Syed Nissar H Gilani
Kashmir University is set to host its Mega Alumni Meet-2025 on July 27 at the Convocation Complex. The event promises to be a grand affair, with the Chief Justice of India as the Chief Guest, alongside other distinguished guests including the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Supreme Court judges, and the Union Cabinet Minister for Minority Affairs.
As an alumnus of the university, I am thrilled to see the institution bringing together its esteemed alumni from various streams. Many of my colleagues have made a mark globally in academia and other fields. Notable alumni include Ghulam Nabi Azad, who served as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and held various ministerial positions at the central level, and Mufti Mehbooba, the former Chief Minister. Business tycoons like Mr. Farooq Kathwari, late Barrister and Judge Khurshid Drabu, politicians, pilots, and many more distinguished personalities have also graduated from this institution. Among the notable alumni is the late Agha Shahid Ali, who made his name and fame with his brilliance in English literature. Sadly, he passed away at a young age, leaving behind his legendary father, Dr. Agha Ashraf Ali.
Kashmir University, established in 1948, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the region. It has a rich history of academic excellence and has produced numerous distinguished individuals, including IAS, IPS, KAS, KJS, KPS officers, scholars, medicos, engineers, and administrative service professionals. Under the leadership of its current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Neelofer Khan, who incidentally is the first woman Vice Chancellor of the state, the university continues to strive for excellence. The university has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and professional landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, and its alumni have made significant contributions to various fields.
I would also like to appreciate those alumni who have made their name and fame in different fields and have brought pride not only to themselves but also to Kashmir University. Their achievements are a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent and excellence. One such notable alumnus is Syed Mujtaba Ahamed Andrabi, son of the renowned scholar and former Director of Iqbaliyat, Prof. Syed Mohd Amin Andrabi. Syed Mujtaba Ahamed Andrabi is currently serving as the First Secretary in the US Foreign Service, posted at Beirut, and is a shining example of the university’s alumni making a mark globally.
As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the tragic loss of two brilliant students, Miss Zamarooda Habib and Brij Krishen, who unfortunately drowned at Arhabal Falls in Shopian in 1970. The incident, which occurred during a picnic, shook the university and the entire region. Brij Krishen’s selfless act of trying to save his classmate Zamarooda, ultimately led to his own demise. A statue was erected in their memory, thanks to the efforts of the university students, and I hope it still stands as a testament to their sacrifice.
I am sure the university authorities will also remember its former Vice Chancellors, Prof. Mushir-ul-Haq and Prof. Abdul Ahad Wani, and dedicated administrative official Abdul Ghani, who were unfortunately killed during the turbulence in the state. Their contributions to the university and their ultimate sacrifices will always be remembered.
I hope that on this momentous occasion, the authorities will remember these former students and faculty members and pay their respects. May they rest in peace. While the theme of the event is yet to be announced, it is sure to be an exciting and memorable experience. I extend my best wishes to the organizing authorities for a successful event.
