Reyaz Rashid
Baramulla: The 44th Annual Conference of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (AMK) concluded on Sunday in Baramulla, with a prominent call for the Kashmiri language to be granted classical status.
The two-day event, which began on Saturday, saw passionate discussions among scholars, researchers, and academics about the preservation and promotion of Kashmiri language, literature, and culture.The conference, featuring five dynamic sessions, was launched with addresses and presentations on critical issues related to language, linguistic movements, and the socio-political impact of literature in Kashmir.
The theme and resolution session on the second day was chaired by renowned academician Prof. Farooq Fayaz. During this session, MLA Baramulla Javaid Hassan Beigh, former Doordarshan Director Shabir Mujahid, and Dr. Mudasir Rasool Bhat joined the dais, while Majeed Majazi and the AMK President introduced two key resolutions. Mir Tariq managed the proceedings for the opening session.Noted poet Naseem Shifaye and filmmaker Mushtaq Ali Khan voiced support for the resolution presented by Majeed Majazi, while Ayash Arif and Dr. Rafiq Masoodi endorsed the second resolution introduced by the AMK President.
Addressing the gathering, Baramulla Bar Association President Advocate Nelofar Masood praised the efforts of Adbi Markaz Kamraz (AMK) and described the conference as a valuable learning experience for all attendees. She emphasized the role of such platforms in fostering a deeper understanding of Kashmiri language, culture, and heritage, adding that AMK’s commitment to these causes sets an example for community engagement.
Advocate Nelofar also highlighted the importance of preserving linguistic identity in an era of rapid globalization and appreciated AMK’s role in uniting scholars, artists, and community leaders to enrich and protect Kashmiri traditions. She concluded by encouraging youth and cultural organizations to join in similar initiatives to promote a vibrant literary and cultural future for Kashmir.
Dr. Mudasir Rasool Bhat presented a comprehensive paper titled *Artificial Intelligence and Kashmiri Language*, discussing the integration of modern technology with traditional language.
Addressing the audience, chief guest MLA Baramulla Javaid Hassan Beigh emphasized the role of language in shaping societal values, highlighting the need to preserve Kashmiri culture and language. He stressed the significance of literature in addressing social issues.
Prof. Farooq Fayaz, in his presidential address, emphasized the responsibility of institutions in promoting language development. He spoke about Kashmiri’s historical richness and urged for alignment with technological advancements, cautioning against AI’s influence on human cognition.
The awards session, presided over by distinguished poet Prof. Zaman Azruda, recognized several luminaries for their contributions. The prestigious *Sharf-i-Kamraz* award for 2023 was presented to former Director General of Doordarshan, Dr. Rafiq Masoodi, and for 2024 to celebrated poet and writer Aseer Kashtawari. Additionally, the AMK recognized *Idara-i-Tehqeeqo Adab J&K* and *Inder Cultural Forum* with the Sharf-i-Kamraz award for their efforts in promoting Kashmiri culture and literature.The *Khilat-i-Hanfi* award was presented to renowned singer Gulzar Ganie for his dedication to art and culture, educator Ghulam Rasool Shah for his contribution to teaching, and Islamic scholar Moulana Dr. Sameer Siddiq for his use of pure Kashmiri in sermons.
Prof. Azruda, reflecting on AMK’s journey, highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to the growth and evolution of Kashmiri language and literature.During his lecture, Dr. Sameer Siddiqui spoke on the transcendental qualities of language, describing it as a symbol of absolute power that evolves with societal needs. He commended AMK’s efforts, which have bolstered Kashmiri’s place in literary and cultural landscapes.The session also saw the release of a traditional Kashmiri *Nikah Nama* (marriage document), marking AMK’s ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage. Shabnum Teligami, General Secretary of AMK, conducted the concluding session, drawing the event to a successful close.