The 91-page book immortalises 13 luminaries who shaped Bandipora’s intellectual and cultural history
North Kashmir’s Bandipora district is famous for three things: Ilm (Knowledge), Adab (Literature), and Aab (Water). The blessed soil of this district has given birth to a number of intellectuals, litterateurs, educationists, authors, poets, and social reformers. Tariq Shabnam, a young literary sensation and noted Urdu fiction writer, also hails from Bandipora.
Coming from the village of Ajas, Tariq Shabnam has authored a couple of short story collections, which were highly praised and commended in literary circles. Recently, he came up with a new book titled “Bandipora ki Aham Shakhsiyaat”, published by the renowned GNK Publications. Spanning 91 pages, the book has been compiled by Haji Ghulam Rasool Rather Kohi.
Boasting an alluring cover page with photographs of the literary icons of Bandipora, this book sketches the lives and achievements of thirteen renowned litterateurs of Bandipora district. Tariq Shabnam has dedicated this compilation to his beloved parents.
In a brief summary of the book, Dr Riyaz Tawhidi—an internationally acclaimed critic and well-known short story writer—has appreciated the efforts of Tariq Shabnam and Ghulam Rasool Rather Kohi for coming up with a treasure trove of information about local litterateurs whose contributions to promote language and literature are unparalleled, and who otherwise would be unknown to the younger generation.
Raja Yousuf, a noted fiction writer, has also commended both Tariq Shabnam and Ghulam Rasool for compiling this literary homage to the giants of Bandipora.
In its proem, Ghulam Rasool Rather writes about his endeavors to collect articles on literary figures of Bandipora or those who contributed to society. Ghulam Rasool, besides being the patron of Wullar Urdu Adbi Forum, is an enthusiastic litterateur and a retired BDO. He expresses heartfelt gratitude to all who supported him in compiling this collection.
Highlights from the Book
Pir Ghulam Hassan Shah Khoihami: Born in Gamro village, he authored the famous Tawarikhi Hassan—an authentic Persian history of Kashmir translated into Urdu by Dr Sharif Hussain. Tariq Shabnam notes his grandfather was also a scholar and Persian poet. Pir Hassan Shah helped Sir Walter Lawrence with The Valley of Kashmir, later translated by Ghulam Nabi Khayal.
Prof Mohiuddin Hajini: A celebrated poet, litterateur, social worker, educationist, and reformer from Hajin, Bandipora. Tariq Shabnam eloquently highlights his works, including his famous Kashmiri drama Greas Sund Ghara (Peasant’s Home). He wrote in Urdu, English, Persian, and Kashmiri. He also laid the foundation of Adbi Markaz Kamraz and is remembered through awards in his name.
Prof Rashid Nazki: A part of the famous Nazki dynasty, he was a Kashmiri and Persian poet, translator, and founding member of AMK. His translation of Qasida Burda Sharif is widely celebrated. Prof Bashir Ahmad Nehvi, former Director of the Iqbal Institute, has also praised him highly.
Mohd Ahsan Ahsan: Mehtab Manzoor writes a meticulous article on this founding AMK member. His multidimensional prose and poetry in Kashmiri left a deep literary impact.
Ghulam Nabi Jan: A well-known socio-political figure. He worked as a contractor, was elected multiple times as a leader, jailed for political engagement, later recognized as a freedom fighter, and chaired the J&K Awqaf Trust from 1962–1965.
Dr Aziz Hajini: Tariq Shabnam’s detailed article on Dr Hajini stands out. As Secretary of JKAACL, editor, convenor of Sahitya Akademi, and president of AMK (three terms), his contribution to Kashmiri literature is immense. He was also the recipient of Kashmir University’s first gold medal and was celebrated for his poetic style—revolutionary and deeply engaged with social themes.
Er Mohd Yousuf Rather: Known as the “Hero of R&B”, he rose to Chief Engineer. He contributed immensely to the development before tragically dying in an explosion at Kapran Verinag in 2004. A road is named after him: Er Mohd Yousuf Rather Avenue.
Siyad Kashmiri (Abdul Samad Lone): A retired Headmaster and unsung poet known for his simplicity and profound thinking. He was also Tariq Shabnam’s school teacher.
Other notable mentions include Ghulam Ahmad aka Ama, Abdul Khaliq Bhat, Ataullah Bhat, and Moulana Gulzar Ahmad Lone. Their contributions are covered thoughtfully by the author to enlighten the public about their service.
Tariq Shabnam and Ghulam Rasool Rather Kohi deserve accolades and sincere praise for editing and composing this marvelous literary collection. “Bandipora Ki Aham Shakhsiyaat” truly reflects their commitment to preserving the rich literary heritage of the region.
Rayees Ahmad Kumar
ra***********@***il.com