Srinagar: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) on May 20, 2026, organized a well-attended literary book release function at its Seminar Hall in Lal Mandi, Srinagar, drawing writers, poets, scholars, and literature enthusiasts from across the region.

The event featured the release of two Kashmiri-language publications: Sayibaan, a poetry collection by Prof. Farooq Fayaz, and Purkhaash, a collection of critical essays by Prof. Rattan Talashi. Both works were widely appreciated for their literary depth and contribution to Kashmiri literature.
Editor Kashmiri, Jawaid Iqbal, welcomed the participants and highlighted the Academy’s ongoing efforts to promote regional languages through literary events, seminars, and publications. He congratulated the authors and thanked attendees for their participation.
The programme was presided over by poet Rafiq Raaz, while writer Farooq Masoodi attended as Chief Guest and cartoonist Bashir Ahmad Bashir as Guest of Honour.
During the event, Prof. Shad Ramzan presented a detailed analysis of Sayibaan, praising its emotional richness, thematic diversity, and reflection of contemporary social realities. He noted that the poetry collection adds significant value to modern Kashmiri literature.
Prof. Majrooh Rashid reviewed Purkhaash, describing it as an important contribution to literary criticism. He appreciated Prof. Talashi’s analytical approach and emphasized the role of critical writing in strengthening literary traditions.
In his presidential address, Rafiq Raaz underlined the importance of literary institutions in preserving cultural identity and nurturing creative expression. He praised both authors for their contributions to Kashmiri literature.
Chief Guest Farooq Masoodi stressed the need for stronger literary discourse and encouraged writers to document the cultural and social experiences of society. He also lauded the Academy for providing a platform for literary engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Fayaz described poetry as a powerful medium for expressing human emotions and societal change, while Prof. Talashi highlighted the importance of literary criticism in deepening readers’ understanding of literature.
Several other speakers from the audience also appreciated the released works and emphasized the importance of promoting Kashmiri language, research, and creative writing. They described such events as vital for strengthening the region’s literary ecosystem.
The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Rather, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks amid warm appreciation from the audience.