Recently one of the senior journalists of State in a seminar claimed that Kashmir’s culture and language are facing a serious challenge while as Sufi culture is being exploited at the State level. The concern seems to be true to its core as no breakthrough is being made in such spheres like Sufism to which the Kashmir Valley is closely associated. Even Kashmir is taken as synonymous to Sufism. What better tribute would it be had we translated the works of our Sufi poets and scholar – who are famous across the world – into various languages so that the essence of their message reaches far and wide. Their works would play the role of spokespersons of Kashmir before the world and showcase the rich culture and tradition this ‘Paradise on Earth’ harbours. Another challenge is to Kashmiri language and the sorry state of affairs is that even our children are not well versed in their mother tongue and Kashmiri language is alien to even the educated people. The Adbi Markaz Kamraz needs to do justice with its job and act as savior of Kashmir’s literary treasure and not only confront but overcome the challenges. Due to Centre’s efforts, the Kashmiri language is being taught upto class 8 and the state government has decided to include the subject upto 10th class. We need to rediscover our culture, tradition, and the great treasures of literature and return to the roots otherwise our time is not far when the wave of globalization and technology will sway our history and identity and we would be orphaned of our legacy that is rich in almost all terms.
