By: Asia Jan

Allah SWT created a daughter as a parental favor. Allah Ta’ala’s blessings are daughters. Arab civilization mistreated girls before the arrival of Islam. A father who had a daughter used to experience guilt after she was born. In the past, Arab societies buried females alive to free themselves of the stigma. Islam arrived and granted rights to women, sisters, daughters, wives, and especially to young girls who were abused during a time of darkness and harsh treatment of girls by society. The Muslim community nowadays is deeply engrossed in the autobiographies of alleged superstars, yet they show no interest in or concern for the families of the Holy Prophet PBUH, his companions, or any other significant Muslim figures. It is a sad and incomprehensible truth that Muslims throughout the world are not aware with the great figures in Islamic history who might serve as role models for tailoring their own lifestyles.

Syeda Fatima R.A. is the blessed and loving daughter of the Holy Prophet PBUH. Her position is so excellent that people who do not recognize it are just harming themselves by not learning from her teachings. It is absolutely time for Muslim women to rise above the plethora of so-called role models who, instead of promoting a modest and pure lifestyle, actually live and teach the opposite. Muslim women should take up and emulate Syeda Fatima R.A.’s lifestyle, since she was praised by God for her moral character.
Muslim decline can be attributed, in part, to their having abandoned genuine role models and goals in favor of false and flawed ones. By portraying Syeda Fatima R.A.’s persona as a daughter, this article aims to treat cancer by making Muslim girls aware of the significance of their role in light of Syeda Fatima R.A.’s Seerat. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) raised four daughters and believed that daughter-rearing was a holy act in Islam. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was quite fond of his daughters, especially Syeda Fatima R.A. According to reports, she was born when the Holy Prophet PBUH was 41 years old, during the second year of prophethood. Fatima was her name given by the Holy Prophet PBUH. For women everywhere, Hazrat Fatima R.A. serves as an inspiration. So that women of all eras may emulate her and become wonderful daughters, mothers, wives, and counselors, Allah Almighty created her as the model of a perfect woman.She became enraged and tried to safeguard and shield her father from the bad intents of the Islamic adversaries who had tortured or plotted against the Holy Prophet PBUH. The adversaries of Islam, including Abu Jahal, Uqba Bin Abee Moeet, and others, decided to stop the Holy Prophet PBUH during his prayer in the vicinity of the Kaaba. Uqba Bin Abee Moeet began laughing and making fun of their despicable behavior after throwing the animal tripe upon the back of the Holy Prophet PBUH. After hearing about the tragedy from someone, Hazrat Fatima R.A., who was still fairly little, hurried to the scene to assist her father in clearing the dirt. Once, the opponents of Islam and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) planned a surprise attack on the Prophet to subject him to severe torment. When Syeda Fatima R.A., a young child at the time, learned of their heinous deed, she told her father. The courageous father reassures her that she should not worry at all since Allah SWT would shield him from their malicious purpose. Hazrat Fatima R.A. lived during very difficult times when all the tribes boycotted her loving Father and those who had adopted Islam. During this time, the Holy Prophet PBUH’s uncle established the blockade of Shi`b Abi Talib, a tiny valley, to protect Muslims from the oppressions of the Makkans. The people who supported Islam were forced to deal with the blockage for over three years. Not long afterward, Hazrat Fatima R.A. had to deal with the terrible deaths of Her Mother, Hazrat Khadijah R.A., and the honorable protector of His Father, Abu Taalib. Her health suffered severely as a result of all these awful events in her early life, yet she never wavered in her support of her adored, wonderful Father (PBUH) or in her ability to be patient and determined. Various publications have detailed numerous incidents that demonstrate her love, concern, and defense of her father. She followed the Holy Prophet to the battlefield when she had to face the enemies of Islam. She told her father after making an effort to investigate enemy plans and track their activities. She also provides water to the Islamic warriors on the battlefield, tends to their wounds, and tends to the injured. Another quality that makes Syeda Fatima R.A. stand out is her humility. She was extremely mindful of her posture and elegance. She did all in her power to live true to the principles of Islam in every situation. Despite having little, she never complained to her husband or father about anything during her life. When she was unwell, the Holy Prophet PBUH paid her a visit at home with a few friends. Upon hearing that she had arrived at the door, she informed him that she did not have enough garments to meet them. The Holy Prophet PBUH gave her his shoulder cloth to cover herself before heading inside to see to her needs. She informed her father that she couldn’t offer guests anything from her house. The excellent news that she is the lady of all Muslim ladies in Janat was given to her by her beloved father during this difficult time. Their practice of giving away all they have to the poor people who come to her for assistance is the reason they don’t have enough material possessions. Her life of hardship and scarcity serves as an example for all Muslim women to be grateful in whatever circumstance. She used to dress simply because she thought it was necessary for the human body to be clothed and not a luxury to spend a lot of money on. Because of the qualities that made her so special to her father, the Holy Prophet PBUH gets up from his seat to greet her, kisses her forehead, and extends an invitation for her to sit on his lap in her honor. She kept quiet and wept in the loving remembrance of her beloved father following the departure of the Holy Prophet PBUH. Not even a grin after her father did anybody recognize him. Allama Muhammad Iqbal praised Syeda Fatima in a Manqabat as:

