November 3: The 44th Annual Conference of Adbi Markaz Kamraz JK concluded successfully in Baramulla after two days of insightful exchanges on language, literature, and art. Speakers at the event reiterated the call for classical status for the Kashmiri language.
The five-session event, which began on Saturday, featured engaging discussions from scholars, independent researchers, academics, and professors, covering key topics such as language, linguistic movements, and the socio-political dimensions of literature in Kashmir.
Sunday’s sessions opened with a resolution-themed session, presided over by noted academician Prof. Farooq Fayaz. MLA Baramulla Javaid Hassan Beigh, former Director Doordarshan Shabir Mujahid, and Dr. Mudasir Rasool Bhat shared the stage, while Majeed Majazi and AMK President presented two resolutions. Mir Tariq conducted the proceedings of the first session.
Noted poet Naseem Shifaye and theatre/film director Mushtaq Ali Khan supported the resolution by Majeed Majazi, while Ayash Arif and Dr. Rafiq Masoodi supported the one presented by the AMK President. Dr. Mudasir Rasool Bhat delivered a detailed research paper on the theme “Artificial Intelligence and the Kashmiri Language.”
MLA Baramulla Javaid Hassan Beigh, the chief guest, spoke about the critical role of language in a society’s socio-political landscape and emphasized the importance of preserving culture and language. He also highlighted the role of literature in combating social issues.
Prof. Farooq Fayaz, in his presidential address, discussed the role of governing institutions in language evolution. He noted Kashmiri’s rich history and emphasized the need for its alignment with modern technological advancements. On the topic of artificial intelligence, he cautioned against allowing AI to overshadow human thought.
The award distribution ceremony was presided over by the distinguished poet Prof. Zaman Azruda, joined by Dr. Sameer Sadeeqi, MLA Tangmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, and Advocate Nilofer, President of the Bar Association Baramulla. The event included a special session on October 16, aimed at creating a unique platform for Native American literature.
Dr. Rafiq Masoodi, former Director General of Doordarshan, received the prestigious Sharf-i-Kamraz award for 2023, while the 2024 award went to acclaimed poet and writer Aseer Kashtawari. Two AMK units, Idara-i-Tehqeeqo Adab J&K and Inder Cultural Forum, also received Sharf-i-Kamraz for 2023 and 2024, respectively.
Gulzar Ganie was honored with the Khilat-i-Hanfi for his contributions to art and culture, Ghulam Rasool Shah for his dedication to education, and Moulana Dr. Sameer Siddiq for his use of pure Kashmiri in his sermons.
Prof. Zaman Azruda reflected on AMK’s enduring resilience and dedication to promoting the Kashmiri language and literature. Dr. Sameer Siddiqui, in his lecture, described language as a symbol of absolute power that evolves to meet the needs of the times, and praised Adbi Markaz Kamraz’s efforts in this direction.
A Kashmiri Nikah Nama was also unveiled during the session. Shabnum Teligami, AMK’s General Secretary, conducted the proceedings for the second session.
