Kashmiri Pandit leader Bhushan Bazaz, 91, an advocate of Hindu-Muslim unity, passes away in New Delhi

Bhushan Bazaz, 91, founder of the J&K Democratic Front (JKDF) that strived for reconciliation and unity within the society in J&K, passed away in New Delhi on Monday. 

Bazaz, son of popular Kashmiri writer Prem Nath Bazaz, was “extremely unwell” for the past few days, according to the relatives. He was a resident of Hauz Khas area of New Delhi. He is survived by his wife and son.

Bazaz was known for his efforts to establish peace in J&K through non-violent means and address the political aspirations. He was considered by many in Kashmir as a rare bridge between the Hindus and Muslims of J&K, which saw many fractures in the past 36 years of violent conflict. His death was widely mourned in Kashmir.

Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq described Bazaz as “a father-like presence in his life”. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Pandit Bhushan Bazaz, son of legendary Pandit Prem Nath Bazaz. A dear friend of my father, he was a true upholder of Kashmiri ethics, his sincere love, warmth, and affection will always stay with me. His passing is a great personal loss to me and the family. My deepest condolences to his son Kalhan and the Bazaz family,” the Mirwaiz said.

Former Srinagar mayor Junaid Azim Mattu said Kashmir has lost a proud son in Pandit Bhushan Bazaz’s demise. “His heart, like that of his father, belonged to Kashmir and whose life was guided by the ideals of harmony, justice and secularism,” Mr. Mattu said.

Mourners in Kashmir recalled the contribution and dedication of Bazaz in keeping the relationship between the two communities alive.  

“Bhushan Bazaz was the ultimate political connector. He advocated Kashmiriyat. He wanted a memorial in his father’s name, but no government helped him in his endeavour,” Sheikh Manzoor Ahmed, journalist and political commentator, said.