A
MORNING SCENE AT KATHI DARWAAZA SRINAGAR
By
..BANSI PARIMU ( 1933- 1991)..
Bansi
Parimu ( 1933-1991 ) is One Artist from Kashmir, who remains under exposed
inspite of his Profound creativity that not only matches with some eminent
Artists of his time at National scene but also surpasses many of them.
(Bansi Parimu with artist Sachida Nagdev in 1970. Photo source ... Jheeelaf Razdan)
About him ,Krishna Chaitanaya writes in his Monumental book “A HISTORY OF INDIAN PAINTING – MODERN PERIOD ( page 247-248 )”
‘ Late Bansi Parimu created more complex
forms . Linear forms that straddle the frame , creating balancing directional
thrusts. The areas of uniform colour have been given soft , pearly finish and
isolated by contouring which often suggest the relief of cloisonné enamel but
without the use of ridges of Impasto . In other areas , mottled effects and
textures have been obtained in various ways : light roll ring over the ground
colour with a different one , using the back of the brush for calligraphic
arabesques , using the gauze overlays .’
About
his work late M F Hussain wrote :
“ A
dedicated painter from kashmir whom I came to know from my early Sixty visits .
We became friends His work gained stature That could reflect beauty and turmoil
of kashmiri People .The colour , the sound of its landscape creates an
Orchestra of nature’s bounty .Parimu’s paintings keep singing the song of
Creation that is kashmir on our planet.”
Let
me speak a little about his later works . I have not seen much of his earlier
work .
For
sure , Bansi Parimu developed his personal Style on Figurative Abstraction .
His colours are often Bright warm. His Geometrical forms floating in or held by
his colours. I have observed that some of his Abstracts are at par with work of reputed Artists of period on National scene in terms of Colours and Styles that assimilate elements of cubism .
Parimu
has an enormous sense of design while creating his forms and effects. For a
serious lover of Art , he creates Something like energy fields .
And
His work has also moved through stages of evolution and came a long way from
Realistic water colours to impressionism and then figurative Abstracts and
finally pure Abstracts .He uses a wide range of colour hues, including green,
Blue, Red, Ochre in his compositions. This work demands a closer investigation
and Multiple viewing ( Proximal and Distal ) to appreciate it in totality .
His
work received wide appreciation in The festival of Art held in 2003 at Jasubhai
Art Gallery, Shanmukhananda Hall Mumbai . Works of Artists like K H Ara, F N
Souza, K K Hebbar and Rabindranath Tagore were also on display in this Exhibition
.
Exhibited in Many Galleries his paintings are also in various Private
hands .Some paintings adorn the walls of Gallery Chankya and
Lalit Kala Academy.
A
self taught man, His work attracted the attention of some leading artists of
his time . And I am sure he would have been one among them had he shifted to
work in a bigger city like Mumbai.
Quite
often I would pass through his Artistically built house known as “ TAKHLEEQ” at
Sanat Nagar Barzulla. He loved flowers that he had cultivated in his lawn. This
house had a huge single piece Glass window . He probably looked at clouds and
changing seasons from this window only. He loved his friends that were so many.
Shamim Ahmed shamim was possibly closer . He loved kashmir more than anything
else . He loved its Flora , Fauna , Culture and People . He loved its valleys ,
seasons , culture , tradition and its heritage . When it was decided by the
government to construct a Bridge near Convent crossing over river Jhelum ,
Bansi Parimu led the civil society in opposing the construction. He was an
environmentalist as well.
I
quote from Greater Kashmir News paper of 31.05.2012:
“Observers
said in 1984 the then government led by Ghulam Muhammad Shah had conceived the
idea to construct a bridge across Jhelum at Polo view. But as the construction
would spoil –The Bund –the heritage walkway on the river banks, the move was
resisted tooth-and-nail by the then civil society, particularly art lovers.
Bansi Parimu had threatened to go for self immolation should the government go
ahead with the plan. Parimu is believed to have started a campaign that the
concrete bridge would destroy the charm of this only green walkway left in the
City.”
He never wanted to leave his TAKHLEEQ or his Native Land even when Armed Militancy had knocked off everything by spreading its unending Blanket of Fear , Death and Destruction . In May 1990, painfully and Very reluctantly he had to leave the place that he loved so dearly.
He never wanted to leave his TAKHLEEQ or his Native Land even when Armed Militancy had knocked off everything by spreading its unending Blanket of Fear , Death and Destruction . In May 1990, painfully and Very reluctantly he had to leave the place that he loved so dearly.
Leaving
Kashmir was not easy for him. It meant leaving a culture . It meant leaving its
hills , flowers , Brooks , Snows, Seasons and Birds. No man is born twice . No
man can live on memories. And no flowering and Fragrant plant grows in heat and
dust of Alien lands should it be uprooted. “COBWEBS OF APATHY” or “SMEARED
SNOWS “ OR “RED KNOWS NO CREED “are creations of this deep rooted feeling of
homelessness and bloodshed in his native land .
This is what M K RAINA leading Theatre personality of the Country told me ..
“ Sometime around fifties of the Last century ,so many good things were happening in Kashmir on Art, Music and Theatre Front . Then came Jashn e Kashmir and it provided a platform to so many talented people from the valley . In this gala event , Bansi Parimu surfaced up with positive vibes and appreciation from all quarters . As a Young talented artist , he had designed and decorated many hoardings and posters for that event and worked relentlessly with other Creative people .
He graduated from Landscapes to Pure Abstracts . He also kept gradually emerging not only on local scene of art but on national scene as well .In that journey , He created very close association with so many artists on national scene purely on account of his talent .I could feel that he had come out of the cocoon to spread and fly high even by remaining Kashmir based ; By Cocoon I mean an environment in which so many talented people from the creative arena were forced to live in kashmir Valley because of so many factors even when they had talent and originality . Thanks to Information Technology, things are far better now. You have communication , Links , Network and Continuous interaction with outside world through Internet .
His observation was extraordinary . He was a rebel. As person ,he was sensitive to the core .
I believe G R Santosh and Bansi Parimu alone emerged on the national scene and represented Kashmir. I saw him at Triveni kala Sangam in 1980 exhibiting his work .A visit to him was a must as and when my wife and me visited Kashmir . He had some special love for me. He even arranged our stay free of cost once .
What a home he had designed at Baghaat Barzulla ? I mean Takhleeq . Many times he walked with me right from Palladium cinema to Coffee House and kept talking about his Non art concerns like Environment , Dal Pollution or Extinction of Chinar Tree and many more.
And then , I saw him in 1990 in Delhi . I helped him to set up an exhibition. That time I found him a totally changed man. He carried a deep hurt . He felt totally Uprooted like a fish taken out from water . Migration from Kashmir had hit him deep. The scars and bruises were deep down his soul. It was visible in his work . It probably hastened the process of degeneration of the body . No coffee House , No friends and a deep sense of rootlessness. But yes , He carried no ill feeling against any individual and nursed a great hope of return to his dear Kashmir .
I loved his abstracts with vibrant colours . His art was noticed and then appreciated by men like M F Hussain , Tayab Mehta, Ram Kumar , Satish Gujral and many more. He represented Kashmir on national Art Scene. Any National Artist going to Kashmir was always advised to meet him and see his work. That was the word in the Art fraternity of the country before 1990 . Had he lived more, He would have been one amongst the top Artists of the country.”
This is what Capt.S K Tikoo a very intimate friend of Bansi Parimu told me in Delhi:
" How much can you note down and how much should I tell you ? I knew him from school days . He was a great friend . We were almost together when I was in Kashmir .
In National school , every year , junior boys would wish farewell to 10th class students by organizing a grand event and singing ALVIDA ALVIDA . He led that event once and I remember his meticulous involvement for that event. It was 1945 or 1946. During his School days , He was more drawn towards Drawing , Model making and other activities than Books .
He was a non conformist since childhood. In later years of his life it became a part of his personality . Always against the current without bothering for the consequences or personal losses .
Before marriage , he was totally careless about money matters or I should say earning from the sale of his paintings. He would spend from his pocket , put his time and energy in his work and then give paintings free to friends . I was gifted four paintings in that process . They were my prized possessions . I lost them all apart from losing Bansi ji.. Everything was burnt and lost in the blaze as my house was set on fire by miscreants post migration. I could hardly remove anything . Only memories remain in tact.
Coffee house was a place where he met his friends almost everyday. He had so many concerns , so many issues close to his heart and all for the welfare of the common man in Kashmir . He would put them before the concerned authorities candidly as and when he got an opportunity .By opportunity I mean in gatherings , Public functions or one to one meetings . Many times , he would get up in public functions and put forth his point of view brushing aside all norms or creating unpleasantness for the organizers . That was a selfless service to the common man of Kashmir , I have not seen a person in Kashmir who had such courage of conviction .
Never ever has he sought a favour for himself. Sometimes , His Rebel temperament did not go well with some haughty Bureaucrats . I remember Mrs Parimu being transferred to Baramulla to settle scores with Bansi ji . But he never ever approached any person to get her transferred back.
