Guardian of the Mother Tongue: The Lifelong Odyssey of Abdul Qayum Bedar

By: Ahmed Jahangeer Khan

“A man without education is like a building without a foundation.”

For Abdul Qayum Bedar, language is not merely a tool for communication—it is the very soul of a culture, a vessel of history, and a legacy that must be preserved at all costs. Born on May 15, 1956, in the culturally rich soil of Quetta, Balochistan, Bedar has spent over four decades championing the Brahui language, elevating it from regional roots to national and international prominence.

The Genesis of a Literary Passion

Bedar’s academic journey began at the Central Primary School on Jail Road, Quetta, where he completed his matriculation in 1976. From an early age, he possessed an innate reverence for his mother tongue, devouring any Brahui literature and poetry he could find.

Recognizing this rare dedication, his mentor, the legendary Dr. Abdul Rehman Brahvi, guided him toward formal academic pursuit. He informed young Bedar about Brahui language classes being conducted by the University of Balochistan at Government Science College. Eager to turn his passion into purpose, Bedar enrolled, immersing himself in an environment surrounded by like-minded visionaries.

The Birth of the Brahui Literature Society

It was during these formative college years that history was made. In 1978, Bedar, along with a group of passionate intellectuals—Professor Khudadad Gul, Ayub Alam, Qahir Bangulzai, and Abdul Wahab—founded the Brahui Literature Society. Inaugurated by PTV Manager Abdul Kareem, the society appointed Khudadad Gul as Chairman, Abdul Wahab as Vice Chairman, and Bedar as Treasurer.

What began as an initiative organizing local stage dramas quickly grew into a powerful cultural movement. Parallel to his literary activism, Bedar continued his academic ascent, earning a Master’s degree in Brahui, an M.Phil from Allama Iqbal Open University, and eventually pursuing his Ph.D.

A prolific writer, Bedar has authored 16 books to date. During his university days, he also penned insightful columns for leading national dailies, including Daily Jang and Daily Mashriq, extending his literary reach across Karachi, Multan, and Talar.

Transforming National Television

Bedar’s passion for storytelling naturally led him to broadcast media. Entering Pakistan Television (PTV) as a Grade-16 Editor, his dedication propelled him through the ranks. Following an intensive four-month training program in Islamabad, he began producing landmark Brahui documentaries and dramas.

His career at PTV is defined by steady excellence: advancing from Assistant Producer of News & Current Affairs to Head of Current Affairs, Program Manager, and ultimately Controller of Current Affairs in Islamabad.

Throughout his television career, Bedar produced 13 acclaimed Brahui dramas. Among his most celebrated creations is Gul Rung, a groundbreaking children’s show launched in 2009 that set new broadcasting records for regional programming.

Honors, Legacy, and Global Recognition

Bedar’s tireless commitment to Pakistani art and culture has earned him the nation’s highest honors. He is a recipient of the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (2016) for outstanding performance, the President Mamnoon Hussain Award, the Sai Fareki Gold Medal, the Brahui Academy Award, the Brahui Literature Award, the Faiz Bakhshapuri Award, and five PTV Best Producer Awards.

On the international stage, Bedar has officially represented Pakistan and Balochistan’s rich cultural heritage six times across Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Today, the man who started as the young treasurer of the Brahui Literature Society in 1978 serves as its four-time elected Chairman, leading the organization with distinction since 2013.

A Vision for Tomorrow

Reflecting on his journey, Bedar attributes his intellectual awakening to his revered teacher, Dr. Abdul Rehman Brahvi, whom he considers his ultimate role model. As a seasoned author, broadcaster, and cultural custodian, his message to the upcoming generation remains clear and uncompromising:

“Ignorance is the greatest vulnerability of any culture. Educate yourselves, honor your roots, and build a foundation that no passage of time can erase.”