HAJIN, SEPTEMBER 6: Adbee Markaz Kamraz (AMK), a federation of more than 30 literary organisations, held its 47th two-day annual conference at Government M L Higher Secondary School, Hajin, on September 5 and 6, bringing together poets, writers, litterateurs, scholars, intellectuals and columnists from across Kashmir and parts of the Jammu division.
The central theme of the conference was “The Role of Devotional Literature in Kashmiri Language”, with sessions focusing on Kashmiri devotional, spiritual and literary traditions, including the works of Sheikh-ul-Alam and Lalla Ded, Naat and Marsia, and other forms of devotional literature.
The conference also witnessed the release of the Golden Jubilee special number of AMK’s literary publication Prav, the Kashmiri translation of the Holy Qur’an by Gulzar Ahmad Parray, several literary books, and the presentation of awards recognising contributions to Kashmiri language, literature and culture.
The formal inauguration on September 5 was delayed by about an hour due to torrential rain. During the delay, Mohammad Aslam Sodnari presented ghazals of legendary poet Janbaz Kishtwari in a Mehfil-e-Sama.
The inaugural ceremony began with the traditional burning of Isband (Rue seeds) in a decorated Kangri, followed by recitation of Surah Al-Tariq.
AMK President Mohammad Amin Bhat, in his welcome address, stressed the need for sustained and result-oriented efforts for the promotion and preservation of Kashmiri language and literature.
The presidium comprised retired Justice Bashir Kirmani, literary figure Dr Satish Vimal, Dr Ab Hafeez Masoodi, JKAS, Special Secretary, Information Technology Department, poet and author Manshoor Banihali, and Mohammad Amin Bhat.
A painting exhibition depicting Kashmir’s history, culture, emotions and values was inaugurated by retired Justice B A Kirmani.
The Golden Jubilee special number of Prav, documenting AMK’s contribution and achievements over nearly five decades, was also released. The organisation’s Patron, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi, was ceremonially turbaned in recognition of his contribution to the organisation and the promotion of Kashmiri language and literature.
The commemorative issue was prepared within a month and published free of cost by Lubaab Publications, owned by Dr Jahangeer Bukhari. Copies were distributed among members of the presidium and award recipients.
Kashmiri Qur’an translation released
Following a break for traditional pink salt tea and Asr prayers, the Kashmiri translation of the Holy Qur’an by Gulzar Ahmad Parray of Kapran, Shopian, was released.
Parray said the translation was the result of nearly five decades of study and perseverance. He said he had consulted translations and works of scholars from almost every school of thought while undertaking the project.
Renowned Islamic scholar Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng, who arrived during the proceedings, ceremonially turbaned Parray in recognition of the achievement.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Satish Vimal, who spoke on the historical, spiritual and literary dimensions of devotional literature and its contribution to Kashmiri language and literature.
Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng also addressed the gathering, while retired Justice Bashir Kirmani delivered an address marked by his characteristic wit and humour.
The Khilati Hanafi Sopori Award was presented to Prof Sheikh Ajaz for his contribution to Kashmiri language and literature. The award was presented a day earlier than scheduled due to his engagements on the following day.
Sheikh-ul-Alam, Lalla Ded discussed
The first business session focused on “Sheikh-ul-Alam and Lalla Ded: The Roots of Our Identity”.
Moderated by Mir Tariq, the session featured Dr Ghulam Nabi Haleem, Shahbaz Hakbari, Dr Ayaz Rasool Nazki, Ghulam Nabi Adfar and Inayat Gull.
The speakers discussed the spiritual, philosophical and devotional dimensions of the poetry of Sheikh-ul-Alam and Lalla Ded, with participants calling for more such scholarly sessions in future AMK programmes.
Naat, Marsia sessions held
The subsequent session examined Naat and Marsia as important forms of devotional poetry.
Poet and critic Fayaz Tillagami presented a Naat-e-Sharif beginning with “Lekhan yeli chus ti chukh mushkaan mei harfan, Ya Rasulul La Saw”, composed in the tradition of Persian poet and Naat composer Moulana Jami.
Writer Gulzar Jafar critically analysed the composition, examining its language, structure and literary qualities.
Syed Abbas Jawhar of Dab, Ganderbal, presented a Marsia, “Chei kya gasi hie agar kahn treash chei hai”, centred on the suffering of the martyrs of Karbala and their deprivation of water.
The Marsia was critically analysed by Dr Wahid Raza.
The second business session was jointly presided over by Mushtaq Ahmad Mushtaq and Dr Ayaz Rasool Nazki.
