 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 9: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) has launched a 2-Day Seminar on the Role of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmiri Language and Literature at its premises in Jammu. This marks the first time that JKAACL has initiated a discussion on the literary contributions of Kashmiri Pandits across different periods.
The seminar commenced with traditional Kashmiri Pandit rituals, including "wanvun," and the lighting of the lamp by Dr. Ashok Bhan, a retired Indian Police Service officer (J&K-1976). This inaugural event was graced by the presence of Prof. Ratan Lal Shant, a renowned scholar, B.L. Saraf, a retired District & Session Judge, and Bharat Singh, Secretary of JKAACL.
Bharat Singh (JKAS), Secretary of JKAACL, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. In his address, he emphasized the significance of poets as representatives of society, reflecting the inner thoughts of the social fabric through their writings. Dr. Ratan Lal Shant delivered the keynote address on the Role of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmiri Language and Literature.
Guest of honor, B.L. Saraf, praised the efforts of JKAACL in promoting the literature and culture of Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Ashok Bhan, in his presidential address, commended JKAACL for its initiatives in fostering the literature and culture of the region. He stressed the importance of encouraging the new generation of writers to explore various socio-thematic aspects in their work.
Dr. Shahnawaz, Editor Cum Cultural Officer at JKAACL, expressed gratitude during the Vote of Thanks segment and mentioned that such initiatives would continue in the future. Anil Tickoo, Assistant Cultural Officer, JKAACL, conducted the inaugural session.
Following the inaugural session, a paper reading session was organized, featuring presentations by Dr. Sohan Lal, Prof. Veena Pandita, B.N. Betab, Dolly Tickoo Arrwal, and Mohan Krishan Koul. The topics included Patriotic Poetry of Dina Nath Nadim, Lal Ded as a Beacon of Knowledge, and the Pain of Migration in Literature. Prof. Veena Pandita presided over this session, which was conducted by Dr. Shahnawaz.
The second session featured writers who presented papers on topics such as the Origin and Cultural Roots of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmir, Problems of Kashmiri Script after 1990, Problems of Young Kashmiri Pandit Writers, and the Contribution of Cultural Organizations. Prof. B.L. Zutshi presided over this session.
This was followed by a short story session in which Riko Koul and Engineer Vinod presented their stories.
To conclude the event, a light music program was presented by renowned artists from Jammu and Kashmir, including Ravi Bhan, Rajesh Khar, Deepali Wattal, and Naina Saproo. They were accompanied by Vijay Anand on Tabla, Rakesh Jasotra on Flute, Sanjay Pashi on Guitar, and Vicky Gill on Synth. The program also featured a Veeg Vachun performance by Dazy Bazaz and her group, which was well-received by the audience. |
