Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 12: “Yom-e-Marghoob” was held today at Tagore Hall to honor the life and contributions of noted poet, thinker, and educationist Professor Marghoob Banihali.
Organized by the Marghoob Foundation in collaboration with Adabi Markaz Kamraz, J&K, the event drew a large gathering of writers, poets, intellectuals, and cultural figures from across the Valley.
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The ceremony opened with a recitation of Banihali’s poetry, followed by the presentation of the anthem of Adabi Markaz Kamraz, composed by Banihali himself.
Welcoming the guests, Dr. Mushtaq Marghoob, Chairman of the Marghoob Foundation and son of the late poet, said his father’s personality embodied both intellectual and spiritual depth.
“Professor Banihali’s poetry gave new linguistic and cultural expression to the message of Monotheism and humanism,” he said. “The Foundation aims to pass this legacy to the younger generation to help them stay rooted in their language and cultural identity,” he added.
The event was presided over by Professor Mushtaq Ahmad Siddiqui, former Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Science and Technology, who described Banihali as “a symbol of an intellectual movement.”
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Shad Ramzan, former Head of the Department of Kashmiri at the University of Kashmir and Convener of the Sahitya Akademi’s Kashmiri Advisory Board, said Banihali infused Kashmiri literature with Sufi reflection and a profound sense of humanism.
“He remains a pillar of Kashmiri literary tradition and a source of pride for future generations,” he added.
During the ceremony, the Marghoob Foundation conferred the ‘Khilat-e-Marghoob 2025’ award upon noted historian Dr. Abdul Ahad. The poetry collection ‘Muzar Khayalan Hund’ by Muneera Marghoob was also released on the occasion.
Mohammad Amin Bhat, President of Adabi Markaz Kamraz, spoke about Banihali’s long association with the organization, noting that he “linked literature with spirituality and gave intellectual energy to the Kamraz movement.”
Awards were also presented to Professor Mushtaq Ahmad Siddiqui for administrative excellence; Professor Shad Ramzan, Shabnam Tilgami, and Jameel Ansari for contributions to literature and culture; and Hanzullah Hussain for achievements in music.
“He was not only a poet, but much more than that. We have taken initiatives to carry his legacy forward. There is a need to remain connected with our roots, and events like this are important for that,” said Dr. Tariq Marghoob Banihali, who, along with broadcaster and writer Shabnam Tilgami, conducted the proceedings of the event.
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