Anantnag, Oct 9: Renowned Kashmiri poet, actor, and broadcaster Zahid Mukhtar from south Kashmir’s Anantnag district passed away on Thursday, leaving behind a rich legacy in the fields of literature, performing arts, and broadcasting.
Zahid Mukhtar, a familiar name in cultural and literary circles, was widely admired for his evocative poetry and commanding voice on Radio Kashmir. Over the years, he became one of the most recognizable figures in Kashmiri broadcasting, known for blending poetic sensitivity with a deep understanding of language and expression.
Besides his contributions to literature, Mukhtar was also an accomplished stage and television actor who played memorable roles in numerous dramas and cultural programmes. His performances often reflected the social and emotional ethos of Kashmiri society, earning him admiration from both audiences and fellow artists.
Colleagues and admirers described him as a multifaceted talent whose voice and verses captured the soul of Kashmir. “Zahid Sahib was not just a poet or broadcaster—he was an institution in himself. His death is an irreparable loss to our literary and cultural heritage,” said a close associate from Anantnag.
Writers, artists, and cultural bodies across the Valley have expressed grief over his demise, recalling his decades-long service in promoting Kashmiri language and art.
Funeral prayers were offered in his native town, where a large number of locals, friends, and admirers gathered to pay their final respects. (CNS)

