Nawaz Sharif, the three-time former Prime Minister of Pakistan and a towering figure in the nation's political landscape, has maintained a remarkably consistent and private romantic life, primarily defined by his enduring marriage to Begum Kulsoom Nawaz Sharif. Unlike many public figures whose romantic histories are a tapestry of various relationships, Sharif's personal narrative is deeply intertwined with his singular, lifelong partnership, which served as a bedrock amidst the tumultuous currents of Pakistani politics.
Nawaz Sharif married Kulsoom Nawaz in April 1971. Their union began before his significant entry into national politics, laying the foundation for a relationship that would span nearly five decades. Kulsoom, born Kulsoom Rehana Butt, hailed from a respected Kashmiri family in Lahore and was notably the maternal grandniece of the legendary wrestler, The Great Gama. Their marriage was a private affair that blossomed into a public partnership as Nawaz Sharif's political career ascended.
Throughout Nawaz Sharif's rise from provincial finance minister to Chief Minister of Punjab and then to the highest office of Prime Minister, Kulsoom Nawaz remained a steadfast and supportive presence. She embraced the role of First Lady during his three non-consecutive terms (1990-1993, 1997-1999, and 2013-2017), often working behind the scenes but providing crucial emotional and intellectual support. Though she largely maintained a dignified public silence in the earlier years, her influence as a trusted advisor and speechwriter was well-known within close circles.
The couple had four children: Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Hassan Nawaz Sharif, Hussain Nawaz Sharif, and Asma Nawaz Sharif. Their family life, while subject to the intense scrutiny that comes with political prominence, was often portrayed as close-knit. Maryam Nawaz, in particular, has followed in her father's political footsteps, becoming a prominent figure in her own right, a testament to the family's enduring legacy and the values instilled by both parents.
Kulsoom Nawaz stepped into a more direct political role during challenging times for her husband and the party. Following the military coup in 1999 that ousted Nawaz Sharif's government and led to his imprisonment and subsequent exile, she emerged as a courageous and vocal leader. She was appointed President of the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) from 1999 to 2002, actively leading protests and challenging the military regime, often facing house arrest. Her daughter, Maryam Nawaz, notably stated that Kulsoom “dauntlessly challenged the usurper when a lot of men backed out,” highlighting her resilience and unwavering support.
In later years, Kulsoom Nawaz again demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her husband's political cause. When Nawaz Sharif was disqualified from holding public office in 2017, she contested and won the crucial NA-120 by-election in Lahore, a traditional stronghold for the PML-N. This victory was a significant morale boost for the party, showcasing her enduring popularity and the public's sympathy for the Sharif family. However, her health deteriorated shortly after, and she was diagnosed with lymphoma.
Her battle with cancer became a public concern, drawing widespread sympathy across Pakistan. She underwent extensive treatment in London, often with Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz by her side. Despite her illness, she continued to be a symbol of strength for the family and the party. Tragically, Begum Kulsoom Nawaz Sharif passed away in London on September 11, 2018, at the age of 68, after a prolonged illness. Her death deeply affected Nawaz Sharif, who was serving a jail sentence in Pakistan at the time and was granted parole to attend her funeral. Her passing marked the end of a remarkable partnership that had weathered countless political storms and personal challenges.
Since her demise, Nawaz Sharif has remained a widower. His romantic history, as publicly known, is solely defined by his profound and enduring relationship with Kulsoom Nawaz. Their life together, characterized by shared political struggles, family commitments, and mutual support, stands as a testament to a deep and lasting bond that transcended the personal into the public sphere, leaving an indelible mark on Pakistan's political and social landscape. Her memory continues to be revered, and her role in supporting Nawaz Sharif's career and leading the party during its darkest hours is a significant chapter in his personal and political biography.