The power of words and the evolution of journalism in J&K
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Aubaid Ahmed Akhoon
“Each word sparks a flame; you need a strong heart to read the newspaper”
From the moment humans were endowed with speech and intellect, they were given the power to convey thoughts, emotions, and ideas through words. Language has been our greatest tool for communication, setting us apart from all other creatures and establishing humanity’s position as the most intelligent among them. This power of expression has been used to deliver the most profound truths, including divine revelations like the Quran, which was transmitted through the spoken word of prophets to humankind.
The Quran, in all its majesty, is a testament to the power of language. It was revealed in Arabic, a language of eloquence and depth, as Allah Himself states: “Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic and that you might understand” (Surah Yusuf 12:2)
According to Tafseer Ibn Kathir, the Arabic language is the most eloquent, plain, deep, and expressive of the meanings that might arise in one’s mind. Therefore, the most honorable Book was revealed in the most honorable language, to the most honorable Prophet and Messenger (PBUH), delivered by the most honorable angel (Jibreel), in the most honorable land on earth, and its revelation started during the most honorable month of the year, Ramadan.
Thus, the Quran is perfect in every respect—its language, its message, and its purpose. It stands as a divine masterpiece, encapsulating Allah’s guidance for humanity in a form that is as beautiful and profound as the message it carries.
In the same vein, journalism has emerged as a powerful vehicle for human expression and the transmission of truth. What began as a simple method of information dissemination has evolved into a crucial institution for public accountability, particularly in democratic societies. Over time, journalism has expanded to encompass a wide range of platforms—print, television, radio, and increasingly, digital formats. However, its core essence remains unchanged: to speak truth to power and keep the public informed.
Just as the Quran conveys divine truths with precision and clarity, journalism strives to uphold the truth, sometimes in the face of tremendous adversity. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political turmoil and societal struggles dominate the landscape, journalism takes on a special significance. Here, journalists not only report events but also serve as a voice for the voiceless, often at great personal risk. Through their work, they ensure that the truth is not buried, shining light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden.
A Glance at the History of Journalism in Jammu and Kashmir
In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, journalism holds a particularly rich and complex history. The first press in the region, known as ‘’Ahmadi Press”, was established in 1858. However, during the early years, the press was restricted, and publishing in Urdu—the most widely understood language—was not permitted. It was only later, under Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s rule, that the first newspaper, Bidya Bilas, was printed in both Urdu and Hindi, marking the true beginning of Urdu journalism in the State.
The evolution of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir saw many milestones, including the founding of important publications like “Tohfa Kashmir” and Jammu Gazette. Initially, these papers primarily served to communicate Government policies and news. The formal initiation of Urdu journalism in the state began in 1944 with the newspaper Ranbir, which was published from Jammu. Later, the weekly newspaper Pasbaan, under the leadership of Miraj-ud-Din, was also published from Jammu. The period that followed is regarded as a golden chapter in the history of newspapers in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. If I were to sit down and list the names of all the newspapers, even the pages dedicated to columns in any newspaper would fall short.
However, I would like to emphasize that the revival of Urdu journalism in the state of Jammu and Kashmir owes much not only to Munshi Muhammad Din Fauq but also to the key contributions of several non-Muslims who played an essential role in this endeavor.
This period saw journalism transform from a tool of the state to a platform for public discourse, debate, and even dissent—a crucial element in any democracy.
Journalism: The Fourth Pillar of Democracy
One cannot talk about journalism without addressing its central role in maintaining democratic integrity. Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantees freedom of expression, granting every individual the right to seek, receive, and impart information across borders. This right forms the foundation of journalism, which acts as the ‘fourth pillar’ of democracy, alongside the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.
But for journalism to truly fulfill this role, transparency is key. A free press is indispensable to democracy; it serves as the watchdog, ensuring that the actions of the government and other institutions are exposed to public scrutiny. In this way, journalism empowers citizens to participate fully in their governance by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions.
The Symbiosis Between Literature and Journalism
The link between journalism and literature, particularly in the Urdu-speaking world, is profound. Many of the greatest Urdu poets and writers, including Allama Iqbal, first gained recognition through newspapers and journals.
