The Maestro of Laughter and Tears

As I pen these words, my heart is heavy with grief, and my eyes are moist with tears. I’m remembering the day I lost a dear friend, a literary giant, and a master of Kashmiri humour - Ghulam Ali Majboor. We met in 1985, when I was in charge of Yuva Vani Service of Radio Kashmir Srinagar. Little did I know that this chance encounter would blossom into a lifelong bond, a bond that would transcend time and space.

Majboor’s contribution to Kashmiri humour is nothing short of phenomenal. He single-handedly gave it a writing form and style, elevating it to new heights. His ability to weave classic jokes into his literature, inspired by the likes of Mushtaq Yousufi, Ibn-e-Insha, and others, was truly remarkable. Alongside Talha Jahangir, they formed an unbeatable duo, leaving an indelible mark on Kashmiri literature.

The memories of our time together at Radio Kashmir Srinagar still linger vividly in my mind. Who can forget the hilarious banter between Majboor and Talha in the “Asun Te Lasun” program? Their chemistry was undeniable, and their humour was infectious. The Yuva Vani service, which I had the privilege of nurturing, was a platform for talented writers, poets, and analysts to showcase their skills. Alas, it was silenced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, leaving a void that can never be filled.

One of my most cherished memories is the JK Bank Diary program at Tagore Hall. The exchange between Majboor and Talha was pure magic. Here’s how it went:

Talha asked Majboor in the live show...who are those 2 guys in the front row. Majboor, looking curiously said, “those 2.....,oh! you do not know those two guys. One Farooq other is Khan. Which Farooq, who Khan? Asked Talha. “Gupkaris”, Majboor disclosed. Talha responded, “Then it is going to be a huge fun today. Moi is here Khan is here”. Majboor sensed the pun, and said, You fool, our director Masoodi will loose his job & we both our bookings from Radio”. Talha said, “But why...? Moi means my, khan mean khan....both are here; making it a moikhan - which in Persian means maikhana. Dr. Farooq stood up & gave a standing ovation to both which was followed by all in the jam-packed hall.

Ghulam Ali Majboor, your passing has left a gaping hole in my heart. Your legacy will live on, but the pain of your absence will remain. You were more than just a friend; you were a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration. Your pen may have stopped writing, but your words will continue to inspire generations to come.

Rest in peace, dear Majboor. May your soul find eternal peace, and may your contributions to Kashmiri literature continue to bring joy and laughter to all who read your work.