distinguished scholar Vali Ram Vallabh passes away

By Arbaz Ahmed Janjhi

Vali Ram Vallabh, a distinguished scholar, prolific writer, and esteemed poet, passed away on October 29 in Hyderabad. He was born on August 18, 1941, in Mithi, district Tharparkar .

His life began against the tumultuous backdrop of historical events, which he encapsulated in his narratives, recounting his family’s journey to safety during a night of violent unrest in his birth village.
A luminary in the field of literature and academia, Vallabh’s educational journey commenced in Thar and then at Sachal College Hyderabad and Sindh University. His quest for knowledge led him to attain mastery in Urdu Literature, sociology, Mass Communication, and a degree in law.

Vali Ram Vallabh served with distinction as a Publication Officer in Sindhology and later as a Deputy Director. His contributions to literature were immense, as he dedicated his efforts to translating and compiling numerous books. He adeptly translated works by eminent authors such as Qurratulain Hyder, Krishan Chandar, Amrita Pritam, and Albert Camus, introducing their masterpieces to Sindhi literature.
Acknowledged for his literary prowess and academic contributions, Vallabh received the prestigious Pride of Performance Award in 2003, recognizing his invaluable services to academia and literature. He continued to amass accolades, receiving the Presidential Award in 2010 and several other honors from esteemed literary and cultural institutions both within the country and abroad.

Vallabh’s literary repertoire extended far and wide, encompassing biographies, interviews, religious discourse, philosophical works, and numerous stories in both Sindhi and English, totaling around twenty publications.

His legacy remains deeply entrenched in the literary landscape, marked by a passion for language, an insatiable thirst for knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to sharing the beauty of words with the world.

Vali Ram Vallabh’s passing leaves a void in the realm of literature and academia, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with excellence in the field he so ardently adorned.

He is survived by his indelible literary works and the memories he leaves in the hearts of all who were touched by his wisdom and storytelling.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.