Srinagar, Apr 10 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) today organized an impressive literary function at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, to release three books authored by young writers from Jammu and Kashmir.
The books released on the occasion included Your Presence and The Sole Burst of Colours in My World of Words by Prabhleen Kour, and When the Air Turned Heavy by Huzaifa Afzal.
Prof. Neerja Matoo, noted writer and academician, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Amit Ranjan was the Guest of Honour. Among other dignitaries present were Smt. Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL, and Mr. Ideel Saleem, Additional Secretary, JKAACL.
The event witnessed the participation of several prominent writers, poets, artists and students, including Smt. Amita Ranjan, Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, Shah-e Jehan Ahmad Bhat, Javed Iqbal Khan, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Rather, Saleem Saghar, and Dr. Iqbal Afroze, among others.
Prof Neerja Mattoo in her speech underscored the need of engaging the youth in creative pursuits. She also congratulated the young authors for showing their potential and prowess at a young age.
Welcoming the guests, Smt. Harvinder Kour highlighted the importance of sustaining the spirit of literature and books in contemporary times.
She emphasized the need to nurture literary culture and encouraged the younger generation to engage in creative expression as a means of articulating their thoughts and channeling their energies into meaningful artistic pursuits.
Dr. Amit Ranjan, while presenting his paper on the books, elaborated on various dimensions of creative writing, particularly poetry.
He situated Prabhleen Kour’s work within the broader framework of contemporary literary trends, including Memory Studies, noting its reflective and evocative qualities.
Reviewing Huzaifa Afzal’s novelette, Dr. Abid Ahmad remarked that the work derives its strength from the authenticity of its emotions and the depth of lived experience it portrays. He further observed that the text may be placed alongside contemporary Kashmiri literary expressions that foreground interiority and existential reflection.
In his remarks, Mr. Ideel Saleem, Additional Secretary, stated that the primary objective of organizing such literary programmes is to provide a platform for writers from different regions to present and share their work with a wider audience. He appreciated the dedication and creative spirit of the young authors.
Speaking on the occasion, both authors shared insights into their writing journeys, reflecting on their inspirations and creative processes. They expressed gratitude to the Academy for providing them with the opportunity to present their work to a larger audience.
The proceedings of the event were moderated by Dr. Abid Ahmad, Editor, JKAACL, who also presented the vote of thanks. (JKNS)
