OBSERVER BUREAU
JAMMU, MAR 31
The 2-day Gojri Conference organized by J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages concluded here today with Vice Chairman, State Advisory Board for Development of Gujjars and Bakerwals, Choudhary Zaffar Ali, calling upon writers and intellectuals of the language to make collective efforts for promotion and development of Gojri language and culture.
He said that the Gujjar and Bakerwal community has been striving for their identity for the past several decades and litterateurs have made significant contribution to the cause of their mother tongue.
He welcomed holding of Gojri Conference by the Academy and said such initiatives help in developing consciousness among people about their language and culture.
The conference was attended by prominent writers, poets and intellectuals from across the State who deliberated for two days upon various aspects and issues related to Gojri language and literature. Two paper reading sessions were held on the concluding day today. The sessions were presided over by noted academic, Prof. Zahoor ud Din.
In his presidential remarks, Prof. Zahoor described the conference as a major initiative by the Academy providing a rare opportunity to writers of Gojri to discuss the status of their language and invent ways and means to develop their mother tongue. Dr Aziz Hajini, Secretary JKAACL also spoke on the occasion and laid emphasis on collective efforts for promotion and development of regional languages like Gojri. He pledged all possible support to Gojri intellectuals in development of their mother tongue.
On this occasion, a publication titled ‘Salarey Karawan’ written by noted writer-broadcaster, Abdul Hameed Kasana on veteran politician late Choudhary Mohd. Shafi Khatana was also released. The book release function was preceded by recital of a Gojri song by Parveena Choudhary. In the evening a mushaira was also held in which several poets participated. The event was coordinated by Editor cum Cultural Officer, Gojri, Dr. Shahnawaz.