(To be contd)
“Each word sparks a flame; you need a strong heart to read the newspaper”
From the moment humans were endowed with speech and intellect, they were given the power to convey thoughts, emotions, and ideas through words. Language has been our greatest tool for communication, setting us apart from all other creatures and establishing humanity’s position as the most intelligent among them. This power of expression has been used to deliver the most profound truths, including divine revelations like the Quran, which was transmitted through the spoken word of prophets to humankind.
The Quran, in all its majesty, is a testament to the power of language. It was revealed in Arabic, a language of eloquence and depth, as Allah Himself states: “Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic and that you might understand” (Surah Yusuf 12:2)
According to Tafseer Ibn Kathir, the Arabic language is the most eloquent, plain, deep, and expressive of the meanings that might arise in one’s mind. Therefore, the most honorable Book was revealed in the most honorable language, to the most honorable Prophet and Messenger (PBUH), delivered by the most honorable angel (Jibreel), in the most honorable land on earth, and its revelation started during the most honorable month of the year, Ramadan.
Thus, the Quran is perfect in every respect—its language, its message, and its purpose. It stands as a divine masterpiece, encapsulating Allah’s guidance for humanity in a form that is as beautiful and profound as the message it carries.
In the same vein, journalism has emerged as a powerful vehicle for human expression and the transmission of truth. What began as a simple method of information dissemination has evolved into a crucial institution for public accountability, particularly in democratic societies. Over time, journalism has expanded to encompass a wide range of platforms—print, television, radio, and increasingly, digital formats. However, its core essence remains unchanged: to speak truth to power and keep the public informed.
Just as the Quran conveys divine truths with precision and clarity, journalism strives to uphold the truth, sometimes in the face of tremendous adversity. In regions like Jammu and Kashmir, where political turmoil and societal struggles dominate the landscape, journalism takes on a special significance. Here, journalists not only report events but also serve as a voice for the voiceless, often at great personal risk. Through their work, they ensure that the truth is not buried, shining light on issues that might otherwise remain hidden.
A Glance at the History of Journalism in Jammu and Kashmir
In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, journalism holds a particularly rich and complex history. The first press in the region, known as ‘’Ahmadi Press”, was established in 1858. However, during the early years, the press was restricted, and publishing in Urdu—the most widely understood language—was not permitted. It was only later, under Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s rule, that the first newspaper, Bidya Bilas, was printed in both Urdu and Hindi, marking the true beginning of Urdu journalism in the State.
The evolution of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir saw many milestones, including the founding of important publications like “Tohfa Kashmir” and Jammu Gazette. Initially, these papers primarily served to communicate Government policies and news. The formal initiation of Urdu journalism in the state began in 1944 with the newspaper Ranbir, which was published from Jammu. Later, the weekly newspaper Pasbaan, under the leadership of Miraj-ud-Din, was also published from Jammu. The period that followed is regarded as a golden chapter in the history of newspapers in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. If I were to sit down and list the names of all the newspapers, even the pages dedicated to columns in any newspaper would fall short.
However, I would like to emphasize that the revival of Urdu journalism in the state of Jammu and Kashmir owes much not only to Munshi Muhammad Din Fauq but also to the key contributions of several non-Muslims who played an essential role in this endeavor.
This period saw journalism transform from a tool of the state to a platform for public discourse, debate, and even dissent—a crucial element in any democracy.
Journalism: The Fourth Pillar of Democracy
One cannot talk about journalism without addressing its central role in maintaining democratic integrity. Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantees freedom of expression, granting every individual the right to seek, receive, and impart information across borders. This right forms the foundation of journalism, which acts as the ‘fourth pillar’ of democracy, alongside the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.
But for journalism to truly fulfill this role, transparency is key. A free press is indispensable to democracy; it serves as the watchdog, ensuring that the actions of the government and other institutions are exposed to public scrutiny. In this way, journalism empowers citizens to participate fully in their governance by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions.
The Symbiosis Between Literature and Journalism
The link between journalism and literature, particularly in the Urdu-speaking world, is profound. Many of the greatest Urdu poets and writers, including Allama Iqbal, first gained recognition through newspapers and journals.
(To be contd)