Defense circles reel from the loss of Maroof Raza, the esteemed former military officer and analyst, who breathed his last on Thursday at 67 following a valiant cancer battle. His departure marks the end of an era in strategic discourse.
Taking to X, actor Anupam Kher poured out his sorrow over his friend’s passing. The duo’s friendship was rooted in shared passions for national issues. Kher posted Raza’s image with a moving anecdote from their last encounter, capturing the expert’s enduring charisma amid adversity.
‘Devastated by Maroof Raza’s death—a cherished friend, bold spirit, and key figure in national security talks. He battled cancer nobly, staying warm and insightful till the end,’ Kher reflected. He celebrated Raza’s pioneering work in security reporting, emphasizing how his TV insights—rooted in knowledge and poise—commanded attention without bombast.
Raza’s personal warmth, Kher stressed, will leave the biggest void. Condolences flowed to his loved ones, with prayers for peace.
From Mayo College Ajmer’s 1975 cohort as school captain, Raza commanded respect in media panels dissecting counter-terror ops, bilateral ties with Pakistan, and frontier frictions. His credentials included visiting roles at India’s Centre for Policy Research, the US-based Stimson Center, and London’s King’s College War Studies.
Through decades of commentary, Raza bridged military experience with policy nuance, influencing leaders and viewers. In an age of loud voices, his subtlety stood out. India’s security narrative is poorer without him.