Two-day Pahari Literary & Cultural conference concludes

Jammu, Feb 25: The two-day Pahari Literary cum Cultural Conference organised by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages concluded on Tuesday with a unanimous resolution to document the ethos of the Pahari language in audio-visual and book formats, ensuring its preservation and promotion for future generations.
The event was graced by Muzaffar Ali Khan, MLA Thanamandi Rajouri, as the chief guest. The presidium included Rashid Bhat, SSP Shoukat Kazmi , former Secretary, Pahari Board, eminent Pahari writer Jamat Ali Shaheen, and Harvinder Kour , Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages.
In her address, Harvinder Kour emphasised that the primary objective of the conference was to provide a platform for Pahari writers and artists to showcase their talent while connecting the new generation with the legendary figures who dedicated their lives to the promotion and propagation of the Pahari language. She also announced the establishment of a Gojri/Pahari Centre in Poonch, which will focus on the promotion of both languages. Delivering his presidential address, Muzaffar Ali Khan highlighted the extensive presence of the Pahari language across the Jammu region, particularly in the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri. He urged JKAACL to establish cultural centres in each area of these districts to cater to their unique cultural and literary needs.
Other distinguished speakers, including Jamat Ali Shaheen, Shoukat Kazmi, and Rashid Bhat, also addressed the gathering, sharing their insights on the growth and preservation of the Pahari language and culture. The session was conducted by Altaf Ahmad Jujua, while Ayub Mir, Editor-cum-Cultural Officer, JKAACL, presented the vote of thanks. Following the formal sessions, a mesmerizing music program was held featuring performances by Master Kartar Chand, Muzzamil Shah, Parvez Malik, and other renowned artists, adding a vibrant touch to the event.
The fourth session of the conference focused on literature, where Gazanfer Khokhar, Sardar Ratten Singh Kanwal, Iqbal Shawl, and Sheikh Azad Ahmed presented compelling short stories. Additionally, Adv. Altaf Hussain Janjua, Saleem Ali Bukhari, and Javed Haqani presented research papers, enriching the intellectual discourse of the conference. The session was presided over by Sheikh Azad Ahmed Azad, with Prof. Abdul Rashid Manhas and Mohd Ayub Nayeam Mir as the guests of honour. Sadeeq Ahmed Sadeeqi skilfully conducted the proceedings. The two-day conference proved to be a significant step towards fostering the Pahari language, literature, and cultural heritage, reaffirming the commitment of scholars, artists, and institutions to its preservation and promotion.