Srinagar, Dec 1: Tagore Hall in Srinagar was abuzz on Monday as the community came together to celebrate Afaqi Day, honoring the life, literary contributions, and social impact of renowned Kashmiri scholar Assadullah Afaqi. The program, jointly organized by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, Kashmir Markaz-e-Adab Wa Saqafat, and Life Foundation Charari Sharief, drew an audience of dignitaries, scholars, writers, educationists, and students of Life School Kashmir.
The celebration began with a warm welcome of the guests and a detailed introduction to Afaqi Sahab’s life and achievements. Eminent personalities present included M. Y. Taragami (MLA Kulgam), Syed Mubashir Bukhari (SSP JK Police), Dr. G. N. Itoo (Former Director-General), environmental lawyer Nadeem Qadiri, Prof. Bashar Bashir, Mr. Amin Bhat (President, Markaz-e-Adab), Prof. Farooq Fayaz, Dr. G. N. Haleem, Dr. Mahfooza, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad (Managing Director, Al-Shifa Hospital), and other notable figures from the educational and cultural spheres of the Kashmir Valley.
Speakers highlighted Assadullah Afaqi’s dual legacy—his literary achievements and his socially conscious contributions. His seminal works, such as RopeWon, Monkhti-e-Maal, Hayat-e-Sheikh-ul-Aalam, Taleemat-e-Sheikh-ul-Aalam, Kulliyat-e-Sheikh-ul-Aalam, and Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Aalam Aur 21st Sadi, were recognized not only for their literary merit but also for reflecting his deep concern for social justice, community welfare, and ethical values. Editor Brighter Kashmir Farooq Wani noted Afaqi Sahab’s role as a socially responsible scholar who actively worked to educate the masses, promote literacy, and inspire moral and spiritual development among youth. His writings often emphasized compassion, civic responsibility, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
The celebration was further enlivened by Life School Kashmir students, who performed recitations, skits, and presentations inspired by Afaqi Sahab’s teachings and social philosophy. Their performances underscored themes of empathy, social service, and moral courage, reflecting the enduring relevance of Afaqi Sahab’s social vision in contemporary times.
Mementos and certificates were distributed to participating students, teachers, and guest speakers, recognizing their contribution to making the event memorable. These awards also reinforced the importance of promoting cultural literacy alongside social consciousness.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Baba Nazrul Islam, Chairman of Life School, who expressed gratitude to the organizing bodies, dignitaries, and participants. He emphasized the importance of continuing Afaqi Sahab’s mission—not only preserving literary heritage but also actively contributing to the betterment of society, nurturing ethical values, and fostering social responsibility among the younger generation. Inaayat Gul, for seamlessly managing the proceedings
By celebrating both the intellectual and social dimensions of Assadullah Afaqi’s life, Afaqi Day reaffirmed his lasting impact on Kashmir’s cultural, educational, and social landscape. The event inspired attendees to carry forward his legacy of literature, learning, and civic engagement, ensuring that his vision for a compassionate and educated society endures.