Bashir Ahmed Mayukh, Esteemed Scholar and Literary Figure, Dies at 99

Bashir Ahmed Mayukh, a distinguished scholar and literary figure, passed away at 99. Known for promoting communal harmony through his works on Jain Agam Granth and the Vedas, he left a significant impact on India's cultural tapestry. His son, Firoz Khan Mayukh, shared that a paralytic attack led to his hospitalisation, where doctors identified a severe brain clot. Despite medical efforts, he died at 2:30 pm.

Literary Contributions and Recognition

Mayukh's literary journey was marked by self-study, as he was formally educated only up to the middle standard under the British system. He authored eight books, with "Shabdragi Mayukh" being his last. His notable works include "Swarn Rekha," a poetic adaptation of Rigvedic mantras, and "Arhat," based on Jain Agam Granth. He also wrote "Suryabeej," a collection of songs and poems.

Born on October 16, 1926, in Chipabarod, now part of Baran district, Mayukh received numerous accolades throughout his life. The Vishva Hindi Samman was the last honour bestowed upon him by President Ram Nath Kovind. His writings often explored themes from various religious texts like the Vedas, Quran, Gita, Upanishads, Jain-Buddhist Agams, and Guru Granth Sahib.

Personal Beliefs and Legacy

A devout Muslim, Mayukh also revered Lord Shiva deeply. Forty years ago, he established the Mayukheshwar Mahadev Temple in Vigyan Nagar, Kota. Pandit Laxminarayan Goutam, the temple priest since 1998, noted that Mayukh visited the temple daily until his later years. This devotion highlighted his inclusive spiritual beliefs.

Mayukh's work extended beyond literature into cultural essays and spiritual poetry. His collections "Gumshuda Ki Talash" and "Avadu Anhad Naad Sune" reflect his diverse interests. These writings encouraged societal reflection and connection through their profound insights into human values and social consciousness.

Tributes from Prominent Figures

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed his condolences on X: "The demise of Kota's eminent litterateur Bashir Ahmed Mayukh ji is an irreparable loss for the literary world. He was not only a sensitive writer of Hindi and Urdu literature but was also a vigilant guard of social consciousness, human values ​​and dignity of language."

Former minister Bharat Singh echoed these sentiments, recalling how Mayukh lived by Gandhian principles and philosophy. Such tributes underscore the lasting influence Mayukh had on those who knew him and those who engaged with his work.

Mayukh is survived by two sons and two daughters. His legacy continues through his writings that challenged society to think critically and connect with diverse cultural narratives.

With inputs from PTI