Celebrating Culture: ‘Pholwen Toer’ heritage education project concludes in Bandipora
Bandipora, Aug 22: A year-long cultural education initiative, ‘Pholwen Toer’ (Blooming Buds), culminated with a vibrant exhibition and cultural showcase at the International Educational Institute, Bonakoot, in Bandipora. The project, aimed at nurturing cultural pride and heritage awareness among young learners, celebrated the creativity of students through storytelling, traditional crafts, and performance art.
A statement said that conceptualised and led by Prof. Syeda Afshana and Dr. Heeba Din, ‘Pholwen Toer’ was supported by the India Foundation for the Arts (IFA) under its Arts Education programme. Over the past year, the initiative brought together artists, educators, and experts to help children reconnect with Kashmir’s intangible heritage through participatory learning.
The concluding showcase displayed Papier Mâché art crafted by students under the mentorship of master artisans Showkat Ahmad Khan and Mohd. Ashraf Wani. It also featured creative installations, posters, and student reflections. A special performance of Bhaand Pather, Kashmir’s traditional folk theatre, was staged under the direction of theatre artist Bilal Baghat.
Prof Syeda Afshana highlighted the project’s impact, stating, “These children are not just learning about heritage. They are living it, shaping it, and becoming its torchbearers for tomorrow.”
Throughout the year, the programme hosted interactive sessions with prominent cultural figures. Among them were Zareef Ahmad Zareef, noted historian and storyteller; artist and educator Faruq Masoodi, who encouraged students to express themselves in languages such as Shina and Kashmiri; and Prof. Mushtaq A. Siddiqi, academician and former Vice Chancellor of IUST, who lauded the project’s grassroots approach to cultural revival. Another highlight was a series of Oral History Workshops by Javaid Jawad, award-winning Headmaster of Government Middle School, Ongam, enabling students to connect with Bandipora’s heritage, land, and legacy.
The organisers extended special gratitude to Zahoor Ahmad Malik, Principal of the International Educational Institute, and his staff for their support in fostering a nurturing space for cultural engagement.
The project’s journey was supported by volunteers and assistants Uzma Manzoor, Suheel Nissar, and Ausaf ur Rehman, whose efforts ensured smooth coordination, student mentorship, and successful execution of the programme.