He slept very less . I would ask him when did he paint and he would say “At Night” . I would always suggest him to cut short his Non Art Engagements and avoid late sleep. But Bansi was not the person to change his principles . This probably played havoc with his health. And Migration from his dear Homeland gave him the final shock . It killed him. I can’t tell you how bad he felt when he arrived in Delhi as a refugee leaving everything behind.
We worked together for Communist Party Of India . He was also associated with the CPI Newspaper “KASHMIR” . Together we would hawk it in Bazaars . Then I told him to be away and remain busy with his work. Those were the formative years of DNC in Kashmir . So many meetings in his Habba Kadal room cum Studio. In that ordinary room he had his studio, meeting place and bed room. That time he had not shifted to his new house at Barzulla . He was a bachelor. M L Misri , K D Sethi , Mufti Syed and Ram Pyara saraf have also visited that room and gone up those dark and mud mixed with wood staircase . Anybody who was somebody in State’s political Hierarchy has visited that room. Even two former Chief Ministers of the state . He was always selfless. He only thought of amelioration of the sufferings of common kashmiris . And Communism was a Great Hope at that point of time.
There was a Magnetic Charm in his personality . One meeting and you were bowled over by the sincerity of his purpose and selflessness.
In 1957, when DNC was launched with fanfare and a gala event in Gole Bagh Park , he was the key organizer . It was October and we had an unusual snowfall that day. The shamiyana fell to ground but the organizers stayed at the venue in with Bansi ji persuading everybody to stay put and not get disheartened .
As Artist ,he experimented with various forms, mediums and styles .I saw him using knife on huge soap bars. I saw him making Murals with bottles and ropes. He used broken glass pieces to create marvelous art. He was always experimenting , reading and keenly observing woks of some great Artists. I believe he learnt by that method.
He had twin strategies when he dealt with people around . To elders he gave sufficient respect . To juniors he gave appropriate guidance. Help he would do without making any noise . Quite often financial help as well irrespective of caste or religion.
I can’t recall all his coffee house friends . They were so many from so many fields . Sometimes during summers , Artist M F Hussain would also drop in . Yes Shamim Ahmed Shamim, Ali Mohd Lone , Nissar Artist , Ghulam Rasool Santosh, Prof. Saproo ( Elder brother of Dr R K Saproo ) and Abdul Majeed Baba sat with him almost regularly . He had closest rapport with Brij Bhardwaj the then Hindustan times correspondent posted in Valley . My friend and Senior Journalist Anil Maheshwari knew him well from Srinagar days. In fact post 1990, Anil ji was his neighbor in Ghazibaad.
His 26th January Tableaus were always innovative and depicting cultural panorama of our state . Apart from Prime minister , So many National Leaders were impressed by them.
His Write ups for national Newspapers were analytical and based on Ground realities . I will not reveal all but so many National leaders read them without fail. Peace and Welfare of the masses was the bottom line of his writings and political commentaries . He had no personal interest.
When Government led by Ghulam Muhammad Shah planned to construct a bridge across Jhelum at Polo view (that meant cutting of so many Chinar Trees and spoiling the Bund walkway ), Bansi ji threatened to go for self immolation should the government go ahead with the plan. He was a strong voice for preservation and protection of Heritage, Water bodies, Flora , Fauna and wild life of the state more particularly of Kashmir.
I was at his bedside when he breathed his last. I flew to Delhi to see him when I came to know about his condition. He was on bed. Due to some Gangrene wound , One leg had already been amputated and he was unconscious . A balloon type of thing was to be pressed and it sent air to his lungs. His eyes were closed yet I could see a Facial glow of this dearest friend . The doctors told me to keep pressing the balloon and I did. I found he breathed only when I pressed . If I stopped , he gasped for ventilation or oxygen . It was all over in few minutes . That was my Bansi . This pain I am carrying with me all along since that day. So painful end of such a loving person.
I am privy to his help to so many persons to stand up. A letter of introduction , a telephone call and sometimes accompanying them in person . Any person from any creed or religious background could seek his help .And presently I find all these persons not uttering a word of thankfulness to him. It is just painful . It is an act of ungratefulness for the establishment that does Not recognize his selfless efforts in so many fields (apart from promotion of Art in the state ) . Personally, quite often, I feel bad for his early death . I feel bad for outliving him. He had much to do and contribute.”
This is what ASKPC Leader Hriday Nath Jattu told me About Artist Bansi Parimu....
.
“ Bansi was our Habba Kadal Neighbour . He was self taught and self made man . He was a rebel with strong feelings for poor. I have seen him from his childhood days. He was a bird of free sky . No institution could put him in a cage . Getting tied to formal education was not his cup of tea but he mastered the art of writing English to such an extent that he could beat any highly educated Journalist or writer. His write ups had a clear perspective .I was an admirer of his analysis and political write ups. As a young boy , He was often seen around Ganpatyar area either going to the house of late S N Butt Artist or D N Wali or Raina family. He would meet father of Mohan Raina whom we called Bobu ji and who was an Artist and Model maker. These places acted as his initial training centres . Later he moved to other people and also mastered his Style by Observation and study.
Although he was not a religious man But as kashmiri and more specifically as a Pandit , he had very strong feelings . He was impartial and for him there was hardly any difference between a Pandit or a Muslim. If he could help a person ,If he could do what he was capable of doing , Bansi would never hesitate . I will not make certain things public but let me tell you that Bansi ji has helped so many person to get jobs , to get admission and guided them as to what they should learn in art and where they should go . I have personally taken many boys to him and sought his help. I believe by 1960 , he had established his name as an Artist in Kashmir valley .
Bansi ji was the soul of Coffee house . He had a communist bent of mind that I don’t disagree . But I have seen him as a man who believed in some sort of spirituality and kashmir’s sainthood . From him, I have also secured some donation for a social cause . Please don’t ask details nor shall I disclose these. He was a silent helper . Not many people know that D N Ghasi was his close friend , I don’t recollect full name of another gentleman Moza by surname as his friend . In 1957, He was very closely associated with the formation of DNC or democratic National Conference , a splinter group of J&K National Conference created by Leftists within the Party and headed by G M Sadiq. He would prepare posters and pamphlets for DNC and then distribute them on his Bicycle together with his friends right from lal Chowk to Down Town . Jammu Group of DNC was led by Ram Piara saraf. I have seen Mr saraf also inside His small one room at sapriyaar Habba kadal . That was his world and his studio cum activity room . Yes he would Move with M L Misri , Dina Nath Nadim, Prof. N N Raina, D P Dhar , Shamim Ahmed shamim , G M sadiq and many other known leftist Leaders or intellectuals or writers from Kashmir. Politics was a" SHOGUL" for him. He never sought any office of profit for himself from any political giant with whom he was closely associated.“
PADAMSHRI PRAN KISHORE KAUL REMEMBERS ARTIST BANSI PARIMU...
I spoke to him over telephone and he was kind enough to inform:
" After the visit of S H Raza, there was dramatic forward movement in the field of Modern Art in kashmir . Raza came with new exposures hitherto unknown. I mean french impressionism, cubism , figurative abstract and so many other things. He was already exposed to all these styles and schools of Art.
I too was initially inclined towards Art. The progressive group comprising of Triloke kaul, S N Bhat and P N Kachru would meet every Friday at a restaurant on Bund near present day location of " Suffering Moses " export House. This restaurant was opened by Mr Madan an educated entrepreneur who was also a connoisseur of Art. And one Friday possibly in 1954 , two young boys also joined us. One was Bansi Parimu and the other was Mohan Lal Moza. Bansi had brought some Paintings alongwith him. Incidentally G R Santosh had also come that day. This young boy who later came to be known as Bansi Parimu had passion and all of saw something different. He was experimenting and every one including S N Bhat felt happy to see his work.That is my first memory of seeing Bansi Parimu.
Later on , i kept watching this young boy moving from one milestone to another. His drawing turned robust. He attained a fantastic style of colour application. These colours were Vibrant and attracted attention. He arrived at pure abstract meandering his way through Landscapes, Impressionism, Cubism and figurative abstracts. I didn't find him doing realistic Art work. He did some larger works also like Murals and Tableau ; All worth appreciation.
Bansi came from a very humble background . He did not join any college or institution after leaving his school ; But he wrote and spoke beautiful English that some of us envied . His contemporaries, who had spent some years in Art Institutions to learn, would sometimes say " Bansi chhu oraai Hechhith Aamut or Bansi has been trained by Almighty ". Bansi always saw a lot of works of world renowned Artists. He had a very sharp memory and quick grasp. His observation was superb. .And that helped him a lot.
He was a real Rebel , always conscious and awake .For him self respect had enormous value. A loveable and affectionate man and very nice to talk to. Always updated on any issue . His argument had strength of logic and reasoning.
His political activities were never meant to achieve proximity to power.Bansi ji was always interested in the welfare of the common man ; A free crusader .
In 1975, when Sheikh Mohd Abdullah came to power, he wanted to convert Present Emporium Building and the entire premises into "Tehzeeb Mahal " a huge cultural centre. Even architects were retained to design it.Bansi ji started a crusade against the idea fearing all lofty chinars would be cut and the heritage garden complex in the heart of the city would be converted to a concrete structure. The proposal did not move ahead .
