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Mustansar Hussain Tarar is a celebrated Pakistani author, travel writer, novelist, and television host, known for his extensive contributions to Urdu literature. Born on March 1, 1939, in Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab, British India (now Pakistan), Tarar has carved out a unique niche in Pakistani literature, especially for his travelogues and novels. His works reflect a deep connection with nature, human emotions, and the cultural landscapes of Pakistan.

Early Life and Education

Mustansar Hussain Tarar was born into a well-educated family in Mandi Bahauddin, a town in Punjab. His father, Rehmat Tarar, was a businessman who owned a publishing house, which played a significant role in shaping Tarar’s early interest in literature. He attended Government College, Lahore, and later moved to London, where he studied at the London School of Economics. During his time in Europe, he traveled extensively, an experience that would later heavily influence his travel writings.

Literary Career

Tarar's literary career began in the 1960s, and he quickly gained recognition for his unique voice and style. He is one of the most versatile writers in Urdu literature, having written in various genres including travelogues, novels, short stories, columns, and children's literature.

Travelogues: Tarar is often referred to as the pioneer of modern travel writing in Urdu. His travelogues are immensely popular and have inspired many Pakistanis to explore the world. Some of his most famous travelogues include:

Travelogues:

1. Nikley Teri Talash Main (نکلے تیری تلاش میں) – One of Tarar’s most famous travelogues, detailing his journey through Europe.
2. Safar Shumal Kay (سفر شمال کے) – A travelogue about his adventures in the northern areas of Pakistan.
3. Hunza Dastan (ہنزہ داستان) – Chronicles his journey to the Hunza Valley, offering deep insights into the region's culture and people.
4. Undlas Main Ajnabi (اندلس میں اجنبی) – A travelogue exploring the historical and cultural aspects of Andalusia, Spain.
5. Paristan (پریستان) – A travelogue that describes the fairy-tale-like landscapes of the northern areas of Pakistan.
6. Chitral Dastan (چترال داستان) – Details his experiences in the Chitral region of Pakistan.
7. Nanga Parbat (نانگا پربت) – A travelogue about his expedition to the Nanga Parbat mountain, one of the highest peaks in the world.
8. Deosai (دیوسائی) – Focuses on the Deosai Plains, one of the highest plateaus in the world.
9. Raakh (راکھ) – Explores the aftereffects of a journey, mixing travel with reflections on life and history.

Novels:

1. Bahao (بہاﺅ) – A historical novel set in the ancient Indus Valley, exploring the lives of the people along the Hakra River.
2. Rakh (راکھ) – Set against the backdrop of the Partition of India, this novel explores the psychological and emotional impacts of the event.
3. Qurbat-e-Marg Mein Mohabbat (قربت مرگ میں محبت) – A poignant love story exploring the complexities of human emotions.
4. Khas o Khashak Zamane (خس و خاشاک زمانے) – A novel that reflects on societal changes and their impact on individuals.
5. Undlas Mein Ajnabi (اندلس میں اجنبی) – A novel exploring the theme of estrangement in a foreign land.
6. Pyar Ka Pehla Sheher (پیار کا پہلا شہر) – A romantic novel that has gained immense popularity for its emotional depth.
7. Sheher-e-Lazawaal - Ababeelain (شہر لازوال - ابابیلیں) – A tale of love, loss, and the human condition.
8. Chikh (چِیخ) – A novel that explores the darker aspects of society and human nature.

Short Story Collections:

1. Panchwan Mausam (پانچواں موسم) – A collection of short stories that explore various aspects of human life and relationships.
2. Wapsi Ka Safar (واپسی کا سفر) – A collection that deals with themes of return, nostalgia, and the passage of time.

Children's Literature:

1. Ratti Gali (رتی گلی) – A children’s story set in the scenic Ratti Gali Lake area.
2. Chhoti Si Duniya (چھوٹی سی دنیا) – A collection of stories for children that explore different facets of life and the imagination.

Essays and Columns:

1. Chikh (چیخ) – A collection of his columns, reflecting on various social, cultural, and political issues in Pakistan.
2. Sawaneh Umri (سوانح عمری) – Autobiographical essays reflecting on his life and experiences.

Memoirs and Reflections:

1. Fatehnama (فتح نامہ) – A reflective work that delves into the writer’s personal and professional experiences.
2. Lahore Awargi (لاہور آوارگی) – A nostalgic journey through Lahore, capturing the city’s essence and history.

Television Career

Mustansar Hussain Tarar is also a well-known television personality. He became famous as one of the earliest morning show hosts on Pakistan Television (PTV). His show, "Subah Bakhair," was immensely popular and set the trend for morning shows in Pakistan. His natural charisma, combined with his deep knowledge of culture and literature, made him a beloved figure on television. He also hosted travel and cultural programs, which further enhanced his reputation as a cultural icon.

Personal Life and Interests

Mustansar Hussain Tarar is known for his love of nature, trekking, and exploration. He has led expeditions to the northern areas of Pakistan and has written extensively about these experiences. His deep connection with nature is often reflected in his writings, where he describes the beauty of landscapes with poetic elegance.

Tarar is also an avid gardener and often writes about his experiences with gardening and nature in his columns. He has a strong affinity for the cultural heritage of Pakistan, which is evident in his works that often explore the historical and cultural aspects of the regions he visits.

Philosophy and Worldview

Tarar's writings reflect a deep sense of humanism, empathy, and a profound understanding of the human condition. His works often explore the themes of identity, existentialism, and the search for meaning in life. He is known for his reflective and introspective style, where he delves into the inner lives of his characters and the philosophical questions that define human existence.