Kashmiri Academic Professor Mohammad Shafi Shauq Honored with Prestigious Padma Shri Award
In a significant recognition of cultural preservation and literary excellence, Professor Mohammad Shafi Shauq, a distinguished Kashmiri academic, author, poet, and linguist, has been announced as a Padma Shri awardee for his outstanding contributions to education and literature. The announcement, made on Sunday, highlights his lifelong dedication to promoting and preserving the Kashmiri language.
From Science Student to Literary Luminary
Born in 1950 in the remote Kapren village of Shopian in South Kashmir, Professor Shauq's academic journey took an unexpected turn. While he completed his Bachelor's degree in Science from Anantnag Degree College, his profound love for art and literature steered him toward a different path. He pursued a Master's in English Literature from Kashmir University and later earned a doctorate in the same subject.
Now 75 years old, Professor Shauq taught at the University of Kashmir in Srinagar until his retirement in 2010. His career trajectory showcases a remarkable blend of scientific discipline and literary passion.
Championing the Kashmiri Language
Professor Shauq's most significant contribution lies in his work on the Kashmiri language. His linguistic journey began when he was first appointed as a junior fellow at the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), where he worked on a project to develop a Kashmiri dictionary.
His academic career flourished at the University of Kashmir, where he served as the Head of the Department of Kashmiri from 1997 to 2009. In 2009, he was appointed as the Dean of the Faculty of Arts before retiring the following year.
Post-Retirement Focus on Comprehensive Dictionary
After his retirement, Professor Shauq dedicated his energies to developing a comprehensive Kashmiri Lughat, or dictionary. This monumental 1,400-page work is now regarded as an essential reference book for the Kashmiri language, serving as a vital resource for scholars, students, and language enthusiasts.
Prolific Literary Contributions
Beyond his linguistic work, Professor Shauq has emerged as a prominent author with authoritative command over both prose and poetry. His literary portfolio includes:
- Numerous poetry collections and stories in English, Urdu, and Kashmiri
- Approximately 100 books that he has penned, edited, or translated
- Demonstrated mastery of multiple languages through his diverse literary output
Previous Accolades and Recognition
Professor Shauq's contributions have been recognized through several prestigious awards:
- In 2006, he received the Sahitya Academy Award for creative writing
- The following year, he was honored with the Sahitya Academy Award for Translation
- His consistent dedication to Kashmiri language preservation has now culminated in the Padma Shri award
The Padma Shri recognition underscores Professor Shauq's enduring commitment to preserving Kashmir's linguistic heritage and promoting literary excellence. His work serves as an inspiration for language preservation efforts across India and highlights the importance of documenting and celebrating regional languages in the country's cultural tapestry.
