Tribute to my father

Three long years have passed into the mists of time, since you bid farewell to us. Each passing day is a testament to the sorrow of losing you: it simply and vehemently refuses to sink in! It feels like you're away on one of your trips. Any time I will hear your voice, or be greeted with that kind simile. Alas! It is never to be! Yet, you might not be with us in person, but you have not left my thoughts, my heart and my memories for even a moment.

How could you have left? Being a father was just one of the many hats you doffed. You were my guide, protector and most indefatigable supporter. You taught me to be tough yet tender, while being resolute. You showed me that hard work can conquer all, how kindness creates value beyond measure, and how to laugh along with adversity. On the most difficult days I recall your wisdom, and your sense of humour to equip myself with succour.

I miss speaking with you, and pouring my worries out to you for hours, and in turn be consoled and guided towards hope and resolution. I miss the sound of your laughter, your jokes, and stories. I miss the fact that you could light up a room with just your presence. But most importantly, I miss your warm embrace that comforted me: no matter what the world throws at me, I can manage it as long as I have you.

Over the past three years, I have learned to go on without you, but am yet to learn how not to miss you. At times, I remind myself of all that you taught me and hold on to those lessons as I walk each day forward. I hope I make you proud, Dady, because everything I am today is because of you.

Listening to the speakers at the recently held annual conference by Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari (HAS) and Adbi Markaz Kamraz I felt so proud of you when they highlighted your contributions for the promotion and preservation of the Kashmiri language. Mushtaq Ahmad Tantray noted writer and broadcaster in his speech praised your quality of identifying the young talent and providing them the opportunities and platform to excel and flourish. He further said that if we continue to work with the same enthusiasm and commitment the way the late Aziz Hajini Sahab would, it would be the greatest tribute to him.

Prof. Shad Ramzan, Convener Kashmiri Advisory Board Sahitiya Akademi, New Delhi in his speech said Aziz Hajini was a renowned poet which was reflected in his poetry. He further said Aziz Hajini would fit in any job. He worked as a cultural head in the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir. Aziz Hajini was instrumental in framing and compiling the Kashmiri textbooks in the Board of School Education. When he joined the Kashmir University at Sheikh ul Alam Chair, he was the person who brought the Sheikh ul Alam Centre to the limelight and ensured its infrastructural upgrade during his stay at the centre. It is not easy for an outsider to come to the university and start working the way the late Hajini Sahab did. He proved his mettle with his caliber.

Dr. Rafeeq Masoodi, patron Adbi Markaz Kamraz in his speech praised Dr. Aziz Hajini for encouraging him when he shared a poem with him. He recalled Hajini Sahab replied to me “Jari Rakho”, meaning continue your work. His encouragement did a world of good to my confidence and I continued to write. Dr. Rafeeq Masoodi further said when we remember our ancestors that is the biggest respect and tribute to them. A poet never dies.

Mohammad Amin Bhat, president of Adbi Markaz Kamraz in his speech said I had a close relation with Aziz Hajini. We have spent a lot of time together. Hajini Sahab was the biggest promoter of Kashmiri language. His efforts are testament to it. If we are assembled here today it is because of the extraordinary work he has done. Hajini Sahab used to acknowledge sufi poetry and recommend the best poetic work for awards.

The office bearers of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari, including Shakir Shafi, Dr. Riyaz ul Hassan, Majeed Majazi, and others whom you mentored, continue to work tirelessly for the promotion and preservation of the Kashmiri language. Their achievements are a reflection of your enduring legacy.

Dady, I know you are always watching over us, and I take comfort in this belief: you are always guiding me from wherever you are. All I have felt with you will forever be locked in my heart; with you my heart was warm, and my spirit was strengthened. And though you left me, you will forever be mine because love between a father and daughter never fades no matter how many years pass.

Dady, thank you for everything - the love, the lessons, and memories that I will cherish all my life. I miss you more than words can relate, but I am thankful for every moment that I had with you.

May Allah bless you with His forgiveness, dear Dady.