Life is a weave of joy, sorrow, and profound lessons, shaped by the divine hand of Almighty Allah. Every moment—each coincidence, each serendipitous encounter—carries a story waiting to be told. On 9th January 2023, Kashmir bid farewell to one of its brightest stars, Prof. Rehman Rahi, a poet, scholar, critic, translator, and cultural icon whose contributions to Kashmiri literature remain unmatched.
Born on 6th May 1925 in Srinagar’s Nowshera (Downtown), Rahi Sahib’s journey from a reluctant student to a literary giant is a testament to the transformative power of inspiration. His work not only elevated the Kashmiri language but also cemented its place on the global stage. As the only Kashmiri recipient of the Jnanpith Award—India’s highest literary honor—for his poetic collection *Siyah Rood Jaeren Manz*, Rahi Sahib brought unparalleled prestige to his homeland.
A Spark Ignited by Poetry
Rahi Sahib’s path to greatness was not always clear. In his youth, academics held little appeal. Yet, in 9th standard, a single poem—Allama Iqbal’s *Maa Ka Khwab*—changed everything. Encountered in an Urdu textbook, its verses awakened the poet within him, as he shared in a Radio Kashmir interview. Adopting the pen name “Rahi,” he embarked on a journey that would redefine Kashmiri literature. Like Iqbal, Ghalib, and Mir Taqi Mir, Rahi’s poetry was born from a deep love for humanity and his homeland, resonating with readers across generations.
A Legacy Beyond Measure
Rahi Sahib’s contributions transcend poetry. As a critic, teacher, and translator, he enriched Kashmiri culture, preserving its essence amid changing times. His work earned him numerous accolades, but the Jnanpith Award stands as a pinnacle, symbolizing his role as a cultural torchbearer. His passing is a profound loss, akin to losing a crown jewel of Kashmir’s heritage. It may take centuries for another poet of his stature to emerge.
Yet, his legacy endures. Rahi Sahib’s words continue to inspire, offering solace and wisdom. His poetry, steeped in Kashmiri identity, reminds us of our roots in an era increasingly swayed by external influences. His voice—both tender and powerful—remains a beacon for those seeking to understand the soul of Kashmir.
A Call to Preserve and Inspire
The youth of Kashmir brim with potential, ready to shape a brighter future. However, many remain unaware of giants like Rahi Sahib, whose efforts laid the foundation for our cultural pride. It is our collective duty to ensure his works are accessible—in school libraries, colleges, and public institutions. By introducing students to his poetry, we can ignite the same spark that *Maa Ka Khwab* kindled in Rahi.
We must nurture young talents in literature, art, and culture, providing platforms for their creativity to flourish. Schools and communities should foster environments where students encounter poets like Iqbal, Ghalib, and Rahi, drawing inspiration from their love for humanity and homeland. By doing so, we empower the next generation to carry forward Kashmir’s rich legacy.
A Prayer for Continuity
As we mourn Rahi Sahib’s loss, we pray that Almighty Allah fills the void he left behind. May He grant us the strength to uphold the torch Rahi Sahib carried with such grace. In an age of cultural drift, let us hold fast to our identity, ethics, and morals—values Rahi Sahib championed through his life’s work.
Prof. Rehman Rahi’s name is etched in golden letters in Kashmir’s history. His contributions stand as a testament to the enduring power of words. May Almighty Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.
( Note: Sahil Manzoor is a writer and advocate for Kashmiri culture, dedicated to preserving the region’s literary and artistic heritage.Contact him at sahilmanzoor411990@gmail.com.)
