SANJAY PANDITA
In the illustrious and timeless world of Kashmiri scholarship, there are but a handful of luminaries whose brilliance continues to shine through the mists of history. Prof. (Dr).Farooq Ahmad Bhat, also known by his revered title, Prof. Farooq Fayaz, stands as a beacon in this intellectual firmament. A historian of extraordinary depth, a poet of exquisite sensibilities, a literary critic of remarkable insight, and a folklorist whose research spans the breadth of Kashmiri traditions and culture, Prof. Fayaz has redefined what it means to be a scholar. His legacy is a testament to a life dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, the celebration of Kashmiri heritage, and the preservation of the rich literary and historical fabric that defines the region.
Born on April 16, 1954, in the culturally rich and historically significant locality of Sathu Barbarshah, Srinagar, Prof. Fayaz was destined to immerse himself in the vast ocean of knowledge. His upbringing in an environment steeped in Kashmiri folklore, oral traditions, and the undying cultural spirit of the region profoundly influenced his intellectual pursuits. His father, Kh. Mohammad Ramzan, a man of wisdom and reverence for knowledge, played a pivotal role in shaping his future. This early immersion in the ethos of Kashmiri heritage not only sowed the seeds of intellectual curiosity but also nurtured a lifelong passion for uncovering the stories of the land’s history, culture, and literary brilliance.
The academic journey of Prof. Fayaz was one marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. His educational trajectory took him through the rigorous realms of academia, culminating in a Master’s degree, an M.Phil., and a Ph.D. in History. These scholarly achievements laid a strong foundation for his future work as a historian, folklorist, and cultural critic. His research was always centered around the exploration and preservation of Kashmir’s intellectual, literary, and cultural heritage.
Prof. Fayaz’s scholarly contributions to Kashmiri literature and history are unparalleled. His works are not merely academic studies but also monumental contributions to the intellectual consciousness of Kashmir. Among his most revered works are Folk-Lore and History of Kashmir, Zaban Adab Te Twarikh, and Kashmiri Folk-Lore—A Study in Historical Perspective. These books have redefined the study of Kashmiri history, literature, and folklore, weaving together a rich tapestry that blends oral narratives with historical analysis. His writings provide a unique lens through which one can understand the socio-cultural dynamics of Kashmir through the ages.
The importance of Prof. Fayaz’s work lies not only in the depth of his research but also in his ability to synthesize diverse intellectual traditions. His exploration of Kashmiri folklore as an integral part of historical inquiry has shaped how subsequent scholars approach the region’s cultural evolution. His research has unearthed the wealth of oral traditions and stories that have formed the backbone of Kashmiri identity, preserving them for future generations to study and cherish.
Among the crowning achievements of his scholarly work is his monumental study of the literary contributions of renowned figures such as Shaikh-ul-Alam and Fazil Kashmiri. Prof. Fayaz’s insights into the works of these luminaries have breathed new life into their poetic legacies, allowing a broader audience to appreciate the depth of their spiritual and intellectual contributions. His research on the spiritual and literary dimensions of Shaikh-ul-Alam has reshaped how scholars understand Kashmiri mysticism and Sufism, offering a more nuanced perspective on the intersections between literature, spirituality, and social thought in the region.
In addition to his academic works, Prof. Fayaz has enriched Kashmiri literature by bringing new voices and perspectives to the forefront. His dramatic works, which introduce theatrical dimensions to Kashmiri literature, are a testament to his innovative spirit. Through these plays, he has brought the rich oral storytelling traditions of Kashmir into the modern realm, preserving their authenticity while exploring contemporary themes and issues. His literary vision has expanded the boundaries of Kashmiri literary culture, opening doors for experimentation and innovation.
Prof. Farooq Fayaz was associated with one of the famous Srinagar-based theatrical groups, “Rang Manch.” He holds the distinction of having acted in a number of stage plays within and outside the State along with the dramatic luminaries of the time like Makhan Lal Saraf, Brij Kishori, Bansi Lal Mottu, Bihari Kak, and Bansi Raina. His contributions to Kashmiri theatre have been instrumental in fostering a deeper appreciation for the performing arts in the region
In addition to his scholarly and creative contributions, Prof. Fayaz has made a significant impact through his work as a translator. His translations serve as bridges between languages and cultures, making global literary treasures accessible to a Kashmiri audience while simultaneously introducing Kashmiri literary and historical works to the wider world. His translation of Romila Thapar’s Penguin History of Early India and Anita Desai’s Fire on the Mountain into Kashmiri is a monumental achievement that allows readers of the region to engage with some of the most influential works in Indian literature and history in their native tongue.
