Bint e Haider
I cannot say how how long have I have known Farhad. It’s difficult to assert that I know him, but I can say I’ve been seeing him for a very long time and he would consistently appear in front of my eyes.
Fourteen years ago, I witnessed Farhad Ahmed Fagar busy in pursuing artists through his camera lens for a newspaper. He conducted an interview with someone dear to me who had received a gold medal in fine arts. Following this, he approached me regarding the design for the cover of his book. Then, I received a call from Farhad asking for my interview. Unfortunately, I could not find time and then Farhad slowly faded into a backdrop as I pressed onward into the tapestry of life.
When he reconnected, it was clear that he had bid farewell to the world of the camera and journalism, as it stood an obstacle in his educational journey.
It had made me happy to witness how he navigated the obstacles that hindered his progress. Individuals of Farhad’s resilience invariably reach their destination, adept at surmounting obstacles. Today, I feel proud that the Farhad of my city has the courage to move mountains and at the same time continues to beautiful home for the ‘Shirin’ of literature.
Farhad asked for my prayers, but for someone as brave as you, even nature itself, including rocks and water, will send their prayers. The very soil and elements you are dedicating yourself to will also pray for your success. In this young age, you have already built your identity, and, God willing, you will also become the face for our nation.
The commitment to language and literature is a monumental task, as the core identity of any region is intricately tied to its language and culture. Presently, our mother tongue, notably Kashmiri, is facing a gradual decline. However, the language we actively use for communication, serving as the official language in Kashmir, is thriving. Preserving our linguistic heritage stands as a considerable achievement and a commendable effort. I express a wish for similar initiatives to emerge, fostering the preservation of our native tongue in this specific context.
Farhad’s journey persists, marked by boundless enthusiasm and passion. In the challenging and remote region of Mirpura, Neelum Valley, where facilities are scarce, Farhad has taken the initiative to involve teenagers in creative endeavors at Inter College.
Farhad has accomplished in a very short span what often takes years in long-standing institutions, and his achievements within this brief period are truly remarkable that is why the establishment of the magazine ‘Basaat’ at Mirpur Inter College is nothing short of a significant achievement. In an area devoid of literary activities, where the accessibility of daily newspapers and magazines appears improbable, where students are unfamiliar with academic and literary pursuits, Farhad is orchestrating creative initiatives. The adept organization and editing of this endeavor, adds an extra layer of accomplishment to Farhad’s commendable efforts.
May the strength of Farhad’s pen keep growing. May the impact of his efforts endure. Amen…