The Remarkable Life of Raja Mohammad Asghar: A Veteran Journalist

Written by: Muhammad Nadeem Khan

(Raja Mohammad Asghar)

In the vibrant tapestry of Pakistani journalism, Raja Mohammad Asghar stood as a beacon of integrity and a respected figure. 

Early Life

Born in the traditional village of Azad Kashmir, Asghar's journey began with a passion for news articles for local newspapers, where he was recognized as a political news journalist and headed toward his dream job in the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). There he has contributed to the union of journalists and achieved for fellow journalists under crucial circumstances of government. He was offered a job as a news correspondent by the Reuters news agency where he has reached a milestone of achievement and set an example by opening the boundaries to work as a freelance journalist to his followers. After retirement, he joined Dawn newspaper as a dedicated journalist to cover parliamentary reports that would earn him a place in the annals of Pakistani media history.

Last Days

Besides that he was suffering from Pancreatic Cancer with partial Liver Cancer, Raja Mohammad Asghar continued his work. When he became too weak to stand on his feet after chemotherapy, the time was running fast to hold him for more days to enjoy the last days of his life with his family. He left his family to mourn after him and took a last breath at Shifa International. He died on 13^th February 2016, at the age of 78 (16 November 1938 - 13 February 2016), and was buried at his home place at Kacheeli village, Azad Kashmir.

His Family

In his family, his wife died in 2013 (3 years before his death), and he has also adopted a son from his in-laws, Muhammad Nadeem Khan in his life (since his son was a 6-month old). Not only he was happy with his family, but he was also spared his time to spend golden moments with his grandchildren. He also devoted his life to his family members including brother and sisters and their families. 

Raja Asghar was a landlord from his ancestors in his village life. Where he was very fond of the plantation of Citrus and Cherry along with the best quality of walnuts, Apricots, and Kashmiri Apples. But he has promised his job to live here in Islamabad with his son and his family. He also paid attention to the numerous matters of the village including family matters.

His Career Life

Asghar's career spanned decades, and his contributions to journalism were numerous. He was very popular among his friends and coworkers. His influence on others was remarkable. He was very kind to the poor and to the people who reached him. 

He was very fond of antiques, which he had collected from all around the world. He traveled to most countries for news coverage, mostly with the crew of the prime minister and some time for a special news assignment. 

He has contributed as a journalist for the news coverage belonging to Kashmir region and Kashmiri issues. It was his big dream to see in his life that the Kashmir issue was resolved. He was a vocal advocate for workers' rights and a champion of the underprivileged, using his platform to amplify their voices and shed light on their struggles. 

He was a mentor to some of the rising journalists at that time when he was in APP. In my observation, I have met many journalists who admit that they have been taught by Raja Mohammad Asghar. His reporting on labor issues and parliamentary proceedings was meticulous and unbiased, earning him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his readers.

Asghar's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the pages of the countless articles he penned. His dedication to the truth and his unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity continue to inspire a new generation of journalists in Pakistan.

Asghar's life was not without its challenges. He faced adversity and criticism throughout his career, but he remained steadfast in his principles and unwavering in his pursuit of truth. His story is a testament to the power of journalism and the impact that a single voice can have on society.

Today, Raja Mohammad Asghar's legacy continues to inspire journalists and readers alike. His contributions to Pakistani journalism are a shining example of the power of the pen and the importance of a free and independent press. Asghar's life is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of journalism.