Mustansar Hussain Tarar: The Nomad of Literature and the Voice of the Mountains

Introduction

Mustansar Hussain Tarar is a name that resonates with every lover of Urdu literature and travelogues. A legendary Pakistani author, travel writer, novelist, columnist, and former actor, Tarar has redefined the art of storytelling in Pakistan. With over 50 books to his credit, he is widely regarded as the pioneer of the modern Urdu travelogue, bringing the majestic peaks of the North and the distant streets of Europe to the doorsteps of common readers.

Personal Background

• Date of Birth: March 1, 1939.

• Place of Birth: Lahore, British India (Present-day Pakistan).

• Ancestral Roots: His family originally hails from the village of Jokhalian, located in the Mandi Bahauddin district.

• Father: Rehmat Khan Tarar, who operated a well-known seed shop named “Kisan & Co” in Lahore.

Early Life and Education

Mustansar Hussain Tarar spent his early years in Lahore and his ancestral village. He was educated at Rang Mahal Mission High School and Muslim Model High School. Later, he attended Government College University (GCU), Lahore. In the late 1950s, he traveled to Europe for higher education, a journey that eventually laid the foundation for his career as a travel writer.

The Journey into Literature

Tarar’s literary career began with his first travelogue, “Nikley Teri Talash Main”, published in 1971. The book, which detailed his experiences across Europe, became an overnight sensation and is now considered a classic.

Key Literary Works:

• Travelogues: Andalus Main Ajnabi (Stranger in Andalusia), Hunza Dastan, K-2 Kahani, and Chitral Dastan. He is famous for his deep connection with the Northern Areas of Pakistan, earning him the nickname “The Messenger of the Mountains.”

• Novels: He has authored several critically acclaimed novels including:

  • Pyar Ka Pehla Shehar: One of the most popular romantic Urdu novels set in Paris.

  • Raakh: A deep exploration of the socio-political history of Pakistan.

  • Bahao: A masterpiece exploring the ancient civilization of the Indus Valley.

  • Khas-o-Khashak Zamane: A massive saga spanning over a century of Punjabi and Pakistani history.

Television and Media Career

Mustansar Hussain Tarar is not just a writer; he was a pioneer of Pakistani morning shows.

• Morning Show: In the 1980s, he hosted PTV’s morning transmission, “Subuh Bakhair,” where his charismatic style and intellectual discussions earned him the title of “Chacha Ji” (Uncle) among the children of that era.

• Acting: He appeared in several popular PTV dramas such as Parwaaz and Sooraj Ke Saath Saath.

Awards and Recognition

In recognition of his immense contribution to Urdu literature and the arts, the Government of Pakistan has honored him with several prestigious awards:

1. Pride of Performance (1992)

2. Sitara-i-Imtiaz (2017)

3. Hilal-i-Imtiaz (2021)

4. Academy of Letters Lifetime Achievement Award

Legacy

Mustansar Hussain Tarar remains a titan of Urdu literature. His ability to blend historical facts with soulful prose allows readers to travel with him through time and geography. Even in his late 80s, he continues to write and inspire a new generation of writers and travelers who see the world through his words.

Quick Facts Table