09/10/2026
One-Day Pahari Literary Programme held in Budhal, Rajouri
Pahari Section of the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organised a vibrant One-Day Pahari Literary Programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Budhal, bringing together prominent literary figures, scholars, and language enthusiasts from across the region.
The event was presided over by retired Chief Education Officer Arif Iqbal Malik. Former In-charge Officer of JKAACL Divisional Office Kashmir attended as the Chief Guest, while Principal of Himalayan Super School Dhangri, Mohd. Iqbal Shawl, and Principal of GHSS Budhal, Abdul Rasheed, graced the occasion as Guests of Honour.
Delivering the welcome address and vote of thanks, Research Assistant (Pahari), JKAACL, Abdul Wahid Manhas highlighted the Academy’s ongoing efforts, publications, and initiatives dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and development of the Pahari language and culture. He emphasized that alongside the diligent research and literary publication work carried out by the Pahari Section, special focus is being given to outreach activities across Pahari-inhabited areas.
As part of these grassroots efforts during the current financial year, literary and cultural events have successfully been conducted in Karnah, Keran, Meelyal (Kupwara), Poonch, Mendhar, Gund (Ganderbal), Rajouri, and other regional belts. He extended sincere gratitude to Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, noting that her dynamic leadership and steadfast administrative support made these extensive outreach programs possible.
The literary proceedings featured short story recitations (Afsana Nigar) by Mohd. Iqbal Shawl and Zanfer Khokhar, who presented their latest prose works to an attentive audience.
A grand poetic symposium (Mushaira) was also conducted during the event, anchored by Abdul Wahid Manhas.
Renowned and emerging poets including Rasheed Qamar, Parvaiz Malik, Dr. Arif Malik, Haji Ali Shair Bashar, Master Abdul Gani, Shakoor Shakir, Salima Akhter, Wakeel Hayyat, Mumtaz Ahmad, Malik Zakir Khaki, Abdul Rasheed Shaheen, Umer Farhat, and Ovais Shaheen recited their fresh compositions, earning rich applause and appreciation from the attendees.
The session concluded with the guest dignitaries commending JKAACL’s initiatives to nurture literary talent at the regional level and stressing the importance of continuing such grassroots literary interventions.
