Bushra Bibi: The Mystical First Lady of Pakistan
[ 객원 에디터 6기 / 이석현 기자] In Pakistan, one political figure stands out. Bushra Bibi stepped into the limelight when she married Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2018, becoming the first lady of Pakistan. Often shrouded in mystery, Bibi has become a figure of speculation.
Bibi was born Bushra Riaz in 1974 in Dipalpur, a town in the Okara District of Punjab. Her family came from the influential Maneka clan, locally known for its spiritual and political influence. Bushra’s early life was associated with Sufism, a mystical Islamic belief system that emphasizes the inward search for God and the purification of the soul.
Before marrying Khan, Bibi was wedded to government servant Khawar Fareed Maneka and had five children with him. Maneka tragically passed away in 2017, leaving Bushra a widow.
Bibi is widely known to be deeply religious. Her association with Pakistani Islamic Sufi scholar and leader Pir Muhammad Naqib-ur-Rehman is well-known, adding to the mystique surrounding her persona. This spiritual influence reportedly played a significant role in her life, driving her to marry Khan.
The marriage of Khan and Bibi took place on February 18, 2018, making Bibi the third wife of the Prime Minister. The union surprised many, given the age difference and the unconventional nature of their relationship. According to an article from Britannica, Imran Khan, known for his charismatic and dynamic personality, found solace and companionship in Bushra Bibi, who brought with her a unique blend of spirituality and traditional values.
Since becoming the first lady of Pakistan, Bibi has stayed out of the public eye. This has led to speculations about her influence on Khan’s government. Nonetheless, she has also participated in charity, supporting health, education, and welfare causes.
Bibi remains a mysterious figure in Pakistani politics. From her early years in Depalpur to her spiritual journey and eventual marriage to the Prime Minister, her life is a tale of intrigue for many.
Only time will tell whether the public will get a better glimpse into the life of the first lady.
Sources: BBC, Daily Mail, Britannica
