Born in Chak in Jhelum district (Pakistan), Jafri was educated at Islamia College, Lahore. After his graduation he joined the army but the soldierly life did not suit his temperament. After a short interval, he rejoined the army. During the Second World War he served at Singapore, where he came in close touch with Faiz and Noon Meem Rashid, whose poetic models set a standard for his literary ambitions. In 1949 he rose to the position of Captain, and in 1966, a Major. Later he served in the Pakistan intelligence service, holding highly sensitive departments.