Poonch/Jammu: Renowned Gojri poet, writer, and dramatist Babu Noor Mohammad Noor passed away on Saturday, leaving behind a rich literary legacy and a deep sense of loss across Jammu & Kashmir, particularly within the Gujjar-Bakarwal community.
Born in February 1942 in Chandak village of Poonch, Noor dedicated his entire life to the promotion and preservation of the Gojri language and literature. His funeral prayers were offered in his native village, where he was later laid to rest amid an outpouring of grief from admirers, scholars, and community members.
He began his early education under the guidance of his father, Monga Khatana. Noor later completed his schooling at Government High School, Mandi, and joined the Revenue Department. However, his true passion remained literature, and he emerged as one of the most influential voices in Gojri poetry and theatre.
Through hundreds of reformative poems, Noor addressed key social issues such as education, preservation of the mother tongue, early marriages, and other societal challenges. His popular works, including “Do Byah,” “Nikki Umar,” and “Raju,” continue to resonate in literary circles. He also pioneered Gojri theatre with plays such as “Nikki Umar Ko Byah,” “Dojo Byah,” “Muqadma Gi Kacheri,” and “Desi Ilaaj,” laying the foundation for a vibrant cultural tradition.
Apart from Gojri, he also contributed to Pahari and Punjabi literature, reflecting his linguistic versatility. His writings not only entertained but also sparked social awareness and cultural pride among tribal communities. His lifelong efforts helped establish Gojri drama and literature as strong and evolving genres in the region.
His demise has been widely mourned. Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi described him as a “warrior of the pen,” whose contributions to Gojri literature will continue to inspire generations. He termed the loss irreparable not only for literature but also for the cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
Jammu & Kashmir Minister Javed Ahmed Rana also expressed deep sorrow, calling Noor a personality deeply rooted in cultural traditions, whose life reflected the values and heritage of the Gojri-speaking community. He extended condolences to the bereaved family, particularly noted scholar Dr. Javed Rahi.
Literary organisations, including Anjuman-e-Gojri Zaban-o-Adab Kalakote, held condolence meetings, describing his death as an irreparable loss to the Gojri language and culture. Participants paid tribute to his immense contributions and prayed for his eternal peace.
Babu Noor Mohammad Noor leaves behind not just a body of literary work but a living legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations. His contributions have ensured that the Gojri language and culture remain vibrant, relevant, and deeply rooted in the community’s identity.
