Nissar H. Gilani
Two remarkable Kashmiri women medicos, Dr. Dina Ara Naqashbandi and Dr. Jha Ara, have left an indelible mark on the medical fraternity. Interestingly, both ladies share the same surname and are related, with an age gap of approximately 20 years. Both have achieved extraordinary success, making Kashmiris proud.
Dr. Ashraf Naqashbandi with Judge Naqashbandi brothers.
Dr. Dina Ara Naqashbandi, a trailblazer, holds the distinction of being the first woman from Kashmir to graduate in medicine. She graduated from King Edward Medical College in Lahore, British India, in 1945. She furthered her education in the UK, worked in various countries, and eventually settled abroad. Her pioneering achievement paved the way for future generations of Kashmiri women in medicine.
Dr. Dina Ara Naqashbandi.
Her niece, Dr. Jaha Ara, followed in her footsteps, becoming one of the youngest Kashmiris to graduate with an MBBS from King Edward Medical College in Lucknow in the mid-1950s. She was among a group of talented Kashmiri students, including the late Dr. Mir Nazir of Nishat, Srinagar. Dr. Jha Ara pursued higher studies in the UK and returned to Srinagar, where she excelled as a Professor and Head of the Gynecology Department at GMC Srinagar. Her expertise and legacy in the field of gynecology remain unmatched to this day.
Dr. Jaha Ara comes from a distinguished family with a strong legacy in law and medicine. She is the elder sister of Eng. Syed Farooq Naqashbandi and Syed Tariq Naqashbandi, a retired District and Session Judge. Their father, the late Syed Ghulam Nabi Naqashbandi, was a respected Judge of the High Court. Furthermore, Dr. Jha Ara’s uncle was a veteran Judge of the High Court and a close associate and advisor to Sheikh Abdullah, playing a significant role in Kashmir’s history.
The Naqashbandi clan’s legacy in medicine doesn’t stop there. Dr. S.M. Ashraf Naqashbandi, a relation of both ladies, had the distinction of being the first male Kashmiri to specialize in child health. Dr. Ashraf Naqashbandi graduated with an MBBS from King Edward Medical College in Lahore, British India, in 1935. He pursued higher studies in the UK and went on to open the first pediatric unit in SMHS hospital Srinagar in 1955. He also accompanied the former President of India, Late Zakir Hussain, as a member of the Haj Delegation to KSA. Dr. Ashraf Naqashbandi passed away in 1989, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
DR Jaha Ara Naqashbandi
DR Jaha Ara Naqashbandi.
The younger generation of Naqashbandis continues this legacy. Prof. Syed Ashiq Hussain Naqashbandi, a renowned surgeon and a proud member of the Naqashbandi family, graduated from GMC Srinagar and pursued higher studies. He went on to become the Principal of the prestigious GMC Srinagar, leaving an indelible mark on the institution. Known for his exceptional surgical skills and kindness towards patients, Prof. Naqashbandi has been an inspiration to many. Sadly, he has not been keeping well for some time. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back serving the community with his expertise and compassion.
Sadly, Dr. Jha Ara passed away in New Delhi last year, just as she was expected to return to Srinagar. May the souls of these extraordinary individuals, who brought pride to Kashmir, rest in peace. We hope that future generations from the Naqashbandi clan will continue their legacy, inspiring others and making Kashmiris proud.”
Nissar H Gilani can be reached at nisargilani57748@gmail.com
