Layeq Sherali was born in Panjakent into a simple farming family. His mother was educated, his father a respected carpenter, albeit illiterate, whose character had a profound influence on Layeq. After Maktab, he received his education at the renowned teacher training college in Panjakent, graduating in 1958. During this time, he began writing poetry under the pseudonym ‘Fathi’.
In 1959, he continued his studies of language and literature in Stalinabad (Dushanbe). In the same year, his first poem was published, which brought him great recognition and secured the support of important literary figures. From the 1960s onwards, Layeq held numerous cultural and political positions, including editor at Radio Tajikistan, editor-in-chief of literary magazines and member of parliament. In 1965, he became a member of the Tajikistan Writers‘ Union, and in 1991 he was awarded the honorary title of ‘People‘s Poet of Tajikistan’.
Layeq was considered an outstanding expert on classical Persian literature. Ferdowsi, Rumi and Khayyam had a particularly formative influence on him. He combined traditional forms with elements of world literature, thus creating new forms of expression in Tajik poetry. In addition to his own poetry collections, he left behind numerous translations, essays and cultural-historical contributions. His works have been translated into many languages. Layeq Sherali died in Dushanbe in 2000. His literary legacy is still highly valued in Tajikistan today.