SRINAGAR: Veteran journalist, author, and columnist Humra Quraishi passed away on January 16, 2025, at 70. Born April 24, 1955, she leaves a rich literature, journalism, and activism legacy.
Humra Quraishi was best known for her book Kashmir: The Untold Story, which brought to light the complexities and challenges of the region. Her other notable works include Views: Yours and Mine, a compilation of her writings, More Bad Time Tales, Meer: A Novel, and Divine Legacy: Dagars & Dhrupad. She co-authored The Good, the Bad and the Ridiculous: Profiles and Absolute Khushwant with the late Khushwant Singh, with whom she shared a longstanding literary collaboration. Her contributions also extended to anthologies like Chasing the Good Life: On Being Single and Of Mothers and Others.
Her family—daughter Sarah, son Mustafa, daughter-in-law Mansi, and grandchildren Ali, Hasan, and Amna—released a heartfelt statement: “It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the passing of our beloved Humra Quraishi. Your presence at the farewell prayers would mean a great deal to us as we come together to remember her kindness, love, and enduring legacy.”
Prominent figures expressed their grief at her passing. Activist Shabnam Hashmi described her as a courageous journalist and human rights advocate whose work was marked by empathy and dedication to truth. “Her fearless reporting and advocacy for the marginalized inspired countless individuals,” she said. “Humra’s passing is a loss not only to her family but to the world of journalism and social justice.”
Veteran journalist Yusuf Jameel recalled her professional integrity, particularly in her coverage of Kashmir. “She was truthful and fair, and the stories she wrote on and from Kashmir stood testimony to her integrity. Rest in eternal peace,” he said.
Humra Quraishi’s farewell prayers will be held on Friday, January 17, at 10:00 am at Anjuman Baghiya in Gurgaon. Her indelible contributions to journalism and literature will continue to inspire future generations.