Mohammad Ishaq Khan, Indian historian and academic (b. 1946)

Mohammad Ishaq Khan, born on 9 January 1946 and passing away on 5 April 2013, was a preeminent historian whose life's work was dedicated to meticulously documenting and interpreting the rich, often complex, history of Kashmir. His scholarly contributions and leadership significantly shaped academic discourse and institutions within the region.

A Distinguished Academic Career at Kashmir University

Throughout his extensive and impactful career, Professor Khan was a cornerstone of Kashmir University, progressively taking on significant academic and administrative responsibilities. He served as the esteemed Head of the Department of History, a crucial role where he guided research and education in his field. His leadership extended further as he became the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, overseeing a broader spectrum of disciplines and fostering interdisciplinary academic excellence. Ultimately, he held the pivotal position of Dean Academics, a role that saw him instrumental in shaping the university's overall academic policies, curriculum development, and scholarly standards.

Continued Contributions Post-Retirement

Even after his formal superannuation in 2005, Mohammad Ishaq Khan's commitment to Kashmiri studies remained unwavering. His vast experience and deep understanding of the region were vital as he became the first Director of the newly established Centre for Kashmir Studies. This institution was founded with the aim of promoting dedicated research, fostering intellectual debate, and generating deeper insights into the diverse aspects of Kashmir's heritage and contemporary issues. Demonstrating his sustained intellectual prowess and scholarly recognition, Professor Khan later held the prestigious Shaikhul Alam Chair at Kashmir University until August 2008. This esteemed chair is often associated with the study of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, also revered as Nund Rishi or Shaikhul Alam, a revered Sufi saint and patron saint of Kashmir, highlighting Professor Khan's profound engagement with the spiritual and cultural dimensions of the region's history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Mohammad Ishaq Khan?

Mohammad Ishaq Khan was a distinguished historian of Kashmir, born on 9 January 1946 and passed away on 5 April 2013, known for his extensive academic contributions and leadership roles at Kashmir University.

What significant positions did he hold at Kashmir University?

He held several key academic and administrative roles, including Head of the Department of History, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and Dean Academics at Kashmir University.

What was his role after his superannuation in 2005?

After his formal retirement in 2005, he became the Director of the newly founded Centre for Kashmir Studies and later held the prestigious Shaikhul Alam Chair at Kashmir University until August 2008.

What is the significance of the Shaikhul Alam Chair?

The Shaikhul Alam Chair is a significant academic position at Kashmir University, typically dedicated to the study of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (Nund Rishi or Shaikhul Alam), a revered Sufi saint of Kashmir. Holding this chair signifies a deep engagement with the cultural and spiritual history of the region.