Poet Farooq Nazki passes away

Srinagar, February 6

Farooq Nazki, a prominent poet, writer, and former director of Doordarshan and Radio Kashmir Srinagar (formerly Radio Kashmir) passed away on Tuesday.

Known for his literary contributions and having won the Sahitya Akademi Award, Nazki died after suffering a heart attack at a hospital in Katra. He was 83. He had been grappling with various health issues, including lung and kidney complications, for the past four years.

Akademi awardee

• In 1995, Farooq Nazki was awarded the Sahitya Akademi award in Kashmiri for his poetry book Naar Hyutun Kanzal Wanas (Fire in the eyelashes)
• Nazki held the position of Director at Doordarshan and AIR Srinagar from 1986 to 97

Nazki held the position of Director at Doordarshan and AIR Srinagar from 1986 to 1997. He was a prolific writer and served as the Editor of “Daily Mazdoor” in 1960. The daily was a reflection of those times taking up the issues of labour class. In 2000, he retired from government service.

He also served as media advisor to two Chief Ministers, Farooq Abdullah (in 1983 and 1990–2002) and Omar Abdullah (2010).

In 1995, Nazki was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in Kashmiri literature for his collection of poetry, “Naar Hyutun Kanzal Wanas” (Fire in the Eyelashes).

“Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of the living legend Farooq Nazki sahib. His literary brilliance & media presence were unparalleled. His contribution in the field of broadcasting and literature will have an everlasting impact on our cultural and literary treasure. I pray for his peace & offer condolence to his family,” former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said.

Former Minister Haseeb Drabu wrote on X, “The passing away of a qalander is not to be mourned; his fulfilling life is to be celebrated. For he has left this station after enriching it in many ways. A societal loss which is a personal bereavement.”

National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and vice president Omar Abdullah extended their condolences. They called him a man with multifaceted talents. “He leaves behind an indelible mark as one of the most esteemed literary figures, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”