The 2nd edition of “Kulyat-e-Rasa Javedani” was officially released today by Jb Abdul Raheim Rather, Hon’ble Speaker of the J&K Legislative Assembly, at a grand event jointly organized by the Department of Urdu, University of Jammu, and the Rasa Javedani Memorial Literary Society.
The poetic anthology, published by Sheikh Mohammad Usman and Sons, Srinagar, Kashmir, showcases the complete collection of Urdu and Kashmiri poetry by the legendary poet Rasa Javedani. Edited by his son, Tanveer Ibn-e-Rasa, the book features a beautifully designed cover and meticulous presentation.
In his keynote address, Abdul Raheim Rather highlighted the unparalleled contribution of Rasa Javedani to the promotion of Urdu and Kashmiri literature in Jammu and Kashmir. He hailed Javedani as the tallest romantic poet of Kashmiri after Rasool Mir, whose Ghazals resonate deeply across Kashmiri-speaking regions. As an Urdu poet, Javedani stood alongside stalwarts like Hafeez Jalandari, Seemab Akbarabadi, and Brij Narayan Chakbast, and his works earned acclaim across the subcontinent.
Prof. Shad Ramzan, former Head of the Department of Kashmiri at Kashmir University, who presided over the function, praised Javedani as one of the topmost Kashmiri poets of the 20th century. He credited Javedani with redefining Kashmiri Ghazals and infusing his poetry with themes of love, communal harmony, and brotherhood.
Noted Sahitya Akademi awardee Basheer Bhaderwahi, the Guest of Honour, shared fond memories of Rasa Javedani and lauded his secular outlook and deep understanding of life reflected in his poetry.
Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik, Head of the Department of Urdu and President of the Rasa Javedani Memorial Literary Society, provided insights into the themes explored in Javedani’s works, emphasizing his unique contributions to Kashmiri Qasida writing, a genre in which he excelled.
The event also featured critical papers on “Kulyat-e-Rasa Javedani” presented by Dr. Shahnawaz Qadri and Brij Nath Betab in Urdu and Kashmiri, respectively. The proceedings were conducted by Dr. Farhat Shamim, Assistant Professor in Urdu at the University of Jammu, with the vote of thanks delivered by Aseer Kishtwari, General Secretary of the Rasa Javedani Memorial Literary Society.
The release function was graced by a large audience, including students, scholars, and distinguished citizens, such as Prof. Meena Sharma (Dean Planning), Prof. Mohd Reyaz Ahmad, Dr. Chaman Lal, Dr. Abdul Rashid Manhas, Khurshed Kazmi, and Zahid Banhali.
The programme ensures the preservation of the poet’s invaluable literary legacy and serves as a vital resource for lovers of Urdu and Kashmiri poetry.