Maryam is honorable for one reason that she is the mother of Jesus,

Look at Zahra, her honor comes from three relationships;

She is the daughter of the Great personality known as Rahmat al-lil Alameen

Who is the Imam of all (the prophets) in the past and all (the leaders) in the future

He, who revived a dead society back to life,

And brought a new system of law

She is the wife of the one who was crowned with Hal Ata

He is the chosen one, solver of all problems, the lion of God

He was a king but lived in a hut,

All he owned was a sword and a coat of chain

Her son was the center of Love and devotion

He was the chief of the army of Love

He was a burning light in the gathering in the HARAM,

He was the protector of the best of the communities

He kicked the throne and the crown aside,

Only because he did not want to see the fire of killing and hatred

And the other son (of hers) is the leader of the pious

He gave strength to all the revolutionaries of the world

Hussain becomes passion to the ode of humanity

Hussain gives rise of freedom to the truthful people

The character of sons is built by their mothers

The true spirit of truthfulness and honesty come from the mothers

Crop/harvest for the farm of approbation/consent is Butool

For mothers she is a perfect guiding example

Her heart was so overwhelmed by the needs of the poor,

That she sold her own chadar to a Jew

Both angels and Jinn are in her obedience,

(Because) she was obedient to the will of her husband

She was raised with SABR and submission

Her lips would be reading Qur’an while her hands would be moving the hand mill

She wept for the fear of Almighty Allah

She shed tears during her prayers to Him

Jibreel would pick up her tears from the earth

So that he may spread dewdrops in Jannah

I am bound by the law of Islam,

I am beholden to the sayings of the Prophet

Otherwise, I would have gone round and round her gravesite,

And I would have done sajdah on her grave

A Muslim daughter can learn valuable lessons from Syeda Fatima R.A daughter with a compassionate and protective nature toward her father and other family members would make an excellent personality trait. To her family, a daughter need to show love. A girl has duties to her family and her father, including obedience. The well-being and reputation of her family should be a daughter’s top priorities. When it comes to marriage affairs in particular, a daughter’s duty is to obey her father. Once married, a daughter’s responsibility is to maintain her husband’s house. A courageous daughter does not harbor resentment toward her spouse while living a life devoid of riches. A daughter ought to be required to support her father and spouse in all situations and under all conditions. Our society may become peaceful and stable if the daughters of Muslim society can genuinely comprehend the noble personality of Hazrat Fatima R.A. and make an effort to emulate her magnificent character.

 asiakashmiri001@gmail.com

Recently Completed Post graduation from Aligarh Muslim University.

 By Syed Majid Gilani

Hazrat Sheikh Syed Abdul QadirJilani, also known as Gilani, was born in the beautiful region of Gilan or Jilan, Iraq, in 471 Hijri (1077 A.D.). He came from a respected family with a strong lineage. His parents were descendants of Hazrat Ali Murtaza (R.A.), with his father’s roots tracing back to Hazrat Imam Hassan (A.S) and his mother’s to Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S.).

Tragedy stuck at a young age when HazratGhousulAzam’s father passed away, leaving his mother to raise him alone. Despite this hardship, his mother was determined to provide him with the best education. By the age of eight, Hazrat had not only learned the Holy Quran but also memorized the Holy Quran, becoming Hafiz-e-Quran.

