Zareef Ahmad Zareef, born on 17 April 1943, is among Kashmir’s most respected poets, writers, social thinkers, and environmental voices. He is best known for his sharp satirical poetry in the Kashmiri language, where humour and irony are used to talk about serious issues. Through simple but powerful words, he highlights social injustice, corruption, cultural loss, and damage to nature, while also celebrating Kashmir’s traditions, values, and spiritual roots.
Images Credit To Facebook Account Of Zareef Ahmed Zareef
Early Life and Education
Zareef Ahmad Zareef was born as Zareef Ahmed Shah in Aali Kadal (Zainakadal), an old and culturally rich area of Srinagar, during the last years of Dogra rule. His father, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din, ran an embroidery workshop. The area was often visited by Sufis, poets, traders, and traditional healers. Growing up in such an environment deeply shaped Zareef’s thinking and love for culture. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He studied at Islamia High School, Rajouri Kadal, in the 1950s and early 1960s. Even as a student, he actively took part in debates, seminars, and literary gatherings. His interest in writing and public discussion began at a very young age.
Literary Work and Writing Style
Zareef Ahmad Zareef mainly writes in Kashmiri, which makes his poetry easy to understand for common people. His style is known for strong satire—he points out society’s weaknesses but never loses respect for culture or poetry. His work talks about political pressure, social hypocrisy, environmental neglect, and the slow loss of Kashmiri identity.
He combines traditional Kashmiri poetry with modern ideas, making his work both rooted and relevant.
Some of his well-known books include:
- Khabar Togme Wanun (2007) – Essays on social and cultural life
- Taaran Garee (2012) – Satirical poetry
- Kath cha Taeti (2014) – Essays on society, politics, and culture
- T’choenche Poot (2016) – Poems and prose for children, focusing on values
- Buzeiy Ne Kaensi Zaeree (2019–2023) – A popular collection of humorous and satirical poems
His books are widely read in Kashmiri literary circles, and some of his poems have been translated into English. His verses on the 2016 Kashmir unrest, for example, reflect pain, resistance, and hope.
Public Presence and Storytelling
Zareef Ahmad Zareef is also known for his spoken word and storytelling. His poetry readings, talks on Kashmir’s history, Sufi traditions, and forgotten stories of Srinagar are widely watched on YouTube and social media. People admire him for his “golden words” that make listeners think deeply about society and life.
Social and Environmental Activism
Beyond literature, Zareef Ahmad Zareef is a strong voice for social and environmental causes. He speaks openly about protecting Kashmir’s natural resources, saving its language, and keeping local traditions alive.
He has supported campaigns promoting traditional Kashmiri food, such as haak, to encourage healthier eating and protect local farming. He has also visited schools, including DPS Budgam, where he interacted with students and motivated young writers to value their language and culture.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Now in his early eighties, Zareef Ahmad Zareef remains active and relevant. He is often called Kashmir’s living satirist and oral historian. His work still speaks to today’s challenges, offering criticism mixed with hope and pride.
Through poetry, humour, and honesty, Zareef Ahmad Zareef continues to remind people of who they are, where they come from, and what they must protect. His voice remains a powerful guide for future generations of Kashmir.
You Might Also Like:
At 13, This Kashmiri Boy Built 31 Apps and AI Tools
Delhi Court Convicts Kashmiri Separatist Asiya Andrabi in UAPA Case
Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development