In Memoriam: Mir Mohammad Farooq Nazki (1940–2024)

A Tribute to a Stalwart in Kashmiri Literature and Broadcasting

Mir Mohammad Farooq Nazki, a luminary in Kashmiri literature and broadcasting, left an indelible legacy before his passing on February 6, 2024. Born in 1940, his journey as a poet and media personality became a captivating narrative, enriching the cultural tapestry of Kashmir.

Early Life and Career

Farooq Nazki, born into a literary lineage, embarked on his poetic odyssey in 1967, crafting notable works such as “Kashmiri Dastkariyan” and “Lafz.” Assuming the role of Editor at Daily Mazdoor in 1960, he ventured into the realms of journalism. From 1986 to 1997, his directorship of Doordarshan and All India Radio Kashmir Srinagar showcased his commitment to advancing culture and information under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Awards and Honors

In 1995, Farooq Nazki was bestowed with the Sahitya Akademi award for his poetry collection “Naar Hyutun Kanzal Wanas” in Kashmiri literature. His excellence extended to media management, earning him the Gold Medal for Best Management of Electronic Media from the Jammu & Kashmir Government and the Award for Best Media Controller in Asiad 1982.

Legacy and Passing

Farooq Nazki’s literary brilliance and media influence cast a long shadow. Tragically, he passed away on February 6, 2024, just days before his 84th birthday, succumbing to a heart attack at a Katra hospital. His contributions were celebrated by Ghulam Nabi Azad, the former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir.

Famous Works

Farooq Nazki’s poetic legacy, including works like “Naar Hyutun Kanzal Wanas” and “Lafz Lafz Noha,” continues to resonate, weaving the intricate fabric of Kashmiri heritage and identity.

Significance of Kashmiri Literature

Kashmiri literature, beyond its artistic value, holds immense cultural and historical significance. It serves as a repository of Kashmir’s identity, traditions, and values. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the vibrant literary landscape.

Other Notable Kashmiri Writers

In the rich tapestry of Kashmiri literature, Farooq Nazki joins luminaries like Dinanath Nadim, Akhtar Mohiuddin, Rahman Rahi, Ghulam Rasool Nazki, Nur Mohammed Roshan, Rahman Sagar, and Amin Kamil. Together, their works enrich the cultural narrative of Kashmir.

Notable Works of Dinanath Nadim

Dinanath Nadim, a trailblazing poet, bequeathed us masterpieces such as “Vitasta” (Jhelum River), “Safar Taa Shehjaar” (The Journey and the Shade), and “Me Chhum Aash Paghich” (I Am Hopeful of Tomorrow). Nadim’s poetic craftsmanship, recognized with awards like the Soviet Land Nehru Award and the Sahitya Natak Academi Award, continues to resonate across time, connecting generations and emotions.

Farooq Nazki’s passing marks the end of a chapter, but his words, imprinted in Kashmiri literature, eternally resonate, preserving the soul of Kashmiri heritage and identity.