Initially , sadiq sahib and DP Dhar patronised him. Later, he made his own way solely on the basis of his merit. Bansi ji was involved in the production of the play Taqdeer saaz . The play was a direct hit on the regime in power at that time. He never ever compromised with his beliefs for self interest or personal gains .And never at the cost of common man.
For Academy of Art , Culture And Languages, he drew a fantastic portrait of Budshaah or sultan Zain ul Abdin making full use of his imaginative Power.
You are right he did not get a very good deal that he deserved. People forgot him and his contribution.He died under painful circumstamces after losing everything in the valley's current turmoil."
MAKHAN LAL SARAF ACTOR , DIRECTOR AND DOYEN OF THEATRE MOVEMENT IN THE STATE , SPEAKS ABOUT ARTIST BANSI PARIMU :
“ Bakshi Sahib’s Jashn e Kashmir of 1956 opened many opportunity gates for Artists , Writers and other creative people . It brought many talented and creative people to Limelight and Bansi Parimu was one among them. Post Jashn e Kashmir , State’s Information Department started engaging Artists for making Posters , Creating Murals and Preparing publicity Material . Local Artists were engaged for making Tableaus for republic day Parade. .
As far as I recollect , Except Mohan Raina and Bansi ji , Not many Artists were familiar with work relating to Preparation of Publicity material , making Murals and Poster Work during those days. May be many had the expertise But Mohan ji and Bansi ji were visible. Mohan Raina was a Government employee while Bansi ji was a freelancer .
Because of his talent , Bansi ji got some remunerative assignments from FIELD SURVEY ORGANIZATION ( F S O ) . FSO was meant to propagate policies of late G M Sadiq . Bansi ji worked with FSO for about 3years and created so many Posters , Designs and Publicity Material . Yes Sadiq sahib was a real connoisseur of Art . He held Bansi Ji In High esteem. . Late J N Zutshi was also an ardent admirer of Bansi ji’s work .
I have seen Bansi ji learning from Master Kashi Nath Bhan , Triloke kaul , D N Wali and S N Bhat. He was more drawn towards S . N. Bhat . He would also read a lot of literature and Books on Art and was always in look out for such material.
Though he was very close to D P Dhar but on some principles , once he went against him as well. And D P sahib understood his compulsions . There was hardly any malice in his action. I will not elaborate details . I would say that DP Sahib even turned more affectionate to him once he understood the purpose behind his action.
Bansi ji was a self taught man who had clarity and grip on what he did . People say that Bansi Parimu was a painter But I would add that he could even be a very good Actor had he continued in that field. Once , possibly in October 1968 , we decided to stage Ali Mohd Lone’s play Taqdeersaaz in Tagore Hall . At My insistence , Bansi JI Performed the role of President Thakur Durga Dass ( Retired Judge ) . That day I understood that he had creative abilities in all fields.
Bansi ji was an ace photographer . His Photo frames were speaking testimony of his creative mind . Any event , any function any meeting , Bansi would be with his camera . He dressed well and dressed in his own style that was not dictated by the crowd or current fashion . He had a separate persona .He was always meant for bigger gatherings . A crowd puller and heart throb of any Group / meeting .
I have not seen him drinking in Bars though he would accompany friends to Bars .Practically , Bansi ji was a teetotaler. I remember having joined two or three parties with some friends where he was also present . Liquor was also served in these get together functions . Although he always avoided liquor, But when he was cornered or pressed repeatedly , He would take very less .i say very very less. . As Liquor was poured in his glass , He would turn unhappy and cry ;
“ Buss Buss or Enough , stop It . Enough , Stop It . “
He had big circle of friends both within and outside the state . These friends were writers , artists, Politicians and intellectuals . Prof. Riyaz Punjabi and Shamim Ahmed Shamim were very close to him. He valued this friendship and loved both of them . In coffee House , i could see him in the company of Abdul Majid Baba , Ali Mohd Lone and many more friends . He was the soul of any group discussion. Sometimes he would be in coffee house for more than 6 hours.
He was a man of commitment and conviction . If at any point of time , he felt convinced that something was inappropriate or unprincipled , For him, it remained so for all times to come. He would not agree to change his opinion even if it meant some personal loss to him . Never ever did he indulge in seeking personal favours from his friends who occupied high seats of power .
He had a heart of gold. A reliable and trustworthy friend. A lover of nature , environment , Flora and Fauna of our state . One day we walked along the Bund and very seriously , he revealed his innovative Plan to me as to how the city of Srinagar could be saved from fury of floods . He talked about Plantation of more Chinar and Walnut trees for posterity . He gave so many bright ideas as we walked and talked .
He was always jovial and friendly with Mohd Sultan Dandroo his neighbor . Sitting on his window , he would chat with Mohd sultan . Mohd sultan retired as Principal degree college Baramulla .
Mohan Krishen Tikoo Managing Trustee of Bhagwan Gopi Nath Ashram was also his close friend . More like a family member . Ratinder kaul ( Police officer ) was also his close friend .
Bansi ji got afflicted with Arthritis and Diabetes during last days of his life . Something very tragic and painful. Migration from kashmir valley that he loved so intensely hit his body and soul . He felt a deep hurt somewhere within his Soul.
His integrity was crystal clear . His Heart was free from any malice . Such sincere and loving human beings are god’s gift to this world. ”
Shri Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo Panun Kashmir Leader adds :
"Bansi Parimoo will be remembered as an accomplished ARTIST who played with colours, imagination and vision. Uprootment from valley and pangs of Exile had given deep bruises to his psyche .He was the one who was with us in the opening Public programme of Panun Kashmir on 24 Jan 1991 at Gandhi Bhawan, Jammu. He opened with the words...."Hello Sufferers".
Shri Ram Krishen Sadhu a family friend informs :
This is what M K RAINA leading Theatre personality of the Country told me ..
“ Sometime around fifties of the Last century ,so many good things were happening in Kashmir on Art, Music and Theatre Front . Then came Jashn e Kashmir and it provided a platform to so many talented people from the valley . In this gala event , Bansi Parimu surfaced up with positive vibes and appreciation from all quarters . As a Young talented artist , he had designed and decorated many hoardings and posters for that event and worked relentlessly with other Creative people .
He graduated from Landscapes to Pure Abstracts . He also kept gradually emerging not only on local scene of art but on national scene as well .In that journey , He created very close association with so many artists on national scene purely on account of his talent .I could feel that he had come out of the cocoon to spread and fly high even by remaining Kashmir based ; By Cocoon I mean an environment in which so many talented people from the creative arena were forced to live in kashmir Valley because of so many factors even when they had talent and originality . Thanks to Information Technology, things are far better now. You have communication , Links , Network and Continuous interaction with outside world through Internet .
His observation was extraordinary . He was a rebel. As person ,he was sensitive to the core .
I believe G R Santosh and Bansi Parimu alone emerged on the national scene and represented Kashmir. I saw him at Triveni kala Sangam in 1980 exhibiting his work .A visit to him was a must as and when my wife and me visited Kashmir . He had some special love for me. He even arranged our stay free of cost once .
What a home he had designed at Baghaat Barzulla ? I mean Takhleeq . Many times he walked with me right from Palladium cinema to Coffee House and kept talking about his Non art concerns like Environment , Dal Pollution or Extinction of Chinar Tree and many more.
And then , I saw him in 1990 in Delhi . I helped him to set up an exhibition. That time I found him a totally changed man. He carried a deep hurt . He felt totally Uprooted like a fish taken out from water . Migration from Kashmir had hit him deep. The scars and bruises were deep down his soul. It was visible in his work . It probably hastened the process of degeneration of the body . No coffee House , No friends and a deep sense of rootlessness. But yes , He carried no ill feeling against any individual and nursed a great hope of return to his dear Kashmir .
I loved his abstracts with vibrant colours . His art was noticed and then appreciated by men like M F Hussain , Tayab Mehta, Ram Kumar , Satish Gujral and many more. He represented Kashmir on national Art Scene. Any National Artist going to Kashmir was always advised to meet him and see his work. That was the word in the Art fraternity of the country before 1990 . Had he lived more, He would have been one amongst the top Artists of the country.”
PROF ARVIND GIGOO ( WELL KNOWN WRITER ) SPEAKS ABOUT ARTIST BANSI PARIMU..
“ In addition to Kishori Kaul, Sant Ji Sultan and Nisar Aziz , Bansi Parimu was a regular visitor to our house. He would come to see my Uncle late Dwarka Nath Gigoo Rajkamal. My uncle was a writer , Painter and a Musician . Say all in one. I was a young boy and would see Young Bansi ji drawing sketches in presence of My Uncle . One day Bansi ji told me to make some lines on sheet of paper . I drew so many lines and handed over the paper to him. He joined all the lines randomly and quickly .To my surprise he drew sketches of a man , a woman and a building by simply joining these lines . That day I understood his Artistic originality and prowess .
