‘Mother tongue serves as foundation of identity, cultural expression’

Srinagar, Dec 11: To explore the evolution, forms, and experimentation in Kashmiri short poems, the Department of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir (KU), organised a two-day national seminar titled “Short Poem in Kashmiri: Form and Experiment.”

The seminar brought together scholars, poets, and literary enthusiasts from the language and literature fields. In her message, Vice-Chancellor KU Prof. Nilofer Khan highlighted the University's commitment to promoting and preserving the Kashmiri language. She emphasised that the varsity is making every possible effort to uphold its literary richness.

“The University is dedicated to taking initiatives that uphold the essence of our mother tongue and foster its growth for future generations," she said. While presiding over the inaugural session, Dean Academic Affairs KU Prof. Shariefuddin Pirzada emphasised the significance of preserving the Kashmiri language and promoting creative literature. “Mother tongue serves as the foundation of identity and cultural expression and such programmes play a vital role in enriching and preserving literary heritage,” he remarked.

Dean School of Arts, Languages, and Literature KU, Prof. Salahuddin Tak lauded the rich heritage of Kashmiri literature and highlighted its importance. “Kashmiri literature is a treasure trove that deserves deeper exploration to appreciate its beauty and diversity,” he said. Delivering the keynote address, renowned Kashmiri scholar and former Head, Department of Kashmiri KU, Prof. Shafi Shauq encouraged scholars to reinterpret the great works of Kashmiri short poems.

“By delving into the origins and forms of short poetry, we can expand both theoretical insights and practical engagement with the language,” he stated.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Head Department of Kashmiri KU, Prof. Aadil Amin KaK outlined the objectives of the seminar and shared the department’s achievements in promoting research on Kashmiri literature. “Short poems hold a unique place in Kashmiri literature and offer a profound meaning through concise expression,” he noted.

The event also featured the release of the department’s peer-reviewed journal ‘Anhaar’ and included discussions by prominent literary figures such as Prof. Majrooh Rashid, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Dhar, Dr. Shafi Sumbli. As part of the event, students from the Department of Kashmiri performed Hari Krishan Kaul's drama 'Dastar' at the Media House Auditorium and marked the initiative of the newly formed drama club of the Department of Kashmiri.

Dr. Tanveer Ahmad Reshi Faculty at the Department of Kashmiri KU, conducted the proceedings of the event and also proposed a formal vote of thanks.