Mast Tawakali: The Father of Balochi Literature and Sufi Poet

Mast Tawakali, known as the "Father of Balochi Literature," was a 19th-century Baloch Sufi poet, mystic, and reformist. His life and poetry were marked by a profound love for a woman named Samoo, which led him on a spiritual journey that resonates with the suffering of common people. This article delves into the life, love, and legacy of this remarkable figure.

Early Life and Activism:

Born in 1825 during Afghan rule over northern Balochistan, Tawakali hailed from the Loharani (Sherani) branch of the Marri tribe. He spoke out against the oppressive feudal system and the dominance of tribal chiefs ("sardars") in Balochistan. His resistance to British colonialism through poetry mirrored the efforts of contemporaries like Khwaja Ghulam Farid and Mian Muhammad Bakhsh in Punjab.

Love and Poetry:

Tawakali's life took a profound turn when he met Samoo, a married woman, at the age of 28. This encounter ignited a love so deep that it transformed him into "Mast Tawakali" or "Nobody cares." Despite facing opposition from villagers, who urged him to abandon his pursuit, Mast's devotion to Samoo remained unwavering. When Samoo's husband eventually left with her, Mast turned to God and poetry, spending the rest of his life in a shrine composing verses and praying for his lost love.

Poetry of Love and Spirituality:

Mast Tawakali's poetry carries a message of love, peace, tolerance, and brotherhood. His verses resonate with the suffering of the underprivileged, reflecting his commitment to their cause. His love for Samoo evolved from earthly to spiritual, culminating in a profound connection with the divine. One remarkable account even tells of a train stopping in its tracks due to Mast's mystic intervention.

Legacy and Passing:

Mast Tawakali's legacy extends far beyond his time. His poetry, deeply rooted in the human experience, continues to inspire and resonate with readers. He passed away in 1892, 27 years after Samoo's own demise, leaving behind a body of work that captures the essence of human love and spiritual devotion.

Shrine and Final Resting Place:

Today, Mast Tawakali's shrine stands as a testament to his enduring influence. Located in Mast Maidan Gari, District Kohlu, Balochistan, the shrine is a place of reverence and reflection. A mosque within the compound further honors the memory of this great Sufi poet.

Mast Tawakali's life is a testament to the power of love, spirituality, and the written word. His poetry not only paved the way for Balochi literature but also touched the hearts of those who seek truth, love, and connection. The legacy of Mast Tawakali lives on, reminding us of the enduring impact of one man's devotion to both human love and the divine.