And one day we went together to see “ Do Ankhein Baraah Haath “ in Amrish Talkies . By Together I mean myself , Bansi ji , My uncle and Prof. Sant ji Sultan. We walked back home on foot singing “ Aey Malik Teray Bandhe Hum “
Many times i have been to his somewhat old and small house at Habba kadal where one small room he had made for his activities like painting , Making Models or Writing . All of us are a product of these timber , Mud and brick structures. One day there was a strange purpose behind our sudden visit to his room. We went to see the Model from two Soap Bars that he had made . He had bought two slabs of home made soap and made a Crescent with a Star and a Lotus flower by careful use of a knife on two soft Soap bars . He was displaying that Models to public outside his house . So many visited his house to see these unusual Models .
Some Muslim Visitors said ,
“ Bansi ji you have made Crescent and star. May Allah Grant you good health and Luck.”
Many Pandit visitors said,
“ This is something Great . He has made Brahma’s Lotus. May he prosper.”
I have personally seen how perfect and swift his fingers moved. This was something Gifted and natural . Bansi ji always kept close association with anybody and everybody connected with Art. This appetite drew him closer to some leading artists of the state . It brought his closer to some renowned artists of the Country .His observation was sharp and he was carefree man who had incredible appetite for learning, assimilation and experimentation . He learnt by Observation and scrutiny. In a way totally self taught . Painting , tearing apart , repainting again and again till he was satisfied. He thus practiced centuries old Vedic Doctrine of NETI NETI. A process of self learning or an Appraisal of reality through self inquiry and investigation.
Ram kumar well known Artist once wrote an Article on Bansi Parimu in late fifties of the last century that was published in widely read Hindi Magazine Dharmyug . In fact Ram kumar had mentioned his visit to the Habba kadal room cum studio in particular in that article.
He had an unshakable disbelief in Religious Rituals yet a profound empathy for Every human being practicing any faith or cult. He was influenced by so many senior friends most of whom had communist leanings. It Brought him closer to Communist cadre of the Valley . Without any political ambition , he worked selflessly for DNC that was Quasi communist group led by G M Sadiq. Finally he drifted away from Politics and moved to Other more important causes like” Save Hangul “ and “Save Chinar" and many more.
I believe by 1960 , he made himself known as an artist from the valley . Last but not the least , he had a strong trait of Fearlessness in his personality .It forced him to speak the truth irrespective of personal loss. In 1986 he had an argument with S. B. Chavan - the then Union Minister for Human Resources - was in Srinagar in connection with a project for the wildlife conservation in the Valley. To the utter surprise of all, He got up from the audience and spoke directly to the minister about what he felt.
Once he even refused to accept an award from a minister . In 1984, During Ghulam Mohd Shah’s rule , he threatened to undertake self immolation if the Government went ahead with cutting of old Chinar Trees on Bund to construct a New Bridge over river jhelum near Zero Bridge.
I am certain that if he were not an artist , he would have been a Photographer and an accomplished one . He had an Imported camera when he was unmarried . I am lucky to have been photographed by him with that camera. He could have been a successful Journalist as well..".
About Artist Bansi Parimu , Mohan Krishen Tikoo Managing Trustee Bhagwan Gopi Nath Ji Ashram said :
" Bansi remained a close friend from Sapriyaar days. He was like a family member . Just a week before his death , I was about to Board a matador at Jewel chowk that I felt some person patting me on my back. I got down from the Matador foot rest and to my surprise , I saw Bansi . He was not so cheerful as I had always seen him. The Migration had almost killed his soul . He held me in tight embrace and I asked him to come home . He said “NO” as he had returned from patni top and was leaving for Delhi. I said “ FINE “ . let me see you in Delhi . I was planning to go to Delhi after a month . He said who knows what may happen tomorrow . May be we don’t meet again. Today’s meeting is the reality . Just after 15 or 20 Days I came to know about his death. I was shocked and his words proved Prophetic .
Bansi had tremendous observation . He had enormous appetite to acquire knowledge by self study .He was born as Bansi lal sapru but was adopted by his father ‘s widowed sister who was married in Parimu family . Dawaa-khaana Alkausar lal Chowk was owned by this parimu family.
His eldest Brother was Mohan lal sapru who was a senior officer in Postal Department . Bansi was second child . Then was Kanhaya lal Sapru and the youngest was Rattan Lal Sapru who possibly retired as DSP in Police Department . Bansi had three sisters .
“ In addition to Kishori Kaul, Sant Ji Sultan and Nisar Aziz , Bansi Parimu was a regular visitor to our house. He would come to see my Uncle late Dwarka Nath Gigoo Rajkamal. My uncle was a writer , Painter and a Musician . Say all in one. I was a young boy and would see Young Bansi ji drawing sketches in presence of My Uncle . One day Bansi ji told me to make some lines on sheet of paper . I drew so many lines and handed over the paper to him. He joined all the lines randomly and quickly .To my surprise he drew sketches of a man , a woman and a building by simply joining these lines . That day I understood his Artistic originality and prowess .
And one day we went together to see “ Do Ankhein Baraah Haath “ in Amrish Talkies . By Together I mean myself , Bansi ji , My uncle and Prof. Sant ji Sultan. We walked back home on foot singing “ Aey Malik Teray Bandhe Hum “
Many times i have been to his somewhat old and small house at Habba kadal where one small room he had made for his activities like painting , Making Models or Writing . All of us are a product of these timber , Mud and brick structures. One day there was a strange purpose behind our sudden visit to his room. We went to see the Model from two Soap Bars that he had made . He had bought two slabs of home made soap and made a Crescent with a Star and a Lotus flower by careful use of a knife on two soft Soap bars . He was displaying that Models to public outside his house . So many visited his house to see these unusual Models .
Some Muslim Visitors said ,
“ Bansi ji you have made Crescent and star. May Allah Grant you good health and Luck.”
Many Pandit visitors said,
“ This is something Great . He has made Brahma’s Lotus. May he prosper.”
I have personally seen how perfect and swift his fingers moved. This was something Gifted and natural . Bansi ji always kept close association with anybody and everybody connected with Art. This appetite drew him closer to some leading artists of the state . It brought his closer to some renowned artists of the Country .His observation was sharp and he was carefree man who had incredible appetite for learning, assimilation and experimentation . He learnt by Observation and scrutiny. In a way totally self taught . Painting , tearing apart , repainting again and again till he was satisfied. He thus practiced centuries old Vedic Doctrine of NETI NETI. A process of self learning or an Appraisal of reality through self inquiry and investigation.
Ram kumar well known Artist once wrote an Article on Bansi Parimu in late fifties of the last century that was published in widely read Hindi Magazine Dharmyug . In fact Ram kumar had mentioned his visit to the Habba kadal room cum studio in particular in that article.
He had an unshakable disbelief in Religious Rituals yet a profound empathy for Every human being practicing any faith or cult. He was influenced by so many senior friends most of whom had communist leanings. It Brought him closer to Communist cadre of the Valley . Without any political ambition , he worked selflessly for DNC that was Quasi communist group led by G M Sadiq. Finally he drifted away from Politics and moved to Other more important causes like” Save Hangul “ and “Save Chinar" and many more.
I believe by 1960 , he made himself known as an artist from the valley . Last but not the least , he had a strong trait of Fearlessness in his personality .It forced him to speak the truth irrespective of personal loss. In 1986 he had an argument with S. B. Chavan - the then Union Minister for Human Resources - was in Srinagar in connection with a project for the wildlife conservation in the Valley. To the utter surprise of all, He got up from the audience and spoke directly to the minister about what he felt.
Once he even refused to accept an award from a minister . In 1984, During Ghulam Mohd Shah’s rule , he threatened to undertake self immolation if the Government went ahead with cutting of old Chinar Trees on Bund to construct a New Bridge over river jhelum near Zero Bridge.
I am certain that if he were not an artist , he would have been a Photographer and an accomplished one . He had an Imported camera when he was unmarried . I am lucky to have been photographed by him with that camera. He could have been a successful Journalist as well..".
About Artist Bansi Parimu , Mohan Krishen Tikoo Managing Trustee Bhagwan Gopi Nath Ji Ashram said :
" Bansi remained a close friend from Sapriyaar days. He was like a family member . Just a week before his death , I was about to Board a matador at Jewel chowk that I felt some person patting me on my back. I got down from the Matador foot rest and to my surprise , I saw Bansi . He was not so cheerful as I had always seen him. The Migration had almost killed his soul . He held me in tight embrace and I asked him to come home . He said “NO” as he had returned from patni top and was leaving for Delhi. I said “ FINE “ . let me see you in Delhi . I was planning to go to Delhi after a month . He said who knows what may happen tomorrow . May be we don’t meet again. Today’s meeting is the reality . Just after 15 or 20 Days I came to know about his death. I was shocked and his words proved Prophetic .
Bansi had tremendous observation . He had enormous appetite to acquire knowledge by self study .He was born as Bansi lal sapru but was adopted by his father ‘s widowed sister who was married in Parimu family . Dawaa-khaana Alkausar lal Chowk was owned by this parimu family.
His eldest Brother was Mohan lal sapru who was a senior officer in Postal Department . Bansi was second child . Then was Kanhaya lal Sapru and the youngest was Rattan Lal Sapru who possibly retired as DSP in Police Department . Bansi had three sisters .
