Fiction Writers’ Guild Holds 332nd Literary Session in Srinagar

By Showkat Shafi

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Fiction Writers’ Guild (FWG) hosted its 332nd literary session on Saturday at Hera Manzil, Abi Guzar, Lal Chowk, bringing together an engaging mix of fiction writers, literary critics, and literature enthusiasts from across the Valley.

The session was presided over by senior faculty member at EMMRC, University of Kashmir, Ajaz-ul-Haque, who delivered a thought-provoking keynote on the evolving dynamics of fiction writing and the centrality of language in shaping narrative aesthetics.

In his presidential address, Mr. Haque underscored the crucial role of language in short story writing, describing it as the “soul of a narrative.” “A short story doesn’t survive on plot alone,” he noted, “its strength lies in the quality of its language.” He emphasized the need for writers to craft language that breathes emotion, evokes imagery, and lingers with the reader. “Language,” he added, “is not just a vehicle for storytelling—it is a character in itself.” Drawing attention to the art of openings, he said, “The beginning of a story should feel like a kick in the gut—a reader must feel abducted by the author from the very first line.”

The session was graced by Peerzada Abdal Mehjoor, noted broadcaster and editor, as Guest of Honour and prominent journalist and writer Riyaz Masroor. In his address, Mehjoor reflected on the oral traditions of storytelling and urged writers to preserve emotional depth and cultural authenticity. “A good story doesn’t just narrate—it breathes, pauses, and sings,” he remarked. He highlighted the significance of tone and rhythm, encouraging young writers to “listen deeply to their surroundings and write with sincerity and soul.”

The literary gathering featured short story readings by acclaimed writers including Er. Shafi Ahmad, who read his Urdu story Aur Aayena Toot Gaya, Shamshaad Kralwari, who presented Badam Kul Rood Phoelan in Kashmiri, and Mushtaque Barq, who read his English short story Scream. Each reading was followed by interactive discussion and critique, offering valuable insights into contemporary themes and stylistic choices.

Active participation from guild members enriched the session, with contributions from Majrooh Rashid, Shahnawaz Bhat, Suhail Salim, Rashid Rahgeer, Gulzar Ahmad, Zameer Ahmad, G.M. Bhat, Akhtar Mehraj, Nasreen Malik, Showkat Shafi, Ghulam Nabi Shahid, Mehvish Rafeeq, Munazah, Mohd Saqleen, Mouazam, Ashiq Raza, Iqbal Faheem, Shahnaz Bhat, Mr. Shakeeb, Mohd Yousuf Shaheen, Arshid Mushtaq, Nelofar Naaz Nehvi, Niyaz Ahmad Bhat, Nadeem Bashir, Reyaz Masoor, Azam, and Aysha Suhail.

The event began with a welcome address by Nasir Zameer, noted Urdu fiction writer and General Secretary of the Guild. The vote of thanks was presented by Salim Salik, a well-known literary figure. The proceedings were moderated with precision and literary flair by Tanveer Ajsi, a young scholar, critic, and orator.

Under the patronage of renowned fiction writer Wehshi Sayeed, the Fiction Writers’ Guild continues to serve as a vibrant platform nurturing literary dialogue and creative expression in Jammu and Kashmir.