An engineer-turned-author from Srinagar, Amir Suhail Wani is navigating the intersection of faith and modernity, Syed Shadab Ali Gillani reports
Amir Suhail Wani, an engineer by training and an author by profession finds himself at the intersection of faith and modernity. His true passion lies in the realm of words, a passion that has led him to become a thoughtful voice on Kashmir’s evolving spiritual landscape. Amir, a resident of Srinagar, was born in an era where faith was paramount amongst society’s members; he has also witnessed a gradual yet unmistakable shift in societal attitudes towards religion.
“The friends and neighbours I remember, once so certain in their beliefs, now grapple with a growing awareness of atheism,” Amir observes. “Whether openly discussed or silently acknowledged, the erosion of religious significance is palpable. Once a cornerstone of identity and community, religion has receded into the background of many lives.” Amir notes this with quiet resignation, sensing the collective unease as the once-firm ground of spiritual belief gives way to doubt and indifference.
The Upbringing
“I have been fortunate to have a supportive family comprising my father, mother, brother, and two sisters,” Amir begins. “My siblings played an incredible role in my education, while my mother ensured I remained independent by treating me like any other physically fit child.”
Amir’s brother introduced him to Islamic Mysticism and Iqbaliyat, kindling a passion for Kashmiri Sufi Poetry. His sisters enabled him to attend school during a period when he was unable to walk. “Their support has been instrumental in my journey,” Amir acknowledges.
Amir reserves special praise for his mother, Fareeda. “She has been a constant source of guidance, steering me through life’s challenges with infinite sacrifices, unconditional care, and a values-based upbringing rooted in love, compassion, and unwavering commitment to religion.” Despite facing resource constraints, she ensured her children received an education, becoming fruitful contributors to the family and society. She is his primary guide to understanding social intricacies and his go-to resource for folklore and oral history queries.
Amir Suhail Wani’s journey took a pivotal turn at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering in 2016. However, life after graduation did not unfold as he had envisioned. Born with cerebral palsy, which affects his speech and motor functions, Amir faced unforeseen challenges. “It is a condition I have had since birth, but I have made significant improvements over the years, striving to overcome my physical limitations in every possible way,” he explains.
The crisis, however, prevented him from pursuing jobs that required relocation outside Kashmir. This left him at a personal and professional crossroads. Yet, from this struggle emerged an unexpected path – writing.
An Alternative
Amir has long been a latent passion, simmering in the background of his life since he submitted an article to a local editor’s office as a young student. “That early dream found fulfilment in 2011 when a local newspaper published my first piece,” he recalls. “From that moment on, my pen has never ceased to capture the intricacies of life, faith, and society.”
Amir’s writing is a thoughtful exploration of two primary subjects: society and spirituality. “My work traverses a wide range of topics, from the mundane to the metaphysical, reflecting a mind deeply engaged with the world around me,” he explained. His writing often returns to the intersection of religion, literature, and philosophy – a sphere where once-cherished discourses are fading, with profound implications for a society that previously held these subjects dear.
He also touches on the relationship between youth and religion, which he describes as “marked by a profound disconnect.” He elaborates: “The traditional teachings, often delivered by out-of-touch religious leaders, fail to resonate with young people navigating the complexities of modern life. This disconnect has fostered a quiet crisis of faith, leading many to question the very existence of God or the relevance of religious practices.”
In 2019, Amir published his debut book, Lights from Sinai, which explores these issues through a philosophical lens. Citing influences such as René Guénon, Frithj of Schuon, and Martin Lings, among others, Amir critiques the prevailing intellectual landscape, which he argues is often hostile to traditional religious values.
The Book
“It explores the tensions between post-modern scepticism and spiritual yearning, proposing that a return to a more profound, spiritually grounded worldview could provide the moral and existential clarity that many seek,” Amir said. “I do not advocate for a blind return to the past, but for a conscious re-engagement with spiritual traditions, adapted to contemporary contexts.”
In his introspective musings, Amir also examines the role of family and community in this spiritual crisis. He posits that the root of the problem lies not only in external societal changes but also within the home. Parents and elders, often grappling with doubt or complacency, fail to provide a robust religious foundation for their children.
“The traditional stories and arguments that once sufficed are now inadequate in a world dominated by scientific inquiry and rational thought,” he said, advocating for a more nuanced, intellectually honest approach to religious education – one that respects intelligence and curiosity.
Awaiting Renaissance
Despite the challenges, Amir remains sanguine. He envisions the potential for a spiritual renaissance, led by those who approach faith not as a set of rigid rules but as a living, breathing quest for truth. “I believe that the future lies with those who seek a deeper understanding of the divine, not out of obligation, but from a genuine desire to explore the mysteries of existence,” he eloquently puts it.
Amir views this narrative not as a personal tale but as a reflection of a broader societal shift. It encapsulates the tension between tradition and modernity, faith and doubt, community, and individuality – a poignant reminder of the complexities of our times.
A Teacher
Amir actively engages with institutions of higher learning as a guest lecturer, sharing his expertise and inspiring students at the University of Kashmir and the Islamic University of Science and Technology. His association with All India Radio Srinagar enables him to reach a broader audience, broadcasting scripts on various themes that resonate with the public.
Professionally, Amir has made significant contributions as an engineer at SA Power Utilities and as a Social Innovations Officer at ELFA International, a prominent Kashmir-based NGO. His involvement in the advisory board of Aab-e-Rawan, a culture-centric NGO, underscores his commitment to promoting the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.