When he turned eighteen, he sought his mother’s permission to travel to Baghdad, the renowned centre of education at that time. Despite the potential dangers of the journey, his mother wholeheartedly permitted him to go and even hid forty dinars in his shirt pocket, as an extra precaution. She advised him to always speak the truth and made him promise to do so.

During their journey, their caravan was attacked and looted in Hamadan. When questioned about his possessions, Hazrat fearlessly spoke the truth without hesitation. Surprisingly, the attackers brought him before their chief, who was astonished by Hazrat’s truthful response regarding the hidden dinars.Intrigued, the chief asked Hazrat why he chose to speak the truth despite dire circumstances, without hesitation. Hazrat explained that his mother had commanded him to always speak the truth, and he could never disobey her orders.The chief was deeply moved by Hazrat’s unwavering commitment to his mother’s teachings. Overwhelmed with emotion, he realized the errors of his misguided and disobedient life. He felt ashamed for disobeying Allah’s orders.In a life-changing moment, the chief ordered the return of all looted belongings to the travelers. Inspired by his encounter with HazratGhousulAzam, the chief pledged to abide by Allah’s and the Holy Prophet’s orders from then on.

Following a pivotal event in his life, SyednaHazratGhousulAzam, a knowledgeable and spiritually inclined individual, began spreading Islam’s teachings with love, compassion, and heartfelt connection. HazratGhousulAzam successfully propagated the religion of peace, Islam.Notably, Islam was spread purely through love and compassion, devoid of force or coercion. Many non-Muslims, inspired by Hazrat’s teachings, willingly embraced Islam, including Christians and Jews. Hazrat’s reputation as a scholar and theologian spread globally, attracting seekers from various parts of the world. They found satisfying answers to their religious queries. Even rulers became his disciples, respecting his simplicity, humanity, and unwavering determination.

Hazrat’s saintly mother instilled values of truthfulness and honesty, which he diligently followed throughout his life. For twenty-five years, Hazrat wandered in Iraq’s desert regions, performing countless miracles. One of Hazrat’s remarkable miracles occurred during his infancy in the month of Ramzan. He abstained from milk during daylight hours, a miraculous feat. News spread quickly, and on the 29th of Ramzan, when cloudy skies obscured the crescent, people sought confirmation from Hazrat’s mother about his milk consumption. Taking this as a sign, they observed the day as the 30th of Ramzan and fasted.Hazrat displayed profound wisdom throughout his life. These miracles testified to the divine blessings bestowed upon him, reinforcing his influence and teachings.

Throughout his life, Hazrat Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani (RA) left an enduring impact on humanity through his teachings, literary works, and contributions. Though he departed this world, his teachings remain a guiding light for all.His shrine, situated on the east bank of the Tigris in Baghdad, Iraq, remains a revered pilgrimage site. Hazrat Gilani (RA) was revered by various titles, including:Mohiud din, MehboobiSubhani, Quttub-i Rabbani, SheikhulJinWal Ins, GhousulAzam,GhousulSakalain,andPeerani Peer etc.These esteemed titles were bestowed upon Hazrat Gilani due to his extraordinary contributions to Islam and humanity.

He exemplified Shariah- (Islamic Law and Jurispudence) principles, emphasizing steadfast adherence. In a congregation on 19th Shawal, 545 Hijri, Hazrat Gilani clarified that anything outside Shariah’s boundaries was unacceptable.This valuable lesson inspires us to emulate Hazrat Gilani’s personality and teachings. Just as travelers explore new horizons, we can delve into his books, like Futuh Al Ghaib, Aurad I Qadriyah, GhunyatutTalibeen, SirrulAsrar, etcquenching our thirst for knowledge and guidance.HazratDastgeer Sahib Jilani (RA) may have physically departed this world, but his legacy endures, inspiring peaceful coexistence and Shariah adherence. Let us embrace his teachings, positively impacting our lives and others.