Initially he had taken a room on rent . The room was located on the upper story of the shop of Ali Mohd and sons Booksellers Habba kadal. From that place he then shifted to his own room that he made as studio cum living room. His friends and guests would come to that room only. That room was frequented by DP Dhar , M L Misiri , Syed Mir Qasim , Mr Renzu and Naadim sahib apart from so many persons . It was an ordinary house in Habbal kadal locality just opposite to Srinagar Medical store ( Prop jagan Nath ) . To tell you the truth , DNC ( Democratic National Conference ) was actually born in Bansi’s room cum studio.
Bansi and his friends would make posters and publicity material for DNC from this room only . Bansi would distribute DNC posters on his bicycle . DNC was against Bakshi Ghulam Mohd and had the patronage of G M sadiq.
He would visit S N Butt and D N Wali . He was more drawn towards S N Butt . At that place he was introduced to new styles in Art . That is what he would say to me . But he then studied these forms independently as well . Read books and mastered these styles . I have seen him doing landscapes initially , a few portraits also and then variety of forms.
He did so many government projects . I have also seen Many Houseboat owners coming to his living room cum Studio with European tourists to Buy Art. To me he would say , I don’t move to sell. Buyers come to this shabby room . “ Sau Sunaar Ki par Ek Lohaar ki “ . I was once present when a Houseboat owner brought some European Buyers for three paintings . one he had priced at 1600 second 2000 and third 3000. The buyers asked for some concession but Bansi said No . Nothing doing .
He had not attended College but he wrote wonderful English .
He was a real secular person in his conviction and beliefs though not temple going yet I for one know that he believed in some spirituality but not in rituals . He was a communist at Heart .
He was a clean man, Silent helper to causes dear to him and truly compassionate human being. So many persons were helped by him without making a noise or fuss . This help could go to a Pandit or a Muslim . He was free from that consideration. He would also sit with Prof. N N Raina .Almost all the Muslims of Habba kadal respected him.
He was deeply into politics of kashmir with practically no ambition for chair or money . a selfless karmyogi .I vividly remember how a message once came from Sri Shafi Qureshi sahib to him to join congress party but he refused , He was even offered some senior Party post and some financial grant . He declined .
He had enormous contacts and well wishers outside the state. One of the lovers of his art was Satish Gujral brother of I K Gujral.
Speak to Capt S K Tikoo . He also knew Bansi closely from Habba kadal days ”
Bansi and his friends would make posters and publicity material for DNC from this room only . Bansi would distribute DNC posters on his bicycle . DNC was against Bakshi Ghulam Mohd and had the patronage of G M sadiq.
He would visit S N Butt and D N Wali . He was more drawn towards S N Butt . At that place he was introduced to new styles in Art . That is what he would say to me . But he then studied these forms independently as well . Read books and mastered these styles . I have seen him doing landscapes initially , a few portraits also and then variety of forms.
He did so many government projects . I have also seen Many Houseboat owners coming to his living room cum Studio with European tourists to Buy Art. To me he would say , I don’t move to sell. Buyers come to this shabby room . “ Sau Sunaar Ki par Ek Lohaar ki “ . I was once present when a Houseboat owner brought some European Buyers for three paintings . one he had priced at 1600 second 2000 and third 3000. The buyers asked for some concession but Bansi said No . Nothing doing .
He had not attended College but he wrote wonderful English .
He was a real secular person in his conviction and beliefs though not temple going yet I for one know that he believed in some spirituality but not in rituals . He was a communist at Heart .
He was a clean man, Silent helper to causes dear to him and truly compassionate human being. So many persons were helped by him without making a noise or fuss . This help could go to a Pandit or a Muslim . He was free from that consideration. He would also sit with Prof. N N Raina .Almost all the Muslims of Habba kadal respected him.
He was deeply into politics of kashmir with practically no ambition for chair or money . a selfless karmyogi .I vividly remember how a message once came from Sri Shafi Qureshi sahib to him to join congress party but he refused , He was even offered some senior Party post and some financial grant . He declined .
He had enormous contacts and well wishers outside the state. One of the lovers of his art was Satish Gujral brother of I K Gujral.
Speak to Capt S K Tikoo . He also knew Bansi closely from Habba kadal days ”
This is what Capt.S K Tikoo a very intimate friend of Bansi Parimu told me in Delhi:
" How much can you note down and how much should I tell you ? I knew him from school days . He was a great friend . We were almost together when I was in Kashmir .
In National school , every year , junior boys would wish farewell to 10th class students by organizing a grand event and singing ALVIDA ALVIDA . He led that event once and I remember his meticulous involvement for that event. It was 1945 or 1946. During his School days , He was more drawn towards Drawing , Model making and other activities than Books .
He was a non conformist since childhood. In later years of his life it became a part of his personality . Always against the current without bothering for the consequences or personal losses .
Before marriage , he was totally careless about money matters or I should say earning from the sale of his paintings. He would spend from his pocket , put his time and energy in his work and then give paintings free to friends . I was gifted four paintings in that process . They were my prized possessions . I lost them all apart from losing Bansi ji.. Everything was burnt and lost in the blaze as my house was set on fire by miscreants post migration. I could hardly remove anything . Only memories remain in tact.
Coffee house was a place where he met his friends almost everyday. He had so many concerns , so many issues close to his heart and all for the welfare of the common man in Kashmir . He would put them before the concerned authorities candidly as and when he got an opportunity .By opportunity I mean in gatherings , Public functions or one to one meetings . Many times , he would get up in public functions and put forth his point of view brushing aside all norms or creating unpleasantness for the organizers . That was a selfless service to the common man of Kashmir , I have not seen a person in Kashmir who had such courage of conviction .
Never ever has he sought a favour for himself. Sometimes , His Rebel temperament did not go well with some haughty Bureaucrats . I remember Mrs Parimu being transferred to Baramulla to settle scores with Bansi ji . But he never ever approached any person to get her transferred back.
He slept very less . I would ask him when did he paint and he would say “At Night” . I would always suggest him to cut short his Non Art Engagements and avoid late sleep. But Bansi was not the person to change his principles . This probably played havoc with his health. And Migration from his dear Homeland gave him the final shock . It killed him. I can’t tell you how bad he felt when he arrived in Delhi as a refugee leaving everything behind.
We worked together for Communist Party Of India . He was also associated with the CPI Newspaper “KASHMIR” . Together we would hawk it in Bazaars . Then I told him to be away and remain busy with his work. Those were the formative years of DNC in Kashmir . So many meetings in his Habba Kadal room cum Studio. In that ordinary room he had his studio, meeting place and bed room. That time he had not shifted to his new house at Barzulla . He was a bachelor. M L Misri , K D Sethi , Mufti Syed and Ram Pyara saraf have also visited that room and gone up those dark and mud mixed with wood staircase . Anybody who was somebody in State’s political Hierarchy has visited that room. Even two former Chief Ministers of the state . He was always selfless. He only thought of amelioration of the sufferings of common kashmiris . And Communism was a Great Hope at that point of time.
There was a Magnetic Charm in his personality . One meeting and you were bowled over by the sincerity of his purpose and selflessness.
In 1957, when DNC was launched with fanfare and a gala event in Gole Bagh Park , he was the key organizer . It was October and we had an unusual snowfall that day. The shamiyana fell to ground but the organizers stayed at the venue in with Bansi ji persuading everybody to stay put and not get disheartened .
As Artist ,he experimented with various forms, mediums and styles .I saw him using knife on huge soap bars. I saw him making Murals with bottles and ropes. He used broken glass pieces to create marvelous art. He was always experimenting , reading and keenly observing woks of some great Artists. I believe he learnt by that method.
He had twin strategies when he dealt with people around . To elders he gave sufficient respect . To juniors he gave appropriate guidance. Help he would do without making any noise . Quite often financial help as well irrespective of caste or religion.
I can’t recall all his coffee house friends . They were so many from so many fields . Sometimes during summers , Artist M F Hussain would also drop in . Yes Shamim Ahmed Shamim, Ali Mohd Lone , Nissar Artist , Ghulam Rasool Santosh, Prof. Saproo ( Elder brother of Dr R K Saproo ) and Abdul Majeed Baba sat with him almost regularly . He had closest rapport with Brij Bhardwaj the then Hindustan times correspondent posted in Valley . My friend and Senior Journalist Anil Maheshwari knew him well from Srinagar days. In fact post 1990, Anil ji was his neighbor in Ghazibaad.
His 26th January Tableaus were always innovative and depicting cultural panorama of our state . Apart from Prime minister , So many National Leaders were impressed by them.
His Write ups for national Newspapers were analytical and based on Ground realities . I will not reveal all but so many National leaders read them without fail. Peace and Welfare of the masses was the bottom line of his writings and political commentaries . He had no personal interest.
When Government led by Ghulam Muhammad Shah planned to construct a bridge across Jhelum at Polo view (that meant cutting of so many Chinar Trees and spoiling the Bund walkway ), Bansi ji threatened to go for self immolation should the government go ahead with the plan. He was a strong voice for preservation and protection of Heritage, Water bodies, Flora , Fauna and wild life of the state more particularly of Kashmir.
