20/05/2026
JKAACL Organizes Impressive Book Release Function at Academy Headquarters
Prof. Farooq Fayaz’s Sayibaan and Prof. Rattan Talashi’s Purkhaash released
Jameel Ansari
Srinagar,May 20, 2026: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages organized a literary book release function on 20th May 2026 at the Seminar Hall of the Academy Complex, Lal-Mandi, Srinagar, which turned out to be a grand and memorable literary gathering marked by enthusiastic participation of writers, poets, scholars, intellectuals and literature lovers from different walks of life.
The event created a vibrant literary atmosphere and reflected the growing interest of people in Kashmiri language and literature.
During the event, two significant Kashmiri publications were formally released. These included Sayibaan, a poetry collection authored by Prof. Farooq Fayaz, and Purkhaash, a collection of critical papers written by Prof. Rattan Talashi. The books were widely appreciated by the participants for their literary merit and scholarly contribution to Kashmiri language and literature.
The programme commenced with the musical performance of renowned folk singer Gulzar Ahmad Ganaie, who presented melodious renditions of lyrics from the book Sayibaan written by Prof. Farooq Fayaz. The soulful performance received wide appreciation from the audience and added a distinct literary and cultural charm to the event.
At the outset, Editor Kashmiri Jawaid Iqbal welcomed the guests, scholars, writers and participants and highlighted the role of the Academy in promoting and preserving regional languages, literature and culture. He stated that the Academy has continuously been organizing literary programmes, seminars, Mushairas and book release functions aimed at encouraging writers and strengthening literary activities across Jammu & Kashmir. He also congratulated the authors for their literary achievements and appreciated the overwhelming participation of the audience.
The programme was presided over by eminent poet and literary personality Rafiq Raaz, while distinguished writer and scholar Farooq Masoodi attended the function as Chief Guest and famous cartoonist Bashir Ahmad Bashir was guest of honour during the function.
On the occasion, noted scholar Prof. Shad Ramzan presented a detailed paper on Sayibaan. In his paper, he highlighted the poetic richness, thematic diversity and artistic expression reflected in the collection. He observed that the poetry of Prof. Farooq Fayaz carries deep emotional sensitivity and effectively portrays contemporary human experiences, social realities and cultural ethos. He further remarked that the poetic diction and imagery employed in the collection enhance its literary significance and make it an important contribution to modern Kashmiri poetry.
Similarly, renowned academician and critic Prof. Majrooh Rashid presented a scholarly paper on Purkhaash. He described the book as an important work of literary criticism and appreciated Prof. Rattan Talashi for his analytical insight and intellectual depth. He stated that the essays included in the book reflect mature critical understanding and contribute meaningfully towards the development of literary criticism in Kashmiri language. He also emphasized the importance of serious critical scholarship in strengthening literary traditions.
Speaking on the occasion, Rafiq Raaz, in his presidential address, emphasized the importance of literary institutions in nurturing creative talent and preserving the linguistic and cultural identity of the people. He remarked that literature reflects the collective consciousness of society and serves as a bridge between generations. Referring to the released books, he appreciated the authors for their commitment towards literary excellence and described their works as valuable additions to Kashmiri literature.
Chief Guest Farooq Masoodi, while addressing the gathering, highlighted the need for promoting serious literary discourse and critical writing in contemporary times. He observed that Kashmiri literature possesses immense richness and depth, and writers have a vital role in documenting the social, cultural and emotional experiences of society. He congratulated both the authors and appreciated the Academy for providing a vibrant platform to writers and intellectuals.
Speaking about his poetry collection Sayibaan, Prof. Farooq Fayaz stated that poetry remains one of the most effective forms of expressing human emotions and social experiences. He remarked that his collection attempts to capture various shades of life, relationships and changing societal realities. He thanked the Academy and the participants for their encouragement and support.
Similarly, Prof. Rattan Talashi, while speaking about his book Purkhaash, stated that critical writing plays a significant role in the healthy growth of literature and intellectual discourse. He observed that literary criticism not only evaluates creative works but also helps readers understand the deeper dimensions of literature and society. He thanked the Academy and the participants for their encouragement and support towards literary activities.
Many literary personalities and dignitaries from the audience also spoke on the occasion and appreciated the literary contribution of both authors. The speakers described the released books as important additions to contemporary Kashmiri literature and emphasized the need for encouraging literary creativity, research and critical scholarship. They observed that such programmes provide an effective platform for interaction between writers, scholars and readers and help strengthen the literary atmosphere of the region.
The speakers further appreciated the efforts of the Academy in consistently organizing literary and cultural programmes and creating opportunities for writers and intellectuals to present their works before the public. They stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Kashmiri language and literature in the face of changing social and cultural trends.
The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Rather who introduced the guests, authors and speakers. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks amid warm appreciation from the audience. The vote of thanks was presented by Maqbool Sajid
