Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) in Pakistan, has been a cradle of culture, art, and history for centuries. This vibrant city has produced numerous notable figures who have made significant contributions in various fields. Here’s a look at some of the most famous historical celebrities from Peshawar.

1. Dilip Kumar (Muhammad Yusuf Khan)

Background
Born in 1922 in Peshawar, Dilip Kumar, originally named Muhammad Yusuf Khan, became one of the most celebrated actors in Indian cinema. He is often referred to as the "Tragedy King" due to his portrayal of intense dramatic roles.

Achievements
Dilip Kumar's illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he starred in iconic films like *Devdas*, *Mughal-e-Azam*, and *Naya Daur*. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, two of India's highest civilian honors.

2. Raj Kapoor

Background
Raj Kapoor, another legendary figure in Indian cinema, was born in Peshawar in 1924. He belonged to a prominent film family and was the son of the famous actor Prithviraj Kapoor.

Achievements
Known as the "Showman of Indian Cinema," Raj Kapoor was an acclaimed actor, director, and producer. His notable works include classics like *Awaara*, *Shree 420*, and *Mera Naam Joker*. Raj Kapoor's films often carried social messages and are remembered for their musical and visual brilliance.

3. Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Bacha Khan)

Background
Born in 1890 in the Utmanzai village near Peshawar, Abdul Ghaffar Khan, also known as Bacha Khan, was a prominent political and spiritual leader. He was a close ally of Mahatma Gandhi and a staunch advocate for non-violence.

Achievements
Bacha Khan founded the Khudai Khidmatgar (Servants of God) movement, which sought to promote peace and social reform among the Pashtun people. He is remembered for his tireless efforts in the Indian independence movement and his dedication to education and humanitarian work.

4. Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar

Background
Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar was born in 1899 in Peshawar. He was an influential political leader and a key figure in the Pakistan Movement.

Achievements
Nishtar served as a senior leader in the All-India Muslim League and played a pivotal role in the creation of Pakistan. He later held various important positions, including the Governor of Punjab and the President of the Pakistan Muslim League. His contributions to the political landscape of Pakistan are highly regarded.

5. Rehman Baba

Background
Rehman Baba, born in 1632 in the outskirts of Peshawar, is one of the most revered Pashto-language poets. His real name was Abdul Rahman, and he is fondly known as the "Nightingale of Peshawar."

Achievements
Rehman Baba's poetry, characterized by its simplicity and spiritual depth, has had a profound impact on Pashto literature. His verses often emphasize love, humility, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. His work remains widely read and admired in the Pashtun culture.

6. Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan

Background
Although not originally from Peshawar, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan spent significant time in the city and is closely associated with it. Born in Bhopal in 1936, he is widely known as the father of Pakistan’s nuclear program.

Achievements
Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan was instrumental in developing Pakistan's nuclear capability, which has had a lasting impact on the country's defense and geopolitical standing. He received numerous accolades for his contributions to science and technology, including Pakistan’s highest civilian award, Nishan-e-Imtiaz.

7. Prithviraj Kapoor

Background
Prithviraj Kapoor, born in 1906 in Peshawar, was a pioneering actor of Indian cinema and theater. He is the patriarch of the Kapoor family, which has played a significant role in Bollywood.

Achievements
Prithviraj Kapoor's career in the film industry began in the silent film era and continued into the talkies. He is best known for his work in movies like *Mughal-e-Azam* and his role as a theater pioneer with the founding of Prithvi Theatre.

8. Roshan Khan

Background
Born in 1929 in Nawakille, Peshawar, Roshan Khan was a prominent squash player. He is the father of Jahangir Khan, another legendary squash player.

Achievements
Roshan Khan won the British Open Squash Championship in 1957, making significant contributions to the sport and paving the way for future Pakistani players.

9. Feroz Khan

Background
Feroz Khan, an iconic Bollywood actor and filmmaker, was born in Bangalore, but his family hailed from Peshawar. He was known for his charismatic personality and stylish on-screen presence.

Achievements
Feroz Khan starred in and directed numerous hit films, including *Dharmatma* and *Qurbani*. He was known for his contributions to the action and drama genres in Indian cinema.

10. Yousafzai (Khushal Khan Khattak)

Background
Khushal Khan Khattak, born in 1613 near Peshawar, was a prominent Pashto poet, warrior, and chief of the Khattak tribe.

Achievements
Khushal Khan Khattak is celebrated for his poetry, which emphasizes themes of valor, honor, and the Pashtunwali code. He also played a significant role in uniting Pashtun tribes against the Mughal Empire.

11. Qazi Attaullah Khan

Background
Born in Peshawar in 1895, Qazi Attaullah Khan was a prominent figure in the Pakistan Movement and a close associate of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Achievements
Qazi Attaullah Khan was an influential leader in the All-India Muslim League and played a critical role in advocating for the rights of Muslims in British India. He was actively involved in the struggle for Pakistan's independence.

12. Hamid Karzai

Background
Hamid Karzai, born in 1957, is a prominent Afghan politician who has roots in the Peshawar region. He served as the President of Afghanistan from 2001 to 2014.

Achievements
Karzai played a crucial role in the reconstruction and stabilization of Afghanistan post-Taliban era. His leadership was instrumental in navigating the country through a period of significant change and turmoil.

Conclusion

Peshawar's rich history and cultural diversity have given rise to many illustrious figures whose contributions span various fields, including cinema, literature, politics, and sports. These historical celebrities have not only made significant impacts in their respective domains but have also brought pride and recognition to Peshawar on both national and international stages. Their legacies continue to inspire and shape the cultural and historical narrative of this remarkable city.