Opinion | Defying Expectations: How Sadia Malik Became Kashmir’s Youngest Published Author

Sadia Malik’s story is one of resilience and determination. Born in 2006 in Kupwara, Kashmir, India, she faced both joys and hardships from an early age. The loss of her mother while Sadia was in 5th grade was a defining moment, teaching her the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Despite this profound loss, Sadia’s family remained a pillar of support, nurturing her ambitions and bolstering her confidence. Their unwavering belief in her abilities propelled Sadia to academic excellence, consistently topping her classes and earning the admiration of teachers and peers alike.
Sadia’s passion for writing emerged early, beginning with a poem penned in 1st grade titled “Pen is My Best Friend.” This initial foray into poetry blossomed into a lifelong love affair with words, culminating in the publication of her book, “Essence: Layers of Emotions.”
Life presented numerous challenges for Sadia, including societal judgments and the constraints often placed on girls in her community. However, these obstacles only served to strengthen her resolve. A particularly testing period came during her 11th standard when she juggled exam preparation with completing her book. Through it all, Sadia persevered, drawing strength from her siblings, teachers, and her maternal uncle, Suhail Malik, a writer who encouraged her literary pursuits.
Sadia’s academic achievements are noteworthy. Despite undergoing tonsil surgery, she scored an impressive 94% in her 10th standard exams. In 11th standard, her scholastic aptitude earned her a scholarship covering 80% of her fees. Beyond academics, Sadia’s artistic talents extend to painting, ranking her among the top 10 students in this field as well.
“Essence: Layers of Emotions” is Sadia’s poetic exploration of the human experience, delving into themes of love, loss, resilience, and hope. The collection reflects her personal growth and offers solace to readers seeking understanding and connection through words.
Now 18, Sadia is intensively preparing for her NEET exams, dedicating long hours to her studies. Her aspirations are multifaceted: she aims to achieve financial independence, establish herself as a renowned writer, and pursue a career in medicine. Sadia’s ultimate goal is to heal not just bodies, but also touch hearts through her writing.
Sadia Malik’s journey embodies the power of courage and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with passion and hard work, one can overcome life’s challenges and achieve remarkable success.
The writer Zehra Lone | Women’s rights activist
Mail: zehralone.wra@gmail.com