(Dr. Azad Rashid Shiekh)
On the 7th of February 2025 (Friday), my world changed forever. My father, Ab Rashid Sheikh, took his final breath, leaving behind a legacy that words can scarcely capture. A retired lecturer in economics, a community leader, and a man of profound wisdom, he was not just a father to me but a guide, a mentor, and an inspiration to many.
There are some people whose presence alone brings a sense of stability to a family, a community, and a generation. My father was one such man. His wisdom, discipline, and kindness shaped not only my life but the lives of many who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Scholar and a Mentor
Education was my father’s lifelong passion. As a lecturer in economics, he shaped the minds of countless students, not just by teaching theories and principles but by instilling in them a deep sense of curiosity and responsibility. He believed that education was not merely about acquiring degrees; it was about understanding the world, questioning the status quo, and using knowledge to uplift society.
His students admired him for his clarity of thought and his ability to make even the most complex economic concepts understandable. Many of them have gone on to become successful professionals, and they still recall how his words shaped their futures. Even after his retirement, students would visit him, seeking guidance not only on academics but on life itself. For him, teaching was never just a profession—it was a calling, a mission to empower others.
He believed in the power of self-reliance and critical thinking. I remember how he would often say, “Never accept things at face value; always question, analyse, and seek the truth.” He wanted his students—and his children—to be independent thinkers who could contribute meaningfully to the world.
A Man of the People
Beyond the walls of the classroom, my father was deeply involved in the welfare of our community. He never hesitated to raise his voice for justice and fairness. Whether it was mediating local disputes, helping the underprivileged, or guiding young minds toward a better future, he always led with wisdom and integrity.
I have vivid memories of people coming to our home at all hours, seeking his guidance. Some came for advice on financial matters, others for help in resolving personal or social conflicts. He never turned anyone away. He believed that knowledge and experience were meant to be shared, not kept for oneself.
Despite being politically aware, he never sought power for himself. Instead, he worked selflessly for the welfare of others. He believed in progress, in fairness, and in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, had access to education and economic opportunities.
The Elegance of Simplicity
One of the most striking qualities about my father was his sense of dignity. He carried himself with an elegance that was not just about his attire but about his entire demeanour. Always well-dressed, he had a timeless sense of style that reflected his disciplined and refined nature. But his true grace lay in his character—the way he treated people with kindness and respect, regardless of their status or background.
He believed that being well-dressed was not about vanity but about self-respect and discipline. “The way you present yourself reflects the way you think,” he would often say. Even in his final days, he remained meticulous in his habits, showing that true dignity is not affected by age or circumstance.
A Father’s Advice: A Moment Captured in Time
The photo I have chosen to share with this tribute is deeply personal. In it, my father is seen giving me advice—just as he had done countless times before. It is a moment frozen in time, a reflection of the wisdom he imparted, the care he showed, and the bond we shared.
That day, he spoke to me about patience and perseverance. “Azad, life will test you in many ways. There will be moments of doubt, times of hardship. But always remember—stay true to your values, work hard, and never let fear decide your fate.” His words, spoken with sincerity and conviction, are engraved in my heart forever.
I often find myself revisiting that moment, hearing his voice in my mind. His advice was not just for that day—it was a lesson for life, one that I will carry forward and pass on, just as he did.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Losing him has left a void that no words can fill. The house feels quieter, the conversations seem incomplete without his wisdom, and life itself feels a little less certain without his guiding hand. Yet, as we grieve, we also find comfort in the immense legacy he has left behind.
His students, colleagues, and community members continue to speak of him with respect and admiration. His lessons live on in the people he taught, the lives he touched, and the values he instilled. And while he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit, his teachings, and his love will remain with us forever.
A Heartfelt Message of Gratitude
In these difficult days, my family and I have been overwhelmed by the love, support, and prayers we have received. From close relatives to friends, neighbours, former students, and well-wishers, every kind word and every visit has given us strength.
To all those who came to offer condolences, to those who shared their memories of my father, and to those who stood by us in our grief—I am deeply grateful. Your presence, your words, and your prayers have helped us navigate this painful time. My father always believed in the power of community, and in these moments, I have truly understood what he meant.
May Allah bless you all for your kindness and support. Your warmth has been a source of comfort, and we will forever remember your generosity of spirit.
To be continued…
(This article is only a small attempt to honour the life of my father. There are still many stories left to tell, many memories to share. His legacy is too vast to be contained in a few words. In the coming days, I will continue to write and share more about the man who shaped me, our family, and our community.)
(The author teaches History at Govt. College of Education Jammu)
