KARACHI (SW): Renowned Pashto poet and literary critic Riaz Tasneem passed away in Karachi, Pakistan on Sunday at the age of 49.
Late Tasneem, known for his poetic verses was suffering from hepatitis, and lost the battle for life at a private clinic in the port city. He is survived by his widow, a son and a daughter.
His friends or family members have not announced the date for the final prayers, but it has been decided to lay him to rest in Karachi. Born in Swat valley of the Char Sada district, Tasneem was living in Karachi since 1990s serving in the police.
Among his works of poetry include books titled ‘Da Kom Rang Me Kasheed Karay’ (What Color Have I Painted), ‘Cnahdan’ (Sandalwood) and ‘Za Ka Da Wari Wedo Shwam’ (If I Slept This Time). In verse, late Tasneem wrote three books titled ‘De Khushal Intekhab’ (Choice of Khushal), ‘Reportage’ and Bed Number 28.
Considered as one of the progressive-minded Pashto poet, literary figures have pronounced Tasneem’s death as a big loss.
ENDS