Dooru, Nov 2: The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with the Rasul Mir Cultural Foundation, organised a literary and cultural programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Dooru Shahabad, Anantnag, to pay tribute to renowned Kashmiri romantic poet Rasul Mir.
The event brought together eminent writers, poets, scholars and cultural personalities to celebrate the poet’s enduring contribution to Kashmiri literature.
Syed Mir Javed Hussain, son of former Chief Minister Syed Mir Qasim, attended as the chief guest, while noted writer and poet Ali Shida presided over the function. The presidium included Abdal Mahjoor, Mohammad Abbas Firdousi, Haji Hamidullah Bhawani, Mohammad Iqbal Ganai and Jawaid Iqbal Khan, Editor Kashmiri, JKAACL.
The programme opened with a soulful rendition of Rasul Mir’s poetry by Nazir Ahmad Ganai and his accompanying artists, creating a vibrant literary atmosphere and highlighting the musicality and romantic appeal of the poet’s verses.
Addressing the gathering, Syed Mir Javed Hussain stressed the need to promote Kashmiri language and literature and connect younger generations with the region’s rich literary heritage. He said commemorative programmes help keep the legacy of eminent poets alive.
In his presidential address, Ali Shida highlighted Rasul Mir’s distinctive place in Kashmiri poetry, describing his work as an expression of romantic sensibility, emotional depth, linguistic elegance and artistic excellence.
Other speakers, including Abdal Mahjoor, Mohammad Abbas Firdousi and Haji Hamidullah Bhawani, underlined the importance of preserving literary traditions and providing platforms for writers and scholars.
Mohammad Iqbal Ganai, president of the Rasul Mir Cultural Foundation, emphasised institutional collaboration to promote Kashmiri literature and familiarise young people with the works of distinguished poets. JKAACL Editor Kashmiri Jawaid Iqbal Khan reiterated the Academy’s commitment to preserving and promoting the region’s literary heritage.
A key highlight of the programme was the release of Kulliyat-e-Hamidullah Shahabadi. Speakers described the publication as a valuable contribution to documenting and preserving Kashmiri literary heritage.
The second session featured a poetic symposium in which local poets paid tribute to Rasul Mir through their verses, recalling his enduring influence on Kashmiri poetry.
The proceedings were conducted by Dr Gulzar Ahmad, Assistant Editor, JKAACL.
The programme reaffirmed the importance of preserving Kashmir’s literary legacy and introducing its celebrated poets to future generations.