Qazigund, Jan 02: Sahitya Akademi has recognized a Kashmiri poetry book for the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award 2023, authored by the well-known writer Manshoor Banihali.
Banihali’s book, titled “Yeth Waweh Halay Tsong Kous Zalay,” is a collection of Kashmiri poems selected in the genre of poetry.
Banihali told Rising Kashmir that India is a country characterized by diversity, where people from different walks of life coexist within the nation.
The concept of “unity in diversity,” is the significant feature of the presence of numerous languages recognized in the Indian constitution, including Kashmiri, which has been listed since the time when only 14 languages were mentioned.
The title of the book comes from the famous quote of Shaikh ul Aalam, ‘Yeth Waawa Haalay Chong Kus Zaalay, Tila Kani Zaales Alim Ta Deen.’ The book was written against the backdrop of the geographic location of Banihal, a hilly area that typically experiences widespread winds,” Banihali said.
Banihali expressed gratitude for his book being chosen among several Kashmiri language books.
Diverse content of the book spanning 616 pages contains Ghazals, Rubaiyaat, Nasr, Nazm, Sonnet, and Hyco.
Published in 2017, the book’s recognition by Sahitya Akademi is deeply appreciated by Banihali, highlighting the national institution’s support in recognizing and encouraging quality content from different parts of the country.
Author said Sahitya Akademi aims to preserve diverse languages by recognizing authors from varied backgrounds.
Banihali expressed his gratitude for his book being chosen for the award this year. He believes that integrating education and morals is essential for a peaceful life.
“We have significant contributions of authors from the Chenab Valley towards the Kashmiri language, we hope that the younger generation will continue to preserve the language. The importance of including Kashmiri language books in schools is to safeguard and promote the language,” he said.
