Queen Soraya Tarzi of Afghanistan was born on November 24, 1899 in Damascus, Ottoman-ruled Syria. She was the daughter of Asma Rasmiya and Mahmud Tarzi, a prominent intellectual and politician advocating for the modernization of Afghanistan. Queen Soraya played a significant role as the Queen of Afghanistan from February 28, 1919, to January 14, 1929.
From the Pashtun Barakzai tribe, Queen Soraya received her education from her forward-thinking father, setting the stage for her future as a trailblazer.
The Tarzi family’s return to Afghanistan coincided with the ascension of Amanullah Khan to the throne in 1919. Amanullah Khan’s father, Amir Habibullah Khan, had called upon Afghan exiles to return to their homeland, leading to the marriage between Amanullah Khan and Queen Soraya in 1913.
Queen Soraya, unlike her predecessors, emerged as a true partner to her husband. She stood by his side at various events, breaking new ground as the first Muslim wife to appear publicly with her husband. Her influence extended beyond Afghanistan, capturing the attention of the entire Muslim world. In 1928, Queen Soraya received an honorary degree from Oxford University, highlighting her global recognition and respect.
Despite her achievements, the rapid modernization efforts spearheaded by the monarchy faced resistance in more traditional provinces. Fearing rebellion, King Amanullah Khan made the difficult decision to abdicate, leading the royal family into exile in Rome, Italy. During exile, Queen Soraya continued her advocacy for women’s rights and education, remaining a compassionate and dedicated figure. She passed away at the age of 68 in Rome, leaving behind a legacy of progressive ideals and dedication to her nation.
Today, Queen Soraya Tarzi is remembered as a pioneering queen who played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s journey towards modernization. Her burial in the Bagh-e-Shaheed mausoleum in Jalalabad, alongside King Amanullah Khan, serves as a reminder of their enduring impact on Afghan history.
It is important to acknowledge and honor the profound strides that Queen Soraya made as the first Muslim feminist, especially in light of the contrasting reputation of Asma al-Assad, the wife of Syria’s dictator Bashar al-Assad.
