The Chenab Times mourns the profound loss of Nisar Ahmad, a luminary in the field of photojournalism, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 59 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His passing marks the end of an era for Kashmir’s journalistic community.
Nisar Ahmad, a distinguished photojournalist for “The Hindu,” breathed his last at 11 a.m. at SMHS Hospital in Srinagar. Despite undergoing major surgery two years ago, his dedication to his craft never wavered, remaining active until his health took a severe turn earlier this week.
Ahmad’s career was defined by his powerful and evocative photographs that captured the essence of Kashmir, from its tranquil beauty to its turbulent struggles. Before his tenure at “The Hindu,” he significantly contributed to local media, earning widespread respect and admiration.
His funeral, held at his residence in Natipora, Srinagar, was attended by friends, family, and colleagues who came together to honor his memory. The Kashmir Press Photographers Association (KPPA) expressed their deep grief, acknowledging the irreplaceable void left by his passing. The association extended heartfelt condolences to his family, wishing them strength and patience during this difficult time.
The sorrow felt by fellow journalists across the valley is a testament to Nisar Ahmad’s impact. He was remembered as a committed professional whose work profoundly enriched journalism in Kashmir. His legacy will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
“The Hindu” paid tribute to Ahmad on social media, stating, “Nisar was a thorough photojournalist, capturing the turmoil and beauty of Kashmir through his lens until his last breath. His work has left an indelible mark on our hearts and in the annals of photojournalism. Rest in peace, Nisar Ahmad. You will be deeply missed.”
Nisar Ahmad’s journey in photojournalism began in the late 1980s. He made notable contributions to esteemed Urdu dailies such as the Aftaab and the Alsafa. His work during the early 1990s, a particularly violent period in Kashmir’s history, for the Kashmir Times, garnered him admirers from all sides of the conflict.
Colleagues from the Kashmir Times praised his ability to navigate the dangerous landscape of the 1990s with a lens that brought both the brutal reality and the delicate beauty of Kashmir to the world. His iconic images of blasts and suicide attacks stood alongside serene captures of blooming springs and snow-clad landscapes.
Nisar Ahmad’s acute awareness and attention to detail in a politically complex region earned him a revered place in the field. He documented joyful times in the 1980s, the upheaval of the 1990s, the 1999 Kargil war, and subsequent tightly monitored elections with unparalleled dedication.
His last byline, posted on June 4, depicted the aftermath of an encounter in Pulwama, encapsulating the intense and poignant moments that defined much of his career.
In remembering Nisar Ahmad, we honor a photojournalist whose work has forever shaped the narrative of Kashmir. His vision and commitment leave a lasting legacy, and he will be deeply missed by the entire journalistic fraternity.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
