CUK commemorates ‘Intl Mother Languages Day’

Ganderbal, Feb 21: The Directorate of Students Welfare (DSW) in association with the School of Languages, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Friday commemorated the “International Mother Languages Day-2025” at varsity’s Green Campus here.
Addressing the participants, former Head Deptt of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir and Convenor Sahitya Academy, Prof. Shad Ramzan said, the Kashmiri language has been a medium of rich literary expression, with poets like Lal Ded and Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA) shaping Kashmiri mysticism and thought. “Kashmiri literature, both classical and contemporary, reflects the social, and spiritual ethos of the region,” Prof. Shad Ramzan said.
He further said that “Language is more than just a means of communication; it embodies the history, traditions, and soul of a community. It is our responsibility to preserve and promote our mother tongue for future generations.” Prof. Shad Ramzan also highlighted the intrinsic connection between language and cultural expression, urging students and scholars to actively participate in linguistic preservation initiatives. He said the languages are the bedrock of cultural heritage as they encapsulate traditions, folklore, and oral histories passed down through generations. “The celebration of International Mother Languages Day fosters awareness and encourages efforts to revitalize and sustain native languages,” he added.
During the valediction, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, underscored the need of preserving the Kashmiri language for maintaining the region’s rich cultural and literary heritage. “As a language that carries centuries of history, folklore, and traditions, Kashmiri language is facing challenges from modernization,” he said. Prof. Shahid added that translating books into mother tongues worldwide will strengthen linguistic diversity. “Many communities struggle with linguistic barriers that limit their access to literature, history, and academic resources. By ensuring that books, especially those related to education, philosophy, and culture, are available in native languages, societies can empower individuals and preserve linguistic traditions,” he further said. He informed the participants that CUKashmir has students and faculty from 19 different languages and our endeavour, under the able guidance of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath is to create understanding of all of them and promote their use on the campus.
Earlier, Dean DSW, Prof. Irfan Aalam in his welcome address, said the Day serves as a powerful platform to reiterate the importance of linguistic heritage. “By bringing together scholars, students, and cultural practitioners, the university reinforced its dedication to the revitalization of Kashmiri,” Prof. Irfan said and asked the participants to actively contribute towards the preservation of their mother tongue, ensuring that the legacy of Kashmiri language continues to thrive for generations to come.
Assistant Prof. Dr. Masarat Shah conducted the programme proceedings and Coordinator Deptt of Kashmiri, Dr. Imtiyaz Mustafa proposed the vote of thanks.