Rasul Mir – The John Keats of Kashmir

GAWHAR KHAKI

Rasul Mir was a prominent Kashmiri poet, born in 1840 in Mir Maidan, Dooru Shahabad, located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. By nature, Rasul Mir was a romantic poet, deeply passionate about natural beauty.

The land of Kashmir has always been fertile in terms of literature and knowledge, producing numerous literary figures and poets. Among these literary icons of the 18th century is the well-known poet Rasul Mir. A respected figure in his community, Rasul Mir also served as the nambardar (village head) of his area.

Known for his romantic style, Rasul Mir had a deep affection for nature and its aesthetic allure. He is buried in the courtyard of the shrine of the revered saint Hazrat Mir Syed Ali Hamadani (RA), as per his final wish.

Although Rasul Mir lived a short life, he composed around 62 poems, which are among the most cherished in Kashmiri literature. Some believe he may have written over a hundred ghazals. Due to his early death at the age of 31, his literary output remained limited.

Rasul Mir is often referred to as the “John Keats of Kashmir” because, like the famous English poet John Keats—who passed away at the young age of 25—Rasul Mir also died young. Both poets are celebrated for their romantic and emotional poetry, composed within a short span of life.

Despite the brevity of his life, Rasul Mir earned widespread fame for his passionate and melodic poetry. His ghazals remain popular to this day and have been sung by various artists in different styles, resonating deeply with listeners. Most of his works are romantic Kashmiri ghazals, which have secured him a lasting place in the history of Kashmiri literature.

One of his most famous Kashmiri poems is “Gzhah Tey Vissey Lale Ma Dooray Meh Chi Mooray Laloan Naar”, which continues to be performed in various musical renditions. Other beloved poems include “Eid Aayi Rasras,” “Eidgah Vusvaye,” and “Rind Posh Maal Gandunay Daraaye Loloo.”

Contemporary poets affirm that Rasul Mir’s verses possess a unique poetic richness and lyrical sweetness. His poetry reflects authentic traditions and a deep sense of cultural identity. The choice of words in his poems is exceptionally refined.

In his youth, Rasul Mir was sent to study Persian and Arabic in his village. Gifted with poetic passion, he often wandered under moonlit skies, singing his verses after experiencing heartbreak. Many of his ghazals capture the deep yearning and emotional intensity of lost love.

Thus, for his romantic spirit, deep emotional sensitivity, and early death, Rasul Mir is fittingly remembered as the “John Keats of Kashmir.”

Undoubtedly, every language in the world has produced poets and writers who, through their profound thoughts, awareness, experiences, and noble, valuable ideas expressed in poetry or prose, have made their language a priceless treasure of literature. Similarly, in Kashmir, such a personality emerged who proved their literary brilliance through their poetry.

The revered Sufi poet Rasul Mir, often referred to as the “John Keats of Kashmir,” hailed from Shahabad Dooru. Rasul Mir was a distinguished and exceptional poet whose beautiful verses not only enhanced the charm of Kashmir but also introduced its beauty to the world.

Why has Rasul Mir’s poetry been increasingly neglected?

Rasul Mir, a local poet, is a radiant and shining star of this literary caravan whose poetry will continue to serve as a guiding light for all times. He brought a new color and style to Kashmiri ghazal poetry. During his time, Kashmiri poetry was heavily inclined towards Sufism. Sufi poetry was more appreciated, and most poets preferred to compose mystical verses, as that aligned with the general temperament of the people. However, Rasul Mir broke away from this conventional trend and infused Kashmiri poetry with a new dimension inspired by the spirit of Rumi.

Although Rasul Mir is officially commemorated every year on June 21st, the government’s interest has waned over time. For the past six years, no such commemorative event has been organized, leading to deep disappointment within literary circles.

Consequently, the younger generation is gradually becoming disconnected from Rasul Mir’s work, and it seems as though he may soon be forgotten in Kashmir.

The author is Patron of Lal Ded Youth Foundation JK. Feedback, if any, can be shared at asifrather555@gmail.com (+91-9797132584)