The history of Kashmiri literature date back to the past few centuries, maintaining the consciousness, emotions, and cultural essence of the Valley in its truest form. The books penned in the Kashmiri language are not merely a compilation of words, but a reflection of human life, love, spiritualism, and ethical values in the truest form. The creations of the Kashmiri writers and poets reflect the essence of the region’s culture and language, while reaching the depths of the human heart and soul. Every book of this genre is a reflection of life, a spiritual experience for the reader, asking him to pause, think, and feel the essence of the book.
In this great tradition of learning and literature, Haji Mohammad Ramzan Rather, known by the popular name of Haji Ramzan, has made significant contributions to the field of Kashmiri literature. He hails from Tehsil Srigufwara in District Anantnag. This region has been known for its great learning and literary traditions. His life has been dedicated to the creation of poetry to preserve the special sweetness and dialect of the Kashmiri language. Even for those who are not familiar with Kashmiri literature in great depth, the sincerity and spirituality in the poetry of Haji Ramzan can be very touching. My uncle, the former Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir Syed Farooq Shah Bukhari, has also made significant contributions to the enrichment of the Kashmiri language. His book titled “Hayatiyat” has been included in the curriculum for classes 7th, 8th, and 12th grades.
Haji Ramzan’s book “Ganj-e-Gohar” is a precious collection of poetry where every word is infused with love for culture and language. The name “Ganj-e-Gohar” itself means “a treasure of rare gems,” and that is exactly what is reflected in every poem and every word written in this beautiful book. Haji Ramzan has managed to create a masterpiece that represents the perfect fusion of language, literature, and spirituality through his harmonization of classical and modern elements of Kashmiri literature.
The artistic value of this poetry is exceptional. Haji Ramzan has presented complex and philosophical ideas in simple and lucid language that is captivating for every reader. His poetry is infused with profound knowledge and insight into Kashmiri society and culture, contemporary issues and problems, and human relationships. Each poem is an experience in itself, and every word is a spiritual lesson that emphasizes the need for human welfare and moral values.
The book has 240 pages and was published in 2021. The limited edition of this book contains 300 copies, and this is what makes this book an extraordinary and rare piece of literature. The book can be procured either by contacting the poet at his personal address or through the Murad Adabi Sangam, Head Office, Bijbehara, Anantnag. The financial assistance provided by the relevant institutions also speaks of the poet’s caliber and the importance of this book.
The collection is divided into six major sections that reflect the poet’s spiritual and intellectual journey. The first section provides an introduction to the poet’s spiritual and poetic journey, enriched with comments from scholars. The second section contains Naat poetry that celebrates and praises Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him. The third section contains thirty-eight Sufi poetry compositions that discuss themes such as the impermanence of the world, repentance, forgiveness, and God’s love. The fourth section contains Manqabat poetry that celebrates and praises great personalities such as Rashidun Caliphs, Imam Hussain Radi Allahu Anhu, and other great personalities. The fifth section contains fifteen Ghazals that have been selected for this collection. The sixth section contains prayers and poetry that discuss and promote the virtues of Ramadan and Laylat al-Qadr.
In terms of themes, the collection is significant in that it encompasses a wide range of subjects. Haji Ramzan writes about spirituality, emotions of humans, inequality among people, and beauty in nature in a highly skilful manner. His Naats are full of love for the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him. His Manqabats portray great respect for great personalities. His Ghazals portray the complexities of love and pain in humans. This collection not only provides great pleasure to the reader but also provides great spiritual and moral values to him.
The style of Haji Ramzan is highly captivating and smooth. He writes in such a manner that anyone can understand the meaning of complex ideas in a highly effortless manner. His words have a rare magic that can touch the heart and make one think about life and its values. His writings portray the Kashmiri society and its feelings in a highly insightful and sensitive manner.
In my opinion, Ganj-e-Gohar is an outstanding work of literature. The dedication, sincerity, and passion with which Haji Ramzan expresses himself in his own mother tongue are really praiseworthy. The greatest charm of this book is that it has the power to combine simplicity with literature, in which every word, every poem, and every verse has the power to attract the reader like a rare gemstone.
In the concluding remark of this review, it can be stated that Ganj-e-Gohar is an important contribution to the literature of Kashmir. This book represents the preservation of the Kashmiri language, the preservation of spiritual and Sufi literature, and the embodiment of human values and the welfare of humanity. Haji Ramzan’s poetry teaches us that literature should have the spirit of the times and should enlighten us on the principles of humanity. This book leaves an indelible impression on the reader’s heart and mind and is a rare and priceless gift of knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment for generations to come.
Mohammad Arfat Wani is a writer, social activist, and nursing student from Kuchmulla, Tral. He writes on social issues, culture, and public concerns with the aim of raising awareness and inspiring positive change. He can be reached at email: wania6817@gmail.com
