Sopore: The legacy of late educationist and heritage conservationist Atiqa Bano was celebrated during “Youm-e-Meeras” in Sopore, with speakers highlighting her contribution towards preserving Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage through Meeras Mahal.
The event was organised by Majlis-un-Nisa and Adbi Markazi Kamraz, with Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather attending as the chief guest.
Rather thanked the organisers for holding the event in Sopore and said the town had a significant historical, cultural and political legacy.
“Sopore has historical importance, besides its cultural and political significance,” Rather said, while recalling the town’s historical association with King Avantivarman and the engineer Suya, who played a role in addressing the recurring floods in the region.
He said Sopore had also produced political leaders who contributed beyond the town and served the larger interests of the people.
The Speaker praised Sopore MLA Irshad Rasool Kar for his participation in Assembly proceedings and his efforts to raise issues concerning his constituency.
“He has the urge to do something for his constituency. He is on the right track and will become an important legislator in Kashmir,” Rather said.
Recalling his association with Atiqa Bano during his tenure as a minister, Rather said she would approach him over public issues and rarely for personal matters. “She never came for her personal matters. She used to come for the people,” he said.
The Speaker said the collection and assets preserved at Meeras Mahal carried immense historical and cultural significance. He expressed confidence that the institution would develop into a major museum and play an important role in preserving Kashmir’s heritage.
“Time will come when it will become an important museum. It is progressing and is on its way,” Rather said.
He also assured the organisers of his support for preserving and promoting Meeras Mahal. “I am here to help in whatever way possible,” he said.
Meeras Mahal represents Atiqa Bano’s efforts to document and preserve Kashmir’s material culture. Its collection includes traditional artefacts, manuscripts, household objects, handicrafts, clothing, jewellery and other items reflecting the region’s social and cultural history.