SYED MUJTABA JAWAD
SRINAGAR | MAY 23, 2016
Dr. Syed Asim Rizvi, a highly distinguished surgical oncologist and an eminent figure in the medical fraternity, passed away early Wednesday morning in Noida, New Delhi. He was the son of Syed Afzal Rizvi, residing at Nabdipora Hawal, Srinagar.
His untimely demise has left behind a profound legacy of clinical excellence in advanced cancer care, humility, and selfless humanitarian service. The news of his sudden passing has triggered an immense outpouring of grief from the medical fraternity, community leaders, patients, and thousands of admirers across the country, particularly throughout the Kashmir Valley.
A Legacy of Healing and Excellence
Hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Rizvi was widely regarded as one of the region’s most brilliant and accomplished medical professionals. An alumnus of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, he secured national recognition as a DNB Gold Medalist in Surgical Oncology. He later completed prestigious international fellowships in advanced laparoscopic and robotic cancer surgery at Yonsei University in South Korea.
Throughout his distinguished career—serving at premier healthcare institutions including Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, and Yashoda Medicity—Dr. Rizvi earned unmatched respect. He was celebrated not only for his precision in complex gastrointestinal and colorectal cancer surgeries but also for his deeply compassionate approach. To his patients, he was an accessible healer who navigated the daunting challenges of cancer care with reassuring empathy and guidance.
Following the arrival of his earthly remains in Srinagar on Thursday evening, a massive gathering of thousands of emotional mourners assembled to pay their final respects. His Nimaz-e-Jinazah was led by Aga Syed Ajaz Rizvi at Astan-e-Aliyaa Haj Syed Hassan Rizvi (RA), Nabdipora. The funeral was attended by a vast cross-section of society, including prominent political, social, and religious figures who came to share the grief of the bereaved family. Among the notable dignitaries present were Aga Syed Muntizar (MLA Budgam), Tanveer Sadiq (MLA Zadibal), Aga Syed Abid Hussain Hamdani, Aga Syed Mustafa Rizvi, Munshi Muzaffar Hussain, Aga Syed Mudasir Rizvi etc. Later, he was laid to rest amid tears at his ancestral graveyard at Gulistan-e-Baba Mazar, Zadibal, Srinagar.
Condolences and Widespread Mourning
Following the news of his passing, a wave of tributes has flooded social media platforms and public forums. Dr. Rizvi was also a close relative of the renowned socio-religious activist, S.J. Mosvi.
Reflecting the immense stature he held both socially and professionally, a vast array of social, religious, political, and non-governmental organizations have expressed deep sorrow and extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
“His death is an irreparable loss to the healthcare community and society at large. Dr. Asim was a rare combination of a top-tier surgeon and a deeply rooted, humble human being who quietly worked for the welfare of the underprivileged,” read a joint statement issued by community representatives.
In a collective show of solidarity and respect, the Valley Observed team, alongside numerous community leaders, expressed their profound grief and offered condolences to the bereaved family. They prayed for peace to the departed soul and fortitude for the family to bear this monumental loss.
Congregational Fateh Khawani Scheduled for Sunday
According to family sources, the congregational Fateh Khawani for the departed soul will be held on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 6:15 AM at their ancestral graveyard, Gulistan-e-Baba Mazar, Zadibal, Srinagar.
Dr. Asim Rizvi’s passing marks the end of an era. For the younger generation of medical professionals, he remains an inspiring mentor, while for the thousands of families he treated, his legacy of grace, compassion, and tireless service will endure.