Mian Altaf Inaugurates 2-day Gojri Cultural Conference at Tagore Hall
Srinagar, Jun 24: Member of Parliament, Mian Altaf Ahmad, today inaugurated a two-day Gojri Cultural Conference at Tagore Hall, Srinagar.
On the occasion, a selected gathering celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Gujjar community. The event was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and witnessed participation from a large number of tribal writers, poets, and artists from across J&K.
A distinguished panel comprising Er. Khursheed Ahmed, Member of Legislative Assembly, Dr. Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor (Gojri) and Divisional Head of JKAACL, and G.D. Tahir, former Director of Doordarshan Srinagar, shared the presidium.
In his presidential address, Mian Altaf Ahmad emphasised the cultural importance of Gojri language stating that it is the third-largest spoken language in Jammu and Kashmir. He called for its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and pledged to raise the matter with the Government of India.
He highlighted the wide presence of the Gujjar community across all districts and acknowledged the significant contributions made by Gojri poets, scholars, and artists. Commending the Academy’s initiative in reviving such a crucial cultural event after a long hiatus, he expressed hope that the conference would help bridge regional and cultural gaps within the Gujjar community.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, in his welcome address, shared that over 200 Gojri writers, poets, and artists from various parts of J&K are participating in the conference. He emphasized that the event aims to provide a platform for tribal voices to share, discuss, and reflect on their literary and cultural contributions, as well as the challenges facing the preservation and promotion of Gojri.
Speaking on the occasion, Er. Khursheed Ahmed underscored the importance of documenting the traditional knowledge systems of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities, calling on institutions like the Tribal Research Institute and JKAACL to act swiftly to preserve this invaluable heritage.
The proceedings of the inaugural session were conducted by noted Gojri writer Naseem Akhter. A cultural touch was added by renowned folk singer Mohd Rafi from Shopian, who soulfully recited Seharfis of Hazrat Mian Niam-ud-Din Larvi (RA).
The inaugural session was followed by a paper reading session chaired by eminent scholars Prof. M.K. Waqar and M. Mansha Khaki, during which papers were presented by Molvi Mohi-ud-Din and Ibrahim Misbahi, focusing on various aspects of Gojri language and literature.
