Meraj Hamayun Khan

It was a pleasant surprise to see Iftikhar Ahmad, a friend of my brother, Inayat, since their school days, to take up the task of writing a book—especially on a subject as layered and underexplored as the Yusafzai tribe. Even more touching is his reason: a tribute to Inayat. The personal connection adds warmth and sincerity to the narrative.

The book offers some fresh insights into the tribe’s long and eventful history. I had always known about the Yusafzai migration following the infamous dinner hosted by Babur’s uncle, Ulas Beg, in Kabul. What I didn’t know—and what Iftikhar brings out—is that this was actually their fourth migration. Two movements occurred within Afghanistan, and two brought them across the border. Each one either led to the founding of new settlements, like Kandahar after their escape from Mongol invasions in Swat and Malakand, or contributed to the growth of existing cities like Kabul and Peshawar. The Yusafzai come across as a tribe marked by grit, endurance, and a fierce refusal to be subdued.

The book starts off strong, tracing the tribe’s origin to Bin Yameen, the youngest brother of Hazrat Yusaf, who, according to the author, settled in Afghanistan—hence the name “Yusafzai.” But as the chapters progress, the narrative loses some steam. The latter portion is dominated by battle descriptions against the Mughals and the British. While Iftikhar does credit the Yusafzai for their resistance against overwhelming odds, he gives more detail to the tactics and personalities of the opposing forces than to his own people. The inclusion of large photos of enemy generals also feels at odds with his original intent of highlighting the tribe’s legacy.

Still, I read the book with interest—not just for its historical content, but for the deeply personal layer it carries. My brother, our village, and many familiar names appear in its pages. Inayat is fortunate to be remembered with such affection. And Iftikhar’s effort to preserve and honor both his friend and their shared heritage is what ultimately gives this book its soul