Hajin, May 26: The General Council of Halqa-e-Adab Sonawari (HAS), one of Kashmir’s oldest and most respected literary organisations, convened its annual meeting at the MD Hajini Memorial School Hajin, in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district. Around fifty members participated in the deliberations that aimed to finalise the calendar of literary and cultural activities for the upcoming year.
Presiding over the meeting, Dr Riyaz-ul-Hassan outlined the proposed literary activities for the new session. The council unanimously approved his suggestions, which include an essay writing competition for school students and a series of interactive programmes under the banner “Katha Batha”, featuring sessions with prominent writers and senior members of the Halqa.
A significant highlight on the calendar will be the observance of “Yaum-e-Aslaaf” (Day of the Ancestors) in September, where the Khilat-e-Hajini, Khilat-e-Aziz Hajini, and the prestigious Aziz Hajini Gold Medal will be conferred. In a special tribute, the council also resolved to organise a commemorative literary event in October to honour the life and work of Ghulam Hassan Taskeen, a celebrated writer from Hajin. Later, Farooq Hajini, on behalf of the Secretary Finance, presented the budget for the upcoming year, which was reviewed and accepted by the members. The session concluded with a critical forum showcasing poetic and devotional performances. Farooq Ateeb presented a poignant ghazal, while Farooq Prangi offered a soulful naat. Both pieces sparked an engaging discussion among the attendees, reflecting HAS’s continued commitment to literary critique and appreciation. Sheikh Ghulam Muhammad, Vice President of HAS, expressed gratitude to all participants. The proceedings were conducted seamlessly by Dr Riyaz-ul-Hassan.