Moreover, Prof. Fayaz’s English translation of Prof. Shams-ud-Din Ahmad’s Shamas Faqir has played an essential role in bringing Kashmiri mysticism to a global audience. By translating such works, he has ensured that the spiritual and intellectual legacy of Kashmir is not confined to the region but continues to resonate with readers across the world. This act of translation is a reflection of his broader vision for preserving and disseminating the cultural richness of Kashmir to future generations.
Prof. Fayaz’s contribution is not confined to the written word alone. He has been actively engaged with the media, particularly through his work with Radio Kashmir Srinagar. His programs, such as Sangarmal and Gandhi Katha, have served as powerful platforms for promoting Kashmiri literature and Gandhian thought. His innovative approach to integrating literature with public discourse has inspired a generation of listeners to engage with their cultural heritage. Prof. Farooq Fayaz served in Radio Kashmir, Srinagar from 1989-1992 and worked as a Transmission Executive, further cementing his role as a key figure in Kashmiri media and cultural discourse.
As the creative force behind the Kashmir University Radio Digest, Prof. Fayaz ensured that scholarly discussions were accessible to a broader audience. His media work, much like his academic contributions, bridged the gap between the ivory towers of academia and the general public, fostering a deeper understanding of Kashmiri history, literature, and culture among the masses.
Prof. Fayaz’s distinguished career has been marked by numerous awards and honors that reflect his outstanding contributions to the fields of history, literature, and culture. His achievements have been recognized at various levels, culminating in the prestigious J&K State Award (2025) for Literature, a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to Kashmiri intellectualism. Other notable accolades include the Sahitya Akademi Award (2022) for Zael Dub, the Sharaf-e-Maraaz Award (2022), the Khilat-i-Hajini (2022), and the Best Book Award (2009) for Kashmir Folklore—A Study in Historical Perspective. These awards stand as a testament to his extraordinary scholarly contributions and the profound impact his work has had on Kashmiri culture and literary heritage.
In addition to these accolades, Prof. Fayaz has received the Kashmir Media Award, the Fazil Memorial Award, and the Ghulam Ali Majboor Memorial Award, among many others. Each recognition serves as a reminder of the indelible mark he has left on Kashmiri scholarship and his tireless efforts to elevate the intellectual and cultural standing of the region.
Prof. Fayaz’s influence extends far beyond his personal accolades and achievements. Throughout his career, he has been an active member of several esteemed academic and cultural organizations, including the Indian Historical Congress, the Executive Board of the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts. His work with the Indian Folk-Lore Foundation and the Jammu Kashmir Cultural Confederation has played a key role in shaping national and regional discussions on cultural preservation and intellectual growth.
His tenure at the University of Kashmir, where he served in key positions such as Professor of History, Director of the UGC Academic Staff College, and Associate Dean of Student Welfare, solidified his reputation as a visionary academic leader. His leadership at the University, coupled with his role as the Chief Producer of the Kashmir University Radio Digest, ensured that the academic and cultural spirit of Kashmir thrived in both local and national contexts.
Prof. Fayaz’s involvement in higher education extended beyond Kashmir, as he served as a visiting professor in various universities across North India. Through these positions, he broadened the scope of Kashmiri literary scholarship, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Kashmiri history and culture.
The legacy of Prof. Farooq Fayaz is one that transcends the pages of books and academic journals. It is a living, breathing testament to the rich intellectual, literary, and cultural heritage of Kashmir. His contributions have shaped not only the field of Kashmiri history and literature but also the broader cultural and intellectual landscape of the region. Even in his post-retirement years, his scholarly endeavors continue to inspire and challenge new generations of scholars, poets, and literary critics.
As he stands honored with the J&K State Award (2025), the people of Kashmir and the world at large celebrate a man whose life’s work has been dedicated to the preservation and enrichment of the region’s intellectual and cultural legacy. Prof. Fayaz’s scholarly pursuits, his writings, and his unwavering commitment to Kashmiri heritage ensure that his contributions will continue to resonate for generations to come. His life’s journey, steeped in the wisdom of history and the promise of a bright future, serves as an enduring inspiration to all those who seek the truth of Kashmir’s past, the beauty of its literary heritage, and the promise of its cultural legacy. In the luminous glow of his legacy, Prof. Farooq Fayaz remains an eternal flame, lighting the path for future generations of scholars and literary custodians.
The writer can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
