Shams-ul-Ulama Mirza Kalich Beg

Son of: Faridun Beg

Born: October 4, 1853, Tando Thorho, Hyderabad

Died: July 3, 1929

Human history has been full of people who have changed the fate of humanity through their intellect and wisdom. Sindh has also produced such remarkable personalities. The British colonial era in the history of Sindh is considered significant for the development of language, literature, history, and the social system. The year 1853 witnessed two major events: the creation of the Sindhi alphabet and the birth of Shams-ul-Ulama Mirza Kalich Beg.

Mirza Kalich Beg’s ancestors migrated to Sindh after enduring many hardships. However, with Mirza Kalich Beg\'s birth, the family\'s fortunes changed. From his school days, he actively participated in intellectual and academic pursuits. His translated book Maqalat-ul-Hikmat was completed while he was still a student. His early achievements reflected the brilliance that later defined his life.

Throughout his career, Mirza Kalich Beg served as a bright scholar, Deputy Collector in the Revenue Department, responsible father, translator, researcher, historian, poet, novelist, religious scholar, international history writer, scientist, biographer, and philanthropist.

Mirza Kalich Beg was the pioneer of the Sindhi novel and made remarkable contributions to Sindhi literature by writing short stories, dramas, travelogues, biographies, essays, and many other literary works. He composed poetry on educational, religious, romantic, and various other themes, while also translating the works of internationally renowned poets into Sindhi. His writings extended to astronomy, flora, and fauna, reflecting the breadth of his knowledge and interests.

His speed and dedication to writing were extraordinary. Even today, publishing houses and literary institutions have not been able to publish his complete collection of manuscripts. The Mirza Kalich Beg Chair continues to work diligently to preserve and publish his invaluable literary heritage.

Mirza Kalich Beg authored 461 books covering 61 different subjects. He could read, write, and speak several languages, including Sindhi, Urdu, English, Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and Balochi.

In recognition of his outstanding literary and educational services, the British Government conferred upon him the prestigious title "Shams-ul-Ulama" (Sun Among the Learned) in 1924.

Mirza Kalich Beg passed away at the age of 76 on July 3, 1929. He was laid to rest at Syed Buland Shah Graveyard, Tando Thorho, Hyderabad.