Revolutionary poet Habib Jalib celebrated his 98th birth anniversary today. Born on March 24, 1928 in Hoshiarpur district of Indian Punjab, Jalib migrated to Pakistan in 1947 and began working for the Daily Imroz in Karachi.
Titled as the poet of the people by his followers, Jalib’s simple yet attractive style touched the hearts of many. He is considered one of the most influential Urdu poets in Pakistan.
Jalib wrote extensively against military coups led by General Ayub Khan and Ziaul Haq, and protested against the Hudood Ordinance alongside women in Lahore streets.
Despite his impoverished life, Jalib never compromised on principles, even when offered numerous opportunities. His famous poetry books include Sar-e-Maqtal, Zikr Behte Khoon Ka, Gumbad-e-Bedar, and Kulyaat-e-Habib Jalib. He passed away on March 12, 1993 in Lahore.