Writers Reiterate Demand for Classical Status for Kashmiri Language at 46th AMK Literary Conference
Jammu, Feb 10 (Kashmir Pen):
Speaker of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and veteran political leader Abdul Rahim Rather on Tuesday called upon poets, writers and intellectuals to play a proactive role in preserving and promoting the rich multilingual ethos of Jammu and Kashmir, terming literature as one of the strongest bridges between diverse cultures and identities.
Inaugurating the 46th three-day Annual Literary Conference of Adbi Markaz Jammu & Kashmir (AMK) in Jammu, held under the theme “Festival of Mother Languages,” Rather lauded the organisation for bringing together representatives of different regional and linguistic traditions on a common platform. He said such initiatives are vital at a time when linguistic diversity is under pressure due to cultural homogenisation and weakening links with native languages.
“Jammu and Kashmir is a land of multiple languages and cultural traditions, and people of the region take pride in this multilingual heritage. Poets and writers have historically played a crucial role in safeguarding this plurality, and they must continue to carry this responsibility forward,” he said.
The Speaker appreciated Adbi Markaz Kamraz for consistently organising literary conferences aimed at uniting linguistic communities and nurturing mutual respect among speakers of various regional languages. He observed that honouring genuine and quality writers not only strengthens the literary ecosystem but also inspires younger generations to stay rooted in their cultural and linguistic traditions.
“Recognising literary merit encourages young minds to engage with literature and helps preserve our collective cultural memory. Literature, when nurtured sincerely, becomes a force of unity and social harmony,” Rather added.
Vice-President AMK Shakir Shafi conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session, while General Secretary Shabnum Tilgami presented the organisation’s annual report, highlighting the literary and cultural activities undertaken by Adbi Markaz Kamraz during the year.
In his welcome address, President Adbi Markaz Kamraz J&K emphasised that language and literature act as powerful bonds among people belonging to diverse identities and backgrounds, leading society towards a higher sense of unity and mutual understanding. Expressing concern over the gradual erosion of cultural and civilisational bonds, he underlined the urgent need to revive and strengthen these linkages.
Describing the conference as a meaningful step in this direction, he invited writers, scholars and cultural stakeholders to collectively participate in preserving the ethos of Kashmir and the spirit of Kashmiriyat. He also expressed concern over the growing disconnect between the younger generation and their cultural roots, urging concerted efforts to reconnect youth with the linguistic and literary heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
He further noted that all regional languages spoken in the Union Territory — including Gojri, Dogri, Pahari and Punjabi — face similar challenges of neglect, limited institutional support and shrinking readership. “The representatives of these languages must work together in solidarity to safeguard their linguistic and cultural heritage,” he said, while expressing gratitude to all participants and organisers.
Delivering the presidential address, Sahitya Akademi Convener (New Delhi) Shad Ramzan highlighted the historical depth, classical roots and rich literary tradition of the Kashmiri language. He reiterated the long-pending demand for granting classical language status to Kashmiri, stating that it fulfills the necessary scholarly and historical criteria laid down for such recognition.
“Our language has a vast and ancient literary tradition, and the demand for classical status is fully justified. This issue must be raised persistently at all appropriate government forums and cultural platforms,” he said, presenting historical references and scholarly evidence in support of the demand.
During the event, poets and writers representing different regional languages were felicitated in recognition of their contributions to literature and culture. Those honoured included Aseer Kashtiwari (Kashmiri), Vijay Verma (Dogri), Javid Rahi (Gojri), K. D. Manni (Pahari), Khalid Hussain (Punjabi) and Prem Nath Shad (Kashmiri).
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Patron AMK Dr Rafique Massoodi, who appreciated the participation of writers, scholars and cultural activists from across the region and expressed hope that such literary gatherings would continue to strengthen cultural harmony and linguistic unity in Jammu and Kashmir | Kashmir Pen
