SANJAY PANDITA
In the heart of the enchanting Kashmir Valley, where the relentless march of time seems to slow to a languid pace and where every corner holds precious cultural treasures, there resides a man of unparalleled distinction – Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor. Born on the 20th of May in the year 1951, amidst the ethereal beauty of village Mitrigam, Pulwama Jammu and Kashmir, Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor is not a mere mortal, but rather a sentinel of an august legacy. His life’s odyssey unfurls as an exquisite tapestry, each thread a testament to his literary brilliance, a deep and abiding immersion in his cultural heritage, and an unswerving dedication to the safeguarding of his homeland’s opulent legacy.
Peerzada Abdal Mehjoor is the heir to the illustrious Shayir e Kashmir Mahjoor lineage, the grandson of the legendary poet Peerzada Gulam Ahmed Mahjoor renowned for his patriotic , revolutionary, romantic and progressive poetry and unswerving commitment to secular and humanistic values. The family’s illustrious heritage was meticulously nurtured by his father Mohammad Amin popularly known as ‘Ibn e Mahjoor a prominent historian , Numismatist and archaeologist that Kashmir has ever birthed. This splendid family legacy, with its roots firmly planted in the fertile soil of enlightenment, laid the foundation for Peerzada Abdal’s journey along the beautiful academic road. Guided by the sagacious foresight of his ancestors, he embarked on a unique educational path.
In an era when many Muslims shied away from the study of Hindi or Sanskrit, Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor, a lone beacon of curiosity, delved into these subjects. This was the progressive thinking of his Grandfather and Father that made him take up these subjects from his early academics, which commenced in his ancestral village of Mitrigam, where he first drew breath, and continued through Murran and Pulwama schools. He was the first Muslim who did his post graduation in Hindi .Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor’s life story is an ode to the harmonious fusion of tradition and progress, a symphony of intellectual pursuit nurtured by a rich and enlightened heritage.
Peerzada Abdal’s academic pursuits reflect his passion for languages and literature. Holding a Master’s degree in Hindi and another in Kashmiri, both from the prestigious University of Kashmir, is a testament to his dedication. His Bachelor’s degree encompasses a diverse array of subjects, including Hindi, Sanskrit, English Literature, and History, showcasing his intellectual versatility.
But Peerzada Abdal’s journey is not confined to the hallowed halls of academia alone. His illustrious career spans over three decades as a renowned international broadcast Journalist in BBC Hindi Service London for more than 10 years and then back home to All India Radio Srinagar Kashmir where he dedicated his talents to producing a wide spectrum of cultural, news, current affairs, and literary programs. Notably, his contributions included the acclaimed “Shehrbeen,” a current affairs program that left an indelible mark on the airwaves and in the hearts of listeners.Shehrbeen became an household name across jammu & Kashmir and listeners loved this program so much and would call it’Ghar Ghar Ki Awaz’
Beyond the boundaries of India, Peerzada Abdal’s influence extended as a Freelance Journalist for BBC World Service, Hindi. For several years, he crafted news and current affairs programs, transcending borders and sharing his unique perspective with a global audience. His words reached far and wide, breaking barriers and bridging cultures.
Peerzada Abdal’s commitment to cultural exploration and preservation is truly exceptional. His journey led him to the British Museum in London, where he spent nine enriching years as a non-official member of the British Museum Society. Here, he immersed himself in the world of antiquities, art, culture, and numismatics, gaining invaluable insights into the global tapestry of history. His experiences in London also involved the production of cultural documentaries, revealing the treasures of the British Museum and the essence of Shakespeare’s legacy. In this endeavor, he became not just a custodian of his own culture but also a bridge between East and West.
As an accomplished translator, Peerzada Abdal has lent his skills to translate over 200 best Radio Plays into Kashmiri, Urdu, and Hindi, all broadcast over Radio Kashmir Srinagar. His translation of “Baharistan e Shahi,” a significant Persian chronicle of medieval Kashmir, stands as a testament to his dedication to preserving his homeland’s history. With each word meticulously chosen, he breathed life into ancient tales, ensuring that the echoes of the past resonate with generations to come.
Driven by his deep-rooted love for his homeland, Peerzada Abdal founded the J&K Mahjoor Foundation, an NGO dedicated to the development of Kashmiri language and literature. His efforts in nurturing the next generation’s love for their mother tongue reflect his commitment to preserving Kashmir’s cultural heritage. Through this foundation, he became a guiding light, illuminating the path for those who wished to follow in his footsteps and carry forward the legacy of Kashmiri literature.
Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor is not just a man with a name; he is a guardian of a legacy, a bridge between the rich past and the promising future of Kashmir’s literature and culture. As the Chief Editor of “Gaash,” a prestigious literary Kashmiri magazine, and an active social media blogger, Peerzada Abdal continues to be a beacon of enlightenment and inspiration for generations to come. His journey is a testament to the enduring power of literature, culture, and the unwavering commitment to one’s roots.