Poetry session continues till 2 am
Following Isha prayers and dinner featuring traditional Wazwan cuisine, participants assembled in the new school building for a poetry recitation session.
The session was moderated by Farooq Shaheen, poet, author, critic and AMK Secretary, while poet and author Manshoor Banihali presided.
Around 20 poets presented their work, covering themes including romance, separation, devotion, patriotism, satire, humour and loss.
Dr Riyaz Rabani, Amin Ashraf, Farooq Fida and Ghulam Qadir Naag were among those whose presentations particularly engaged the audience.
The session continued until nearly 2 am, after which it was decided that the remaining poets would present their work on the second day.
The proceedings of the first day were conducted by AMK Vice President Shakir Shafi.
Second day begins with Quran recitation
The second day began with Fajr prayers and the serving of traditional Kashmiri pink salt tea to participants.
The proceedings commenced with Quranic recitation by Mushtaq Kawsar, followed by a Naat recitation by Javed Iqbal Mawri.
The remaining poetry session was moderated by Farooq Shaheen and presided over by Bashir Mangalpori. He shared the presidium with Rashid Roshan, Majrooh Kashmiri and Syed Rashid Jawhar.
Poets including Mushtaq Mawri, Shabir Ch, Riyaz Parwana, Riyaz Hakbari and Rashid Manzoor presented their compositions.
The poetry session was followed by the playing of AMK’s Tarana, composed by Margoob Banihali and rendered by vocalist Waheed Jeelani.
Scholarly papers presented
A paper-reading session was held under the chairmanship of Prof Shad Ramzan. Prof Shafi Sumbali, Saiduddin Saidi, Javed Iqbal Mawri and Fayaz Ganai, Manager, J&K Bank, shared the presidium.
Three papers were presented during the session.
Dr Mohammad Younus Thoker presented a paper on Naat and Munajat, Syed Akhtar Mansoor spoke on Elegiac Literature, while Dr Suhan Lal Koul presented a paper on Lela Bajan.
The papers were followed by addresses from members of the presidium.
Several books released
The second business session of the day was devoted to the release of several literary works.
The session was presided over by Prof Mohammad Zaman Azurdah, with Prof Naseem Shifayi, Hasrat Gada and AMK Patron Dr Rafeeq Masoodi sharing the presidium.
Books released included Masood Shadab’s Kath Aslafan Hinz, Shair Ali Mashgool’s Sabdi Gul, Ghulam Nabi Shakir’s Jadeed Hindustani Drama and Buth Phour Waw, and Deeba Nazir’s Zabarwan series of Kashmiri books for students of Classes 1 to 5.
Ab Ahad Hajini receives Sharfi Kamraz Award
The award ceremony was one of the major highlights of the conference.
AMK’s highest honour, the Sharfi Kamraz Award, was conferred upon Ab Ahad Hajini for his contribution to Kashmiri language and literature. His citation was read by G N Shakir.
The Mehboob-ul-Alam Adbi Society Rajwar was also honoured with the Sharfi Kamraz Award for its work towards the promotion of Kashmiri language and literature.
The Khilat-e-Hanafi Sopori Award was presented to Molvi Bashir-ud-Din. His citation was read by Farooq Shaheen.
Renowned singer Rashid Hafiz was also honoured for his contribution to Kashmiri music and cultural expression, with his citation read by Javed Iqbal Mawri.
The Best Book Award was presented to Shahbaz Hakbari for Doon ti Swad.
Mementos presented to contributors
AMK also presented mementos to several individuals and institutions for their contributions.
Those honoured included Manzoor Ahmad Shah, Computer Operator; Faheem and Bashir Ahmad Wani of Higher Secondary School Hajin; Halqa-e-Adab Hajin; Salik Salik of the State Academy of Art, Culture and Languages; Syed Jahangir Bukhari, editor of Labaab Publications; Javed Iqbal, Secretary of Kashmir Art Society; and Shabir Ahmad of Miraz Publications.
At the conclusion of the session, Prof Naseem Shifa’i and Hasrat Gada shared their impressions, while the presidential remarks were delivered by Prof Mohammad Zaman Azurda.
Dr Rafiq Masoodi, Patron of Adbee Markaz Kamraz, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the participants, organisers and others associated with the conference.
The 47th annual conference concluded after two days of literary discussions, poetry, scholarly presentations, book releases and recognition of contributions to Kashmiri language, literature, music and cultural heritage.
Mr Rayees is a writer and columnist based in Qazigund, Kashmir
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