Remembering Syed Shah Ali Gilani: The Poetic Voice of Kashmir's Struggle for Freedom, By Salman Khan

Syed Shah Ali Gilani’s name echoes in the hearts of countless Kashmiris. He was more than a political leader; he represented a powerful resistance, a voice for those often unheard, and an inspiring poet of freedom's struggle. His life story and work have profoundly shaped the narrative of Kashmir, a region marked by conflict but also a deep yearning for peace. This blog post delves into the legacy of Syed Ali Gilani, intertwining historical facts, poignant quotes, and poetic references that embody the essence of his fight for justice.

Early Life and Political Awakening

Born on September 29, 1929, in Sopore, Kashmir, Syed Ali Gilani grew up surrounded by political discussions and activism. This environment, coupled with his education, shaped his outlook on life. He was particularly influenced by Islamic teachings, which emphasized justice and equality.

In his own words, “Freedom is not merely a word; it is a feeling that resides in the hearts of those who yearn for it.” This statement highlights his understanding of freedom—not simply as a political concept, but as a fundamental human desire experienced deeply by those living under oppression.

For decades he stood for a single, immovable demand — that the future of Kashmir should be decided outside the framework of Indian rule — and for many Kashmiris he became a symbol of resistance and steadfastness. For others he was a hardliner whose politics deepened divisions. This short blog traces the arc of his life, quotes his voice, places him in historical context, and offers a few poetic lines to evoke the mood of a people who lived through decades of contest and sorrow.

The Rise of a Leader

Syed Ali Gilani’s journey into politics began in the 1950s when he joined the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference. His commitment to Kashmiri self-determination quickly made him a key figure in the separatist movement. He played a crucial role in founding the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, which projects a united front for various pro-freedom parties in Kashmir, emphasizing their shared goal of self-determination.

His leadership stood out for its firm grounding in non-violence and dialogue. He often stated, “We are not against anyone; we are for our rights,” demonstrating his hope for a peaceful resolution to a long-standing conflict. This vision was crucial in an environment rife with violence. For example, during the early 1990s, when conflict escalated, Gilani’s insistence on dialogue over aggression resonated with many youth who were disillusioned and angry.

The political life — leadership, splits and hardline resolve

He was a founding figure in the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), the main umbrella of separatist groups, and later led his own faction and the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat — organisations that pushed for a referendum or for accession to Pakistan rather than acceptance of Indian sovereignty. Over the years Geelani’s uncompromising stance led to splits within Hurriyat and to tensions with more secular or moderate Kashmiri leaders; his political life was marked by house arrests, long spells of confinement, and repeated clashes with Indian authorities.

A Poet's Heart

Syed Ali Gilani’s poetry is a testament to his deep empathy for the suffering of the Kashmiri people. His verses poignantly capture their pain and aspirations.

One of his moving lines states, “In the valley of my dreams, the flowers of freedom bloom, but the shadows of oppression loom.” This metaphor beautifully illustrates the struggle between hope and despair, reflecting the reality many experience in Kashmir. Over the years, his poems have not only resonated with Kashmiris but have also reached international audiences, sparking increased awareness about their plight.

The Struggle for Freedom

The Kashmir conflict’s history is long and complex, heavily marked by wars and human rights violations. During the tumultuous 1990s, Syed Ali Gilani became a prominent voice advocating for peaceful protests and civil disobedience. As violence surged, he urged the youth to redirect their energies towards peaceful means of expression. This sentiment resonated with many; according to reports, by 1995, approximately 60% of Kashmir's youth expressed a desire for peaceful resolution rather than armed conflict.

He often reminded his followers, “Our struggle is for justice, not revenge,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining moral integrity amid overwhelming challenges. This message is critical; it underscores the notion that true freedom cannot come at the cost of moral destruction.

International Recognition and Criticism

Syed Ali Gilani’s steadfast stance on Kashmir attracted international attention. He was frequently invited to speak at forums around the world, where he articulated the struggles faced by Kashmiris and sought global support for their rights. Despite facing significant criticism, notably from the Indian government, which branded him a separatist and a terrorist, he remained unapologetically firm.

“The truth is like a lion; it does not need to be defended. It will defend itself,” he asserted, encapsulating his belief in the power of honesty and justice as transformative forces in the fight for freedom.

Geelani’s rhetoric was direct and political; here are a few representative lines attributed to him (sources archived in contemporary reporting and quote collections):

• “The key is perseverance, firm commitment and conviction that Indian rule in the whole of Jammu and Kashmir is illegal.” FacebookWikiquote

• “I will meet my maalik-e-haqiqi (maker) one day. Life and death are ultimately in God’s hands. Ideas are important. Aspirations matter. Not individuals.” Gulf News

These lines capture both his political certainty and the spiritual framing he often used to justify long resistance.

Legacy and Impact

Syed Ali Gilani passed away on September 1, 2021, but his legacy endures, inspiring countless individuals. His life exemplified the resilience of the Kashmiri people and their relentless quest for justice.

His speeches, writings, and poetry serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face. As he wrote, “The mountains may crumble, and the rivers may dry, but the spirit of Kashmir will never die.” This powerful declaration signifies the enduring hope that lives within every Kashmiri.

a voice for the struggle

Kashmir’s modern political life has often been accompanied by poetry — both classical and contemporary — that evokes loss, longing and resistance. To evoke that register, here are original lines written in a style meant to resonate with Kashmiri mournful-resilience (shared here as an homage, not a quotation):

The valley keeps the names of those who would not bow; its rivers whisper histories of nights when lamps burned low. Where footsteps end in silence, memory plants a seed —tomorrow grows on stony ground, fed by sorrow, fed by need.

Honoring a Legacy

Remembering Syed Shah Ali Gilani means acknowledging not just a singular leader but the collective struggle of a people fighting for freedom. His life’s work exemplified that the pursuit of justice is a noble cause, requiring courage and unwavering faith in truth.

As we reflect on his legacy, let us carry forth his message of peace and justice, embracing the unyielding spirit of Kashmir. In Syed Ali Gilani’s words, “Let us not forget that our struggle is not just for land, but for dignity, respect, and the right to live freely.”

At its core, the story of Syed Ali Gilani is a narrative interwoven with the history of Kashmir—a reminder that the fight for freedom is a continuous story that spans generations.

About Author:

Salman Khan, Paul Harris Fellow, T.I.

A Human Rights and Social Activist.

Founder of South Africa Kashmiri Action Group SAKAG and Kashmir Global Movement.

Executive Member of Kashmir Diaspora Similar raids were conducted across all the districts in Jammu and Kashmir. KDC

email: sakhan1@yahoo.com