I was at his bedside when he breathed his last. I flew to Delhi to see him when I came to know about his condition. He was on bed. Due to some Gangrene wound , One leg had already been amputated and he was unconscious . A balloon type of thing was to be pressed and it sent air to his lungs. His eyes were closed yet I could see a Facial glow of this dearest friend . The doctors told me to keep pressing the balloon and I did. I found he breathed only when I pressed . If I stopped , he gasped for ventilation or oxygen . It was all over in few minutes . That was my Bansi . This pain I am carrying with me all along since that day. So painful end of such a loving person.
I am privy to his help to so many persons to stand up. A letter of introduction , a telephone call and sometimes accompanying them in person . Any person from any creed or religious background could seek his help .And presently I find all these persons not uttering a word of thankfulness to him. It is just painful . It is an act of ungratefulness for the establishment that does Not recognize his selfless efforts in so many fields (apart from promotion of Art in the state ) . Personally, quite often, I feel bad for his early death . I feel bad for outliving him. He had much to do and contribute.”
This is what ASKPC Leader Hriday Nath Jattu told me About Artist Bansi Parimu....
.
“ Bansi was our Habba Kadal Neighbour . He was self taught and self made man . He was a rebel with strong feelings for poor. I have seen him from his childhood days. He was a bird of free sky . No institution could put him in a cage . Getting tied to formal education was not his cup of tea but he mastered the art of writing English to such an extent that he could beat any highly educated Journalist or writer. His write ups had a clear perspective .I was an admirer of his analysis and political write ups. As a young boy , He was often seen around Ganpatyar area either going to the house of late S N Butt Artist or D N Wali or Raina family. He would meet father of Mohan Raina whom we called Bobu ji and who was an Artist and Model maker. These places acted as his initial training centres . Later he moved to other people and also mastered his Style by Observation and study.
Although he was not a religious man But as kashmiri and more specifically as a Pandit , he had very strong feelings . He was impartial and for him there was hardly any difference between a Pandit or a Muslim. If he could help a person ,If he could do what he was capable of doing , Bansi would never hesitate . I will not make certain things public but let me tell you that Bansi ji has helped so many person to get jobs , to get admission and guided them as to what they should learn in art and where they should go . I have personally taken many boys to him and sought his help. I believe by 1960 , he had established his name as an Artist in Kashmir valley .
Bansi ji was the soul of Coffee house . He had a communist bent of mind that I don’t disagree . But I have seen him as a man who believed in some sort of spirituality and kashmir’s sainthood . From him, I have also secured some donation for a social cause . Please don’t ask details nor shall I disclose these. He was a silent helper . Not many people know that D N Ghasi was his close friend , I don’t recollect full name of another gentleman Moza by surname as his friend . In 1957, He was very closely associated with the formation of DNC or democratic National Conference , a splinter group of J&K National Conference created by Leftists within the Party and headed by G M Sadiq. He would prepare posters and pamphlets for DNC and then distribute them on his Bicycle together with his friends right from lal Chowk to Down Town . Jammu Group of DNC was led by Ram Piara saraf. I have seen Mr saraf also inside His small one room at sapriyaar Habba kadal . That was his world and his studio cum activity room . Yes he would Move with M L Misri , Dina Nath Nadim, Prof. N N Raina, D P Dhar , Shamim Ahmed shamim , G M sadiq and many other known leftist Leaders or intellectuals or writers from Kashmir. Politics was a" SHOGUL" for him. He never sought any office of profit for himself from any political giant with whom he was closely associated.“
PADAMSHRI PRAN KISHORE KAUL REMEMBERS ARTIST BANSI PARIMU...
I spoke to him over telephone and he was kind enough to inform:
" After the visit of S H Raza, there was dramatic forward movement in the field of Modern Art in kashmir . Raza came with new exposures hitherto unknown. I mean french impressionism, cubism , figurative abstract and so many other things. He was already exposed to all these styles and schools of Art.
I too was initially inclined towards Art. The progressive group comprising of Triloke kaul, S N Bhat and P N Kachru would meet every Friday at a restaurant on Bund near present day location of " Suffering Moses " export House. This restaurant was opened by Mr Madan an educated entrepreneur who was also a connoisseur of Art. And one Friday possibly in 1954 , two young boys also joined us. One was Bansi Parimu and the other was Mohan Lal Moza. Bansi had brought some Paintings alongwith him. Incidentally G R Santosh had also come that day. This young boy who later came to be known as Bansi Parimu had passion and all of saw something different. He was experimenting and every one including S N Bhat felt happy to see his work.That is my first memory of seeing Bansi Parimu.
Later on , i kept watching this young boy moving from one milestone to another. His drawing turned robust. He attained a fantastic style of colour application. These colours were Vibrant and attracted attention. He arrived at pure abstract meandering his way through Landscapes, Impressionism, Cubism and figurative abstracts. I didn't find him doing realistic Art work. He did some larger works also like Murals and Tableau ; All worth appreciation.
Bansi came from a very humble background . He did not join any college or institution after leaving his school ; But he wrote and spoke beautiful English that some of us envied . His contemporaries, who had spent some years in Art Institutions to learn, would sometimes say " Bansi chhu oraai Hechhith Aamut or Bansi has been trained by Almighty ". Bansi always saw a lot of works of world renowned Artists. He had a very sharp memory and quick grasp. His observation was superb. .And that helped him a lot.
He was a real Rebel , always conscious and awake .For him self respect had enormous value. A loveable and affectionate man and very nice to talk to. Always updated on any issue . His argument had strength of logic and reasoning.
His political activities were never meant to achieve proximity to power.Bansi ji was always interested in the welfare of the common man ; A free crusader .
In 1975, when Sheikh Mohd Abdullah came to power, he wanted to convert Present Emporium Building and the entire premises into "Tehzeeb Mahal " a huge cultural centre. Even architects were retained to design it.Bansi ji started a crusade against the idea fearing all lofty chinars would be cut and the heritage garden complex in the heart of the city would be converted to a concrete structure. The proposal did not move ahead .
Initially , sadiq sahib and DP Dhar patronised him. Later, he made his own way solely on the basis of his merit. Bansi ji was involved in the production of the play Taqdeer saaz . The play was a direct hit on the regime in power at that time. He never ever compromised with his beliefs for self interest or personal gains .And never at the cost of common man.
For Academy of Art , Culture And Languages, he drew a fantastic portrait of Budshaah or sultan Zain ul Abdin making full use of his imaginative Power.
You are right he did not get a very good deal that he deserved. People forgot him and his contribution.He died under painful circumstamces after losing everything in the valley's current turmoil."
MAKHAN LAL SARAF ACTOR , DIRECTOR AND DOYEN OF THEATRE MOVEMENT IN THE STATE , SPEAKS ABOUT ARTIST BANSI PARIMU :
“ Bakshi Sahib’s Jashn e Kashmir of 1956 opened many opportunity gates for Artists , Writers and other creative people . It brought many talented and creative people to Limelight and Bansi Parimu was one among them. Post Jashn e Kashmir , State’s Information Department started engaging Artists for making Posters , Creating Murals and Preparing publicity Material . Local Artists were engaged for making Tableaus for republic day Parade. .
As far as I recollect , Except Mohan Raina and Bansi ji , Not many Artists were familiar with work relating to Preparation of Publicity material , making Murals and Poster Work during those days. May be many had the expertise But Mohan ji and Bansi ji were visible. Mohan Raina was a Government employee while Bansi ji was a freelancer .
Because of his talent , Bansi ji got some remunerative assignments from FIELD SURVEY ORGANIZATION ( F S O ) . FSO was meant to propagate policies of late G M Sadiq . Bansi ji worked with FSO for about 3years and created so many Posters , Designs and Publicity Material . Yes Sadiq sahib was a real connoisseur of Art . He held Bansi Ji In High esteem. . Late J N Zutshi was also an ardent admirer of Bansi ji’s work .
I have seen Bansi ji learning from Master Kashi Nath Bhan , Triloke kaul , D N Wali and S N Bhat. He was more drawn towards S . N. Bhat . He would also read a lot of literature and Books on Art and was always in look out for such material.
Though he was very close to D P Dhar but on some principles , once he went against him as well. And D P sahib understood his compulsions . There was hardly any malice in his action. I will not elaborate details . I would say that DP Sahib even turned more affectionate to him once he understood the purpose behind his action.
Bansi ji was a self taught man who had clarity and grip on what he did . People say that Bansi Parimu was a painter But I would add that he could even be a very good Actor had he continued in that field. Once , possibly in October 1968 , we decided to stage Ali Mohd Lone’s play Taqdeersaaz in Tagore Hall . At My insistence , Bansi JI Performed the role of President Thakur Durga Dass ( Retired Judge ) . That day I understood that he had creative abilities in all fields.
Bansi ji was an ace photographer . His Photo frames were speaking testimony of his creative mind . Any event , any function any meeting , Bansi would be with his camera . He dressed well and dressed in his own style that was not dictated by the crowd or current fashion . He had a separate persona .He was always meant for bigger gatherings . A crowd puller and heart throb of any Group / meeting .
