Karachi: Prominent Pakistan Movement figure Begum Nawab of Junagadh Masarrat Jahan passed away after a prolonged illness, marking the end of an era for the historic royal family.
As a key female leader during the nation’s early years, Begum Sahiba was counted among the close associates of renowned figures such as Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Begum Ra’ana Liaquat Ali Khan, Begum Viqar-un-Nisa Noon, and Begum Shaista Ikramullah. She was the daughter-in-law of His Highness Nawab Sir Mahabat Khanji and the wife of former Sindh Governor Nawab Dilawar Khanji.
Throughout her life, she maintained a significant social and diplomatic standing and had the honor of hosting numerous international and national dignitaries. Her distinguished guests included Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Saudi King Shah Faisal, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan, the Khan of Kalat, Field Marshal Ayub Khan, and former President of Palestine Yasser Arafat.
The late Begum was also the mother of the late Nawab Muhammad Jahangir Khanji. She is survived by her children, Nawabzada Alamgir Khanji, Nawabzada Zaheer Khanji, Nawabzadi Aaliya Khanji, Nawabzada Ali Murtaza Khanji, and Nawabzadi Mariam Khanji.
Following her passing, prominent figures associated with the former state expressed their condolences. Dr. Haji Muhammad Hanif Tayyab, a senior member of the Junagadh State Council and former federal minister, along with Engineer Muhammad Iqbal Qureshi, Naib Dewan of Junagadh State Moin Khan, ADC Aqeel Khan, and leaders of the Junagadh State Muslim Federation, expressed their grief. They described her passing as “a great tragedy for the Junagadh family and the millions of people of Junagadh,” praying for the forgiveness and elevated status of the deceased.
