Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, DD, The Two-Day Pahari Literary and Cultural Conference, organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), commenced today with a grand inaugural ceremony attended by a distinguished gathering of artists, poets, and literary figures.
Former MLA Ravinder Raina graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Mohd Iqbal Malik ,DDC Member, Darhal Rajouri, former MLC M.R. Qureshi, eminent writer K D Mani and Harvinder Kour ,Secretary, JKAACL shared the presidium.
At the outset, two notable Pahari literary works—”Qabeela,” a novel by Parvez Manoos, and “Tareraan,” a short story collection by Iqbal Shawl—were formally released by the dignitaries.
In her welcome address, Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL, highlighted that Pahari is one of the significant languages of the region .The Academy has had a dedicated Pahari section since 1978. She informed the audience that over the years, the Academy has published thousands of books and organized numerous conferences, seminars, and cultural programs to promote Pahari language and culture, she added.
Delivering his presidential address, Ravinder Raina emphasized the rich cultural heritage of the Pahari language, which has thrived for centuries. He commended the Academy for organizing such a conference in the winter capital, Jammu, and urged writers and artists of the Pahari community to actively contribute to preserving their language and cultural identity.
Mohd Iqbal Malik, in his speech, stressed the importance of connecting the younger generation with their linguistic and cultural roots. He called upon the community to collectively work toward the enrichment and preservation of the Pahari language and heritage.
Delivering the keynote address, K.D. Mani traced the five-decade-long movement for Pahari language recognition, highlighting the immense contributions of its writers. He remarked that Pahari literature has evolved significantly and now stands alongside developed languages like Punjabi and Dogri.
M.R. Qureshi, in his speech, discussed the two books released on the occasion and encouraged Pahari writers to focus on producing high-quality literature while dedicating themselves to cultural preservation.
Several eminent personalities participated in the event, including Gulzar Qureshi, Ghulam Ahmad Khwaja, Ajay Sharma (SP City), Altaf Janjua, Saima Qazi , Prof. Rashid Manhas, Prof. Nitin Sharma, Rajinder Charak, Rajeev Khajuria, Anwar Khan and Swami Anternerv.
The Vote of Thanks was presented by Ayoob Naeem Mir, Editor-cum-Cultural Officer (Pahari), JKAACL.
Following the inaugural session, the conference featured a vibrant musical performance, paper presentations, and short story readings. The session was presided over by eminent scholars and writers, including Sheikh Azad Ahmed, Prof. M.K. Waqar, Tahir Mehmood, and Rashid Qammar.
The two-day conference aims to provide a platform for writers, poets, and artists to engage in meaningful discussions, celebrate Pahari literature, and explore ways to preserve and promote the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Pahari-speaking community.DD
