Meer Irfan
In a remarkable feat of dedication and scholarship, 75-year-old Gulzar Ahmad Parray from Kaprin, Shopian, has completed a translation of the Holy Quran into the Kashmiri language after 42 years of relentless work.
Parray, a retired government employee with a Master’s degree and a B.Ed in Kashmiri, embarked on this journey decades ago to make the sacred text more accessible to Kashmiri-speaking people.
Over the years, he published and distributed five parts (separa) of the Quran to various educational institutions. Now, after completing the translation of all 30 chapters, he is preparing for its full publication.
Reflecting on his journey, Parray shared, “There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the responsibility, but the thought that future generations would read and understand the Quran in their mother tongue kept me going.”
His work is expected to be a valuable resource for scholars, students, and the general public. Religious scholars in Kashmir have hailed the translation as a monumental contribution.
“This is not just a linguistic effort but a spiritual service,” said Moulana Rameez, a cleric from Anantnag. “Parray Sahab’s work will help bridge the gap for those who struggle with Arabic.”
The translation is also being seen as an important addition to Kashmiri literature.
“Every language evolves through such monumental efforts. This translation will strengthen Kashmiri’s literary tradition and ensure that sacred knowledge reaches every household.”
As Parray prepares for publication, many are eagerly awaiting the final book’s release, hopeful that his decades-long effort will inspire future generations to engage with both faith and language.