Dr Mushtaque B Barq
Devotional poetry in Kashmir has a profound history, intricately woven into the region’s spiritual and cultural fabric. This tradition reflects the mystical, religious, and philosophical influences that have shaped Kashmiri society over centuries.
The roots of Kashmiri devotional poetry date back to the 14th century with the emergence of mystic poets like Lal Ded (1320–1392) and Nund Rishi (1377–1438). Another significant form of devotional poetry in Kashmir is the Marsiya, introduced between the 15th and 16th centuries. Marsiya evolved into an elaborate prose form, enriched with rhythmic and Quranic influences. Early contributors to this genre, such as Qasim bin Yusuf Din Shah and Hakim bin Musa ibn Yusuf Din Shah, embedded themes of sacrifice, mourning, and devotion within their works.
The 18th and 19th centuries marked a classical period for Kashmiri devotional poetry. Poets like Parmananda (1791–1864) and Mahmud Gami (1765–1855) enriched the tradition with their contributions. Parmananda’s works, such as “Radha Swayamvara,” explore mystical and devotional themes, while Mahmud Gami, often referred to as the “Jami of Kashmir,” translated Persian classics into Kashmiri, introducing themes of divine love and spiritual yearning.
In the 20th century, poets like Dina Nath Nadim (1916–1988) revitalized the tradition by blending classical forms with contemporary concerns. Throughout its history, Kashmiri devotional poetry has served as a medium for expressing spiritual longing, communal values, and the quest for divine connection. A devoted poet creatively celebrates their beliefs, embodying a unique blend of artistry and spirituality. One of the most challenging tasks for these poets is to adhere to established rules of conduct while crafting their verses. At times, they may deviate from strict lines of faith, making choices about pronouns that reflect the thematic patterns within their poetry. Faith without due respect can never attract public attention and encouragement.
Basharat Bukhari’s devotional verses are rich in faith, expressing a deep yearning conveyed through supplications filled with humility and longing. His poetry captures the essence of devotion, repentance, and divine love, demonstrating a profound spiritual connection. Through evocative imagery and heartfelt appeals, he weaves together words that not only glorify the Divine but also instill a deep sense of reverence within the reader.
His verses illuminate the path of faith, calling upon divine mercy, guidance, and the embrace of sacred love. In this way, his work stands as a testament to unwavering belief and poetic devotion, inspiring readers to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and deepen their connection to the Divine.
Key Excerpts from Basharat Bukhari’s Poetry:
I acknowledge my faults, I confess, but do not
banish me
From the kind embrace of Muhammad (SAW),
O my Lord.
I yearn for someone to confide in, someone to
show my pride to,
Yet everything is just an illusion—only You
are the True Sovereign, O my Lord.
The joyful moon’s bright reflections share secrets
of the stars,
Your blessings shine on everything—You are
the Light of all, O my Lord.
In the utmost realm of holiness is Muhammad (SAW), the noble messenger,
Kindly include me among those who cherish him,
O my Lord.
You are the Highest, the Master, the ultimate Giver,
We all stand in need of Your mercy and grace,
O my Lord.
The devotional poem employs various literary devices to deepen its emotional and spiritual meaning. One device is apostrophe, where the poet addresses God directly by saying “O my Lord.” This phrase is repeated at the end of each stanza, emphasizing devotion through repetition. Imagery paints vivid pictures, such as “The joyful moon’s bright reflections share secrets of the stars.” Symbolism is also present, especially with references to light, representing divine guidance, as in “You are the Light of all, O my Lord.”
Alliteration creates a rhythmic flow, as seen in the phrase “kind embrace of Muhammad.” Contrast is used to show the difference between the fleeting nature of worldly illusions and the everlasting divine truth, illustrated by “Yet everything is just an illusion—only You are the True Sovereign.” Parallelism adds strength to the poem’s structure with balanced phrases like “You are the Highest, the Master, and the ultimate Giver.” Lastly, the themes of humility and supplication are crucial, as the poet admits faults and seeks mercy in lines like “Kindly include me among those who cherish him, O my Lord.” Together, these devices create a strong expression of devotion and a yearning for divine grace.
A devotional poet plays a crucial role in expressing humility and seeking forgiveness, as shown in the line “I acknowledge my faults, I confess, but do not banish me.” Their poetry strengthens faith by affirming God’s supreme authority, as reflected in the words “Yet everything is just an illusion—only You are the True Sovereign, O my Lord.” Through their work, they evoke a profound sense of longing and spiritual connection, illustrated by “I yearn for someone to confide in, someone to show my pride to.”
Moreover, a devotional poet must illuminate divine blessings and guidance, beautifully captured in the line “Your blessings shine on everything—You are the Light of all, O my Lord.” They honour the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with deep love and reverence, expressed in “From the kind embrace of Muhammad (SAW), O my Lord.” By encouraging devotion, they seek inclusion among the faithful, as seen in “Kindly include me among those who cherish him, O my Lord.”
Recognizing God as the ultimate giver is essential, highlighted in “You are the Highest, the Master, the ultimate Giver.” Their poetry inspires gratitude and dependence on divine mercy, as reflected in “We all stand in need of Your mercy and grace, O my Lord.” Devotional poets weave beauty and emotion into their work, using celestial imagery like “The joyful moon’s bright reflections share secrets of the stars.” Above all, they keep prayer and praise at the center of their writing, with the recurring plea “O my Lord” emphasizing constant remembrance of God. Through these responsibilities, a devotional poet not only expresses their personal faith but also inspires and uplifts others, creating a shared connection to the divine.
Basharat Bukhari’s Career:
Basharat Bukhari began his career as a broadcaster with All India Radio (AIR) Jalandhar and was later transferred to AIR Srinagar (then Radio Kashmir) in February 1998. During his tenure, he contributed to numerous prominent programs such as Hello Radio Kashmir (a phone-in entertainment program), Aaj Ki Surkhiyan, Rai-Trai, Sub-he-Kashmir, Paaym-e-Sub, Subuh Gaahi, Sheherbeen, Sabrang, Sadaband, Library Sey, Kehkeshan, Baazgasht, Bilmushafa, Tarjuman, and many more.
In September 2003, he resigned from broadcasting and joined the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (JK PDP). He was elected to the Legislative Council (MLC) in 2004 and later to the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in December 2008. He was re-elected to the Legislative Assembly in December 2014. During his political career, he served as a member of the cabinet under Late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and later under Ms. Mehbooba Mufti until June 2018, holding key portfolios including Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs, Revenue, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Horticulture.
Dr. Mushtaq B.Barq is a Columnist, Poet and Fiction Writer. He is the author of “Feeble prisoner, “Wings of Love” and many translation works are credited to the author like “ Verses Of Wahab
