In commemoration of International Women's Day, the Department of Urdu, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, organized a seminar “Jammu Kashmir Ka Nissaie Urdu Adab” (Women’s Role in Promoting Urdu Literature of Jammu and Kashmir) at the university’s Green Campus on Thursday.

The seminar highlighted the invaluable contributions of eminent women poets and writers, including Dr. Taranum Riyaz, Prof. Ayesha Mastoora, Abida Ahmad, Syeda Nasreen Naqash, Shafiqa Parveen, Wajidah Tabassum, Shabnum Ashai, and others, whose literary works have played a pivotal role in shaping and enriching Urdu literature in the region.

Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Rukhsana Jabeen, former Director, All India Radio, Srinagar, lauded the immense literary contributions of women in Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasized that their works have not only enriched the region’s literary landscape but have also paved the way for future generations of writers and poets. “Their writings serve as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving the essence of Urdu literature while addressing contemporary themes such as identity, feminism, and Kashmir’s unique socio-political milieu,” she said.

Prominent fiction writer Dr. Nilofar Naaz Nahvi underscored the often overlooked yet significant role of Kashmiri women in Urdu literature. “Women poets, fiction writers, literary critics, and journalists have vividly portrayed the socio-political, cultural, and personal dimensions of life in the Valley,” she remarked.

In her address, Dr. Kausar Rasool highlighted how women writers have skillfully encapsulated the emotions, experiences, and cultural ethos of Kashmir through their works.

Prof. Irfan Aalam, Head, Department of Urdu, hailed the seminar as a landmark event in recognizing the literary contributions of women. “By bringing together scholars, writers, and poets, this seminar has taken an essential step toward bridging the gap in literary recognition and ensuring that the voices of women in Urdu literature are heard and preserved for future generations,” he stated.

Editor of Shiraz and Urdu, Mr. Saleem Salik, acknowledged the immense contributions of women poets and scholars, noting that their works remain underrepresented. “This seminar, through academic discussions, paper presentations, and poetic symposiums, has offered an in-depth exploration of their literary contributions, struggles, aspirations, and achievements,” he added.

Dr. Rashid Aziz, Assistant Professor.in his speech, reiterated the seminar’s aim to spotlight the profound impact of women on Urdu literature in Jammu and Kashmir, a region renowned for its rich literary and cultural heritage.

The event proceedings were conducted by Dr. Nusrat Jabeen, Assistant Professor, while the vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Altaf Hussain Naqshbandi, Assistant Professor.

The seminar concluded with an enthralling poetry session, where several poetesses recited their verses, captivating the audience with their eloquence.