Remembering Miskeen Jahan Khoso (1909–1980): The Edhi of Thar

Ali Nawaz Rahimoo

Tharparkar: Today marks the 45th death anniversary of Miskeen Jahan Khoso, a revered social activist and philanthropist whose tireless service to the marginalized communities of Tharparkar continues to inspire generations.

Born on July 9, 1909, in the small village of Sami Veri near Nagarparkar, Miskeen Jahan Khoso was destined to become a beacon of hope for the poor and oppressed. Though he initially joined the police department, a job passed down from his father and grandfather, he resigned in 1937 after becoming disillusioned with the systemic exploitation of peasants and laborers by local landlords and patels.

What followed was a life of extraordinary sacrifice and service that spanned over four decades. Miskeen walked thousands of miles, often on foot, or traveled by camels, horses, and old GMC trucks known locally as khekhras, carrying bundles of newspapers, an iron baton in hand, and a signature cloth cape wrapped around his head. His mission was simple yet profound: to stand up for the voiceless.

Miskeen was no stranger to resistance. His outspoken advocacy for the Kolhi, Meghwar, Bheel, and other marginalized communities often put him at odds with powerful feudal lords. He faced multiple criminal cases and was imprisoned under the draconian Goonda Act for two years. 

Yet, he remained undeterred. Even after being released from jail, he would return to the villages of Thar to help people file complaints, pursue legal justice, and challenge oppression.

Perhaps most remarkably, Miskeen never hesitated to hold even his own family accountable. When he discovered that his brothers had illegally occupied the land of poor Kolhi farmers, he stood firmly with the victims, filed a case against his siblings, and once again proved that his commitment to justice knew no bounds.

He lived humbly and identified himself as an ordinary man—never once using his influence or connections for personal gain. His service was entirely voluntary, grounded in the values of equality, justice, and human dignity.

For this reason, many remember him today as the “Edhi of Thar,” likening his legacy to that of Pakistan’s legendary humanitarian, Abdul Sattar Edhi.

Despite being nominated for an international award for his lifelong service to the poor, Miskeen’s family could not afford to attend the ceremony in the United States. He neither sought fame nor recognition; his reward was the well-being of his people.

His influence remains deeply embedded in the soul of Tharparkar. Miskeen’s legacy lives on through those who continue his mission. One such figure is Mama Vishan Thari of Mithi, who operates a blood bank near the civil hospital, providing lifesaving support to hundreds, regardless of religion, caste, or creed.

Miskeen Jahan Khoso passed away on July 23, 1980, but his spirit—majestic and resilient like the Karoonjhar hills—lives on. His story is one of unwavering courage, humility, and selflessness—a true friend of the poor whose memory still walks the dusty trails of Tharparkar.

As we remember him today, we are reminded that real change-makers do not wait for resources—they rise from among the people, stand with them, and serve them, come what may.

The article is the writer’s opinion, it may or may not adhere to the organization’s editorial policy.

The writer is a social development professional based in Umerkot Sindh. He can be contacted on anrahimoo@gmail.com.