The relation between HazratGhousulAzam RA and Dastgeer Sahib Shrine, Khanyar, Srinagar is a testament to the power of faith and its impact on people. As we step into the sacred Dastageer Sahib shrine, we are surrounded by the aura of the presence of holy relics. The shrine houses a copy of Quran handwritten by Hazrat Ali Murtaza(RA) and the holy strand of the hair of HazratGhousulAzam (R A). The holy relic of GhouseAzam (R.A.) is displayed on special occassions like the Ursdays which is annually celebrated in the Islamic month of Jamid-us-sani. Besides, on the every 11th day of the Islamic lunar month, we honor the life and teachings of HazratGhousulAzam Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani (R.A.), the revered founder of the Qadriyah order by observing Ghyarvi Sharif. This montly occasion provides a sacred opportunity for devotees and followers of Ahli Bayt and Auliya e Kiram to offer heartfelt praises and supplications to Allah, our sole sustainer. Through “Zikr Azkaar” and “KhatmaatulMoazamat”, we seek Allah’s blessings and guidance. We also pay tribute to our beloved Prophet (PBUH) with “DaroodAzkaar” and we recite “Kibrat Sharif”—a book containing praises showered by HazratGhous upon the Holy Prophet(SAW) .May Allah inspire us to follow in the footsteps of the noble saints, who reminded us that there is no God but Allah, and Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is His servant and messenger.

In Kashmir, the central gathering takes place at the revered Dastgeer Sahib Shrine in Khanyar, Srinagar, where the observance of Gyarvi Sharif commenced with the arrival and permanent settlement of Hazrat Syed Mohammed Fazil Shah GilaniRA  lovingly known as “HazratSakhi Shah”. History reveals that  inthe year 1095 Hijri / 1322 A Dtwo brothers namely Hazrat SyedAbul Hassan Gilani RA and Hazrat Syed Mohammed Fazil Gilani RA arrived in Srinagar  and firstly stayed near IddGah. Both came to Kashmir as per the spiritual directions of their ancestorHaratGhousulAzam RA. Their companions, friends and servants had come along with them. Later, KhwajaAbdul  QadirChewoo gifted them with his land and a house at khanyar. This transformed Khanyar into a hub of spiritual seekers, attracting scholars and Sufi saints. Noted personalities of the time like Baba Usman Qadri, Khwaja Abdul Rahim Qadri, Khwaja Mohammad Murad Tang beame your diciples.

In the revered lineage of Sufi saints, HazratSakhi Shah Mohammad FazilQadiriGilani (RA) shines as a radiant exemplar of spiritual excellence.

The family tree goes lies this– Syed SakhiMohammad Fazil Gilani S/O Syed Abdullah Thathvi Gilani S/O Syed MehmoodHamvi Gilani  S/O Syed Abdul Qadir Sani Gilani S/O Syed Abdul Basit Gilani  S/O Syed Shah Hussain Gilani S/O Syed Shahab ud din Ahmed Gilani S/O Syed Sharafud din Qasim  Gilani S/O Syed Mohiud din YahyaSalis Gilani  S/O Syed Badru din Hassan Gilani  S/O Syed Ala ud din Ali Gilani S/O Syed Shams ud din Abu Abdullah Gilani S/O Syed Saifud din Abu Zakariya Gilani S/O Syed Zahirud din Abu Masood Gilani S/O Syed  Mohiud din Mir Abu Nasr Gilani S/O Syed Imadud dun Mir Abu Sualeh Gilani S/O sSyedAbdurRazaq Gilani S/O GhousulAzamHazrat Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir GilaniRA(References from ‘Zikr SadatiGilania’, by Syed Mubarak Shah Fitrat Gilani ).

Actually this family had came from Baghdad to Hamma.From Hamma Syed Abdul Qadir Sani had shifted to ThathaSakhar Sindh.Hazrat Syed Abul Hassan Gilani RA, who along with hisbrother had arrived Srinagar,returned back to Peshawar in abidance with the spiritual guidance of HazratGhousulAzam. His Shrine is famous in Peshawar by the name of Dargah Hassan Badshah. He is the father of renowned saint HazratSyed Shah Mohammad GhousLahori, whose shrine is famous in Lahore.It was due to the permanent stay of HazratSakhi Shah Mohammed Fazil Gilani in Kashmir that thousands of people including the contemporary religious scholars, nobles, landlords, and leaders joined “Silsilai-Qadria” and KhanyarShareef came to be the centre of its operations

Hazrat Syed Mohammed FazilQadri Gilani (RA) was the first Heir (SajadaNisheen) of the Holy Shrine. He was followed by his son Hazarat Syed MehmoodQadri Gilani (RA), then his son Hazrat Syed Ghulam-ud-Din AzadQadriGilani  and then his son Hazrat Syed Buzarg Shah Qadri Gilani became the Shrine Heirs (SajadaNisheen).