I have not seen him drinking in Bars though he would accompany friends to Bars .Practically , Bansi ji was a teetotaler. I remember having joined two or three parties with some friends where he was also present . Liquor was also served in these get together functions . Although he always avoided liquor, But when he was cornered or pressed repeatedly , He would take very less .i say very very less. . As Liquor was poured in his glass , He would turn unhappy and cry ;
“ Buss Buss or Enough , stop It . Enough , Stop It . “
He had big circle of friends both within and outside the state . These friends were writers , artists, Politicians and intellectuals . Prof. Riyaz Punjabi and Shamim Ahmed Shamim were very close to him. He valued this friendship and loved both of them . In coffee House , i could see him in the company of Abdul Majid Baba , Ali Mohd Lone and many more friends . He was the soul of any group discussion. Sometimes he would be in coffee house for more than 6 hours.
He was a man of commitment and conviction . If at any point of time , he felt convinced that something was inappropriate or unprincipled , For him, it remained so for all times to come. He would not agree to change his opinion even if it meant some personal loss to him . Never ever did he indulge in seeking personal favours from his friends who occupied high seats of power .
He had a heart of gold. A reliable and trustworthy friend. A lover of nature , environment , Flora and Fauna of our state . One day we walked along the Bund and very seriously , he revealed his innovative Plan to me as to how the city of Srinagar could be saved from fury of floods . He talked about Plantation of more Chinar and Walnut trees for posterity . He gave so many bright ideas as we walked and talked .
He was always jovial and friendly with Mohd Sultan Dandroo his neighbor . Sitting on his window , he would chat with Mohd sultan . Mohd sultan retired as Principal degree college Baramulla .
Mohan Krishen Tikoo Managing Trustee of Bhagwan Gopi Nath Ashram was also his close friend . More like a family member . Ratinder kaul ( Police officer ) was also his close friend .
Bansi ji got afflicted with Arthritis and Diabetes during last days of his life . Something very tragic and painful. Migration from kashmir valley that he loved so intensely hit his body and soul . He felt a deep hurt somewhere within his Soul.
His integrity was crystal clear . His Heart was free from any malice . Such sincere and loving human beings are god’s gift to this world. ”
Shri Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo Panun Kashmir Leader adds :
"Bansi Parimoo will be remembered as an accomplished ARTIST who played with colours, imagination and vision. Uprootment from valley and pangs of Exile had given deep bruises to his psyche .He was the one who was with us in the opening Public programme of Panun Kashmir on 24 Jan 1991 at Gandhi Bhawan, Jammu. He opened with the words...."Hello Sufferers".
Shri Ram Krishen Sadhu a family friend informs :
“Bansi Parimu occupied a prominent position amongst the great Artists of our time . This is certainly a well recognised fact. But for those of us , who knew him closely, he was a Great human being as well. Well read and highly knowledgeable, It was a treat to engage in a discussion with him on variety of subjects, be it literature, current economic and political issues etc.. He had his strong views about some matters and was a true embodiment of genuine Kashmiriyat. Migration out of valley was something which he could not reconcile with. I had frequent sessions with him in Delhi those days till he went to Kud to avoid harsh summers. After his return ,we just had one meeting and next I saw him in AIIMS New Delhi when his daughter Jeelaf called me. In his shocking and premature exit, we lost immensely talented Artist and a warm Human being. I shall always miss him .”
Mohd Sayeed Malik A very Senior Journalist and another family friend adds :
Mohd Sayeed Malik A very Senior Journalist and another family friend adds :
“ Our
close acquaintance with Bansi Parimu and his family is over half a century old. Bansi's
promising talent was cut short by his tragic premature death. Earlier his
ailment prevented him from pursuing his artistic passion. Considering his
potential, Bansi could have scaled far greater heights in his field, if his
life were not cut short at its prime.”
Shantiveer Kaul , Poet , Writer and Critic said
something like this ...
" See I knew Bansi ji in two ways . As a young boy of 6 years , I saw him coming to our house regularly to see Nadim sahib , My father . Later during my youth , I started interacting with Bansi ji on one to one basis. Possibly it was through Umesh kaul My close friend , that I came close to Bansi ji .My friendship with him got strengthened by various meetings and commonality of interest .
Bansi Parimu was a master in experimentation with New Techniques .He had mastered the technique of using knife and wax on canvas, a skill with which Artists in kashmir were not familiar with. Most of them , that includes even seniors , used only water colours or Oils to paint. His way was quite departure from the Traditional Art Scenario that was robust and Blossoming post formation of Progressive Artists Association in valley . S H Raza’s visit and stay in Kashmir proved a catalytic agent for a sudden impetus to Modern Art . Immediate to Raza’s visit , S N Bhat, Triloke kaul and P N Kachru piloted the movement of Modern Art in Kashmir . Subsequent Contribution of Mohan Raina can not be overlooked although he was busy in his Government Job.In fact Mohan Raina created the Emblem for the state . Bansi ji and G R Santosh led the second generation of Modern artists that had Nissar Aziz, M K Bhat , A K Raina , Gayoor Hassan and so many others . Very soon he created a space for himself and proved a guide and mentor to so many new faces .
He started from Landscapes, Moved to Figurative style , some experimentation with Impressionism and cubism and finally settled at pure Abstracts.
If he painted Kashmir, it always had a deep cultural shade or story to convey . I mean his paintings like Kathi Darwaza or women in Grief or Tahar (Yellow rice )distribution on a street. He had the material to impress Artists from national scene .
Bansi ji was a self taught artist who learnt mostly from observation . And his camera work was equally artistic , So was his writing . If he were not an Artist , he could have been an amazing photographer or a skilled journalist .Politics was nothing more than hobby for him . He never derived any pecuniary advantage from it.
I have watched him at work . His long fingers used to wield the brush like a Violinist and surgeon combined in one . Alas ! Those long fingers got afflicted with Arthritis once he returned from some Middle East / Gulf assignment. Post migration from valley , His last exhibition was held in Delhi . M K Raina ( well known Theatre Personality ) and i helped him to set up that Exhibition at Sridharni Art Gallery (Triveni kala sangam ). It was comparable to any Greatest exhibition in the world . I mean so many people , so many artists , so many Art Connoisseurs visited that exhibition.
He was a regular to India coffee house in Srinagar . Not for gossip but for another passion. A serious concern for environment and civil rights . His table had the largest Gathering and he was the centre of attraction. He was into so many societies and Bodies for that reason. I mean bodies like Save Chinar , Save Hangul, Parihaaspora Task Force , Urban arts Council, INTACH and so many like that .
Bansi ji was a bridge between Artists at the National scene and artists from the state . The Artists camps in Kashmir were a result of his initiative . I attended the Ganderbal camp ; What a splendid and eventful it was with so many national artists participating ? These camps could not have been possible had he not got involved .
He dressed immaculately. Many times friends would ask ; "Where from does he buy his dresses?" They were generally informal and defined his personality . A jacket , A T shirt , Sandals and something like that .
He was an ace Photographer .
He had built his house in an artistic manner . I mean the glass front , the studio, The garden , flowers beds and all that open ambiance . I would say he had put his “ Khoone Jigar ” to it . And then losing everything . Migration from Kashmir valley hastened the process of so many of his ailments overtaking him. A very Tragic end of a dear friend . He must have been 57 or 58 years old when he died. That is no age to die. It took me sometim to reconcile to the reality of his not being around.
That is all I can tell you hurriedly at the moment ."
I SPOKE TO WELL KNOWN ARTIST KASHMIRI KHOSA WHO SAID:
" Yes i knew Bansi Ji. He was senior to me . I had some three or four close interactions with him. He was Srinagar based and i was always in Delhi ; Consequently , we could not meet frequently . To me, he was a senior like a Guru. .Long back i met him in middle East perhaps in Dubai as well.He was intense in everything that he did.Intense for any cause and Intense with colours . Always brilliant with colours and Conversation. . Zinda Rehtay to Kamaal Kartay ( Had he lived , He would have done wonders ). Unfortunately he came to Delhi in a very bad shape when he had been uprooted from his homeland .Had it been in sixties or seventies of last century , he would have been among the top names in the world of Art .He was politically aware and very much concerned about Kashmir that was close to his Heart.
Coming to his Art, i will say that he was perfect in his experimentation with the Visual Language . His application of colours was innovative and matchless .
I repeat , had he lived more he would have added a new Horizon to Art.
Convey my best wishes to his family . I met his daughter in Mumbai . She had come to see my Exhibition "
Well known Theatre ,Radio and TV personality Bihari Kak told me:
" It was 1991 possibly ; And one day i saw Bansi Parimu visiting us at Coffee House Jammu ( Now Jammu Press Club) . He had a camera with him. He sat with us and had a long discussion on prevailing situation .He took so many group photos of idle Migrant Artists that day. He clicked some Individial photographs as well. From his body language, i could feel as if he was in some great hurry. It looked as if photographing us on that day was a mission for him . And he accomplished it in an hour or so. He developed all these photographs same day and met me at Raghunath Bazar next day.
" Bihari ji, Take these photographs and ensure every person gets a copy. I have retained my copies. I wanted to deliver everybody his copy but i don't know where all of you live . I cant delay it. I have to leave for Delhi and then you don't know what may happen tomorrow. I feel pained to see you here in altogether different circumstances. For you Artists, i say please Don't get disheartened. A great misfortune has visited us. This won't remain with us forever. It is a cyclone and its nature is to cause death and destruction . Its job is to uproot life and scatter it."
