Saudi Arabia Mourns the Loss of Poet and National Literary Icon Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen
In a tragic turn of events, Saudi Arabia bid farewell to a true literary legend, Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen, who passed away at the age of 75 in Paris after battling an illness.
Known as the “word engineer,” Prince Badr was not just a poet but a cultural icon whose influence reverberated throughout Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region. His eloquent verses and poignant prose touched the hearts and minds of many, leaving an everlasting impact on the literary landscape.
A trailblazer in popularizing Saudi poetry among Arab audiences, Prince Badr’s words were immortalized in songs by esteemed artists like Talal Maddah, Mohammed Abdu, Kadim Al-Sahir, and Assala. His patriotic sentiments struck a deep chord with Saudis, forging a strong bond between him and the people.
The news of the prince’s passing elicited expressions of sorrow from Saudi and Arab officials, as well as celebrities, who recognized his significant contributions to literature and culture.
Turki Al-Sheikh, chairperson of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, conveyed his condolences, likening the loss to losing a father figure. “May the soul of Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen rest in peace, and may he be granted the highest paradise,” he said.
Saudi Minister of Commerce Majed Al-Qasabi also paid tribute, describing the prince as a literary, poetic, and cultural icon. “May Allah bestow His mercy upon my dear brother, the ‘Word Engineer,’ Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen,” he wrote.
Ameerah Al-Taweel, a prominent Saudi philanthropist, hailed Prince Badr’s legacy as a beacon of wisdom and generosity, emphasizing his enduring influence on future generations.
Renowned Emirati singer Ahlam expressed her sorrow and offered prayers for peace for the prince’s soul and strength for his loved ones during this challenging time.
Born on April 2, 1949, Prince Badr’s journey as a poet and cultural figure began early in life. He studied in various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UK, and the US, paving the way for his remarkable career in Arab literature.
As president of the Saudi Society for Culture and Arts, he played a pivotal role in promoting artistic expression and shaping poetry organizations in the Kingdom. His outstanding contributions were recognized by King Salman, who honored him with the prestigious King Abdulaziz Medal in 2019.
In a fitting tribute to his legacy, the Kingdom’s Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission announced plans to compile and publish his complete literary works, commemorating his profound impact on the Saudi creative movement over five decades.