Tahir Shah Peerzada: A Rising Star in the World of Calligraphy from Lolab, Kupwara

Noor Ul Hasan Andrabi

Tahir Shah Peerzada, a resident of the remote district of Kupwara, has gained widespread attention on social media for his art and calligraphy. Taking it as both a passion and a profession, Peerzada has been practicing art and calligraphy for the past 25 years.

Peerzada, who hails from Dever Lolab, completed his basic schooling at Islamia Model High School and went on to study at Government Higher Secondary School Lalpora and Govt Degree College Sogam. He also holds a Masters in History.

Peerzada attributes his inspiration for art and calligraphy to social media, particularly YouTube and the works of Italy-based artist Augusto Ferrer. He specializes in Thulath and Nastaleeq calligraphy styles and watercolor, pencil sketching in art.

“I have been inclined towards Art and Calligraphy since my childhood days”, says Peerzada.

Despite not having any specific guide or mentor, Peerzada has created hundreds of sketches, including those of historical figures such as Allama Iqbal, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mohsin Maqbool.

“I love watching the paintings of a famous artist Augusto Ferrer, an Italy based artist which inspired me a lot in this,” he added.

He shares his work on his Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram pages, ‘TS Art and Calligraphy’, and has received positive feedback from his followers.

One of his favorite teachers, Mohsin Maqbool who is Assistant Professor Urdu, praised Peerzada for his intelligence, dedication, and hard work.

Many others including civil servants, colleagues, teachers have also expressed their admiration for his unique style and have wished him success in the future.