Srinagar, Dec 08: The two-day Kashmir Literature Festival (KLF), a grand celebration of literature, poetry, and cultural heritage, concluded at SKICC Srinagar with a spectacular musical performance by the acclaimed ShashRang Band. The festival, a unique platform dedicated to honouring the region’s rich literary and cultural legacy, was marked by thought-provoking debates, engaging discussions, and the launch of notable literary works.
Themed “Reclaiming Kashmir’s Literary Legacy,” the festival sought to revive Kashmir’s historical position as a global intellectual and cultural hub. Through dynamic literary dialogues and exchanges, the event aimed to inspire youth and foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s artistic heritage.
Prominent Indian personalities, including authors, historians, and diplomats, participated in discussions that explored diverse themes such as archaeology, gender equality, political strategy, and Kashmir’s cultural ethos.
Key sessions at the festival featured engaging discussions on a wide range of topics. Ami Ganatra and Dr. Ashok Lahiri, in conversation with Chandrachur Ghose, explored governance and leadership in The Rules for the Rulers. Lt. Gen. D.P. Pandey (Retd) and Ramnik Singh Mann, moderated by Shiv Kunal Verma, delved into strategic perspectives in The Half Front. Dr. S.K. Manjul and Namrata Wakhloo engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue on archaeology and cultural heritage in Unearthing Bharatiya Heritage Through Archaeology. Meanwhile, Prof. Nilofer Khan and Dr. Henana Berjes, moderated by Azra Mufti, highlighted issues of gender equality in the session Women: The Better Half.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Raja Muneeb, Senior Political Analyst and Columnist, said, “Hosting the first edition of the Kashmir Literature Festival in Srinagar is a positive step forward. The government of Jammu & Kashmir, along with educational institutions, should organize more such initiatives.”
Azra Mufti, author and social worker, speaking on gender equality, emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where both genders have equal opportunities. She encouraged women to step forward and take on leadership roles across various fields. Reflecting on past societal norms, she pointed out that there was once a belief that women were not capable of handling certain jobs. “However, today, women have proven this notion wrong by not only excelling in traditionally male-dominated areas like technology, science, and engineering, but also breaking barriers and setting new standards of success,” she added. Azra also stressed the need for continued support and encouragement for women to reach their full potential in all sectors.
The festival also witnessed the launch of several notable works, including Role Model: Inspiring Stories of Indian Muslim Achievers by Dr. S.Y. Quraishi and Ambassador Kanwal Sibal. Another highlight was the book launch of Bose Deception: Declassified by Anuj Dhar and Chandrachur Ghose, featuring an esteemed panel of speakers including Lt. Gen. D.P. Pandey (Retd), Amb. Kanwal Sibal, and Dr. Ashok Lahiri.
A musical gala evening by ShashRang Band infused the atmosphere with a harmonious blend of traditional Kashmiri tunes and contemporary rhythms, leaving the audience captivated.
The KLF reinforced the significance of literature and culture in fostering dialogue and understanding. By bringing together celebrated authors, thinkers, and artists, the festival served as a beacon of hope for reclaiming and celebrating the region’s timeless heritage.
