Renowned Kashmiri scholar and politician, Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat, was laid to rest in Sopore on Thursday following his passing at the age of 90. His funeral was attended by a multitude of mourners who came to pay their respects and honor his legacy.
Prof. Bhat passed away at his residence in Botingoo, Sopore on Wednesday evening. His Nimaz-e-Jinaza was held at Markazi Jamia Masjid in the same locality. Visitors flocked to his home on Thursday, uniting to pay condolences to his grieving family.
Condolences from Political Leaders
The news of Prof. Bhat’s demise has resonated widely, drawing condolences from various political figures. Notably, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, the president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, expressed his grief. He stated, “Our political ideologies were poles apart, but I will always remember him as a very civil and dignified individual.”
Dr. Abdullah praised Prof. Bhat for being a moderate voice in a tumultuous time, stating, “He stood for dialogue when many believed violence was the only way forward.” His insights signify that Prof. Bhat’s stance on Kashmir politics will be missed.
The Legacy of Dialogue and Peace
Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Mirwaiz Molvi Umar Farooq, also paid homage, describing his relationship with Prof. Bhat as a privilege. He elaborated, saying, “He was a respected academic and an accomplished scholar. Prof. Bhat consistently upheld dialogue as the way to address the Kashmir issue.”
Mirwaiz highlighted the courage that Prof. Bhat displayed even in adversity. “Despite personal losses, he spoke openly, firmly advocating for peaceful engagement, which he viewed as the best path forward,” he said.
His belief in dialogue was not only about politics but represented his entire approach to life. Mirwaiz remarked that Prof. Bhat’s legacy would endure as a brilliant scholar-statesman who combined intellect with humility. “His absence has created a void that cannot be filled,” he added.
Reflections from Former Colleagues
Former Union Minister, Prof. Saifuddin Soz, also lamented the passing of his friend. “I express my deepest sorrow on the demise of Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat,” he said. Prof. Soz reminisced about his long association with Prof. Bhat, having worked alongside him in educational institutions like Govt College Baramulla and Govt College Sopore.
Describing Prof. Bhat as a lovable and kind individual, Soz reflected on their political differences, stating, “Even when we differed on politics, he remained a cheerful and accommodating person.” Such sentiments reflect the respect Prof. Bhat commanded among colleagues and peers alike.
Influence on Students and the Community
Condolences also poured in from former students. NC leader, Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan reminisced about Prof. Bhat as a mentor. “He was a man who was always affectionate and encouraging towards me,” Ramzan noted, emphasizing Prof. Bhat’s influence in shaping many lives.
Prof. Bhat’s character stood out; he was honest, intelligent, and a visionary thinker. “Above all, he was a truly good human being, humble and kind,” Ramzan elaborated, sharing how he sought solace and came to terms with the void left behind.
The loss of Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat is felt deeply in the community. His commitment to peaceful dialogue and understanding was not merely a political stance but a fundamental part of who he was. His memory will undoubtedly live on as an emblem of hope and perseverance in the ongoing discourse surrounding Kashmir.
Through heartfelt memories and respect from those around him, it’s clear that Prof. Bhat’s legacy of dialogue, moderation, and compassion will continue to influence future generations in Kashmir.