Srinagar, Oct 10:The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organised a literary function at the Conference Hall of Tagore Hall, Srinagar, to release Aah-e-Sahar, a collection of Hamd (poetry in praise of Almighty Allah) and Naat (poetry in praise of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him), authored by noted writer and poet Engineer Abdul Salam Talib. The collection features devotional poetry in both Urdu and Kashmiri, reflecting the author's deep faith, spiritual commitment and literary sensibility.

The event witnessed the participation of a large number of writers, poets, literary figures, admirers of the author and members of his family. The programme commenced with a soulful Naat recitation by Umar Salam, lending a spiritual and literary atmosphere to the occasion.
On the occasion, Senior Grade Editor (Arabic) at JKAACL, Mufti Shafi-ur-Rehman, delivered the welcome address. Highlighting the significance of Hamdiya and Natiya poetry, he said that devotional poetry constitutes an important part of the literary and spiritual heritage. He observed that this genre not only provides an expression of religious and spiritual sentiments but also strengthens the cultural and ethical values embedded in language and literature.
The function was presided over by former Deputy Director General of Doordarshan Kendra, Dr Rafiq Masoodi, while former Head of All India Radio Srinagar, Syed Humayun Qaiser, attended as the Chief Guest. Dr Johar Qadoosi and noted broadcaster Talha Jahangir Rahmani attended the programme as Guests of Honour.
Shahid Dilnawi presented a paper on Aah-e-Sahar, examining the themes, poetic style and intellectual and literary dimensions of the collection. He highlighted the literary features of the Hamdiya and Natiya compositions and discussed their thematic depth and significance.
Dr Shabir Hassan also spoke on the occasion and appreciated Engineer Abdul Salam Talib's literary contributions to Hamd and Naat. The speakers emphasised that Hamd and Naat are significant genres of Urdu and Kashmiri poetry, serving as important mediums for expressing religious devotion, spiritual feelings and moral values, while also preserving and enriching the literary traditions of these languages.
The speakers described the publication of Aah-e-Sahar as a noteworthy contribution, particularly because it brings together devotional poetry in both Urdu and Kashmiri. They observed that such literary endeavours help promote the poetic traditions of different languages, familiarise younger generations with their literary and spiritual heritage, and encourage wider engagement with devotional literature.
The author's efforts in expressing feelings of devotion and love through poetry in both languages were appreciated during the programme. Participants expressed hope that publications of this nature would continue to contribute to the promotion of Urdu and Kashmiri literature and strengthen the region's shared literary and cultural heritage.
The programme was conducted by Dr Syed Iftikhar Ahmad. The event provided an important platform for literary circles to reflect on the poetic tradition of Hamd and Naat, its spiritual significance, and its place in Urdu and Kashmiri literature.