Farooq Nazki, a distinguished broadcaster, poet, and recipient of the Sahitya Akademi award, passed away at the age of 83 in Katra’s hospital on Tuesday, February 6th. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the life and achievements of Mir Mohammad Farooq Nazki.
Who Was Farooq Nazki?
Born in 1940, Farooq Nazki had an illustrious career marked by notable works such as “Kashmiri Dastkariyan” and “Lafz.” From 1986 to 1997, he held the position of Director at Doordarshan and All India Radio Kashmir Srinagar (AIR Srinagar), operating under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India). Additionally, Nazki served as the Editor of Daily Mazdoor in 1960 and later retired in 2000 as the Deputy Director General of the newspapers. He also served as a media advisor to two chief ministers, Farooq Abdullah (1983 and 1990–2002) and Omar Abdullah (2010).
Awards and Accolades
Farooq Nazki received numerous honors and awards throughout his career. In 1995, he was honored with the Sahitya Academy award for his poetry collection titled “Naar Hyutun Kanzal Wanas” in Kashmiri literature. He also received the State Cultural Academy Award for this work along with “Lafz Lafz Noha.”
Furthermore, he was recognized with the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Culture, Art & Languages Best Book Award for his contributions to Kashmiri literature. His excellence in media was acknowledged with the Gold Medal for Best Management of Electronic Media by the J&K Government and the Award for Best Media Controller in Asiad Games 1982.
Cause Of Death
Nazki battled various health issues, including lung-related illnesses necessitating dialysis. Reports suggest he relocated to Jammu to be with his son due to declining health in recent years. Sadly, Nazki passed away at a hospital in Katra on Tuesday, just eight days before his 84th birthday, following a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.
Deeply saddened to learn about the demise of the living legend Farooq Nazki sahib. His literary brilliance & media presence were unparalleled. His contribution in the field of broadcasting and literature will have an everlasting impact on our cultural and literary treasure. I… pic.twitter.com/NdNPno0EaX
— Ghulam Nabi Azad (@ghulamnazad) February 6, 2024
Ghulam Nabi Azad, former chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir, expressed deep sorrow on the passing of Farooq Nazki, acknowledging his literary brilliance and unmatched contribution to broadcasting and literature. Azad extended prayers for peace and offered condolences to Nazki’s family.
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