Cairo: State media reported that Egyptian poet Abdul Rahman Al Abnoudy, who channeled folklore and rural life into verses that touched the Arab world, has died at 77 after a long illness.
He was known for writing in the Egyptian dialect and penning lyrics for beloved singers such as Abdul Halim Hafez. He was imprisoned under socialist President Gamal Abdul Nasser but later praised him for his attention to the poor.
State newspaper Al Ahram reported that the poet died on Tuesday and is survived by his wife and two daughters.
President Abdul Fattah Al Sissi mourned his death. In a statement, Al Sissi called him a defender of civilization and values whose words and spirit would live on.
The statement said he called Al Abnoudy's family to express condolences.
