nangarhar drew thousands, showcasing the enduring power of Pashto poetry in Afghan culture.[](https://oysi.org/people/entry/matiullah-turab)[](https://www.afghanistan-analysts.org/en/reports/context-culture/the-poetry-of-the-emirate-from-insurgent-war-propaganda-to-state-sponsored-pr/)
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 and expressing grief over his untimely passing. One user wrote, “Matiullah Turab’s poetry was the soul of Pashtun resilience. May his soul rest in peace.”
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. His death marks a significant loss for Pashto literature and Afghan culture, but his legacy lives on through his poetry and the countless lives he touched.
Why Matiullah Turab’s Legacy Endures
Matiullah Turab’s poetry remains a testament to the power of words in times of adversity. His ability to articulate the pain, hope, and pride of the Pashtun people made him a cultural icon. From his garage in Kburying trucks by day and 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, ensuring that future generations can experience his revolutionary verses.
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. His poetry invites readers to connect with the universal human experience, making him a timeless figure in Afghan literary history.
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. As we honor his memory, let us revisit his verses, share his legacy, and celebrate the indomitable spirit of a poet who shaped both metal and words with equal mastery.
*Explore Matiullah Turab’s poetry on YouTube, PoetryPashto.com, or download the Matiullah Turab Pashto Poetry app to experience the depth of his work. Share your favorite Turab poem in the comments below and join us in celebrating his enduring legacy.*
*Keywords*: Matiullah Turab, Pashtun poet, Afghan poetry, Speen Baghawat, Pashto literature, YouTube poet, revolutionary poetry, Pashtoonwali, Afghan culture, hamasi poetry, inqilabi shayari, Pashto poetry app, Nangarhar poet, Afghan resistance poetry.
*Call to Action*: Subscribe to our blog for more insights into Pashto literature and Afghan culture. Follow us on social media for updates on literary icons like Matiullah Turab, and share this post to spread his legacy.
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
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.
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.
Subscribe to our blog for more insights into Pashto literature and Afghan culture. Follow us on social media for updates on literary icons like Matiullah Turab, and share this post to spread his legacy.
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