This world—full of joy, sorrow, excitement, emotions, sentiments, strange happenings, lofty ideals, and mysterious stories—teaches us something with every passing moment. If we observe our surroundings keenly, we discover countless untold stories connected to people, places, and events. It all depends on how much attention we pay to each incident, each coincidence, and each moment of hazard or serendipity. Behind all this lies the divine power of nature, showcasing the supremacy of Almighty Allah. Life, death, health, and even the smallest blessings are under His control. We humans depend on Him for every drop of water, every bite of food, and every breath of oxygen.
A couple of years ago, on 9th January 2023, we mourned the loss of a scholar, poet, critic, translator, writer, dedicated teacher, true patriot, and renowned professor—Dr. Rehman Rahi Sahib. Born on 6th May 1925 in Srinagar’s Downtown (Nowshera) area, Rahi Sahib’s contributions to Kashmiri literature are unparalleled and celebrated both within and beyond Jammu & Kashmir.
As the Kashmiri language gains recognition across the globe, we owe much to the tireless efforts of visionaries like Prof. Rehman Rahi. His poetry has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Kashmiri culture. He received numerous prestigious national awards, the most notable being the Jnanpith Award—India’s highest literary honor—for his poetic collection “Siyah Rood Jaeren Manz.” He remains the only Kashmiri writer to have received this distinguished award. His demise is a profound loss to our literary and cultural legacy. Yet, his work continues to be a beacon for generations. May Almighty Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.
With utmost reverence, we must ensure that Rahi Sahib’s literary contributions are preserved and made accessible in school libraries, colleges, public institutions, and beyond. Unfortunately, many in the younger generation remain unaware of such towering figures who laid the foundation for our present achievements. It is our moral duty to introduce them to these great personalities.
Students often find inspiration during their school years—through teachers, friends, or literature. Many are drawn to poetry after encountering the works of icons like Allama Iqbal (RA), Mirza Ghalib, Mir Taqi Mir, and Arsh. These poets wrote from the depths of love for humanity and their homeland.
Interestingly, in his early years, Rahi Sahib was not particularly inclined toward academics. However, during the 9th standard, he came across Allama Iqbal’s poem “Maa Ka Khwab” in his Urdu textbook—a moment he described in a Radio Kashmir interview as life-changing. That poem ignited the poet within him. As is tradition among poets, he adopted a pen name—“Rahi.” Suggestion: The youth of Kashmir are filled with promise and positive energy. It is our responsibility to guide them toward meaningful, creative, and ethical paths. By nurturing their talents—especially in literature, art, and culture—we can empower them to make lasting contributions to society. Let us provide them with the platforms and opportunities they need to thrive.
Rehman Rahi became a literary icon in the Kashmir Valley. His powerful voice in criticism and poetry resonated across generations. Losing him is like losing a cultural crown. It may take centuries for another such towering poet to emerge.
In Sha Allah, we remain hopeful. May Almighty fill the void left behind and grant us the strength to carry forward the torch he once held so high. As we move further away from our cultural traditions and increasingly embrace Western influences, we must not forget our roots. Our identity, ethics, and morals are deeply rooted in our culture.
Kashmir’s cultural heritage stands tall because of legends like Prof. Rahman Rahi Sahib. His name will be etched in golden letters in the annals of Kashmir’s rich cultural history.
May Almighty grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.
The writer can be reached at [email protected]
