In memory of late poet Tali’a Hamdan, whose work enriched the cultural and national scene

By Chairman and General Manager Eng. Nassif Seklaoui

It is with deep sorrow and regret that we mourn the loss of the great “zajal” poet Tali’a Hamdan, who passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Born in Ain Aanoub (Aley district) in 1944, Hamdan was one of the most prominent popular literature poets in Lebanon and in the Arab world.

A loyal friend of the Regie, he wrote the “Tobacco Anthem,” inspired by the hard work and resilience of the farmers. He was also a cherished and frequent guest at the annual tobacco festivals, where his presence filled every gathering with warmth and kind words.

May the soul of our beloved poet Tali’a Hamdan rest in eternal peace.

His memory will live on in every verse of the Tobacco Anthem a heartfelt poem in which he so truthfully and nobly celebrates “the poor man’s plant,” “the plant of faith.”