Karnah, May 19: In a significant effort to harness the transformative power of literature, poetry, and performing arts in the fight against drug abuse, the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on Tuesday organized a prestigious one-day Pahari Literary and Cultural Meet at Government Degree College Karnah under the nationwide Nasha Mukt Abhiyan (Drug-Free Campaign).
The event brought together eminent literary figures, cultural activists, academicians, and members of civil society, underscoring the vital role of indigenous languages and cultural expression in addressing pressing social challenges, particularly the growing menace of substance abuse among youth.
The programme was graced by Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Wani, Principal of GDC Karnah, who attended as the Chief Guest. The session was presided over by legendary and veteran Pahari poet Abdul Aziz Nadeem Maldiyal, while Peer Siraj-ud-Din, Chairman of the Karnah Civil Society, was the Guest of Honour.
The event commenced with a compelling Nukad Natak (street play) titled “Mitha Zaher” (Sweet Poison), presented by the talented artists of the Karnah Cultural Club. Through a gripping narrative, the performance portrayed the devastating consequences of drug addiction on individuals, families, and society at large. The emotionally charged presentation drew widespread appreciation from the audience for its impactful message and artistic excellence.
A major highlight of the programme was a grand Mehfil-e-Mushaira, which featured nearly eighteen distinguished and contemporary Pahari poets from across the region. Through their thought-provoking verses, the poets celebrated the beauty and richness of the Pahari language while addressing a range of social concerns, including the urgent need to combat drug abuse.
The poetic symposium was skillfully conducted by Mohd Ayoub Mir, former Editor-cum-Cultural Officer (Pahari). Among the prominent poets who recited their compositions were Abdul Rasheed Qureshi, Abdul Rasheed Gamgeen, Mir Haider Nadeem, Mashkoor Ahmed Shad, Iftikhar Qureshi, Syed Khurshid Shah, Sheikh Shabir Ahmad, Shabir Gazi, Ghulam Yehya Qais, Joginder Singh Inqalabi, and Shakeel Sagar, along with several other noted literary voices.
Earlier, the programme began with a formal welcome address by Abdul Wahid Manhas, Research Assistant, Pahari Section, JKAACL, who also anchored the inaugural session. In his introductory remarks, Manhas highlighted the Academy’s visionary initiatives aimed at the promotion, preservation, and development of the Pahari language and its rich literary heritage throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
The event concluded with a comprehensive vote of thanks delivered by Manhas, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the college administration, civil society representatives, participating poets and artists, and media personnel for their valuable support in making the campaign a resounding success.
The literary and cultural meet stood as a powerful testament to the enduring influence of art and literature in shaping public consciousness and mobilizing communities toward a healthier, drug-free society.