Srinagar, January 9: Kashmiri literature guru Professor Rehman Rahi, 98, Kashmir’s first Jnanpith laureate, died Monday at his residence in the Nowshera district of Srinagar.
The legendary poet Rahman Rahi was an iconic figure as far as Kashmir’s vast literature is concerned. Undeniably, Rahi’s contribution to Kashmiri language and poetry is immense. He has authored and translated over a dozen books, mentored hundreds of scholars, and mentored many more. He received nearly all honors for his contributions to the Kashmiri language.
What is Rehman Rahi?
The legendary poet was born in Srinagar in 1925. Initially, he worked for several months in 1948 as a clerk in the government’s Public Works Department. He was also involved with the Progressive Writers Association, eventually being promoted to the position. general secretary.
Rehman Rahi edited several issues of Kwang Posh, the literary journal of the Progressive Writers Association. After that, he worked as an assistant editor for an Urdu daily newspaper. He studied Persian at the University of Jammu and Kashmir, where he also taught Persian, and in 1952 he received his master’s degree in both English and Farsi.
Abdur Rehman Mir is Rahi’s real name. After completing his master’s degree in Persian, in 1977 he joined the newly established Kashmir Faculty of Kashmir University. Until his retirement, he was a professor at the University’s Kashmir Faculty.
Rahi won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1961 for his excellent collection of poetry, Nauroz-i-Saba, making him the youngest Indian to reach this milestone.
Rahi was also awarded India’s highest literary award, the Sahitya Academy Fellowship, in 2000. This fellowship was awarded in recognition of his significant contribution to Kashmiri literature and culture. In 2007, Rahi was awarded the Jnanpith (in 2004) for his contributions to literature. He is the only Kashmiri to receive this honor.
He translated the works of Baba Farid into Kashmiri and the influence of Dina Nath Naadim was evident in his early works.
Rahi has three sons and one daughter. His wife had already passed away.
living legend
As a respected poet, forward-thinking critic and literary theorist, Rahi has had a profound impact on Kashmiri culture and literature. His distinctive use of Kashmiri to convey universal topics was unique.
He stands out from his contemporaries by his legacy as the creator of a unique terminology for expression. His creative achievements have greatly expanded the poetic and imaginative possibilities of the Kashmiri language.
Biography Trailer of Professor Rahman Rahi
The 3-minute trailer for the film titled ‘The Poet of Silence’ is a biographical documentary film about the life and work of the late Kashmiri poet Professor Rehman Rahi, directed by Bilal Jan.
Bilal A. Yang directed a 40-minute film, The Poet of Silence. The film is a biographical documentary about the life and works of the Kashmiri poet.
In this documentary, Lait Rahi, a poet, translator and critic from Jammu and Kashmir, shares his inner poetic vision during turbulent times in Kashmir.
Major Works of Rahi
Sana-Wani Saaz (Poetry) (1952), Sukhok Soda (Poetry), Kalam-e-Rahi (Poetry), Nawroz-i-Saba (Poetry) (1958), Kahwat (Literary Criticism), Kashir Shara Sombran, Azich Kashir Shairi, Kathir Nagmati Shairi
Baba Fareed (Translator), Saba Moallaqat, Farmove Zartushtadia
Siyah Rood Jaeren Manz (In Black Drizzle)
The legendary poet’s death was widely mourned
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Rehman Rahi, one of Kashmir’s most influential poets and Jnanpith laureates in recent years. His death marks the end of an era. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and supporters,” LG Sinha tweeted.
Jammu and Kashmir National Congress Chairman Farouk Abdullah and Vice Chairman Omar Abdullah expressed their deep sorrow at the passing of Prof. Abdul Rehman Rahi.
In mourning the passing of Professor Rehman Rahi, Dr. Farouk said: He was a living examiner of Kashmir’s cultural status and literary genius. We would like to express our deepest condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family. Rest in peace to the dead souls of Jannat’s highest echelon. ”
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of legendary Kashmiri poet and lyricist Rahman Rahi Sahib. He will be remembered for his outstanding contribution as a poet, with his memorable and progressive “poetry,” he left an indelible mark on the minds of the people. “His death marks the end of an era. My condolences to his loved ones at this time of grief,” said the former Prime Minister Omar Abdullah.
Former Prime Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti also mourned Rahi’s death.
“I am saddened to hear the sad passing of towering literary magnate and Gampace Award winner Zinab Rehman Rahi. His death left a void in Kashmiri literature and society that could never be filled. My condolences to the family,” he tweeted.
We would like to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Professor Reham Rahi Sahib, an eminent poet and lyricist from Kashmir. Rehman sahib’s sublime poetry and writings have enriched Kashmiri literature for decades. His work has influenced many people and is an unforgettable gem that will live on. May his soul rest in peace. His DAP chief, Ghulam Nabi Azad, tweeted.
Professor Sajad Roan, an iconic figure in Kashmiri literature and poetry, tweeted. Professor Rehman Rahi Sahib passed away. An outstanding poet and literary figure.May Allah bestow Janat
“Rehman Rahi was one of the most prominent figures in Kashmiri literature. His creative genius was expressed in various genres of literature. They will continue to influence young bards and writers.My deepest condolences,” CPI(M) leader MY Tarigami tweeted.
Hundreds of people participate in Rahi’s final ceremonies
Hundreds of people attended Rahman Rahi’s final ceremonies held in the Nowshera district of Srinagar. Funeral prayers were held on the lawn of his Khawaja Habibullah Nowshehri shrine at 2pm. During his final rite, people called his death a great loss for the valley.
