MA Rahat, originally named Marghoob Ali Rahat and born in 1941 in Karachi, emerged as a noteworthy Pakistani Urdu novelist celebrated for his significant impact on popular fiction. Throughout his career, he penned around 1,500 novels and stories, engaging readers through his expertise in various genres such as suspense, crime, horror, and thrillers.
Early Life and Education
Hailing from a family rich in literary tradition, MA Rahat was shaped by his father's influence, Professor Raghab Seemabi, and his grandfather, Habib Ali Raghab, both distinguished intellectuals. After the partition of India, his family immigrated to Pakistan, establishing their home in Karachi. Despite financial struggles that arose after his father's passing, Rahat remained committed to his studies, ultimately obtaining a Master's degree in Urdu from Karachi University.
Literary Career
Motivated by the renowned Ibne Safi, MA Rahat embarked on his writing career in the early 1960s. He played a vital role in the ongoing storytelling of popular detective series like "Imran Series" and "Jasoosi Duniya," frequently using pen names such as Najma Safi, Naghma Safi, and Najam Safi. His adept storytelling covered a range of subjects, including societal concerns, romance, horror, action, and crime, earning his works broad appeal among a wide array of readers.
Personal Life and Legacy
In his later years, MA Rahat moved to Lahore, where he persisted in his writing activities. He passed away on April 24, 2017, at the age of 76, after facing a brain tumor. Although his considerable contributions to Urdu literature went largely unacknowledged by formal literary organizations, his vast literary output continues to impact and motivate both readers and aspiring writers.