Here in Khanyar, Srinagar Hazrat Syed Sakhi Shah, a direct descendant of GhouseAzamRA ,followed the spiritual guidance of JinabiGhousulAzam to reach this sacred destination.His mausoleum,nestled within the heart of the Dastgeer Sahib Shrine at Khanyar remains a sacred site, attracting devotees seeking blessings and guidance.The majestic Dastgeer Sahib Shrine, built in 1806 A.D. in Srinagar’s Khanyar locality, honors HazratGhousulAzam’s memory. Renovated by KhwajaSonaullah Shawl in 1877 A.D., this sacred site embodies spirituality.

As we walk through the shrine, let us strive to cultivate HazratGhousulAzam’s virtues, guided by his legacy. Kashmir’s spiritual heritage dates back to Aurangzeb’s rule in 1095 Hijri (1322 A.D.), when Hazrat Syed Sakhi Shah Gilani arrived in Khanyar. This land has long been a spiritual hub, blessed by great saints. Hospitable Kashmiris have preserved meditation sites and holy tombs. Notably, HazratGhouse-ul-Azam (RA) never visited Srinagar; instead, his great-grandson Hazrat Syed Sakhi Shah Fazil Gilani (RA) settled permanently. These historical facts are documented in “AainayFitrat” authored by Syed Mubarak Shah Fitrat Gilani, a famous scholar, Persian poet, Author and founder of BazmSadati Gilani, Jammu & Kashmir.

Syed Majid Gilani is a writer and works as a GST Inspector for the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. He can be reached at syedmajid6676@gmail.com.

By:AshwiniVaishnaw

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Railways, Electronics and Information Technology

“Cinema speaks a universal language,” said filmmaker Satyajit Ray, capturing the essence of its unifying power. Indian cinema, with its vast linguistic and cultural diversity, brings together people from every corner of the country, allowing them to share in common emotions and experiences. Whether it’s a Tamil drama, a Hindi blockbuster, or a Marathi indie film, cinema fosters a deep sense of belonging, bridging divides and reminding us that despite our differences, we are one.

The universality of Indian cinema lies in its ability to transcend regional and linguistic boundaries, making it a powerful force for national unity. From Raj Kapoor’s classics like Shree 420, which resonated across languages, to Mani Ratnam’s Roja, which found nationwide acclaim, Indian films speak a language of emotions that everyone understands. Films like M.S. Sathyu’sGaramHawa and Bimal Roy’s Do BighaZamin remind us that stories of struggle, love, and triumph are not confined by borders, proving that cinema is truly a unifying force in India.

It is this universalism of cinema that is celebrated every year when the best films, best directors and best actors are honoured with the National Film Awards by the President of India. This is not an eye-dazzling, head-turning event which is usually what other such occasions are. It is an acknowledgement of talent – the talent of creators, story tellers and enactors. It is also an affirmation of India’s many-splendored, many-hued diversity of languages and dialects which together weave the magical tapestry of this great nation’s unity and continue to integrate nearly one and a half billion people who speak in hundreds of languages, and their several offspring dialects.

The uniqueness of the National Film Awards is evident in the fact that among the Best Film winners is ‘Sikaisal’ (If Only Trees Could Talk), a film made in the Tiwa language. This is the language of theTiwa people, a Tibeto-Burmese ethnic group whose membersare found across India’s north-east, and in Bangladesh and Myanmar. For the 70^th National Film Awards, the government received 309 films in 32 different languages in the feature film category, and 128 films in 17 languages in the non-feature category. In the feature film category, Golden Lotus Award was won by films from four Indian languages, one of them being in Haryanvi. Five films each from the Hindi and Tamil language won the Silver Lotus Award in this category, with films from Malayalam, Gujarati, Kannada, Haryanvi and Bengali also winning the award. The Silver Lotus Award were also conferred to ten films from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. A film released in Hindi and Urdu won the Golden Lotus Award for the best non-feature film.

Much as the nihilists of language politics may argue, the fact remains that nearly 75 years after the making of the Republic of India with linguistic States, the barriers of the past have largely eroded over the decades. There is no denying that Bollywood films have made Hindi widely acceptable. But that is only one big impact of films on diverse strands of Indian society. The second big impact is to make people aware of ‘other’ linguistic groups and identities, fostering a deep, abiding sense of unity in the diversity of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.

