Issa Khan
Surely, we belong to God, and to Him we shall return. Momi’s respected Mirzada Ustad, a devoted teacher and a guardian of Arkarai Valley’s learning tradition, passed away today at Sherpao Hospital in Peshawar. He was 102.
His passing feels like the closing of a bright chapter that shaped generations with knowledge, culture, and wisdom. His real name was Abdul Jabbar Khan. His mother lovingly called him “Amir Zada,” but across the region he was known simply and respectfully as “Mirzada Ustad.” He was the last son of Charwelo Mehrban Shah, the last Charwelo of the former State of Chitral, and on his mother’s side the grandson of Minor Charwelo of Chirveel.
The grace, dignity, and cultural depth of both families were evident throughout his life. He studied in the second batch of the Centennial Model School Chitral, the first formal school of the former Chitral State. After Pakistan’s creation, when the State decided to establish school in every valley, the people of Arkari faced a challenge: there was not a single educated person in the valley.
At their request, he set aside his own studies and accepted the responsibility of becoming Arkari’s first teacher. For nearly six years, he taught with remarkable dedication, patience, and kindness.Later, he joined the Pakistan Army.
During the 1965 war, he served at President Ayub Khan’s residence in GHQ Rawalpindi, a role that reflected deep trust and responsibility. He eventually retired and returned home. He then devoted more than twenty years to teaching in Ismaili religious education centers. His classes were remembered for their simplicity, dignity, and quiet spiritual depth.He loved Chitrali music and would often spend long hours listening to its soothing melodies.
Poet Fakhr-ul-Mulk Fakhr was one of his closest friends; the two shared countless hours together, writing poetry and enjoying one another’s companionship. Their friendship was marked by sincerity, affection, and effortless warmth.
The Arkari Valley will remember him always, for his service, his love for the community, and the light of knowledge he shared so generously. May Allah grant him a high place in His mercy. Ameen.