April 05: The literary and cultural circles of Jammu and Kashmir were enveloped in grief as the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages paid heartfelt tributes to eminent Gojri writer and poet Babu Noor Mohammad Noor, whose demise marks the end of an era in regional literature.
The Academy convened a solemn condolence meeting at Jammu to honour the legacy of the departed literary figure, who had been unwell for a prolonged period. His passing has left a deep void, not only within his family but also across the broader literary community that had long admired his contributions.
A Pillar of Gojri Literature
Speakers at the gathering reflected on the life and work of Babu Noor Mohammad Noor, describing him as one of the foundational voices in the development of Gojri literature. At a time when regional languages often struggled for recognition, his writings served as both preservation and progression—keeping the linguistic heritage alive while shaping its modern expression.
His poetry and literary works were not merely creative expressions but also cultural documents, capturing the lived realities, traditions, and aspirations of the Gojri-speaking community. Many present at the meeting acknowledged that his efforts laid the groundwork upon which future generations of writers could build.
Tributes from the Literary Community
Secretary of the Academy, Harvinder Kour, expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended solidarity to the bereaved family, especially to his son Dr. Javaid Rahi, a noted scholar and Chief Editor (Gojri). She emphasized that the loss is not just personal but collective, affecting everyone invested in the preservation of regional languages.
In her remarks, she also announced that the Academy would soon organize a dedicated seminar to commemorate the life and literary contributions of the late poet—an initiative aimed at ensuring that his work continues to inspire and educate.
Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. Shahnawaz described Noor as a literary luminary whose writings enriched the Gojri language and gave it a distinctive voice. He noted that such figures are rare, and their absence is deeply felt in cultural and intellectual spaces.
Meanwhile, Popinder Singh Paras conveyed condolences on behalf of the Academy, highlighting the respect and admiration Noor commanded across linguistic communities.
A Legacy Beyond Words
What set Babu Noor Mohammad Noor apart was not just his literary talent but his unwavering commitment to cultural identity. At a time when globalization often sidelines regional languages, he remained a strong advocate for linguistic preservation.
His work inspired not only seasoned writers but also young aspirants, many of whom found their voice through the pathways he helped create. His legacy, therefore, is not confined to books and poems it lives on in the minds and expressions of those he influenced.
Remembering a Cultural Custodian
The condolence meeting saw participation from several prominent members of the Academy and literary fraternity, all united in their respect for the departed soul. The gathering served as a reminder of how deeply literature is intertwined with identity, memory, and continuity.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve culturally and socially, the contributions of individuals like Babu Noor Mohammad Noor stand as guiding lights ensuring that progress does not come at the cost of heritage.
Conclusion
The passing of Babu Noor Mohammad Noor is not just the loss of a poet—it is the silencing of a voice that carried the essence of a community. Yet, in that silence, his words will continue to echo, reminding future generations of the richness of Gojri language and the importance of preserving it.
