- Praises JKAACL for advancing local languages and celebrating JK’s rich culture
JAMMU, Jan 15: The Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, officially opened the two-day Gojri Literary and Cultural event, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL) at K L Saigal Hall, Jammu.
The event saw participation from Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kaur; Chairperson of Gurjar Desk Charitable Trust, Arshid Ali Choudhary; Chief Editor of JKAACL, Dr. Javid Rahi; Dr. Nikhat Choudhary; alongside various writers and artists.
Javed Rana highlighted the importance of Gojri as a significant language in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that every language requires cultural and literary initiatives for its enhancement and revitalization.
“Cultural programs that celebrate and exhibit the rich heritage of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities are essential platforms for maintaining and restoring the Gojri language’s original splendor. Such initiatives rejuvenate ancient languages,” asserted the Minister.
Applauding JKAACL for representing the rich cultural heritage of the Gujjar-Bakerwal community, Rana underlined the need for collective action among all stakeholders in this endeavor. “As a society, we must shoulder our responsibility to preserve and propagate our indigenous languages. Those who are guardians of Gujjar heritage must actively promote and advance the Gojri dialect,” he proclaimed.
While commending the dedication of writers and artists committed to the preservation and promotion of Gojri, Javed Rana emphasized the necessity of documenting traditional folk culture. He expressed concern that many individuals feel embarrassed to communicate in their mother tongue, asserting that local languages are vital for understanding the unique history, folklore, and traditions of a region.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, the government will prioritize all languages to nurture them as valuable tools for national development. He also urged for a collaborative effort between the Tribal Research Institute of J&K and JKAACL aimed at preserving and promoting tribal languages and cultures.
During the conference, the Minister inaugurated a Gojri book exhibition that showcased JKAACL’s publications.
Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kaur, in her address, emphasized the Academy’s structured approach to advance regional languages through preservation and promotional measures. She also discussed initiatives specifically aimed at enhancing the Gojri language.
In his welcome address, Dr. Javaid Rahi outlined the conference’s objectives, stating that it offers a platform for Gojri writers to share insights on tribal language and cultural matters. He noted that the Gojri wing, created in 1978, has published nearly 1,000 books on various subjects.
Arshad Ali Choudhary, Chairman of Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust, Jammu, speaking as the Guest of Honour, characterized the conference as a landmark event in the history of the Gojri language.
The inaugural session was succeeded by a paper-reading segment chaired by renowned broadcaster Hassan Parwaz and journalist Altaf Janjua.
This session featured presentations by Dr. Nikhat Choudhary, Shazia Chowdhary, Tariq Fahim, and Tariq Ibrar, discussing themes such as the Gotra system among the Gujjars of Rajouri, the pastures of Bakerwals in Rajouri, and Gujjar settlements within the Jammu district.
A cultural program added liveliness to the event, showcasing performances by notable Gojri artists Bashir Mastana, Shadia Chowdhary, Asiya Poswal, Naseem Akhter, Muzamil Shah, and others, celebrating the rich musical heritage of the community.