I received the photographs and did as per his wishes. After about ten days, i went to Delhi for some work. I wanted to meet Prof Riyaz Punjabi after a long time. He was Delhi based during those days. We didn't have mobile phones at that time so i went to a nearby private PCO to speak to Prof. Riyaz Punjabi .And he said:
" Bihari ji , you are welcome any time but today i am sad and disturbed . Bansi Parimu is no more. He is being cremated today. "
It was very painful news for me. Somehow i managed to Join his cremation that day ." . "
" See I knew Bansi ji in two ways . As a young boy of 6 years , I saw him coming to our house regularly to see Nadim sahib , My father . Later during my youth , I started interacting with Bansi ji on one to one basis. Possibly it was through Umesh kaul My close friend , that I came close to Bansi ji .My friendship with him got strengthened by various meetings and commonality of interest .
Bansi Parimu was a master in experimentation with New Techniques .He had mastered the technique of using knife and wax on canvas, a skill with which Artists in kashmir were not familiar with. Most of them , that includes even seniors , used only water colours or Oils to paint. His way was quite departure from the Traditional Art Scenario that was robust and Blossoming post formation of Progressive Artists Association in valley . S H Raza’s visit and stay in Kashmir proved a catalytic agent for a sudden impetus to Modern Art . Immediate to Raza’s visit , S N Bhat, Triloke kaul and P N Kachru piloted the movement of Modern Art in Kashmir . Subsequent Contribution of Mohan Raina can not be overlooked although he was busy in his Government Job.In fact Mohan Raina created the Emblem for the state . Bansi ji and G R Santosh led the second generation of Modern artists that had Nissar Aziz, M K Bhat , A K Raina , Gayoor Hassan and so many others . Very soon he created a space for himself and proved a guide and mentor to so many new faces .
He started from Landscapes, Moved to Figurative style , some experimentation with Impressionism and cubism and finally settled at pure Abstracts.
If he painted Kashmir, it always had a deep cultural shade or story to convey . I mean his paintings like Kathi Darwaza or women in Grief or Tahar (Yellow rice )distribution on a street. He had the material to impress Artists from national scene .
Bansi ji was a self taught artist who learnt mostly from observation . And his camera work was equally artistic , So was his writing . If he were not an Artist , he could have been an amazing photographer or a skilled journalist .Politics was nothing more than hobby for him . He never derived any pecuniary advantage from it.
I have watched him at work . His long fingers used to wield the brush like a Violinist and surgeon combined in one . Alas ! Those long fingers got afflicted with Arthritis once he returned from some Middle East / Gulf assignment. Post migration from valley , His last exhibition was held in Delhi . M K Raina ( well known Theatre Personality ) and i helped him to set up that Exhibition at Sridharni Art Gallery (Triveni kala sangam ). It was comparable to any Greatest exhibition in the world . I mean so many people , so many artists , so many Art Connoisseurs visited that exhibition.
He was a regular to India coffee house in Srinagar . Not for gossip but for another passion. A serious concern for environment and civil rights . His table had the largest Gathering and he was the centre of attraction. He was into so many societies and Bodies for that reason. I mean bodies like Save Chinar , Save Hangul, Parihaaspora Task Force , Urban arts Council, INTACH and so many like that .
Bansi ji was a bridge between Artists at the National scene and artists from the state . The Artists camps in Kashmir were a result of his initiative . I attended the Ganderbal camp ; What a splendid and eventful it was with so many national artists participating ? These camps could not have been possible had he not got involved .
He dressed immaculately. Many times friends would ask ; "Where from does he buy his dresses?" They were generally informal and defined his personality . A jacket , A T shirt , Sandals and something like that .
He was an ace Photographer .
He had built his house in an artistic manner . I mean the glass front , the studio, The garden , flowers beds and all that open ambiance . I would say he had put his “ Khoone Jigar ” to it . And then losing everything . Migration from Kashmir valley hastened the process of so many of his ailments overtaking him. A very Tragic end of a dear friend . He must have been 57 or 58 years old when he died. That is no age to die. It took me sometim to reconcile to the reality of his not being around.
That is all I can tell you hurriedly at the moment ."
I SPOKE TO WELL KNOWN ARTIST KASHMIRI KHOSA WHO SAID:
" Yes i knew Bansi Ji. He was senior to me . I had some three or four close interactions with him. He was Srinagar based and i was always in Delhi ; Consequently , we could not meet frequently . To me, he was a senior like a Guru. .Long back i met him in middle East perhaps in Dubai as well.He was intense in everything that he did.Intense for any cause and Intense with colours . Always brilliant with colours and Conversation. . Zinda Rehtay to Kamaal Kartay ( Had he lived , He would have done wonders ). Unfortunately he came to Delhi in a very bad shape when he had been uprooted from his homeland .Had it been in sixties or seventies of last century , he would have been among the top names in the world of Art .He was politically aware and very much concerned about Kashmir that was close to his Heart.
Coming to his Art, i will say that he was perfect in his experimentation with the Visual Language . His application of colours was innovative and matchless .
I repeat , had he lived more he would have added a new Horizon to Art.
Convey my best wishes to his family . I met his daughter in Mumbai . She had come to see my Exhibition "
Well known Theatre ,Radio and TV personality Bihari Kak told me:
" It was 1991 possibly ; And one day i saw Bansi Parimu visiting us at Coffee House Jammu ( Now Jammu Press Club) . He had a camera with him. He sat with us and had a long discussion on prevailing situation .He took so many group photos of idle Migrant Artists that day. He clicked some Individial photographs as well. From his body language, i could feel as if he was in some great hurry. It looked as if photographing us on that day was a mission for him . And he accomplished it in an hour or so. He developed all these photographs same day and met me at Raghunath Bazar next day.
" Bihari ji, Take these photographs and ensure every person gets a copy. I have retained my copies. I wanted to deliver everybody his copy but i don't know where all of you live . I cant delay it. I have to leave for Delhi and then you don't know what may happen tomorrow. I feel pained to see you here in altogether different circumstances. For you Artists, i say please Don't get disheartened. A great misfortune has visited us. This won't remain with us forever. It is a cyclone and its nature is to cause death and destruction . Its job is to uproot life and scatter it."
I received the photographs and did as per his wishes. After about ten days, i went to Delhi for some work. I wanted to meet Prof Riyaz Punjabi after a long time. He was Delhi based during those days. We didn't have mobile phones at that time so i went to a nearby private PCO to speak to Prof. Riyaz Punjabi .And he said:
" Bihari ji , you are welcome any time but today i am sad and disturbed . Bansi Parimu is no more. He is being cremated today. "
It was very painful news for me. Somehow i managed to Join his cremation that day ." . "
Well known Businesssman Abdul Majid Baba Adds :
” I got
to know him during my University days and the association lasted till he left
Srinagar in early 90's.We being neighbours would often meet at his house. Such
a gentleman and such a friend... we would meet almost every morning.How much I miss him , Santosh
Sahab..Lone Sahab, Shamim Sahab , Shyamji
and My childhood buddy Amin Andrabi Sahab ?How much we have lost in
these years ? The more i think of him the
more I realise about his varied interests. He was a multidimensional
personality in true sense of the word and above all an extremely good quality
human being .I saw him last a night before he migrated. My eyes would search
for him in that abandoned house till it was purchased by some one else. How
painful it is to recollect the trauma we
all have gone through ?”
With
an unhealed wound of exile , he fell victim to many secondary health problems
that cut short his creative life.
His
life and work can be summed up by a couplet of Poet Faiz....
“Jo
rukay to koh-e-garan thay hum,
jo
chalay to jaan se guzar gaye
Rah-e-yaar
hum ne qadam qadam,
tujhay
yadgaar Banaa dia........"
(
Faiz Ahmed Faiz )
{For
when we stayed, we rose like massifs,
and
when we strayed, we left life far behind;
fellow-traveller,
every step that we ever took
became
a memorial to your life.)
( "The Grief within".. wailing women By Bansi Parimu 1991)
( Oil On Canvas Bansi Parimu )
(An Abstract by Parimu )
( Oil on Canvas 1983 ..Bansi Parimu )
( Bansi Parimu , Sufi Ghulam Mohd ( Editor Srinagar Times), Ved Bhasin( Editor Kashmiri Times ), Shamim Ahmed Shamin( MLA , Editor Aaina and then MP ) and a Gentleman .. 1965 ,All India Tour )
( Bansi Parimu with satish Gujral ...Photo source Jheelaf Razdan )
( Bansi Parimu Exhibiting his work In Delhi December 1990 )
( Yellow Rice Distribution in Kashmir..
An early work of Bansi Parimu)
An early work of Bansi Parimu)
(A post 1990 Painting of Bansi Parimu titled 'Flying Kangri' hanging in the room of his Daughter Jheelaf Razdan )
(Autar Mota)
CHINAR SHADE by Autarmota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 India License.
- Based on a work at http:\\autarmota.blogspot.com\.
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