Srinagar, Oct 16 (KNS): Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has expressed his deep grief over the demise of the noted writer, poet and journalist of Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Khayal and paid tributes to him for his academic, literary, journalistic and social contributions.

In his condolence statement to KNS, Mirwaiz said the late Khayal Sahib had a close relationship with him and the Mirwaiz family, especially Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Moulana Muhammad Farooq Sahib, with whom he had close and long-standing relations.

Terming the demise of G N Khayal as a great loss, Mirwaiz said his passing away has created a void in the literary, academic and journalistic circles of Kashmir which can hardly be filled.

Khayal Sahib's services towards language and literature will always be remembered, he added.

Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir expressed his heartfelt condolence and sympathy with the bereaved family of Khayal Sahib and prayed for Jannat-ul-Firdous to the departed soul.

Meanwhile, Mirwaiz has expressed sorrow over the demise of the spouse of Mir Bashir Ahmad, the custodian of Asaar -e-Shareef Pinjoora, and extended his heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Bashir Ahmad Sahib on this loss.He prayed for Jannat-ul-Firdous to the departed soul.(KNS)