Famous Broadcaster, Writer, Poet & Dramatist Zahid Mukhtar Passes Away

Famous Broadcaster, Writer, Poet & Dramatist Zahid Mukhtar Passes Away

By Javid Sagar

Anantnag, Oct 9:
Renowned broadcaster, writer, poet, and dramatist Zahid Mukhtar passed away early this morning at around 7 a.m. after a brief illness. His demise has left a deep void in the literary and cultural circles of Jammu and Kashmir.

A household name across the Valley, Zahid Mukhtar was among the most familiar voices of Doordarshan Srinagar, where he hosted the immensely popular morning programme “Good Morning J&K.” His calm voice, gentle demeanour, and thoughtful conversations brought positivity and warmth to countless viewers, making him a beloved figure in Kashmiri households.

Born and brought up in Mohalla Bafandan, Anantnag, Zahid developed a passion for storytelling and literature from an early age. Deeply inspired by Kashmiri and Urdu literature, he went on to write and direct numerous plays that portrayed the cultural richness, resilience, and struggles of the people of Kashmir. His creative works reflected his deep understanding of society and his empathy for common people.

As a broadcaster, Zahid Mukhtar was admired for his humane and engaging style of communication. His interviews were not mere exchanges of questions and answers but heartfelt dialogues that often left lasting impressions. One of the most memorable and tragic moments in his broadcasting career came when educationist and writer Dr. Rita Jatinder passed away live on air during a conversation with him on Good Morning J&K. Zahid handled that heartbreaking moment with remarkable composure and grace, earning widespread respect for his sensitivity and professionalism.

Beyond television, Zahid was an active figure in Kashmir’s literary and cultural circles. He served as Editor of the Urdu literary magazine “Lafz Lafz”, contributing significantly to the promotion of Urdu and Kashmiri literature. Known for his humility, he mentored and supported many young writers and artists, always encouraging creativity and sincerity in their work.

Prominent literary figures and organisations across the Valley have expressed grief over his demise.
Dr. Mohammad Shafi Ayaz, President of Maraaz Adbi Sangam, said, “Kashmir has lost a remarkable artist, poet, and communicator.”
Noted writer and filmmaker Zafar Farooq Salati described him as “a noble human being and a great storyteller of the people.”
Renowned theatre personality Basheer Andrabi called him “a multidimensional personality, a cultural bridge, and a voice that made mornings in Kashmir brighter.”
Senior journalist Javid Sagar remarked, “His legacy will continue to echo in the hearts of those who tuned in to listen, learn, and smile with him.”

Various organisations including Maraaz Adbi Sangam (MAS), Association of Anantnag Journalists (AAJ), and the South Kashmir Civil Society have mourned the passing of Zahid Mukhtar, describing it as an irreparable loss to Kashmir’s literary and broadcasting fraternity.