Peerzada Abdal ‘ exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. His exemplary performance in producing and presenting the immensely popular current affairs program “SHEHRBEEN” earned him the prestigious State Government Award in 2010. This recognition highlighted his remarkable coverage and presentation of the State Legislature’s proceedings, further solidifying his status as a respected figure in the field of journalism.
His contribution to the acclaimed “Shehrbeen” program illuminated the issues of the day, sparking meaningful conversations and fostering a sense of community among his listeners.Peerzada Abdal feels proud to had a brilliant team of associates whose dedication, milti skilled experience and hard work mad “Shehrbeen”a flagship program of All India Radio. These professionals include Mr Maqsood Ahmad,Mr Ashfaq Lone, Mr Javid Sofi and Hussain Zaffer. The team is currently holding their job responsibly.
In addition to the State Government Award, Peerzada Abdal has been honored with the State Legislature Award in 2007. This recognition underscored his brilliance in illuminating the intricacies of the State Legislature’s activities and proceedings through his work. His journalistic endeavors, marked by accuracy, insight, and integrity, set a high standard for his peers to aspire to.
But Peerzada Abdal’s literary achievements extend beyond the realm of journalism. He has edited and compiled three notable books by the renowned poet and writer Peerzada Ghulam Ahmed Mahjoor. These works, titled “Patwari,” “Hayaat e Raheem” (a biography of a Sufi Saint of Kashmir), and “Kulyaat-e-Mahjoor” (a poetic collection under printing process)have received widespread acclaim and appreciation from readers, further cementing his role as a custodian of Kashmir’s literary heritage. In these volumes, he not only preserved the essence of Mahjoor’s words but also introduced them to new generations, ensuring that the voice of Kashmir’s beloved poet continues to resonate through time.
Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor’s journey is far from over. His deep-rooted passion for the languages and literatures of Kashmir fuels his ongoing projects and aspirations. Currently, he is engaged in translating “Baharistan e Shahi,” the significant Persian chronicle of medieval Kashmir, into the Kashmiri language. This effort seeks to bring to life the historical richness of his homeland for a broader audience, ensuring that the stories of Kashmir’s past are accessible to all.
As Chief Editor of the esteemed quarterly literary Kashmiri magazine, “Gaash,” Peerzada Abdal continues to foster the literary grandeur of Kashmir. This magazine, published under the banner of the J&K Mahjoor Foundation, is a testament to his commitment to promoting the cultural richness of the region. Through its pages, he celebrates the written word, providing a platform for both established and emerging voices in Kashmiri literature.
Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor stands as a luminous thread, weaving together the past, present, and future. His life’s work is a celebration of intellectual curiosity, cultural preservation, and the enduring power of literature. Peerzada Abdal’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us all of the importance of cherishing our roots while embracing the boundless opportunities of the modern age.
Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor, a torchbearer of ancestral wisdom, now stands at the helm of a monumental excavation project that resonates with the echoes of his grandfather, the illustrious Shayir e Kashmir Mahjoor, and his father, the relentless Ibn e Mahjoor.
This endeavor, shrouded in international significance within the realm of global archaeology, unveils a captivating narrative. Amidst the lush valleys and majestic peaks, whispers of the 4th Buddhist Conference, a profound gathering for the refinement and preservation of sacred texts on copper plates, find their place in history. It is said to have taken place under the benevolent rule of the Kushan king Kanishka, a relic of the 2nd century AD.
Mahjoor, imbued with the spirit of his forebears, undertook this noble quest with fervor and unwavering determination. Through tireless dedication, he breathed life into this historical enigma, unearthing remarkable revelations.
With the passage of time and the passing of the torch from one generation to the next, Ibn e Mahjoor inherited this legacy of discovery. His tireless efforts led to the sacred ground where the copper plates lay concealed beneath the embrace of a Vihara, a sanctuary of profound importance.
Now, in the wake of his father’s legacy, Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor weaves together the threads of history, aligning the past with the present. The site, so diligently explored by his forefathers, now beckons him with its ancient secrets waiting to be unveiled.
In a gesture of profound significance, Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor is poised to summon the world’s attention to this historical marvel. He plans to host a grand press conference, where he will unveil the intricacies of the 4th Buddhist Conference, a confluence of wisdom and heritage. Through this platform, he aims to extend a gracious invitation to the government, urging them to take the momentous step of embarking on an excavation of unparalleled significance.
In the resplendent tapestry of Kashmir’s history, this chapter, narrated through the ages by the Mahjoor family, stands as a testament to unwavering dedication and the timeless quest for knowledge. It is a journey that transcends time and borders, resonating with the echoes of a glorious past, waiting to be unearthed and celebrated by the world.
The author can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
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