On two solemn anniversaries—the 29th Death Anniversary of literary colossus Syed Manzoor Hashmi and the 8th Martyrdom Anniversary of fearless journalist Dr Syed Shujat Bukhari—Kashmir witnessed a rare moment of united remembrance. The tribute came from Agha Syed Karar Hashmi, an Islamic scholar and grandson of the late poet, currently pursuing advanced studies at the Hauza-Ilmia Qom in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In a stirring press statement, Agha Hashmi described both departed souls as "the two bright stars from Village Kreeri and Watergam in North Kashmir's Baramulla"—a land that gifted Kashmir a poet who shaped its language and a journalist who bled for its truth. The Poet Who Built a Language, The Journalist Who Died for Peace. 

In a significant announcement, the grandson of Syed Manzoor Hashmi told the press that he will soon organise a grand function in the holy city of Qom, Iran, dedicated to showcasing and celebrating his grandfather's monumental contributions to Kashmir's rich culture and literature. 

Agha Syed Karar Hashmi extended his sincere gratitude to all cultural and literary circles across Kashmir who, year after year, continue to remember these great personalities with dignity and devotion. He acknowledged their unwavering efforts in keeping the legacies of Syed Manzoor Hashmi and Dr Syed Shujat Bukhari alive—an inspiration for future generations.

Late Syed Manzoor Hashmi, remembered on his 29th death anniversary, was not merely a writer but an institution. Hailing from Watergam in North Kashmir, his legendary poetic works—Garmal, Loluk Sargam, and Ichhar Phula—earned him the State Academy of Culture award. A critic, researcher, educator, and master of prose, he shaped Kashmiri literature for generations. On this occasion, his sons—Syed Sarwar Hashmi and Syed Azhar Hashmi, both accomplished poets in their own right—fondly remembered their beloved father, honouring his timeless legacy and the literary path he illuminated for their family and for Kashmir.

Dr Dryed Shujat Bukhari was brutally silenced on June 14, 2018, during the holy month of Ramadan. He was observing his fast (Roza) when terrorists indiscriminately opened fire on him while he was seated inside his vehicle, martyring him in cold blood. Agha Hashmi condemned the heinous act, saying: "He gave his blood hoping for peace. His departure left a void that no words can fill. Hell to terrorism and its perpetrators. " Bukhari also served as president of Adabi Markaz Kamraz, tirelessly championing the Kashmiri language.

"From the seminary in Qom to the valleys of Kashmir, my heart bows to these two giants," Agha Karar Hashmi said. He prayed to Almighty Allah to bless both departed souls with the highest station in Jannat-ul-Firdous—united once more, as they were in life, through their profound love for Kashmir and its voice.