Bashir Arif’s book “Miyane Wachik Kotar” released at glittering function organized by JKAACL
STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, JULY 02 (STC): Kashmiri book “Miyane Wachik Kotar”, authored by noted writer Bashir Arif was released at a grand literary function organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) at Tagore Hall, here on July 01.
Eminent scholars, writers, poets, critics, academicians, students and lovers of Kashmiri literature participated in the event. The function was presided over by Prof. M. Zaman Azurdah, while eminent Kashmiri scholar, literary critic and former Head of the Department of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir, Prof. Shafi Shouq, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The distinguished personalities who adorned the presidium included the author Bashir Arif, Shahzadi Saiman, Prof. Majrooh Rashid, Bashir Budgami, Rafiq Masoodi, Shafaq Sopori, Additional Secretary Academy Ideel Saleem and Rukhsana Jabeen.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shri Ideel Saleem, JKAS, Additional Secretary, JKAACL, who welcomed the distinguished guests, writers, scholars and participants. In his address, he highlighted the Academy’s sustained efforts to promote Kashmiri language and literature through publications, seminars, book release functions, literary interactions and cultural programmes. He remarked that JKAACL remains committed to providing a vibrant platform for writers and intellectuals to engage in meaningful literary discourse and to encourage creative expression across generations.
The book “Miyane Wachik Kotar! was formally released by the President, Chief Guest and other dignitaries amid applause from the audience. The publication was appreciated as a valuable addition to contemporary Kashmiri literature, reflecting the author’s literary insight, creative imagination and profound command over the Kashmiri language.
The critical appraisal of the book formed an important segment of the programme. Eminent scholars Prof. Shad Ramzan and Shamshad Kralwari presented detailed papers examining various dimensions of the work. The speakers analysed the book’s thematic concerns, narrative technique, language, style and artistic expression. They observed that Miyane Wachik Kotar successfully captures the complexities of human experience and contemporary social realities while preserving the aesthetic richness of Kashmiri literary tradition. They also appreciated the author’s mature literary vision and described the work as a significant contribution to modern Kashmiri prose.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. M. Zaman Azurdah congratulated the author and appreciated the Academy for consistently organising literary programmes that honour writers and promote meaningful literary dialogue. He emphasised that literature serves as a powerful medium for preserving cultural identity and strengthening linguistic heritage, and called upon young writers to contribute actively towards enriching Kashmiri literature.
In his keynote address, Prof. Shafi Shouq congratulated the author on the publication of the book and commended JKAACL for its sustained efforts in encouraging literary creativity and scholarship. He observed that quality literary works such as Miyane Wachik Kotar not only enrich Kashmiri literature but also document the intellectual and cultural experiences of society for future generations. He stressed the need to encourage original writing and literary criticism to ensure the continued growth of Kashmiri language and literature.
Expressing his gratitude, author Bashir Arif thanked JKAACL for publishing and releasing his book. He also expressed his sincere appreciation to the scholars who critically examined the work and shared valuable insights. He described the occasion as one of the most memorable milestones of his literary journey.
Several writers, poets and scholars present in the audience also shared their views on the book and appreciated the Academy’s initiatives in fostering literary culture through regular publication of books and organisation of literary events across Jammu and Kashmir.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Jawaid Iqbal Khan, Editor (Kashmiri), JKAACL, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the President, Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, paper presenters, members of the literary fraternity, media representatives and all participants for making the event a grand success. He reiterated the Academy’s commitment to continue organising literary programmes that celebrate creativity, promote scholarly engagement and preserve the rich linguistic and literary traditions of Jammu and Kashmir.
The function concluded on a note of appreciation for the Academy’s continued efforts in promoting Kashmiri language and literature through meaningful literary initiatives and providing a common platform for writers, scholars and readers to engage in constructive intellectual exchange.
Notably, the proceedings of the programme were ably conducted by renowned broadcaster Zahoor Zahid and Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Rather, Assistant Editor, JKAACL, who ensured the smooth and engaging conduct of the event.
(Straight Talk Communications)
