Rayees Ahmad Kumar
Back in the 1990s, during my early childhood, I fondly remember my grandfather often listening to popular Kashmiri songs such as “Khash Koruth Meanan Amaran Jaan Gou” and “Keal Watakh Chi Yel Meanis Mazras Peath Waai Pata Feari”, aired frequently on Radio Kashmir’s Yuvawani service. At that time, I was too young to know much about their origin, but only a few years ago I discovered that the soul behind these timeless lyrics was the renowned poet, writer, and broadcaster Majeed Masroor.
Belonging to the Khan Sahab area of Budgam district, Majeed Masroor has carved a special place in Kashmiri literature and music. He has penned hundreds of poems and ghazals, many of which have been brought to life by celebrated singers and veteran vocalists of the valley. His contribution continues to enrich the cultural and artistic heritage of Kashmir. At times, he writes articles and essays that are published in leading local and national newspapers. His primary focus remains on education, social evils, rising immorality, and culture.
In 2022, his first collection of articles, titled Parvaaz-i-Shaoor, was published by Taj Printing Service, New Delhi. The book comprises 31 articles across 127 pages and is dedicated to the youth of the valley as well as to men and women committed to propagating the message of the Prophet (PBUH). Pictures of Majeed Masroor with his mother, grandson, and friend adorn this book, reflecting his deep attachment to them. The author has written the foreword himself, wherein he states that his sole motive is to serve society through his pen. He also highlights the multidimensional aspects of human personality and society. Maulana Mohd Muzaffar Qadri, Imam of Khanqah Moula Sopore, has penned some thought-provoking remarks about the book and its author.
According to him, Majeed Masroor is diligently working to eradicate social evils and promote community well-being by writing comprehensive articles on the social, moral, and cultural dimensions of society.
Similarly, Ishfaq Gouhar observes that Majeed Masroor is deeply sensitive to the wrongdoings prevalent in society. His writings, Gouhar notes, are aimed at guiding the youth towards a positive direction, with the ultimate intention of building a crime-free society.
“Ikhlaq: Ek Azim Niyamat” is the opening article of this book, which highlights the importance of noble virtues and exemplary character as the foundation of a morally upright society. The author has cited some well-known sayings of the Prophet (PBUH), who strongly emphasized good conduct and decent behavior in interactions with fellow human beings.
“Ye Kashmir Hai” is another article in this book, beautifully sketching the charm and grandeur of Kashmir—the paradise on earth. The author describes the valley as a land blessed with lofty snow-clad peaks, sprawling green meadows, and crystal-clear water bodies, while also being the birthplace of globally acclaimed scholars. In this piece, he cites poetic couplets of Jahangir, Iqbal, Chakbast, and Prof. Aal Ahmad Saroor, all of whom have unanimously celebrated the valley’s natural beauty as well as the warmth and hospitality of its people.
Madri Zaban – Mother Tongue, in this article, the author presents a detailed account of the importance of the mother tongue. He emphasizes that when an individual or an entire community forgets their native language and develops an inferiority complex about it, they gradually move towards extinction. A nation or community continues to survive and thrive only as long as it preserves and communicates in its mother tongue.
“Khidmati Khalaq hi Insaniyat” — in this article, the author, while citing two popular poetic couplets of Iqbal and Ab Ahad Azad, has meticulously highlighted the significance of serving humanity. According to him, to serve humanity is to serve God. There can be no precedence or supremacy on the basis of colour, creed, caste, or tribe. True piety and nobility lie only in extending help to humanity, especially in times of hardship and adversity.
Buzurgon ka Ehtram — Indeed, every religious scripture emphasizes the importance of respecting elders. In this article too, the author reiterates that today’s children are tomorrow’s youth, who will eventually grow old, weak, and dependent. Thus, by showing respect to our elders today, we not only uphold moral values but also ensure that we, in turn, receive honour and dignity in our own old age.
Ustaad– The Teacher, there is no doubt that teachers are the true builders of a nation. They burn the midnight oil to shape individuals and, through them, the society at large. History bears witness that only those nations have achieved real progress and success which respected their teachers. Teaching is indeed a prophetic profession and the noblest of all callings. Therefore, it is imperative that we honour their contributions and accord them the respect they truly deserve. In this article, the author has cited numerous examples and quotes from great thinkers, all affirming the greatness and unmatched role of teachers.
Maa– Mother, The author begins this write-up with an emotional line: the word “mother” is sweeter than honey. Among all the articles in this book, this one stands apart—it moved me to tears while reading. The inclusion of poetic couplets by Munawar Rana and Majeed Masroor has enhanced its beauty even further. Indeed, a mother is the most beautiful creation in this world, whose love for her children is immeasurable and purely selfless. Lala Ded not LD, Lala Ded was not only a pious woman but also an ace poetess and philanthropist. She is regarded as the first Kashmiri poetess, whose vakhs still remain on the lips of every Kashmiri. Her poetic genius and patience remain unmatched to this day. In Kashmiri culture, language, and literature, she stands as a towering figure and a source of identity. Unfortunately, the only tertiary care maternity hospital in Srinagar, named after her as “Lal Ded Hospital,” has over time come to be casually referred to as “LD Hospital.” This abbreviation is a grave injustice to such a great personality and must be corrected.
My Village Khansahab – In this article, the author expresses his deep attachment to his native village. He sketches its historical background, narrating how the village got its name. According to him, Syed Ismail Khan once refused to give his pious son, Soleh Khan, to his brother. Over time, Soleh Khan grew into a saintly figure, and people thronged to his place. From this legacy, the village came to be known as Khansahab.
(The author is a freelancer and can be reached at [email protected])
