The passing of Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra on November 10, 2025, was a profound loss to Pakistan’s intellectual landscape. Her indelible mark spans academia, social activism, cultural discourse, and passionate advocacy for the Urdu language. She was more than an academic; she was a public conscience whose scholarship informed her activism, and whose life set a benchmark for intellectual integrity.
Academic & Educational Colossus
Dr. Zehra’s career was a testament to the power of education. She was a Professor Emeritus of History at Forman Christian College and held prestigious positions as Principal of both Lahore College for Women University and the Government College for Women, Gulberg.
Her academic focus on intellectual history, historical analysis, and South Asian social issues provided a critical lens through which she interpreted contemporary challenges. Her PhD from the University of Hawaii on Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan highlighted her lifelong pursuit of knowledge rooted in the history of the subcontinent.
She served as a visiting faculty member at elite institutions like LUMS and NCA, shaping generations of students and instilling in them the importance of forming their own rational, critical opinions.
Her scholarly contributions were recognized internationally, leading to her appointment as a UNESCO Chair Holder and a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award from the East-West Center, Hawaii.
Proponent of Urdu Language & Literature
Dr. Zehra was perhaps most recognized by the general public for her eloquent and profound command of the Urdu language. She was a passionate advocate who saw Urdu not merely as a subject of study but as a vital binding force and a key to national identity and progress.
She consistently championed the continued use of Urdu, pushing for a “literary revolution” to encourage Pakistani youth to engage with their national language and its literary heritage.
In her forums and talks, she skillfully used Urdu literature, drawing heavily on the works of classical poets like Ghalib and Mir, to discuss complex social and philosophical concepts, making high-brow intellectual discourse accessible to the masses. She believed the language and its poetry allowed people to connect with timeless human experiences.
Social & Human Rights Impact
Dr. Zehra’s academic foundation directly translated into powerful social activism, with education being her chosen tool for change. She was a committed advocate for human development, basic human rights, and gender equality.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Arfa Sayyeda Zehra — a respected scholar and a thoughtful public intellectual whose clarity and grace touched many.
Her work reflected a steady commitment to learning and dialogue, and her calm, reflective presence left a mark on… pic.twitter.com/TRktC6lWLj
— Rekhta (@Rekhta) November 11, 2025
Her tenure as Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women and a member of the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan allowed her to work on critical issues, including the reform of the Hudood laws, directly influencing the socio-political structure related to women’s empowerment. She dedicated her work to creating a society that values and practices human rights and freedom of thought.
Her televised appearances and speeches elevated public discourse, allowing her wisdom on culture, literature, and social issues to reach every household. She used these platforms to highlight the dignity of every citizen, especially women, and the importance of self-realization in building a resilient nation. She was awarded a “Tamgha-e-Imtiaz” for her Public Service work.
Dr. Zehra’s legacy is defined by her integrity, commitment, and the power of her word, which continues to inspire the pursuit of justice and intellectual excellence in Pakistan.
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