Fahmida Riaz
Fahmida Riaz (Urdu: فہمیدہ ریاض) (28 July 1946 – 21 November 2018) was an Urdu writer, poet and activist from Pakistan. She authored many books, such as, Godaavari, Khatt-e Marmuz, and Khana e Aab O Gil in addition to the first translation in rhyme of the Masnavi of Jalaluddin Rumi from Persian into Urdu. The author of more than 15 books of fiction and poetry, she remained at the center of controversies. When Badan Dareeda, her second collection of verses appeared, she was accused of using erotic and sensual expressions in her work. The themes prevalent in her verse were, until then, considered taboo for women writers. She also translated the works of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai and Shaikh Ayaz from Sindhi to Urdu. Fleeing General Zia-ul Haq's religious tyranny, Riaz sought refuge in India and spent seven years there.
Fahmida Riaz | |
|---|---|
| Native name | فہمیدہ ریاض |
| Born | 28 July 1946 Meerut, United Provinces, British India (now Uttar Pradesh, India) |
| Died | 21 November 2018 (aged 72) Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Occupation | Urdu poet, writer |
| Citizenship | British Indian (1946-47) Pakistani (1947-2018) |
| Literary movement | Progressive Writers Movement |
| Notable works | Godaavari Khatt-e Marmuz |
| Notable awards | Pride of Performance Award in 2010 Al-Muftah Award |
The poems from her collection, Apna Jurm Sabit Hae, reflect her homeland's experience under the dictatorship of General Zia-ul-Haq. By reputation, Riaz stands alongside Nazim Hikmet, Pablo Neruda, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.