In the early hours of September 13, 2025, the medical fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir mourned the loss of one of its most esteemed figures: Prof. Syed Ashaq Hussain Naqshbandi. The former Principal and Dean of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, and Ex-Head of the Department of Surgery at SMHS Hospital, succumbed to a prolonged illness, marking the end of an era for Kashmiri medicine. His passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, students, and the community, underscoring his indelible contributions to healthcare, education, and human compassion.
A Distinguished Career in Medicine and Leadership
Prof. Naqshbandi was a towering presence in Kashmir’s medical landscape, renowned for his surgical expertise and administrative acumen. As Principal of GMC Srinagar—one of the region’s premier medical institutions—he spearheaded initiatives that elevated standards in medical education and patient care during a tumultuous period in the Valley. His tenure as Dean further solidified his role in shaping the next generation of doctors, emphasizing ethical practice and resilience in the face of adversity.
Prior to his leadership roles, Prof. Naqshbandi served as Head of the Department of Surgery at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar, where he performed countless life-saving procedures and mentored aspiring surgeons. His work extended beyond the operating theater; he was a vocal advocate for accessible healthcare in rural and conflict-affected areas, often bridging gaps between policy and practice. Colleagues remember him as a meticulous clinician whose calm demeanor under pressure saved innumerable lives, particularly during emergencies exacerbated by regional unrest.
Born into a respected family in Kashmir, Prof. Naqshbandi’s journey in medicine was marked by dedication and humility. The “Naqshbandi” suffix reflects his spiritual lineage tied to the Naqshbandi Sufi order, a tradition of scholarly and ethical pursuit that likely influenced his holistic approach to healing—treating not just the body, but the spirit as well.
The News of His Passing: A Sudden Void
Family sources confirmed that Prof. Naqshbandi passed away peacefully after battling illness for an extended period. The news broke on the morning of September 13, 2025, prompting immediate condolences across social media and news outlets in Kashmir. His Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayer) was scheduled for 11:00 AM that day at the historic graveyard of Naqashband Sahib Shrine in Srinagar, a poignant location symbolizing his deep-rooted connection to the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Local media outlets, including Greater Kashmir, Kashmir Horizon, and Glacier Times, were quick to report the loss, highlighting his legacy as a “noble human being” and “accomplished surgeon.” On X (formerly Twitter), tributes poured in from accounts like @TahirPeerzada_, who described him as “not only an accomplished surgeon but also a noble human being,” praying for his eternal peace in Jannah. Other posts from @thenawakadal and @indepth_news echoed the sentiment, sharing photos and urging the community to recite Sura-e-Fatiha for the departed soul.
Tributes and Legacy: Echoes from the Community
The outpouring of grief reflects the profound impact Prof. Naqshbandi had on those around him. Students who trained under him recall his mentorship as transformative, instilling values of empathy and precision. “He was a father figure to us all,” one former resident shared in a social media post, crediting him for navigating the challenges of medical training in Kashmir.
His contributions to GMC Srinagar were particularly notable during his principalship, where he focused on infrastructure upgrades, faculty development, and integrating modern surgical techniques into the curriculum. Even in retirement, he remained active in advisory roles, offering guidance on public health initiatives amid ongoing regional health crises.
Beyond academia, Prof. Naqshbandi’s compassion shone through in his community service. He was known for volunteering in free medical camps and supporting underprivileged patients, embodying the Sufi principles of service (khidmat). His passing comes at a time when Kashmir’s healthcare system continues to grapple with resource constraints, making his absence all the more keenly felt.
A Call to Honor His Memory
As Srinagar bids farewell to Prof. Syed Ashaq Hussain Naqshbandi, the medical community vows to carry forward his vision of compassionate, equitable healthcare. Institutions like GMC Srinagar have yet to issue an official statement, but informal gatherings at the college and SMHS Hospital are planned to honor his life.
In a region often defined by resilience, Prof. Naqshbandi’s story is one of quiet strength and unwavering commitment. May his legacy inspire future generations of healers. The community is encouraged to offer prayers and support his family during this time of sorrow. Allah SWT grant him the highest ranks in Jannah and provide sabr (patience) to his loved ones.
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