GLITTERING BOOK RELEASE FUNCTION: “Mama Jaani” – authored “Wihij Wunal” released
STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 01 (STC): A book based on 13 short stories on true events authored by Jammu and Kashmir’s one of the finest actors Bashir Dada, popularly known as “Mama Jaani”, was released at a glittering function held at Hotel Shahanshah, Srinagar, on November 30.
The function was attended by many personalities from all walks of life including poets, literary people, businessmen, etc. Among the dignitaries included National Conference MLA Syed Bashir Ahmad Veeri, Bashir Arif, prof. Shad Ramzan, Wehshi Syed, Shahnawaz Teng, Mateen, Madam Naz and the retired justice Bashir ud din. Mushtaq Barq and Bashir Arif read paper on the book ” wuhij Wunal”.
Showing immense regard and love for the most veteran artist, playwright, poet and intellectual Bashir Dada, MLA Syed Bashir Ahmad Veeri in a social media post said, “It was a privilege to attend the book launch of Bashir Dada, a culturally rooted, emotionally profound, and creatively multidimensional artist whose life reflects both romantic sensibility and disciplined craftsmanship. His personality blends intuition with structure, humility with authority, and tradition with innovation.”
He further said, “Bashir Dada stands not merely as an individual artist, but as a custodian of Kashmiri creative heritage, both shaped by and shaping the core emotional currents of his people.”
Retired justice Bashir Ahmad Kirmani in his presidential address raised some very serious concerns plaguing our society.
Zahoor Zahid described Dada’s collection of short stories as landmark in Kashmiri literature. “It is a compilation of 13 short stories based on true events. Bashir Dada has magnificently pened these stories with force conviction and full of emotion,” said Zahoor Zahid.
“In Srinagar’s artistic circles, Bashir Dada remains a timeless voice, nurturing the spirit of our region through every verse and performance,” said Mir Sarwar, a renowned Bollywood actor, in his social media post.
Notably, “Mama Jaani” was one of the most loved characters of all time in the history of Doordarshan Srinagar, played by Bashir Dada.
Profile of Bashir Dada
Bashir Dada is a celebrated icon of Kashmiri literature and performing arts, known for his romantic poetry, plays, and acting prowess.
His collections like Duae Khaer Karus, Zarum Na Doorer and Kar Mokli Safar capture the soul of Kashmir through vivid emotions, blending romance with the valley’s sorrows and resilience. Poems such as “Cheerith be haave yas dil” echo lovers’ deepest yearnings, making hearts tear open in shared vulnerability. Over fifty songs from his verses have touched audiences nationwide, earning spots in top Urdu poetry anthologies.
Bashir Dada shone in several feature/short films and over 500 Doordarshan episodes, directed under legends like Shyam Benegal, and produced films under Dada Sahib Films. Awards like the Akashvani best radio play honor highlight his stage mastery and storytelling depth. Inspired by his designer father, he wove life’s colors into poetry that feels like home to every Kashmiri.
He has written, acted and directed many theatre plays.
Meanwhile, the book release function lasted for almost four hours. Remarkably, Jammu and Kashmir Maraaz Kamraaz Academy (JKMKA), which organised this function and two theater activists Bashir Bhavani and Arshad Mushtaq were honoured for their outstanding work in their respective fields. Abdul Rasheed Farash the most versatile singer and Amin Kamil the legendary poet, critique and editor were honoured posthumously.
(Straight Talk Communications)
