SRINAGAR, JULY 02: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) Thursday organized an enriching literary interaction under its flagship “Meet the Eminent Writer” series, featuring eminent Kashmiri writer and literary personality G.R. Hasrat Gadda at the Conference Hall of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothi Bagh, Srinagar.
The programme brought together an impressive gathering of eminent writers, scholars, academicians, students, literary enthusiasts and members of civil society, reflecting the growing interest in literary and cultural pursuits across Jammu and Kashmir.
The event commenced with an introduction to the life and literary achievements of G.R. Hasrat Gadda, whose contributions to Kashmiri literature have earned him widespread recognition for their depth, humanism and artistic excellence. His literary journey, spanning several decades, was highlighted as an inspiration for aspiring writers and readers alike.
In his address, G.R. Hasrat Gadda shared his experiences as a writer, reflecting on the changing landscape of literature, the enduring relevance of the Kashmiri language, and the pivotal role of writers in preserving the cultural ethos of society. He stressed the need to encourage reading habits among the younger generation and urged budding writers to remain rooted in their language, culture and values while embracing contemporary literary trends.
The interactive session witnessed lively participation from students, scholars and members of the literary fraternity, who engaged the distinguished writer on a wide range of subjects, including his creative process, literary influences, contemporary challenges facing regional languages, and the future of Kashmiri literature. Gadda responded to the queries with thought-provoking insights, making the session both informative and inspiring.
Speaking on the occasion, the speakers underscored the significance of initiatives such as the “Meet the Eminent Writer” series in fostering meaningful interaction between established literary figures and emerging talent. They observed that such programmes not only celebrate the achievements of distinguished authors but also create an environment conducive to intellectual exchange, literary appreciation and cultural continuity.
The participants appreciated the Academy’s sustained efforts to promote Kashmiri literature and languages through regular literary interactions, seminars, book discussions and cultural programmes, describing these initiatives as vital for nurturing creative expression and preserving the rich literary heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The programme was held under the guidance of Secretary, JKAACL, Adeel Salim, and was coordinated by the Academy’s Editorial Wing. It reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to providing vibrant platforms for literary dialogue, promoting linguistic diversity, and inspiring the younger generation to actively engage with literature and the arts.
The “Meet the Eminent Writer” series continues to serve as one of the Academy’s flagship initiatives, bringing readers and aspiring writers closer to eminent literary personalities and strengthening the literary and cultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
