The news of the demise of Rouf Sb Fazili, though I never had the privilege of knowing him personally, instantly revived memories of his noble father, Qadeer Sb — a respected scholar, teacher, social reformer and a true guide of society. For many of us who studied during those years, Qadeer Sb was not merely a teacher; he was a personality whose words, appearance and dedication left a lasting impact on generations of students.
In the mid-eighties, when we were students at High School Bagh, he would frequently visit the school and address the students during the morning assembly. Those gatherings were never ordinary speeches. They were lessons about life, morality, discipline and character building. His talks revolved around the development of good habits, respect for parents and teachers, honesty, simplicity and above all, the importance of protecting one’s health and character from destructive habits.
Dressed in his distinctive attire — a white turban and the traditional “Gal Court” — Qadeer Sb carried an aura of dignity, wisdom and simplicity. The moment he entered the school premises, students and teachers alike would listen to him with complete attention and respect. His words carried weight because they came from a sincere heart devoted to the welfare of society.
Among all the issues he discussed, his strongest focus remained on health awareness. He was vociferously against cigarette and tobacco smoking. At a time when awareness about the harmful effects of smoking was not as widespread as today, he tirelessly educated students about its dangers. He believed that smoking not only destroyed physical health but also weakened moral character and wasted the precious potential of youth.
In his powerful and affectionate style, he would repeatedly advise students to stay away from cigarettes and tobacco. His unforgettable Kashmiri punch line still echoes in the minds of hundreds of students and teachers:
“Aes kiyah gow, aes tchemow duh.”
These simple yet powerful words became a moral reminder for many young minds. His speeches were not driven by anger or authority alone, but by genuine concern for the future of society. That is why his message touched hearts deeply and remained alive even decades later.
What made Qadeer Sb truly remarkable was that his mission of social reform did not end with retirement. Though he had retired long before, he continued to carry forward the message of health consciousness and moral responsibility within the community despite his advancing age. While many people choose rest and comfort after retirement, he dedicated his remaining years to serving society selflessly. He would continue visiting schools and interacting with students, not for fame or recognition, but purely out of a sense of duty towards future generations.
Today, when we are running a 100-day campaign for a drug-free society, the memories of noble personalities like Qadeer Sb become even more relevant and inspiring. The challenges facing our younger generation have increased manifold. Substance abuse, smoking and other harmful addictions are slowly damaging the social and moral fabric of society. In such difficult times, the role of sincere teachers, reformers and community guides becomes invaluable.
Qadeer Sb belonged to that rare generation of educators who considered teaching not merely a profession but a mission to shape society. He understood that true education was not limited to textbooks or examinations; it was about building character, creating awareness and nurturing responsible human beings. His contribution to society may not be written in grand records, but it remains deeply engraved in the hearts and memories of those who heard him speak and witnessed his sincerity.
Today, while remembering him and mourning the demise of Rouf Sb Fazili, we also pay tribute to the timeless legacy of Qadeer Sb and countless such selfless souls who devoted their lives to the betterment of society.
May Allah bless Qadeer Sb and all such noble teachers and reformers with the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.
And even today, his timeless words continue to resonate in our ears:
“Aes kiyah gow, aes tchemow duh.”
Author is Best Teacher Awardee and Head of PM Shri Government Secondary School Laharwalpora, Bandipora
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