The Department of Kashmiri at the University of Kashmir inaugurated a two-day national seminar on “Mathnavi: Tradition and Experiment” at the EMMRC auditorium today. The event aimed to delve into the rich heritage of Kashmiri Mathnavi literature, exploring its nuances and relevance in contemporary times.
The esteemed panel of dignitaries present at the inaugural session included Prof. Shad Ramzan, Prof. Majrooh Rashid, Prof. Ratan Lal Talashi, and Prof. Mehfooza Jan. These distinguished guests were honored with traditional shawls as a gesture of appreciation. The Department of Kashmiri also recognized the commendable contributions of Zaffar Ahmad Bhat (Chairman, Hayatun Nabi Sufiya Movement) and Muhammad Umran (President, The Hidden Human Research Foundation) to the revival of Kashmiri Sufism and culture. Certificates of appreciation, along with shawls, were presented to them, along with several other mystic Sufi, cultural, literary, and linguistic organizations.
Prof. Mehfooza Jan, the Head of the Kashmiri Department at the University of Kashmir, elucidated the seminar’s objectives and highlighted the department’s academic accomplishments. The event witnessed the release of four significant books: “Anhaar,” “Humkal Kaeshur Afsaan,” “Azkael Kashir Shaeyiri” by the Department of Kashmiri, and “Taaras Zoalum Tsong” by Prof. Mehfooza Jan. These publications showcase the depth and diversity of Kashmiri literature.
During his address, Prof. Ratan Lal Talashi emphasized the importance of critically examining Kashmiri Mathnavi literature, stressing the need for accuracy, reason, and a discerning approach. Prof. Majrooh, in his speech, underscored the poetic brilliance of Kashmiri Mathnavi, celebrating its imaginative, emotional, and enthusiastic use of language.
Welcoming the initiative taken by the Department of Kashmiri, Prof. Shad Ramzan acknowledged the efforts to recognize individuals and organizations dedicated to the revival and representation of Kashmiri Sufi messages. The seminar saw active participation from various departments of the University of Kashmir, colleges, and esteemed groups, fostering a vibrant intellectual exchange.
The seminar also saw the presence and participation of notable figures such as Manzoor Ahmad Dalal (Retd. SSP), Zareef Ahmad Zareef, Shakeel Ur Rehman, Farooq Fayaz, Gulshan Majeed, Hasrat Gadda, Raheem Rehbar, Gulshan and Badrani. Appreciations were presented to Shaikh Ahmad Mispuri, Waza Mahmood Anjaman, Shamus faqeer welfare society,Ahmad Parray Zahoor parray memorial, Neam shaib working committee, Gift of sufiyat network, Khamoosh Hameed Sufi poet and Culture of kashmir
Dr. Shafaqat Altaf extended heartfelt thanks to all participants and attendees, marking the successful commencement of the seminar. The event promises to be a platform for meaningful discussions, academic exploration, and cultural enrichment, reaffirming the enduring legacy of Kashmiri Mathnavi literature. (CNI)