Bijbehara: The Maraaz Adbi Sangam, a vibrant literary organization in South Kashmir, held its annual literary conference at Degree College Bijbehara, celebrating the rich heritage of Kashmiri literature and culture.
The event gathered renowned scholars, writers, and poets to honor the contributions of literary figures while addressing contemporary challenges facing the Kashmiri language.
The conference commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Mohammad Shafi Ayaz, Vice President of Maraaz Adbi Sangam, who stressed the need to preserve and promote the Kashmiri language. Yousuf Jahangir, a celebrated literary figure, delivered the keynote speech, reflecting on the transformative role of literature in the modern world.
A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Sharaf-e-Maraz Award to Dr. Sohan Laal Kol for his remarkable contributions to Kashmiri literature, and the Shan-e-Maraz Award to Professor Shafi Shouq for his literary achievements. The event’s first session, led by Riyaz Anzoo, was presided over by Dr. Shad Ramzaan, Convenor of the Kashmiri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Academy.
The Sham-e-Maraz Award for literary excellence was presented to Shabir Hussain Shabir for his book Waad-e-Chenab: Tehzeeb o Saqafat and Nasir Munawar for Siyah Shaban Manz. Distinguished literary figures including Gh. Nabi Atash, Mohammad Amin Bhat, Dr. Yasmeen Bashir, Professor Farooq Fayaz, and MLA Bijbehara Dr. Syed Bashir Ahmad Shah also graced the occasion.
The first session featured the release of the annual literary magazine Wethe Aagur and the college’s publication Chinar. Three significant literary works were also unveiled: Pye Chu Zulmaat Wuzaan by Azam Farooq, Yousuf Jahangir’s Kashmiri translation of Shakespeare’s 51 sonnets titled Khawaab Shabaab, and the latest edition of Chinar.
In the second session, a stimulating debate on “The Current Pedagogical System of the Kashmiri Language and Modern Challenges” took place. The panelists, including Professor Shouq, Dr. Farooq Fayaz, and Ayaz Nazki, offered insightful discussions, with Shamshad Kralwari, a well-known broadcaster, moderating the debate.
The conference concluded with a lively poetry symposium, showcasing the talents of both young and veteran poets. The event closed with a vote of thanks from Ali Shaida, President of Maraaz Adbi Sangam, who expressed gratitude to all the participants for their contributions. Maraaz Adbi Sangam continues to be a cornerstone of Kashmiri literature, fostering the growth of both established and emerging voices.
