Ziraat Times News Desk
Tral: Senior journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Traveller, Nisar Pirzaada, passed away at Tral on Wednesday. His friends and admirers said the journalist left behind a rich legacy of commitment, integrity and service to journalism. His demise has been widely mourned across journalistic, social and intellectual circles of Jammu & Kashmir.
With a career spanning the era of black-and-white journalism to the modern digital age, Nisar Pirzaada was known as a journalist of rare calibre, said Ahmad Kashmiri, a friend.
“He was admired for his kind heart, helping nature and commitment to truth. Colleagues remember him not only as a thorough professional but also as a warm and accessible friend whose humility endeared him to people across generations”, Farooq Ahmed, another fellow journalist said.
Hailing from Tral, Pirzaada struggled and worked tirelessly for the growth of journalism in Kashmir. He served as Editor of the Urdu weekly Rahnumai Kashmir, published from Srinagar and owned by veteran broadcaster and former Doordarshan Director Ashraf Sahil. For some time, he also worked with the Urdu weekly Kargil Number, where he highlighted important regional issues of Ladakh, giving voice to concerns from far-flung areas.
He later co-founded and ran a news agency, News Today, along with senior journalist Zahoor Shair, contributing significantly to grassroots and regional reporting. He also made notable contributions to both print and electronic media.
Mr Pirzaada was part of the first-ever Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) batch started by IGNOU and conducted at Kashmir University. He was a batchmate of noted columnists Parvez Sajad, Ahmad Kashmiri, and Shabnum Tilgami. The course was taught by eminent journalism faculty including Nasir Mirza, Showkat Shafi, Syeda Afshana and other senior teachers, who played a key role in shaping a generation of journalists.
Known for his exceptional public relations skills, Pirzaada inspired and mentored many budding journalists, consistently extending help and guidance. Many young reporters found in him a well-wisher who encouraged ethical journalism and professional growth, his friends said.
Those who worked closely with him recall nostalgic memories of shared struggles, sincere reporting, constructive dialogue, and an unflinching belief in journalistic values. He carried himself with dignity and grace, always encouraging young voices in the field.
Condolences have poured in from various quarters, with journalists and civil society members expressing deep sorrow over his passing. Prayers were offered for the departed soul, seeking Magfirah, elevation of ranks in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and patience (Sabr-e-Jameel) for his bereaved family, friends, and colleagues.
Ziraat Times management has expressed its deep condolences with the bereaved family on the passing away of Mr Pirzada.
