Jammu – November 7: In a vibrant celebration of Kashmiri literature and regional historiography, the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) hosted a special literary conclave at K.L. Saigal Hall in Jammu to release two significant literary works by celebrated Kashmiri author Prem Nath Pandita ‘Prem’.
The publications unveiled during the event include “Kamraz Sondar Buthraath”, an exhaustive historical study regarded as the first comprehensive documentation of its kind capturing the geography, folklore, cultural heritage, and socio-literary traditions of the Kamraz region in North Kashmir. The second title, “Yali Yaad Pyavaan”, is a compilation of original Kashmiri poetry (Shayri) that reflects the rich metaphors, aesthetic rhythm, and deep emotional resonance characteristic of traditional and contemporary Kashmiri verse.
The literary gathering was presided over by prominent Kashmiri novelist and short story writer M.L. Pandita. Retired senior police officers Syed G.M. Andrabi, SSP (Retd), and Manoj Pandita Sheri, SSP (Retd), alongside Lal Chand, Additional Secretary of JKAACL, graced the occasion as special guests of honour.
Scholarly critiques evaluating the depth of the two manuscripts formed a centerpiece of the session. Well-known writer Piarey Hatash presented an analytical paper on “Kamraz Sondar Buthraath”, commending the author’s meticulous archival research in immortalizing North Kashmir’s indigenous identity. Concurrently, veteran literary figure Vijay Wali presented a critique on “Yali Yaad Pyavaan”, highlighting the lyricism and philosophical nuances interwoven in the poetic anthology.
Speaking about his creative journey, Prem Nath Pandita ‘Prem’ reflected on the inspiration behind his twin works, underscoring the vital imperative of preserving indigenous linguistic heritage. “Documenting our mother tongue, cultural traditions, and historical memories is our collective cultural duty, ensuring our younger generations remain anchored to their roots,” he observed.
The event concluded with a cultural rendition by musician Rishab Dorgee and his ensemble, drawing applause from an audience comprising prominent poets and intellectuals, including Dr. Rattan Talash, Tej Sagar, Sham Bihari, Ashok Gavhar, and Ashok Dilbar.
Published by True Roots Media