In a vibrant celebration of Gojri heritage, Javed Ahmad Rana, the Minister for Tribal Affairs, inaugurated a two-day Gojri Literary and Cultural Conference at K L Saigal Hall in Jammu. Organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (JKAACL), the event gathered writers, artists, and scholars, including JKAACL Secretary Harvinder Kaur, to honor the cultural significance of the Gojri language.
Rana emphasized that Gojri is a vital language in Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse tapestry. He noted the necessity of cultural events to revive and propagate Gojri, asserting that such initiatives rejuvenate ancient languages and connect communities to their rich heritage. “Cultural programmes… provide a platform to preserve and restore the pristine glory of Gojri language,” he stated amplifying the conference’s purpose.
The minister called on society to take collective responsibility for the preservation of local tongues, highlighting the crucial role of ‘conscience keepers’ in the Gujjar heritage. Rana lamented the stigma surrounding mother tongues, insisting that local languages are gateways to understanding folklore and traditions. He committed to supporting all languages under governmental guidance to bolster national advancement.
The conference included the inauguration of a Gojri book exhibition, showcasing numerous publications from JKAACL. Harvinder Kaur addressed the audience, detailing the academy’s strategic efforts to encapsulate and promote regional languages while focusing on Gojri’s unique identity and initiatives designed to empower it. Dr. Javaid Rahi outlined the conference’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of providing a platform for dialogue about tribal languages and cultural narratives.
Speakers included Dr. Nikhat Choudhary and Shazia Chowdhary, who explored significant topics affecting the Gujjar community. A lively cultural program followed, featuring Gojri artists who showcased the community’s musical traditions, further energizing the atmosphere. This event was deemed a milestone by Guest of Honour Arshad Ali Choudhary, cementing commitment to celebrating and cultivating the Gojri language and culture.
Javed Ahmad Rana inaugurated a two-day Gojri Literary and Cultural Conference to promote the Gojri language and celebrate the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Organized by JKAACL, the event featured discussions, exhibitions, and performances by Gojri artists, emphasizing the need for societal efforts in preserving local languages.
The Gojri Literary and Cultural Conference stands as a testament to the vibrant heritage of the Gojri language and its community. Through collective efforts and dedicated initiatives spearheaded by individuals like Javed Ahmad Rana, the preservation of Gojri culture is poised to thrive. Such events not only revitalize local languages but also foster a deeper understanding of the history and traditions they embody, ensuring that future generations can connect with their cultural roots.
The Gojri language represents a crucial aspect of the cultural identity of the Gujjar and Bakerwal communities in Jammu and Kashmir. This conference serves as a platform for scholars and artists to engage in discussions pertaining to the preservation and advancement of Gojri, while also highlighting its rich literary tradition. The involvement of governmental support reflects a broader initiative to enhance awareness and appreciation of the diverse linguistic landscape of the region.
Original Source: www.dailyexcelsior.com
