The late Nawabzada Mohammad Shaharyar Khan was born into a royal family in Bhopal, India, in 1934.
Despite the challenges of the post-Mughal era, Bhopal maintained harmony between Hindus and Muslims. Shaharyar received an education at prestigious schools and pursued a career in Pakistan’s foreign service for 37 years.
Known for his grace and diplomacy, Shaharyar made significant contributions in sports and diplomacy. His upbringing included rigorous education and a love for sports instilled by his mother, who herself served as a diplomat. He excelled in various diplomatic postings, including challenging roles like the UN’s special representative in Rwanda during a tragic massacre.
Cricket was Shaharyar’s passion, influenced by his mother’s love for outdoor activities. He managed the Pakistan cricket team and later chaired the cricket board. He co-authored books on cricket’s relationship with politics, reflecting on its values amidst changing times.
Shaharyar’s notable work includes a comprehensive history of the Bhopal dynasty and his eyewitness account of the Rwandan tragedy. He was committed to preserving historical truths and advocating for the integrity of the game of cricket.