That’s more than a slogan when it comes to Indian cinema which showcases the unimaginably large community of creators who bring together their talent to create magical entertainment undergirded by universal beliefs across politics, society, culture and that unquantifiable thing we call morals and ethical values that bind us as a people, and the people as a nation. In fact, no Indian story has ever been told without these universal elements that underscore ethics, values and morals and which only the inner eye of the filmmaker and the viewer alone can discern. The two greatest stories ever told – Ramayan and Mahabharat – serve to prove this point.

The other common strand in our cinema is the ease with which our filmmakers erase divisive markers that are at the core of societal, cultural and political disintegration. That is also the unique strength of the craft of story-telling in India: Be it art films, popular films, commercial films or the modern day challenger, OTT films, we are moved together, we applaud together and we celebrate together. ‘NaatuNaatu’, a song from the Telugu musical ‘RRR’ which has won an Oscar and a Golden Globe, proved to be a superhit not only in India but around the world, cutting through language, ethnicity and nationality.

To elevate Indian cinema on the global stage, the Government is focusing on three core pillars: developing a robust talent pipeline, enhancing infrastructure for filmmakers, and simplifying processes to empower storytellers. The Government has recently announced the establishment of Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT), reflecting our commitment to fostering creativity,and ensuring that Indian cinema remains a powerful force in both national integration and global entertainment with adoption of the latest technologies of film making, immersive experiences and interactive entertainment.

As we look to the future, the role of cinema in Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat becomes even more significant. In a rapidly evolving world, Indian cinema continues to innovate and expand its horizons, telling stories that not only reflect our diversity but also envision a shared future. With every frame, Indian filmmakers push the boundaries of storytelling, ensuring that cinema remains a powerful catalyst for unity and progress in a connected, forward-looking India.

By Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon

“Each word sparks a flame; you need a strong heart to read the newspaper.”

From the moment humans were endowed with speech and intellect, they were given the power to convey thoughts, emotions, and ideas through words. Language has been our greatest tool for communication, setting us apart from all other creatures and establishing humanity’s position as the most intelligent among them. This power of expression has been used to deliver the most profound truths, including divine revelations like the Quran, which was transmitted through the spoken word of prophets to humankind.

The Quran, in all its majesty, is a testament to the power of language. It was revealed in Arabic, a language of eloquence and depth, as Allah Himself states:

“Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an that you might understand.” (Surah Yusuf 12:2)

According to Tafseer Ibn Kathir, the Arabic language is the most eloquent, plain, deep, and expressive of the meanings that might arise in one’s mind. Therefore, the most honorable Book was revealed in the most honorable language, to the most honorable Prophet and Messenger (PBUH), delivered by the most honorable angel (Jibreel), in the most honorable land on earth, and its revelation started during the most honorable month of the year, Ramadan.

Thus, the Quran is perfect in every respect—its language, its message, and its purpose. It stands as a divine masterpiece, encapsulating Allah’s guidance for humanity in a form that is as beautiful and profound as the message it carries.

In the same vein, journalism has emerged as a powerful vehicle for human expression and the transmission of truth. What began as a simple method of information dissemination has evolved into a crucial institution for public accountability, particularly in democratic societies. Over time, journalism has expanded to encompass a wide range of platforms—print, television, radio, and increasingly, digital formats. However, its core essence remains unchanged: to speak truth to power and keep the public informed.

Just as the Quran conveys divine truths with precision and clarity, journalism strives to uphold the truth, sometimes in the face of tremendous adversity. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political turmoil and societal struggles dominate the landscape, journalism takes on a special significance. Here, journalists not only report events but also serve as a voice for the voiceless, often at great personal risk. Through their work, they ensure that the truth is not buried, shining light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden.

A Glance at the History of Journalism in Jammu and Kashmir

In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, journalism holds a particularly rich and complex history. The first press in the region, known as ‘’Ahmadi Press”, was established in 1858. However, during the early years, the press was restricted, and publishing in Urdu—the most widely understood language—was not permitted. It was only later, under Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s rule, that the first newspaper, Bidya Bilas, was printed in both Urdu and Hindi, marking the true beginning of Urdu journalism in the state.

