Martyrdom Anniversary of Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq
Syed Faiz Naqshbandi
On the 36th martyrdom anniversary of Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq, it is evident that he remains one of the most prominent religious, social, and political personalities in the modern history of Kashmir. Revered by thousands across the region, particularly in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he combined religious scholarship with public leadership and emerged as an influential voice for the aspirations and rights of the Kashmiri people. His sermons, speeches, and public gatherings attracted massive crowds, reflecting his deep connection with the people and the trust they placed in his leadership.
Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq was born on 21 December 1944 in Srinagar into the influential Mirwaiz dynasty that traditionally held the title of Mirwaiz of Kashmir. He received his early education at home before studying at Islamia and Oriental College, where he focused on theology, Islam, Arabic language, and literature. From an early age, he displayed qualities of scholarship and leadership that later shaped his influential public role.
In 1968, following the exile of Mirwaiz Yusuf Shah, Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq succeeded to the position of Mirwaiz of Kashmir. As the chief preacher of the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, he became one of the most respected religious authorities in Kashmir. His sermons at Jamia Masjid regularly drew thousands of worshippers and listeners who admired his clarity, courage, and commitment to the people.
At the young age, Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq emerged as a prominent leader during the agitation following the theft of the holy relic, Moi-e-Muqaddas, from the Hazratbal Shrine. The incident deeply hurt the sentiments of Kashmiris and sparked widespread protests across the territory. Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq led public demonstrations demanding the recovery and protection of the sacred relic. During this movement, the All Jammu and Kashmir Awami Action Committee was formed under his leadership, and he became its chairman. The organisation soon developed into an important political and social platform representing the aspirations and concerns of the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Although primarily a religious leader, Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq gradually expanded his role into socio-political mobilisation. He consistently advocated for the rights, dignity, and political aspirations of Kashmiris. He believed that the people of Kashmir possessed the right to self-determination and should be able to shape their future according to their wishes and aspirations. Through peaceful political engagement, he highlighted the sufferings of the Kashmiri people and called for justice and dialogue.
Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq’s popularity stemmed from his close relationship with the masses. His speeches resonated deeply with the people because he understood their hardships and represented their emotions and concerns. He remained committed to preserving Kashmiri identity, culture, and religious values while also promoting education, social reform, and unity among the people.
After the tragic assassination of Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq in 1990, his son, Mirwaiz Muhammad Umar Farooq, inherited the position of Mirwaiz of Kashmir and continued the legacy of his father. Over the years, Mirwaiz Muhammmad Umar Farooq has emerged as one of the most influential contemporary voices on the region, and in particular the Jammu and Kashmir. Through national and international engagements, he has consistently highlighted the Kashmir issue at all global forums, including meetings linked with the United Nations General Assembly New York, interactions with officials of the United States Department of State, discussions at the UN offices in Geneva, and engagements during sessions of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, as well as meetings with diplomats and leaders from different countries.
Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq has played an important role in keeping alive the Kashmiri freedom movement and has become sole voice of people. He is struggling and advocating the right to self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir at various forums across the world. Through sermons, speeches, and peaceful political advocacy, he has continued to emphasise dialogue, justice, and the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute. His leadership has helped preserve the historical significance of the Mirwaiz institution as both a religious authority and a representative voice of the Kashmiri people.
The contributions of Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Muhammad Farooq and the continued leadership of Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq remain deeply embedded in the political, religious, and social consciousness of Jammu and Kashmir. Among the 500 personalities of the world, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has become one of the most influential personalities globally. Their legacy continues to inspire generations striving for dignity, justice, the legitimate right to self-determination for Kashmiris, and lasting peace in the region.
The author can be reached at faiz.naqshbandi@gmail.com and on WhatsApp at 03335145416.
