Modern Kashmiri poetry owes much of its evolution to two iconic figures—Mehjoor and Abdul Ahad Azad. Despite their contrasting approaches and temperaments, these literary pioneers shared an unyielding love for their homeland, a dedication to awakening the masses, and a lasting impact that shaped Kashmiri literature and cultural identity.

Shared Ideals and Contributions

Awakening the Masses

During the socio-political turmoil of the Dogra regime, both Mehjoor and Azad emerged as voices of the people:
Mehjoor infused his poetry with themes of unity and hope, often drawing on nature and culture as metaphors for renewal, exemplified in works like “Walo Ha Bagh wano.”
Azad, adopting a more revolutionary tone, boldly critiqued oppression and called for resistance, as seen in “Inqalab” and numerous other poems and ghazals.

Pride in Kashmiri Identity

Both poets demonstrated profound pride in their Kashmiri heritage, mourning the cultural stagnation and subjugation of their people. They passionately urged a return to their community's rich and glorious past.

Love for Nature

Nature served as an enduring muse for both poets, though their perspectives differed:
Mehjoor romanticized Kashmir’s scenic splendor, using it as a symbol of hope and cultural pride.
Azad viewed nature through a philosophical lens, employing it as a metaphor for resilience and the indomitable human spirit.

Unity Among Kashmiri People

Mehjoor and Azad advocated for unity among people of different faiths, emphasizing their shared ancestry and human love over religious differences.
Mehjoor expressed this sentiment with poignant simplicity:
"Kashren henz zat butrath chey kuni
khamukhah doorer mo paeview panewaeni"
(The caste and land of Kashmiri are one and the same. Don't let trivial matters create wedges between us.)
Azad echoed this thought with profound philosophical depth:
''Qudrats thawni yued asehan beyun beyun milat te qoum.
preth aks beyun beyun zameenah aasmanah Asihay"
(Had Almighty willed to maintain different tribes and people in separation, then He would have fixed separate skies and lands for each of them.)
''Contrasting Philosophies and Personalities''
Romanticism vs. Intellectual Rigidity;
- Mehjoor was a romantic and flexible soul who celebrated love, relationships, and the joys of life. His poetry often radiated warmth and optimism, portraying figures like the wandering yogi in search of love's essence. With his romantic lyrics and profound appreciation for beauty, Mehjoor captivated audiences wherever he roamed, his pleasing personality adding to his allure.
- Azad, in contrast, adhered strictly to intellectual and moral values, shaped by the ideals of revered educators and reformers.
''Tami khoet chu behtar zovlana ghulami hund. Yus lol jawn mardan istade pather paway.''
He cautioned youth against succumbing to mortal desires, which he deemed more perilous and destructive than physical chains of slavery.

Approach of Life and Circumstances

Mehjoor demonstrated adaptability and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. His ability to blend in and adjust allowed him to praise figures like Sheikh Abdullah and the Maharaja, inspiring unity and progress across political and social divides.
- Azad, on the other hand, maintained a principled distance from political leaders. He concentrated on societal transformation through critique and action. Notable figures like Amla Ashai attempted to engage him at his residence in Ranger but failed to sway his focus or earn his support.

Professional Influence

As a ''Patwari'', later ''Halqadar'', Mehjoor immersed himself in administrative duties that informed his structured and relatable poetic style.
Azad, a dedicated school teacher, championed education and enlightenment within and beyond the classroom. His intellectual depth and rigor found reflection in his scholarly works and his finely crafted poetry.

Differences at the Later Stage

Behavioral differences led Mehjoor and Azad to drift apart, particularly after Azad penned the parody “Mehjoor Saben Khole Tumbakhnari Pakhar Pure.” This satirical work resulted in Azad receiving a beating near present-day Iqbal Park (formerly Hazoori Bagh). Subsequently, Azad was labeled a non-believer and atheist. Though these accusations prompted Azad to avoid interactions with Mehjoor, they maintained civility and refrained from publicizing personal disputes.
The parody had its roots in a letter by Ghulam Nabi Aariz, which said: ''Mehjoor Saheb ab Mitrigam mein qayam pazeer hain, dardhi badhayi hai, Aurat ki Jagah ab khuda ne laily hai.”
Azad, steadfast in his reformist ideals and emotional self-control, stood conscious of his stature. A poignant moment occurred upon his return to Zuhama after a transfer to Tral. Visiting the critically ill daughter of a landlord whose house had accommodated his school, Azad offered her his unfinished cup of qahwa. As she sipped it, she requested him to sit beside her pillow, gazed at his face, and passed away.

Differences in Literary Practices

Accessibility and Audience

Mehjoor ensured his poetry reached the masses by collaborating with street singers like Mehmood Shari. Though fewer in number, his lyrical works enjoyed widespread acclaim for their emotional depth. Conversely, Azad pursued introspection, engaging a Chakri party for solace during Thursday nights. His extensive 'Kuliyat' remains intellectually rich but underexplored compared to Mehjoor's celebrated works.

Family and Legacy

Mehjoor raised a large family, ensuring the preservation of his legacy. Mohd Amin ibni Mehjoor to Abdal Ahamad Mehjoor the legacy is carried forward . Azad, with no male heirs, saw his literary contributions immortalized solely through his writings preserved by his friends.. Nevertheless, both continue to inspire future generations.

Lifespan and Opportunities

Mehjoor lived a long life, witnessing freedom's pleasures, confinements, and disillusionments. Azad's untimely death curtailed his aspirations. Prior to his demise, Azad entrusted his will to Dr. Padam Nath Gunju, requesting preservation of his pioneering research on Kashmiri language and literature. Dr. Gunju honored Azad's wishes, safeguarding his legacy. Mehjoor mourned deeply, lamenting the loss of his fellow poet and the unfulfilled promises of freedom.
''Masterpieces Compared:
Azad’s “Daryav” and Mehjoor’s “Azadi”
Both “Daryav” and “Azadi” invite readers into the heart and soul of Kashmiri experiences, reflecting themes of transformation, freedom, and resilience:
''Azad’s “Daryav”
Symbolizes the river as a witness to human struggles, embodying resilience and continuity amidst adversity.
Themes of time, transience, and introspection resonate deeply with the historical and emotional narrative of Kashmir.

Mehjoor’s “Azadi”

A passionate call for liberation—political, social, and personal.
Themes of dignity, identity, and hope underscore the Kashmiri people's longing for justice and self-determination.

Legacy and Recognition

Mehjoor’s Legacy

A poet of the people, Mehjoor brought Kashmiri poetry closer to its roots, celebrating love, nature, and identity.
- ''Azad’s Legacy'': A fearless reformist, Azad laid the groundwork for intellectual discourse and progressive thought in Kashmiri literature. His works, particularly ''Daryav,” deserve greater scholarly attention.

Mehjoor and Azad remain complementary forces, capturing the dual dimensions of the Kashmiri spirit—its beauty and resilience, its dreams and struggles. Together, their poetry is a timeless testament to the power of art to reflect, critique, and inspire society.