The evolution of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir saw many milestones, including the founding of important publications like “Tohfa Kashmir” and Jammu Gazette. Initially, these papers primarily served to communicate government policies and news. The formal initiation of Urdu journalism in the state began in 1944 with the newspaper Ranbir, which was published from Jammu. Later, the weekly newspaper Pasbaan, under the leadership of Miraj-ud-Din, was also published from Jammu. The period that followed is regarded as a golden chapter in the history of newspapers in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. If I were to sit down and list the names of all the newspapers, even the pages dedicated to columns in any newspaper would fall short. However, I would like to emphasize that the revival of Urdu journalism in the state of Jammu and Kashmir owes much not only to Munshi Muhammad Din Fauq but also to the key contributions of several non-Muslims who played an essential role in this endeavor.

This period saw journalism transform from a tool of the state to a platform for public discourse, debate, and even dissent—a crucial element in any democracy.

Journalism: The Fourth Pillar of Democracy

One cannot talk about journalism without addressing its central role in maintaining democratic integrity. Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantees freedom of expression, granting every individual the right to seek, receive, and impart information across borders. This right forms the foundation of journalism, which acts as the “fourth pillar” of democracy, alongside the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.

But for journalism to truly fulfill this role, transparency is key. A free press is indispensable to democracy; it serves as the watchdog, ensuring that the actions of the government and other institutions are exposed to public scrutiny. In this way, journalism empowers citizens to participate fully in their governance by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions.

The Symbiosis Between Literature and Journalism

The link between journalism and literature, particularly in the Urdu-speaking world, is profound. Many of the greatest Urdu poets and writers, including Allama Iqbal, first gained recognition through newspapers and journals. In fact, Iqbal’s poetry was initially published in the journal Makhzan, showcasing how the press has historically served as a platform for artistic and intellectual expression.

Similarly, journalism played a vital role during India’s freedom struggle, with figures like Abul Kalam Azad, Muhammad Ali Jauhar, and Zafar Ali Khan using their pens as weapons against colonial rule. This era marked a golden age for Urdu journalism, as poets and journalists worked hand-in-hand to inspire a sense of national consciousness and resist oppression.

The Digital Transformation: Challenges and Opportunities

As we move into the digital age, the media landscape continues to evolve. The rise of the internet and smartphones has fundamentally changed how people consume news. Traditional print media is increasingly being supplanted by digital platforms, where news is consumed on smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for journalism. On the one hand, digital platforms allow for faster dissemination of information to a global audience. On the other hand, the rise of misinformation and the decline of traditional journalism models pose significant threats to the integrity of the media. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political tensions are high and internet shutdowns are frequent, the challenges are even more acute.

Yet, despite these challenges, the essence of journalism remains unchanged. Its primary goal is still to inform the public, hold power to account, and provide a platform for dialogue.

The Role of Media in Sensitive Areas                                                                                      

In sensitive areas like Jammu and Kashmir, the role of media becomes even more critical. Journalists in these regions not only report on daily occurrences but also capture the nuances of life. Their work provides insight into the experiences and struggles of the local population, making their narratives vital for understanding the broader situation.

Despite the challenges they face, journalism remains a powerful means by which the stories of those living in these areas are conveyed to the world. The commitment of journalists to document events and share perspectives highlights the resilience of the human spirit, as they strive to bring attention to the complexities of life in such regions.

In this digital age, alternative platforms like social media have emerged as important tools for disseminating information and facilitating communication. These platforms offer new opportunities for journalists to share their stories and engage with audiences directly, ensuring that the voices from these areas are heard far and wide.

The Future of Urdu Journalism

As digital platforms rise, the future of Urdu journalism, like journalism worldwide, lies in adaptation. While traditional newspapers may decline, the digital world offers vast potential for Urdu journalism to reach new audiences. Blogs, podcasts, online journals, and social media channels provide innovative ways to keep the rich tradition of Urdu journalism alive.

This transition, however, will require careful navigation. Maintaining journalistic integrity while embracing the rapid pace of technological change will be key to ensuring that journalism continues to serve its fundamental role in society.

Bottom Line: The Enduring Power of Words

In essence, the power of journalism lies in its ability to shape the course of history by informing the public and holding power to account. Whether in print or digital form, journalism will always remain a cornerstone of democracy. In Jammu and Kashmir, where the power of words has been tested time and again, the history of journalism is not just a story of communication but of resilience, truth, and the enduring human spirit.

As George Orwell aptly stated, “In a time of deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” For journalism, this truth remains its guiding light, regardless of how the medium evolves.