Kashmir’s renowned poet and Jnanpith awardee, Professor Rehman Rahi is no more. He was 98.
He died during the wee hours at his Vicharnag residence in Srinagar district.
In 1961, the famous translator and critic, Rahi was awarded the Indian Sahitya Akademi Award for his poetry collection Nawroz-i-Saba.
In 2000, Rahi was also honored with the Padma Shri award.
Rahi’s death was mourned by Kashmiris from all walks of life.
J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha tweeted: “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Jnanpith awardee Prof Rehman Rahi, one of the most influential poets in Kashmiri in recent times. His passing marks the end of an era. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and well-wishers.”
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said, “Saddened to hear about the sad demise of towering literary personality and Gyanpeeth Awardee Jinab Rehman Rahi sb. In his death, Kashmiri Literature and society have been left with a void that can never be filled. My condolences to the family.”
“Rehman Rahi was one of the most outstanding figures in Kashmiri literature. His creative brilliance found expression in various genres of literature. His works reflect the cultural and political vicissitudes of Kashmir. They’ll continue to influence young bards and writers. Deep condolences” said CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami in a tweet.
