BANDIPORA, OCTOBER 08: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (JKAACL) organised a Sheena Mushaira-cum-Cultural Programme at GHSS Dawar, Gurez, Thursday to celebrate and promote the rich linguistic, literary and cultural heritage of the Sheena-speaking community.
The programme, as per an official statement, was presided over by MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, attended as Guest of Honour, while Masood Samoon, participated as Special Guest.
In his remarks, MLA Gurez, complimented the Secretary, JKAACL, for organising such a meaningful programme in a far-flung area like Gurez. He appreciated the Academy’s efforts towards taking literary and cultural activities to remote areas and providing a platform to local writers, poets, artists and the younger generation.
Making a special mention of various individuals who have been working for the promotion, preservation and development of the Sheena language, Gurezi stressed the need for sustained and collective efforts for its further development. He assured that he would extend all possible help and assistance for the promotion and preservation of Sheena language and literature.
He emphasised that Sheena represents a unique cultural identity and heritage of Gurez, and stressed the need to bring the language into written and book form so that its rich linguistic and cultural legacy could be preserved for future generations. He also complimented and expressed his appreciation and thanks to Masood Samoon for his valuable contribution and for writing books in the Sheena language.
Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, highlighted the Academy’s commitment to promoting and preserving the linguistic and cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir, particularly the rich traditions of the Sheena-speaking community.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, highlighted the significance of preserving the region’s linguistic and cultural heritage. She appreciated JKAACL for organising an event of such linguistic and cultural importance and observed that the people of Gurez are very vibrant and deeply connected with their traditions.
The DC also acknowledged the contribution of Masood Samoon towards Sheena language, particularly his command over the language and his passion for its preservation.
She suggested that the local community, particularly students and young people, should explore innovative ways to promote Sheena, including developing software in the Sheena language and creating comics and other contemporary literary content in Sheena to generate greater interest among the younger generation.
Masood Samoon delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of preserving indigenous languages and cultural traditions and encouraging younger generations to remain connected with their linguistic heritage. He also shared his experiences and insights regarding the preservation and literary development of Sheena language.
An interactive question-and-answer session followed the keynote address, in which students actively participated and raised threadbare issues regarding language preservation and literary development. The presidium addressed their concerns comprehensively, with Masood Samoon providing detailed and satisfactory replies to the queries raised by the students.
The programme also witnessed the release of “Sin Pushjee Heen,” a collection of Sheena poetry authored by Masood Samoon.
A vibrant cultural segment by students added colour and enthusiasm to the programme. Students of KGBV Gurez, GHS Dawar, GHSS Gurez and GMS Wanpora presented traditional Sheena songs and dances, enthralling the audience and creating an atmosphere of celebration. The performances were appreciated by the gathering, with the audience visibly enjoying the colourful presentations rooted in the region’s rich cultural traditions.
The poets from Gurez presented Sheena Mushaira and showcased the richness and expressive potential of the Sheena language.
Kanika Singh, Director, Centre for Writing and Communication, Ashoka University, Haryana, also addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of encouraging writing and literary expression in indigenous languages.
As part of the programme, the dignitaries and participants also visited the Sheena Cultural Centre, Gurez, underscoring the Academy’s continued efforts towards the promotion, preservation and development of Sheena language, literature and cultural heritage.
