By: SYED MAJID GILANI
Amidst the bustling streets of downtown Srinagar, a city cradled by snow-capped mountains and mirrored in serene lakes, my life’s journey began. I was born in the historic area of Khanqah Moulla, a place named after the revered Khanqah Moulla Shrine, located in the heart of downtown Srinagar. This spiritual and cultural epicenter, with its narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and vibrant energy, shaped the foundation of my identity. The streets and sounds of this old city became the backdrop of my early life, filling me with a deep sense of belonging and a connection to the rich heritage that runs through the veins of my family.
Growing up in Srinagar, I was surrounded by beauty—both natural and cultural. The towering hills, the sparkling Dal Lake, and the lush gardens of Mughal architecture created a serene backdrop, while the mighty Jehlum River flowed nearby, adding to the natural beauty of our surroundings. Yet, it was the values instilled by my family that truly shaped my character. My parents and grandparents instilled in me a deep sense of faith, which has sustained me through life’s trials. These values became the compass that guided me through its many storms.
When I was very young, my family moved to “Gilan House” in Botshah Colony, Lalbazar. This house, lovingly constructed by my grandfather, became the heart of our family. It is not just a home; it is a legacy, a place that holds the echoes of our ancestors and the hopes for my children. The walls of ‘Gilan House’ are filled with memories of laughter, prayers, and stories, each one reinforcing the sense of unity and heritage that my grandfather, Syed Abdul Rashid Gilani, had so carefully built.
Amid the love and support of my family, I was a shy and average student. Yet, their unwavering belief in me gave me the strength to push beyond my limitations. My early years in school were not marked by exceptional academic achievements, but it was the constant encouragement from my family that kept me going. They taught me that success is defined by the strength of character, determination, and the willingness to learn from life’s lessons, rather than by achievements alone.
Life, as I knew it, was soon turned upside down. The first storm of my life struck when I was just 24. My father, who had always been the pillar of our family, passed away suddenly from a cardiac arrest at the age of 50. His death left a profound emptiness in my heart and thrust me into a different role at an early age. The grief was overwhelming, and the weight of responsibility seemed unbearable. However, amidst this turmoil, Allah’s mercy was evident. At that time, I had just begun my career as a government employee, which provided some stability in the midst of the turbulence.
Amidst the emotional turmoil, my grandfather, who had always played a pivotal role in managing our family’s affairs alongside my father, stepped forward to offer his guidance and support during this difficult time. A retired government officer and a poet with a deep love for literature, my grandfather became the guiding force in our lives. His wisdom, patience, and compassion gave me the strength to persevere through the darkest days. His unwavering faith in Allah and his ability to see the positive aspect in every situation became the blueprint for how I would approach life’s challenges. May Allah bless his soul eternally.
My educational journey was marked by numerous challenges. I began my schooling at Caset Experimental School in Rainawari and later completed my 10th standard at Green Land High School in Hawal. Following that, I attended Government Higher Secondary School in Soura before enrolling at Gandhi Memorial College in Srinagar. However, life’s circumstances intervened, causing me to discontinue my B.Sc. studies. Despite this setback, I refused to let it define me. Rather than giving up, I viewed it as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow stronger from the experiences that life presented.
Determined to continue my education, I enrolled in the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), completing my Bachelor’s degree and later pursuing a Postgraduate degree in Public Administration. I also earned a diploma in Journalism from the Institute of Journalism in New Delhi and specialized in Creative Writing from the British Institute of Engineering and Technology in Mumbai. These courses, pursued through distance learning, enabled me to further my education while balancing the demands of work and daily life.
My professional journey began humbly as a casual copyist at Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar, where I developed a deep appreciation for hard work, dedication, and attention to detail. Over time, I joined the Excise and Taxation Department as an executive staff member. Through persistence and dedication, I passed the rigorous exams conducted by the prestigious J&K Public Service Commission, earning promotions and steadily advancing in my career. I qualified for positions such as Sub Inspector and later Inspector, achieving each milestone through unwavering effort and continuous learning.
Despite the stability my career provided, writing remained my true passion. From an early age, I was captivated by the written word. My first articles were published in Greater Kashmir, Kashmir Times and Mirror of Kashmir during my college years. At that time, computers were still a luxury, and I did not have access to one. I would painstakingly handwrite my articles and personally deliver them to newspaper offices, driven by an unwavering determination to share my voice. Recognizing my passion, my grandfather gifted me a Remington typewriter, which became my trusted companion, enabling me to express myself more efficiently. Writing became my sanctuary—a place where I could channel my emotions, reflect on my experiences, and connect with others.
Amidst the trials and tribulations of life, Allah blessed me with three wonderful children—Arshad, Sarah, and Murshad. They are my lifeline, my pride, and my greatest source of joy. Yet, life has tested me in ways I could never have imagined, and the weight of my pain often bears heavily on my heart. Despite the challenges I face, I remain steadfast in my prayers, trusting that Allah will bring me solace. I hold tightly to my faith, believing that through patience and perseverance, the struggles will eventually bear fruit.
One of the most painful lessons life has taught me is the betrayal of a trusted friend. This individual, whom I once considered my confidant, has backstabbed me, plunging a sword into my innocent heart. The scars are deep; the wounds still fresh, with blood oozing from the betrayal of my only friend. This one-sided attack, whose reason remains a mystery to me, has been a harsh reminder of life’s uncertainties. Yet, even in the face of this, my resolve to remain true to my values has only strengthened. I have learned that loyalty, integrity, and honesty are priceless virtues, and I continue to hold them dear, no matter the cost.
Reflecting on my journey, I see a life shaped by resilience, faith, and purpose. Writing is my sanctuary, helping me find meaning in struggle and joy. My children are my greatest treasure, and I hold on to the hope that our bond will endure, no matter the storm. Come what may, no matter the harshness life throws at me, I stand unwavering in my commitment to truthfulness. I stand resolutely against falsehood and deceit, holding honesty, loyalty, and integrity close to my heart. My faith in Allah remains steadfast, and I trust that His plans are always for my ultimate good. Though my present is marked by hardship and pain, I cling to the lessons of the past and the hope for a brighter future. With faith as my anchor and writing as my compass, I continue my journey, confident that the best is yet to come.
Syed Majid Gilani is a writer and serves as a GST Inspector for the Government of J&K. He can be reached at syedmajid6676@gmail.com.
