Mama Risha (1957 – 1985)
Mama Risha (born Najmadin Shukr Rauf Zanganeh, July 1, 1957 – January 25, 1985) was a legendary Kurdish Peshmerga commander renowned for his extraordinary bravery and leadership during the Kurdish resistance against Saddam Hussein’s Ba’athist regime. His nom de guerre, Mama Risha—meaning “Bearded Uncle”—symbolized his vow to never shave until Kurdistan achieved liberation.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Early Life and Rise to Resistance:
Born into a poor Sunni Kurdish family of Zangana tribe in the village of Talaban near Kerkûk, Mama Risha was deeply affected by a violent Iraqi military raid on his village during his youth. This event galvanized his commitment to the Kurdish cause. Initially, he went to Palestine and fought in 1970. Following the collapse of the Kurdish autonomy agreement in 1975, and after getting wounded in Palestine, he returned to Kurdistan and joined the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), quickly earning a reputation for his fearlessness and tactical acumen.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
The Battle of Hamek: A Defining Moment
On May 17, 1982, in the village of Hamek near Kerkûk, Mama Risha led a small contingent of 11–12 Peshmerga fighters against an overwhelming force of approximately 2800+ Iraqi soldiers supported by 12 helicopters. Despite being vastly outnumbered, his leadership and strategic prowess led to a remarkable victory, with the Iraqi forces suffering significant casualties and ultimately retreating. This battle cemented his status as a Kurdish national hero.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Military Achievements and Legacy:
As commander of the Garmiyan battalion, Mama Risha orchestrated numerous successful operations against Iraqi military targets in regions including Kerkûk, Silêmanî, and Hewlêr. His fearless actions earned him nicknames such as “Iron Man” and “Lion of Kerkûk” among his comrades. His commitment to the Kurdish cause was unwavering, and he became a symbol of resistance and hope for many.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Tragic Death and Enduring Influence:
On January 24, 1985, Mama Risha was tragically killed in an ambush near Laylan, Kerkûk Governorate. Accounts suggest he was betrayed by a fellow Kurd collaborating with the Iraqi regime. His death was a significant loss to the Kurdish resistance movement.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Despite his untimely death, Mama Risha’s legacy endures. He is remembered as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the Kurdish struggle for freedom. His story continues to inspire generations committed to the cause of Kurdish autonomy and rights.
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Mama Risha and Jalal Talabani
Posted by Zagrosian · 12 May 2025
Legendary Kurdish fighter Mama Risha, picture has been ai modified for a better quality
Posted by Zagrosian · 26 March 2026
Posted by Zagrosian · 15 May 2026