A Plea to LG Administration and Prime Minister for Cultural Preservation
The two-day Pahari Adabi Tamadani Akhth was organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, held in the Waliwar area of Ganderbal district and the Sumbal Sarfarawa area of Kangan. The event witnessed the participation of diverse artists from across the valley, showcasing a vibrant array of cultural and literary activities including poetry sessions, Gazals, short stories, cultural programs, and soulful performances by Pahari singers.
The programme was conducted under the supervision of Mohd Ayoub Mir, Editor and Cultural Officer of the JK Academy of Art, Culture & Languages. Political and Social Activist Syed Jamat Ali Shaheen graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
He shared insights into the struggles faced by the Pahari community in safeguarding their culture and language, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility. Shaheen also expressed happiness over the recent development of Pahari being recognized as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in 2024, acknowledging this as a significant milestone for the community’s empowerment and cultural preservation. He urged the community to educate their children and excel in every profession to uphold their heritage.
Mohd Ayoub Mir highlighted the crucial role of the mother tongue in cultural identity, stressing the importance of preserving and promoting the Pahari language across all sectors. He announced ongoing efforts to introduce Pahari into academic curricula, including scholarship programs for students to support their education.
Prominent writer and engineer Syed Mubarak Bukhari shared a heartfelt short story, offering valuable lessons for young writers to enhance their skills and creativity.
Young journalist Syed Nazakat Khaleefa, President of the Media Council Ganderbal and Chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Pahari Welfare Front, appealed to the LG administration and the central government to include Pahari in academic institutions at the university level, advocating for research opportunities such as PhD programs, particularly at Kashmir University. He urged everyone to remember and cherish their mother tongue to preserve the rich culture and ethnicity of the Pahari tribe.
Additionally, renowned writer Syed Anwar Shaheen recited poetry reflecting on the current plight of youth involved in drugs and the struggles faced by common people, emphasizing resilience and hope amidst adversity.
The event successfully celebrated Pahari literature and culture, inspiring a renewed commitment to preserve and promote this vibrant heritage.