Kashmiri poems, short stories showcased during Gramlok Sahitya Academy’s literary gathering

Jammu, Jan 15: Kashmiri poems and  short stories  were showcased during Gramlok Sahitya Academy’s  literary gathering at Gandhi Memorial Camp College at Raipur, Bantalab here.

According to a press release,  Gramlok Sahitya Academy, in collaboration with Sahitya Akademi and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, organised the  literary gathering. The  programme showcased reading of Kashmiri poems and short stories. Vijay Wali took on the role of programme anchor, while  Dolly Tiku Arrwal, Member of the Kashmiri Advisory Board, served as the event coordinator. In her welcoming address,  Dolly Tiku emphasised the rich history of the Kashmiri  language, noting its inclusion in the 8th schedule.

Professor Shad Ramzan, prominent figure of the Kashmiri literature, demonstrated a profound understanding of world literature, characterising the Kashmiri language as inclusive for both Kashmiri Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits.

The poets who showcased their skills at the event included individuals such as Satish Safeer, Ramesh Nirash, Rajinder Aagosh, Ashok Gowhar, and Tej Sahar.  Rouf Ahmed Adil Kralwari, a Member of the Advisory Board, expressed gratitude to  the audience, with special acknowledgment given to Dolly Tiku.

Professor B L Zutshi, President of the Hindu Education Society Kashmir, stressed the need to move beyond divisions such as Mehjoor and Nadim. Prof Zutshi advocated for a collective embrace of literature, stating that it should be accessible to everyone.

Kuldeep Khoda , former DGP J&K Police, asserted that humanity takes precedence over religion, with humanity being inherent in “our DNA “while religion remains a personal aspect. He expressed concern about the diminishing richness and depth of literature and emphasised the importance of preserving the old vocabulary of “our language.”

Brij Nath Betab also addressed the gathering, sharing an anecdote from his earlier days. Prof Ashok Aima, former Vice Chancellor of Central University Jammu, commenced by  highlighting the spiritual essence of the Kashmiri soil. He expressed concern over the lack of initiatives for Sharda Peeth in Kashmir. Additionally, he delved into the topic of literature in exile. Prof Satish Talshi, Principal of the institution, extended a vote of thanks.