by Rayees Ahmad Kumhar
Taashouq Chanay by Majeed Masroor is a luminous collection of Kashmiri poetry blending devotion, love, and lyrical grace, reaffirming his stature as a profound literary voice.
Majeed Masroor stands as a beacon of hope, love, and inspiration in the picturesque valley of Kashmir. He is not just a name; he is an institution of inspiration, a man of substance, and a true son of Kashmir who has made his people proud. He has authored about half a dozen books, among which Taashouq Chanay stands out as a masterpiece of poetry. Spanning 201 pages and dedicated to his parents, this remarkable collection was published by Taj Printing Service, New Delhi.
In its foreword, Majeed Masroor shares how he was encouraged by friends and well-wishers to compile his poetic works and resume writing—something he had given up earlier for certain known reasons. Ishfaq Gowher, while commenting on the author’s literary brilliance, describes Majeed Masroor as a true soldier of the Kashmiri language and literature. He also reflects on his personal association with the author, recalling the days when Majeed Masroor used to organise poetic symposiums on Gulistan Channel, where he was later appointed as the honorary literary coordinator.
The opening poem in this book is a heartfelt prayer in which the author seeks enduring blessings from the Almighty:
Chus bi amut dedtal darith halam az ya Rasool,
Akh nazar bas akh nazar nazre karam az ya Rasool.
Be kasan baed satha Mohammad aaw,
Ashqan hund mudaa Mohammad aaw.
Wala waen wasye lol baegrawo,
Dargah dil shehlawo az.
These are naatya verses, through which the author expresses his profound love and devotion for the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). His choice of words and their graceful composition reflect the depth of his reverence and admiration. He even writes about the revered shrine of Dargah Hazratbal, where the sacred relic of the beloved Prophet is preserved. Thousands of devotees gather there on special occasions to catch a blessed glimpse of this holy relic, a moment of deep spiritual fulfilment and collective devotion.
For some revered saints such as Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani, Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom, Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani, and Khan Sahab, the author has composed devotional poems expressing his deep love and profound reverence for them. It appears that he seeks to adopt them as his spiritual guides and mentors in life.
This book is also a collection of sixty-eight mesmerising ghazals, each meticulously composed, reflecting the poetic brilliance of Majeed Masroor through its varied themes:
Shehlowtha myoni jigar zaanh akh pahar,
Wuchzihea myoni machar zaanh akh pahar.
The choice of words and the depth of thought woven into this composition are truly extraordinary. The poet has succeeded in giving it a beautiful and graceful poetic form.
Balyaran ma sa sumblou myoun dil,
Rayi tehnze az ti tumblou myoun dil.
Using simple and familiar words of the native language, the poet conveys his message to enthusiastic readers through this ghazal. Indeed, it is commendable how he carries his thoughts forward in such a clear and comprehensible manner.
Dorer chouni kotha chalai,
Yoti soun salai lalo az.
Ba wai dilki sarie awhalie,
Yiti soun salai lalo az.
With simple and heartfelt words, the poet beautifully expresses his deep anxiety and restlessness for his beloved. He cannot endure the pain of separation and longs intensely for presence and companionship.
Az khasni dekas drih tas chu yun,
Tula narik paith waih tas chu yun.
In these poetic couplets, the poet’s excitement and joy are clearly evident, as he is confident that his beloved will meet and embrace him, the one for whom he has made every preparation with utmost care.
Dag mei koran chum dilas preath dawa gou be asar,
Ha tabibu near sa ami daadi nish chukh be khabar.
Here, the poet seems to be in unbearable pain. While reading these verses, it becomes evident that no herbal or homemade remedy can heal the agony of a heartache. Only the presence of his beloved can bring him relief from this devastating sorrow.
Kuni jayi hargah wuchnekh nigaran dapizes dilasa duen,
Nindrei mai zaejmich temi sind amaran dapizes dilasa duen.
The poet’s brilliance radiates through these couplets, reflecting his tireless effort to shape them into something extraordinary and captivate readers with their melodious charm.
Ba wolmut azlai chani maye waesye,
Chei rous ma zindagi hasi zayi waesye.
These verses reflect the poet’s deep attachment to his beloved. He believes that without him, his existence—whether in life or death—holds no meaning. His life derives its worth and vibrancy solely from his presence; without him, it remains colourless and void of purpose.
Majeed Masroor, apart from being an ace poet and accomplished writer, is also a powerful orator. He frequently hosts symposiums and debates on popular television channels, where his eloquence and intellect captivate audiences. A well-known and respected name across Kashmir, he continues to inspire many through his multifaceted talent.
I would especially urge the youth to read his works, particularly the poetry in this book, to experience the enchantment of his thought and expression.
(The author is a teacher and writer. Ideas are personal.)
